The Old Glade (Forbes's) Road (Pennsylvania State Road)

by Archer Butler Hulbert

"The Old Glade (Forbes's) Road (Pennsylvania State Road)" by Archer Butler Hulbert is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the significance of the Old Glade Road, mapping its historical context, military importance, and the impact of transportation routes on American westward expansion during the 18th century. The book appears to focus on the narratives surrounding key figures such as General Edward Braddock and Brigadier-general John Forbes, who were pivotal in connecting the eastern colonies with the Ohio Valley. The opening of the book provides an overview of the origins and developments of the Old Trading Path, which evolved into Forbes's Road. It details how this route became integral during the military campaigns of the era, driven by the necessity of connecting colonies and facilitating the movement of troops and supplies. The text recounts the challenges faced in constructing and maintaining the road amid conflicts and the strategic importance of this thoroughfare in military logistics, particularly as it relates to Braddock’s failed campaign and Forbes's subsequent success in the late 1750s. The historical background sets the stage for understanding the broader implications of the Old Glade Road, both in the context of early American expansion and military history.