George Rogers Clark National Historical Park, located on the banks of the Wabash River in Vincennes, is located on what is believed to be the site of Fort Sackville, commemorating the finest moment in General George Rogers Clark’s career. Outdoor areas of the park include grassy areas, walking paths, and picnic tables, and the visitor center and parking area are open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Clark Memorial building is open on request between these same hours. You can go inside the memorial building by checking in with rangers at the visitor center first.
Other historic attractions in the area include Grouseland, which includes the William Henry Harrison Mansion and Museum, a National Historic Landmark important for its Federal-style architecture and role in American history. The museum features an impressive collection of art, furniture, memorabilia. There are three original portraits of Harrison in the collection, Harrison family pieces, and military and campaign memorabilia collected since the house opened in 1911.
Fort Knox II was built in 1803, three miles north of Vincennes on the Wabash River. The fort’s location is outlined with short posts and interpretive markers which tell the story of the site, which was used as a military installation from 1803-1813. Fort Knox was the mustering location of the army that fought the battle of Tippecanoe in November of 1811.
This season, celebrate Vincennes history with some fun events. On December 6-7 there’s Christmas at Grouseland, a candlelight tour of the mansion with seasonal décor, guides in period dress, and horse-drawn carriage rides. There’s also Christkindlmarkt, a downtown festival with vendors, traditional German food, kids activities, and entertainment, capped off
with the annual, sold-out Frosty Mug Pub Crawl Saturday night. It’s also a First Friday Art Walk weekend, which means all three galleries open their doors with special events like artist’s talks and entertainment. For more information visit: VisitVincennes.org.
