Fort Tonoloway
Finding a Lost French and Indian War Fort
Fort Tonoloway was built in 1755 in modern-day Washington County by Lieutenant Thomas Stoddert and men of the Maryland militia. Garrisoned for only a year, the Fort was abandoned in 1756 when nearby Fort Frederick was established. In the ensuing years, the precise location of the fort has been lost.
Contracted by Preservation Maryland, Rivanna Archaeological Services recently completed one of the most in-depth and scholarly studies ever produced of life and history on Maryland’s eighteenth-century frontier and the interaction between local civilians, Native Americans, and military forces. Rivanna has also completed an in-depth military terrain analysis. Historic and modern maps are generously included in the nearly 150-page report.
The areas identified by our consultant that are most ripe for future archaeology rest entirely on publicly owned land – an ideal outcome that provides an opportunity for investigation and excavation. Preservation Maryland will continue to work to secure the necessary funds for the next phase of this project – and to finally find Fort Tonoloway.
Encampment of Captain Patterson’s Cavalry Scouts, Near Hancock, Maryland. Harper’s Weekly, February 1, 1862.
Example of what Fort Tolonoway may have looked like.
Archaeologists conducting a site survey to find Fort Tonoloway in Maryland, 2019.
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Preservation Maryland isn’t just preserving the past – we’re investing in our future. In just the past year we’ve invested heavily in our work and refused to accept the mounting challenges as a reason to retreat or hold our position. You are making it all possible.