Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation
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The Fort

Pricketts Fort, constructed in 1774, provided early settlers a place of refuge from Native American attacks. It was built at the confluence of Pricketts Creek and the Monongahela River, and was ten miles from three major American Indian trails. The fort, which covers a 110 by 110 foot square, was built by the community militia and was named after its captain, Jacob Prickett.
Picture
Two-story blockhouses are set at the four corners of the 12-foot high log walls, and were used by the fort’s defenders as lookouts. Lining the weathered stockade walls are 14 small cabins, some with earthen floors, which served as shelter for the women and children. A meeting house and storehouse fill the common area. There are two large gates: one double gate facing north, and one smaller gate facing west.

When the threat of Native American uprisings occurred, up to 80 families from the surrounding countryside would gather at the fort. This was referred to as “forting up.” Families would stay as long as the threat existed; this could be a few days, to several weeks. Under cramped and primitive conditions, the settlers understood life in the fort to be a sacrifice for survival on the dangerous frontier. Today’s fort allows visitors a unique glimpse into that life and time.

Hours of Operation

Visitor Center:
Open Daily - 10am to 4pm
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays after Labor Day
After October 30th, Closed Weekends until April 24th

Fort Tours:
The 2023 season begins on April 24th and runs through October 30th. Self-guided audio tours are available during the off-season beginning in January.

Quick Links

Visit Pricketts Fort
Prickett's Fort State Park
Attend an Event or Workshop
​2023 Events Brochure
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Volunteer
Rentals at Pricketts Fort
Fort History
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Pricketts Fort
Memorial Foundation

88 State Park Road
Fairmont, West Virginia 26554
CALL NOW: 304.363.3030
Email: info@prickettsfort.org

Photography Policy

Starting April 23, 2018, Prickett's Fort State Park and the Pricketts Fort Memorial Foundation will no longer allow for pay photographers (photographers for hire) to take pictures during operating hours and special events. Photographers are welcome before and after regular business hours and special events. Please see times and upcoming events page.
​2023 CORPORATE MEMBERS​
Gwynn Tire Service, Inc. 
Ford Funeral Home 
​Marion County Convention and Visitors Bureau 
Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau 
​
2023 FINANCIAL SUPPORTERS
​
First Energy Foundation
Marion County Commission
​Marion County Convention and Visitors Bureau
​​Town of White Hall
  • Visit Pricketts Fort
    • Tours
    • Field Trips
    • Plan an Event
    • Recreational Opportunities
  • Events
    • Upcoming Events
    • Register for an Event
  • Ways to Give
    • Make a Gift
    • Become a Member
    • Sponsor a Concert
    • Volunteer
    • Planned Giving
    • Shop at AmazonSmile
  • History
    • Fort
    • Job Prickett House
    • Native Americans in West Virginia
  • For Kids
  • Shop
  • About
    • The Foundation
    • The Museum
    • Career Opportunities
    • Contact
    • Subscribe