Fort Western to hold July 4 commemoration

AUGUSTA — The Fort Western National Historic Landmark and Living History Museum will host an Independence Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, July 4 on the east bank of the Kennebec River, across from downtown.

A noon ceremony will be held in accordance with George Washington’s orders on July 4, 1778, to fire “thirteen pieces of cannon” honoring the original colonies, followed by the lowering of the British colors and the raising of the “new” American flag.

At 5:30 p.m., Mayor David Rollins will give the traditional reading of the Declaration of Independence in 18th century costume. A “feu de joie” (rifle salute) by Daniel Savage’s Company will accompany the reading and music will be provided by the Liberty String Band.