Eric Forster of Butler, right, portrays a young George Washington, Saturday, in a recreation of Washington's visit to the region prior to the French and Indian War, along with Caleb Holt, left, playing his guide Christopher Gist and Tom Klingensmith playing the role of a Native American that fired on Washington. The reenactment was part of Jennings Environmental Center Washington's Trail and Cherry Pie Hike day. Seb Foltz/Butler Eagle 02/26/22

BRADY TWP — Even history has a sweet spot.

Participants at Saturday’s Cherry Pie Hike were treated to it at Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Road. After a half-hour hike in the surrounding woods, they enjoyed a slice of cherry pie and cup of hot cider to commemorate George Washington’s 290th birthday, which was Tuesday, as well as his trek through what is now Butler County in December 1753.

The event, which began two decades ago, has been held at Jennings for a number of years.

“”Previously, it was held at Moraine State Park and Harmony,“ said Rodney Gasch, president of Harmony Museum, one of several groups that sponsored the event. ”Jennings has worked out to be a great partner for us.“

Hikers could also choose to take part in one of three 75-minute nature hikes or a 7-mile hike that began at Moraine and ended at the education center. In all, about 200 people took advantage of one of the treks.

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