FORT JEFFERSON, Ohio — As America commemorates its 250th Anniversary, the Fort
GreeneVille Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) invites the public to
honor the sacrifices of America’s early frontier soldiers during a special marker dedication
recognizing the history of Fort Jefferson and those who gave their lives defending the
Northwest Territory.
The Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR will dedicate an informational historical marker honoring
all American soldiers who died at or near Fort Jefferson between 1791 and 1796 during the
Northwest Territory expansion. Among those remembered are Lt. Col. George Gibson,
Capt. Joseph Montfort, and Sgt. William Noble, whose service and sacrifice helped shape
the early history of the Northwest Territory.
The dedication ceremony will take place on Sunday, July 19, at 2:00 p.m. at Fort Jefferson
Memorial Park, 3981 Weaver Fort Jefferson Road, Fort Jefferson, Ohio. The public is invited
to attend this free event.
Fort Jefferson was established in 1791 by General Arthur St. Clair to support his Army. It
was the military post deepest in the Northwest Territory from 1791 to 1793 until General
Anthony Wayne’s Army built Fort GreeneVille in the fall of 1793. The fort played a vital role in
the defense of the Northwest Territory. Although never intended as a permanent
settlement, Fort Jefferson became an important link in the chain of frontier forts supporting
General Anthony Wayne’s campaign that ultimately led to victory at the Battle of Fallen
Timbers in 1794.
Following Wayne’s victory and the signing of the Treaty of Greene Ville in 1795, peace
gradually returned to the region, and Fort Jefferson was abandoned in 1796. Settlers soon
established a community around the former fort, preserving the location as one of Ohio’s
earliest frontier settlements.
While little remains of the original fort today, its legacy lives on through historical research,
archaeological discoveries, and efforts to preserve and share its story. The new DAR and
Ohio History Connection’s marker will provide visitors with information about Fort
Jefferson’s military significance and pay tribute to the soldiers who made the ultimate
sacrifice while serving on the American frontier.
“This marker serves as a lasting tribute to the courage and dedication of the men who gave
their lives defending the Northwest Territory,” said representatives of the Fort GreeneVille
Chapter DAR. “As we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, it is important that we
remember these early patriots whose sacrifices helped lay the foundation for our nation’s
westward growth. We have contacted descendants to attend, and one is coming from as
far as Hawaii.”
The dedication is part of the Fort GreeneVille Chapter DAR’s continuing efforts to educate
the public about the history of the Northwest Territory and the events that shaped the early
United States. Community members, local historians, veterans, young and old, and
descendants are encouraged to attend as the chapter honors these forgotten heroes and
preserves their legacy for future generations. Refreshments will be provided.
For additional information about the dedication ceremony, contact the Fort GreeneVille
Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution Facebook page
