John Anderson Blockhouse Replica
In 1998 Congressman Rick Boucher (VA – 9th) secured a T21 Grant of $320,000 for the Association through special appropriation of Congress for construction of a replica of the John Anderson Blockhouse.
The initial plan was to construct the Blockhouse replica on the site of the original, located near Moccasin Gap in the East Carter’s valley section of Scott County. The Association was unable to purchase that property and the search for a suitable alternative site led the Association to Natural Tunnel State Park.
With the support of the Park Manager and the Director: Department of Conservation and Recreation the Association obtained permission from the Commonwealth of Virginia to construct the Blockhouse replica on park property along side the old Fincastle Turnpike that bisects the Park. The Fincastle Turnpike was second only to the Wilderness Trail in importance to frontier Virginia travelers.
There are no surviving photos or detailed descriptions of the Blockhouse, so extensive research was necessary to produce a set of design specifications for the Blockhouse. Construction was completed in 2003 and the formal dedication was held in October 2003.
An area artist was commissioned to create a pen and ink sketch and a painting of the Blockhouse. A commemorative postcard was produced from the painting and the US Postal Service provided a first day of issue cancellation stamp from the sketch. This project was awarded the 2004 NETTA Special Merit Award- Heritage Tourism Division.
An annual reenactment, “Siege at the Blockhouse” occurs in May and living history events are held May through December. Daniel Boone is present at the siege and other major happenings. Native American day is held in September.
The Blockhouse is open weekends May through October with 1775 era interpreters present.
