Sons Mark Fort Harmar's 241st Anniversary

Marietta marked the 241st anniversary of Fort Harmar, with a new commemorative medallion also released.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Civic

Weathered timber fort on a grassy riverside rise with wooded bluffs and misty morning light over a broad river. — Marietta marked the 241st anniversary of Fort Harmar Thursday with a Sons of the American Revolution observance and the release of a commemorative medallion. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

The Sons of the American Revolution held a Fort Harmar 241st Anniversary observance in Marietta Thursday morning. The America 250 Washington County organizing group also released a Fort Harmar medallion.

Why it matters

The observance recognizes a Marietta site tied to early American governance, as Fort Harmar was established before the Ordinance of 1787. The medallion gives residents a tangible way to mark the local historical milestone.

The observance marked 241 years since Fort Harmar's November 5, 1785 establishment by 150 soldiers of the First American Regiment. The Fort Harmar medallion, unnumbered and unlimited with 500 in stock, sells for $25 at American Flags and Poles, and additional medallions can be ordered if there is demand.

The players

Sons of the American Revolution

A lineage society dedicated to preserving the memory of the American Revolution and those who fought for independence.

Bobby Fitzgerald

Commander and president who directed the Post the Color ceremony at the Marietta observance.

David Baker

Historian who discussed research into the First American Regiment at the observance.

Jean Yost

Vice president of the Marietta Chapter who spoke on the historical significance of Fort Harmar.

The details

The Marietta Chapter Color Guard performed a Post the Color ceremony directed by commander and president Bobby Fitzgerald. Historian David Baker discussed research into the First American Regiment, while Jean Yost, vice president of the Marietta Chapter, spoke on the site's significance. The medallion features a sketch of the fort with the year 1785 on one side and the words Treaty of Paris 1783 on the other.

November 5, 1785: Fort Harmar established by soldiers of the First American Regiment.
Thursday morning, November 5, 2026: Sons of the American Revolution observance held in Marietta.
Today: Fort Harmar medallions available for purchase at American Flags and Poles.

Historical Context

Fort Harmar was used before the Ordinance of 1787, which organized governance over the Northwest Territory. The 1785 founding places the fort at the front end of that early federal territorial history.

Marietta residents can purchase the Fort Harmar medallion for $25 at American Flags and Poles while stock lasts. Additional medallions can be ordered if demand grows.