Fort Western, a National Historic landmark and living history museum, is to host an Independence Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 4, on the east bank of the Kennebec River in the heart of downtown Augusta.

Visitors are invited to walk through the 1754 fort, store and house to view period rooms and exhibits and talk with historical interpreters about daily life in the 18th century. At noon, Augusta’s Mayor David Rollins will give the traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence in 18th-century costume. A “feu de joie” (musket salute) by fort staff will accompany the reading.

At 12:30 p.m., a special ceremony will be held in accordance with George Washington’s orders (July 4, 1778) by “firing 13 Pieces of Cannon” that honor the original colonies, followed by the lowering of the Grand Union Flag and the raising of the “new” American flag.

At 4 p.m., the Augusta parade will begin at the State House and end at Fort Western. At 9:15 p.m. the traditional fireworks display will begin at Mill Park.

Old Fort Western is a not-for-profit organization. For more information, call 207-626-2385, email oldfort@oldfortwestern.org, visit oldfortwestern.org or Facebook at Old Fort Western – Augusta, Maine.

Hours are as follows: Memorial Day weekend through June, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday; July and August: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily; and September to Oct. 11: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The last tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m.

Admission rates for non-Augusta residents are $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-14, $8 for seniors and veterans, $25 for a family of five, and $1 AAA discounts. Augusta residents, children younger than 6, and active military are free of charge.

For more information, go to the museum’s website or call 207-626-2385.

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