Fort Ligonier, located in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, is known for its rich history and contributions to the county’s development. This year, in honor of the county’s 250th anniversary, the fort has partnered with West Overton Distilling to create a limited-edition whiskey named St. Clair’s Spirits, paying homage to one of the county’s founding officials, Arthur St. Clair.

On August 12th, Fort Ligonier will host a special event where visitors can indulge in a tasting and purchase of this white rye whiskey. The whiskey is unique as it is distilled from rye grown at West Overton Village in East Huntingdon. Taking place outdoors at the reconstructed 18th-century British frontier outpost, the event promises a memorable experience.

Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a Whiskey Sour cocktail made with St. Clair’s Spirits, feast on delicious food provided by local caterer Simply Good, and groove to live music by the talented Pittsburgh-area duo Common Ground in the Lower Fort. Mary Manges, the fort’s executive director, expressed her enthusiasm for the event, stating that it is a way to honor St. Clair and his remarkable journey as an immigrant.

Arthur St. Clair was born in Scotland in 1737 and became a prominent figure in both political and military spheres. He served as an officer in the British Army during the French and Indian War and later took on the role of caretaker for Fort Ligonier. After settling in the Ligonier Valley in 1764, he played significant roles in Westmoreland County, serving as a prothonotary, clerk, register, recorder, and justice of the first English court west of the Allegheny Mountains.

During the American Revolution, St. Clair showcased his military skills as an aide-de-camp to George Washington and rose to the rank of major general. He later became the president of the Continental Congress in 1787 and served as the governor of the Northwest Territory from 1788 to 1802. Today, Fort Ligonier’s museum proudly displays the parlor of one of his former homes, The Hermitage.

The creation of St. Clair’s Spirits aligns perfectly with the county’s 250th anniversary celebration. Only 250 bottles of this special whiskey will be produced at West Overton’s educational distillery. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time since the 1800s that whiskey has been distilled from rye grown at West Overton. The distillery holds historical significance as it is the birthplace of Old Overholt, the oldest continuously maintained brand of American Rye Whiskey.

To join in the festivities and taste St. Clair’s Spirits, interested individuals must register by August 7th on the Fort Ligonier website or by calling the provided number. The cost of attending the event is $25 for members of Fort Ligonier or West Overton Village and $35 for non-members. Additionally, a 375 ml bottle of St. Clair’s Spirits will be available for purchase on the night of the tasting event, as well as on select dates at Fort Ligonier and Saturdays at West Overton.

Whiskey holds a significant place in American history, having weathered rebellions, wars, temperance movements, and even Prohibition. Patrick Bochy, West Overton’s co-executive director, emphasizes the enduring nature of whiskey as a symbol of America’s growth and progress.

This collaboration between Fort Ligonier and West Overton Distilling not only offers a unique tasting experience but also serves as a testament to the county’s historical legacy. By honoring Arthur St. Clair and his remarkable achievements, this event encapsulates the spirit of Westmoreland County’s 250 years of growth and success.