Act 48 Workshop: Washington and the West Session 2
Earn Act 48 credits while discovering how Western Pennsylvania shaped the story of George Washington and the American Revolution.
Teachers are invited to join the Heinz History Center and George Washington’s Mount Vernon for a hands-on, two-day professional development workshop.
Hosted at the History Center and Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village, this unique program will examine how vital the West was to Washington’s life and to the broader story of American independence.
Session 1 on Thursday, April 2, at the History Center
Engage in a museum educator–led presentation, practice primary source analysis, and explore Clash of Empires during a guided tour. The evening concludes with conversation and connection over a seated dinner with fellow educators.
Session 2 on Saturday, April 4, at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village
Step into an 18th-century reconstructed trading village to explore the complex relationships west of the Appalachians. Activities include immersive interpretation, hands-on demonstrations, tomahawk throwing, and more.
Together, these two sessions invite educators to consider how Washington’s experiences in Western Pennsylvania helped shape the nation as the country approaches its 250th anniversary.
This program is part of the History Center’s year-long commemoration of the U.S. Semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, in partnership with America250PA.
America250PA was established by the Pennsylvania state legislature and Governor in 2018 to plan, encourage, develop and coordinate the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States, Pennsylvania’s integral role in that event, and the impact of its people on the nation’s past, present, and future.
Heinz History Center programs commemorating America’s 250th anniversary are supported by Nimick Forbesway Foundation, Richard King Mellon Foundation, Visit PA, and the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD).
Admission
This two-day Act 48 workshop is free for educators with advance registration. Participation in both the April 2 and April 4 sessions is required. Participants only need to register once to attend both days of the event.
The first session will be held at the Heinz History Center on April 2, and the second session will be held at Meadowcroft Rockshelter and Historic Village in Avella, Pa.
Act 48 credits will be provided at no additional cost.
For additional questions, please contact [email protected].
George Washington Teacher Institute
This workshop is part of a series of regional programs for teachers across the United States developed by George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the George Washington Teacher Institute (GWTI) to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary.

These programs are sponsored nationally by Boeing.
