Forty years ago a series of fires, later determined to be arson, damaged Friendship Hill National Historic Site in Point Marion.
On July 14, the National Park Service will hold a free, public event to welcome back and honor firefighters who saved an important part of Fayette County’s history.
The 1-3 p.m. event at the Gallatin House will include self-guided tours, where visitors can view some of the remaining fire damage. Also on display will be fire-related photos and articles.
Albert Gallatin served for 13 years as Secretary of the Treasury during the Jefferson and Madison administrations. Friendship Hill is his restored country estate, according to the property’s website.
A short welcome will be held at 2 p.m., including a group photo of returning firefighters. The Friendship Hill Association will provide light refreshments.
According to the National Park Service, Friendship Hill was struck by several fires between June 29 and July 2, 1979.
The Gallatin House sustained damage, and some park grounds outbuildings were destroyed, the park service states.
More than 100 firefighters from eight fire companies — Point Marion, Smithfield, Masontown, Fairchance, Collier, Haydentown, McClellandtown and Edenborn — responded to the fires, ultimately saving Albert Gallatin’s home.
Details: 724-329-2501 or nps.gov/frhi/index.htm
