Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park launching summer fun for all ages

PITTSBURGH — A new tomahawk throwing activity, living history demonstrations and exhibits highlight the new summer programming at Fort Pitt Museum at Point State Park.

Built in a recreated bastion of the British fort originally constructed in 1759, the museum focuses on the role Western Pennsylvania played during the French & Indian War, the American Revolution and the founding of Pittsburgh.

Tomahawk Toss: Saturdays and Sunday 1-4 p.m., $5 for five minutes of throwing

Visitors to the museum can sharpen their skills at the new outdoor Tomahawk Toss range. You’ll get a crash course in the history of tomahawks before learning safety procedures and proper throwing techniques.

The toss will be offered weather permitting and will cost $5 for five minutes of throwing. All participants will get a discounted museum admission.

Living History at the Point on select weekends

If you’re a fan of seeing history in action, this is for you. On select weekends throughout the summer, costumed reenactors will demonstrate 18th century life at Fort Pitt, perform marches and military drills and fire the museum’s replica British six-pounder cannon.

All outdoor living history programs are free and open to the public.

Fourth at the Fort: Sunday, July 4 (1-5 p.m.)

Join the Fort Pitt Museum, Boy Scouts and local officials for the annual Fourth at the Fort flag raising ceremony to help the City of Pittsburgh kick off the Fourth of July holiday. They’ll be raising a 36-foot American flag at Point State Park.

Following the ceremony, visitors can check out the fort’s role in the American Revolution and see costumed interpreters reenact 18th century life where Pittsburgh’s three rivers meet.

“Pittsburgh, Virginia” Exhibition: Through Dec. 31

Did you know Pittsburgh was almost a part of Virginia? Yinz would be saying y’all.

The new exhibit explores how Pittsburgh nearly became a permanent part of Virginia. From the 17th century through the American Revolution, Pennsylvania and Virginia had many overlapping claims in our region. The exhibit focuses on the turbulent events of 1774 when the two colonies fought for control of Pittsburgh. Lord Dunmore’s War put the fate of the Ohio Country and everyone who lived there at stake.

You’ll be able to check out a selection of Monongahela Native American artifacts which give a glimpse into life before the arrival of Europeans.

Regular admission is just $8 for adults, $7 for senior citizens, $2 off admission for retired and active military and $4.50 for students with a valid ID and children 6-17. Children under 5 and History Center members get in free.

4th of July fireworks returning to Pittsburgh’s Point State Park

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