Changing of the Guard Returns to Fort Laurens for Revolutionary War Tribute

Less than a month after the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot of the American Revolution was rededicated, Fort Laurens in Bolivar is once again preparing to honor soldiers who gave their lives during the nation's fight for independence.

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution return to the site of Ohio's only Revolutionary War fort July 24 and 25 for a pair of ceremonies recognizing the Unknown Patriot and the 22 American soldiers buried there. The events renew the focus on preserving and commemorating one of Ohio's most significant Revolutionary War landmarks.

On July 24, SAR members will perform a traditional, Washington, D.C.-style Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with the ceremonial guard changing happening approximately every 15 to 20 minutes. Visitors are asked to remain quiet throughout the ceremony. A memorial service featuring guest speakers, presentations and a wreath-laying ceremony will follow July 25 at 10:30 a.m.

The July ceremonies build on the momentum of the tomb's June 27 rededication, which celebrated the completion of a new memorial as part of a long-term renovation project led by the Ohio History Connection and the Zoar Community Association. The multiyear project, scheduled to continue through 2028, also includes masonry repairs, landscaping improvements, museum renovations, partial reconstruction of the fort's stockade wall and a public archaeology program.

"It is always a pleasure to host the Sons of the American Revolution at Fort Laurens," Fort Laurens site director Traci Britton said in a June 30, 2026, press release. "These events are truly a beautiful way to honor the life of the Unknown Patriot and his comrades who tragically lost their lives while protecting our freedom."

Fort Laurens occupies a unique place in Ohio history. Built in 1778, it is the state's only Revolutionary War fort and features a museum, memorial, the Tomb of the Unknown Patriot and the visible outline of the original fort. The site was established as a steppingstone for a planned campaign against the British-held Fort Detroit, but the strategy didn’t work and the fort was abandoned in August 1779. 

Both July events are free and open to the public. Museum admission is available for an additional fee, while active-duty military members and veterans receive free admission.

For more information visit fortlaurensmuseum.org. 

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