The Hessian Powder Magazine

The Hessian Powder Magazine was constructed at Carlisle Barracks in 1777 during the American War for Independence from the British government, when Carlisle was a growing depot supporting Gen. George Washington's Continental Army. It stored valuable gunpowder, cannon shot, and small arms far beyond the range of British ships along the coast. Local histories indicate that some of its construction was done by Hessian soldiers interned at Carlisle after capture by Washington's forces during the December 1776 Battle of Trenton. The building and its functions changed over time and with local missions: its 18th-century covered gallery, chimneys, and roof ventilators were long ago removed; iron doors were added in the mid-19th century when it was converted for use as the Hessian Guard House; the Carlisle Indian Industrial School used it from 1879 to 1918; in the early 20th century it was used primarily for storage; and in 1948 it was converted back to an approximation of its former appearance. The structure endures as a reminder of the enduring nature of the United States and its Army.

Schlusser, Pennsylvania · United States