Battle of Fort Necessity
Great Meadows, near Farmington, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, USA
What happened
Virginia and British colonial troops under a 22-year-old George Washington fought French soldiers and Native allies led by Louis Coulon de Villiers. Britain and France both claimed the Ohio Country. In May 1754 Washington's men attacked a French party at Jumonville Glen, and its leader fell. In July the leader's brother attacked Washington's small, poorly placed fort in heavy rain, and Washington agreed to surrender and march away.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It marked the start of the French and Indian War, which grew into the worldwide Seven Years' War. It was Washington's first battle, years before he led the Continental Army.
What came next
Washington left on 4 July 1754. The battlefield is now Fort Necessity National Battlefield, with a rebuilt fort.
Did you know?
The French surrender terms said Washington's men had 'assassinated' the French leader; Washington later said the word was mistranslated and he would never have signed it knowingly.
Timeline
- 28 May 1754Washington's men attack a French party at Jumonville Glen.
- 3 July 1754The French attack Fort Necessity.
- 4 July 1754Washington surrenders and leaves.
- 1931The site becomes a National Battlefield Site.