Get a look at some of the wildlife species encountered by explorers in western North Carolina at Fort Dobbs State Historic Site Aug. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The unique family friendly program will also examine the role of animals and trade in the lives of 18th century settlers.
Naturalists from Chimney Rock State Park will display touchable objects such as turtle shells and animal skins. Ambassador mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds of prey will be displayed also, but not touched. Grady the groundhog will be a friendly crowd pleaser.
Costumed living history interpreters will discuss the role of domestic animals and the importance of the deerskin trade to early settlers and native peoples. Representatives from Statesville based Rescue Ranch also will share their mission of animal welfare.
Formal presentations will be at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
For more information please call (704) 873-5882 or visit www.fortdobbs.org. Fort Dobbs is the only state historic site dedicated to the French and Indian War period (1754-1763), also known as the Seven Years War. It is North Carolina's only link to the war for empire that crossed five continents and lasted nearly 10 years. Fort Dobbs is part of the N.C. Division of State Historic Sites within the N.C. Department of Cultural Resources.