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Fort Morris invites you to 'Come and take it'
1102 Come Take It
Historic re-enactors will participate in a tactical skirmish between opposing forces on Saturday, Nov. 19 during Fort Morris Come and take it encampment. - photo by Photo provided.

On Saturday, Nov. 19, Fort Morris State Historic Site will offer visitors the opportunity to step back in time and witness a significant moment in American history.
To commemorate the 233nd anniversary of the British demand to surrender Fort Morris, the park will host its annual “Come and take it!” Revolutionary War encampment from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
On Nov. 25, 1778, during the American Revolution, British Lt. Col. Lewis V. Fuser demanded the surrender of Fort Morris. American Col. John McIntosh offered a reply that would become legendary: “Sir, we would rather perish in vigorous defense than accept your proposal. We are fighting the battles of America and therefore disdain to remain neutral until its fate is determined. As to surrendering the fort, receive this laconic reply, come and take it!”
Local historian and former Liberty County Historical Society President Margie Love said that Fuser did not attack Fort Morris at that point, but he did four months later when McIntosh was no longer the commander.
To acknowledge his gallantry, the Georgia Legislature later presented McIntosh with a sword with the words “come and take it” inscribed on it, according to Love.
In remembrance of the battle, Fort Morris will have soldier talks, musket drills, cannon demonstrations, domestic skills, colonial music with Jamie Keena and colonial crafts like weaving and spinning. 
At 1:30 p.m., there will be a tactical skirmish between opposing forces followed by a portrayal of the correspondence between the Patriot and British officers.
Guests are also invited to bring picnics.
The event is free. Fort Morris is seven miles east of I-95, exit 76. Follow the brown Liberty Trail signs.
For more information, call 884-5999 or go to www.georgiastateparks.org and click Fort Morris.

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