Middle Georgians Celebrate The 4th At Ft. Hawkins

The fifteen star-spangled banner waved proudly over Ft. Hawkins as Middle Georgians were greeted by music, fresh watermelon and a visitor from that past. That visitor was Col. Benjamin Hawkins, played by Ft. Hawkins Project Coordinator Marty Willett.

“What better place to celebrate America’s birthday at Macon’s birthplace here at historic Ft. Hawkins?,” said Willett, dressed in his Revolutionary garb. Ft. Hawkins was an important place in America’s second War of Independence–the War of 1812.

People came from all over Middle Georgia dressed in their red, white and blue. Young Aiyane Hanson says she was reminded of America’s history as she took part in the festivities.

“I was thinking about Paul Revere and when they were saying the British were coming,” she said. “I like being an American because we’re all free.”

Willett says this is the 9th annual 4th of July celebration at Ft. Hawkins, adn he hopes this good old fashioned American tradition will live on here in Macon.

“To see all these families and multigenerational visitors here–I mean young, old–everybody’s out here today,” said Willett. “This is a great place for everyone to rekindle their local and national pride, and what better day than the 4th of July.”