Why did George Washington choose the location he did for Fort Necessity?
Fort Necessity did not defend a strategic military location. George Washington arrived at the Great Meadows in May. He set up a camp from which to base his operations while waiting for additional militia and British regulars. Washington chose the Great Meadows for his camp because it was open. It would be easier to see the enemy coming through the meadow than through the forest. There was also water and pasture available. After encountering and dispatching the French party led by Jumonville, Washington returned to the Great Meadows and fortified his position. He built a stockade and earthworks around his storehouse.
