Exhibits | Fort Bedford Museum

Colonial History

The Fort Era

This exhibit features a deeper look at Bedford's role during the French & Indian War. In addition to local artifacts, there is a model of a pre-revolutionary steel forge.

Frontier Stories

The Story of "Indian Eve" Ernst

Featuring Eve's deer-skin-covered trunk, used in her return to the area. Generously donated by the heirs of Jill Eichelberger Bailey.

Historic Relics

The Fort Bedford Flag

Believed to be the only original Fort Bedford flag from 1758 still in existence. This unique British military ensign was preserved through regional families.

Culture & Craft

Becoming Bedford

Curated from over 5,000 artifacts, this exhibit provides a glimpse into the culture of Bedford as it developed along the Forbes Road. Highlights include weapons, housewares, and fiber art.

Interpretive Exhibit

Cave to Empire

An exhibit highlighting the clash of cultures that drove the French & Indian War in the mid-1700s. Focuses on Native American artifacts and features fine art by Pamela Patrick White.

Scale Model

The Fort Model

A unique scale display of what Fort Bedford once looked like in its original state as a British military supply depot. Created by local historian Dr. Ronald Markwood.

Interactive Youth & Family Fun

Little Fort Adventurers

At the Fort Bedford Museum, we offer a variety of engaging activities designed especially for kids to make their visit both fun and educational. Children can start their adventure with a scavenger hunt that guides them through the exhibits and rewards them with a prize at the end of their visit. Creative hands can enjoy making a Native American bracelet with our craft kit, while curious minds can explore the world of colonial transportation by learning about the Conestoga wagon through a hands-on measuring activity. Additionally, our Lincoln Log building table invites kids to construct houses, connecting playtime to the way homes were built during colonial times.

Scavenger Hunt

Youth Activities Station

Grab a clipboard, crayons, and scavenger hunt map to embark on a guided exploration through our historic galleries with a prize at the end!

Hands-On Craft

Native American Bracelets

Kids can discover historic wampum beadwork and make their own colorful Native American bracelet using our dedicated craft kits.

Interactive Play

Lincoln Log Station

Build frontier cabins and houses at our interactive timber construction table while learning how colonial settlements were built.

Grant Recognition & Community Support

These interactive activity centers are made possible thanks to generous support from a Community Foundation for the Alleghenies Grant, funded by the Pat and Paul Detwiler Family Fund and the Jeanne Berkey Fund.

Visitor Reflections

What Visitors Are Saying

Discover how guests experience their journey back to 18th-century frontier history at the Fort Bedford Museum.

"Really wonderful history museum in Bedford. This was a large supply fort for supporting British troops and militia during the French and Indian War. Museum itself covers complete history of the area from early Indian settlement to today. Very well done and worth the admission."

DG

David Grimm

Visitor from Virginia

"Great place to learn about the local history of Bedford and its role in the French and Indian War."

DR

David Raymond

Yelp Reviewer