Fort Manada (East Hanover Township, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania)

East Hanover Township, Dauphin County · Pennsylvania · French and Indian War

Quick BriefFort Manada (also known as James Brown's Fort) was a settler-built stockaded blockhouse established by James Brown in response to Indian attacks during the French and Indian War. In February 1756, Captain Frederick Smith, with his company of troops, either completed the fort or built a new one, which they called Fort Manada. The fort was in use from late 1755 until May 1757, which is the last time it is mentioned in official documents.

History & Significance

Following attacks on colonial frontier settlements using passes through Manada Gap, fortifications were established near Manada Gap in Dauphin County. Settlers at Manada Gap had already constructed a stockaded blockhouse in late 1755.

The garrison, probably around 20 men, was spread between the fort and settlers' homes, protecting the dwellings and the workers in the field. James Brown was killed by Indians on 6 August 1756.

Under Captain Frederick Smith (Schmitt) as a sub-post of Fort Swatara, the fortification served as a crucial link in Pennsylvania's defensive chain against raids. Fort Manada in Manada Gap stood alongside Fort Swatara and other posts to protect settlers and maintain passage control.

Its exact location is unknown, but records indicate that it stood on what was the property of William Rhoads, about 300 yards west of Manada Creek. No remnants of Fort Manada remain today. A historical marker was erected in 1970 by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission in East Hanover Township, on Mountain Road.