Join us for a day of revelry in honor of Queen Victoria's 181st birthday!
At noon, bagpipes will announce the start of the traditional tributes to the Queen, including a musket volley, toasts by the gentlemen of the Fort, and a cannon salute.
Many of the Fort's ladies and gentlemen will be dressed in their finest 1850s fashion.
Throughout the day, visitors can barter with clerks in the Sale Shop and watch the blacksmiths working at the forge. The public is invited to join a round of croquet, trundle a hoop, or engage in a spirited game of graces. There will be tea, lemonade, and cookies while supplies last.
The birthday of Queen Victoria (May 24, 1819-1901) was celebrated by her subjects throughout the British Empire. At Hudson’s Bay Company forts across North America, the custom historically called for the declaration of the day as a holiday — all the laborers and servants had the day off.
Queen Victoria ascended the throne in 1837 and was the reigning monarch for most of Fort Nisqually's active period (1833-1869). She ruled for almost 64 years, and was the longest-reigning British monarch until 2007 when Queen Elizabeth claimed that distinction.
Event admission is $8-$10, children 3 and younger are free. For more information visit fortnisqually.org or call (253) 404-3970.
