7/30/2009
A history-defining clash of cultures began in the 18
th century in the Trans-Allegheny region of the nation that now includes West Virginia when American Indian and European cultures fought six wars westward of the Allegheny Mountains. The men and women involved in this cycle of war and peace shaped the future of Trans-Allegheny culture.
On August 29, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park in Pocahontas County will be the setting for the third and last in a series of summer interpretative programs titled “Trans-Allegheny Clash of Cultures,” sponsored by West Virginia State Parks. The first was held at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park July 4, followed by a presentation at Hawks Nest State Park July 18.
The Focus of the Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park presentation will be on war party travel on the Seneca Trail.
Living history presenters will touch on several Trans-Allegheny clashes, including the French and Indian War, Pontiac's War, Dunmore's War, and the Revolutionary War.
Special guest performer Dan Cutler will present his History Alive! portrayal of Chief Cornstalk. The Shawnee warrior, before becoming principle chief, burst onto the scene of history in the Greenbrier settlements during Pontiac's War. History Alive! is a presentation of the West Virginia Humanities Council.
Cherokee warrior “Man Killer” Ostenaco, as portrayed by Doug Wood, lead interpreter from Trails, Inc., will detail his French and Indian War exploits in western Virginia (now West Virginia).
An interactive prisoner camp also will be set up at Droop Mountain in order to help visitors understand the importance of the Seneca Trail and other war roads in West Virginia to warriors transporting captives back to their hometowns, where their fates were decided.
The activities begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 4 p.m. For more information about Droop Mountain, visit www.droopmountainbattlefield.com or call Park Supt. Mike Smith at 304-653-4254.
Contact Information
Sissie Summers
304-558-2764 x 51829
sissiesummers@wvdnr.gov.