Forbes Hut
This building was one of three designated as officer's facilities on contemporary maps. General John Forbes, in poor health, requested a hovel of "hutt" with a fireplace be provide for him at Fort Ligonier. The proximity of this structure to the main gate suggest that here is where the General stayed.
Like any general officer of the day, Forbes traveled with a retinue of servants, aides and his own supply train. A folding bed, linens, tableware, wines and liqueurs, and chests for his papers and personal items accompanied Forbes while on campaign.
It is not know for certain what disease afflicted the General. A former student of medicine, Forbes may have known he was dying. His illness, coupled with the rigors of travel, caused him acute pain and deprivation of strength. Despite this suffering, he never relented in his efforts, seizing Fort Duquesne in late November, 1758. He spent Christmas at Fort Ligonier before making the long trip back to Philadelphia, where he died, March 11, 1759.