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Fort Montgomery, NY
 Fort Montgomery was the scene of a fierce Revolutionary War battle for control of
the Hudson River. Visitors today can tour the remains of the 14-acre fortification, perched on a cliff overlooking the magnificent
Hudson River.
On October 6, 1777, the British attacked Fort Montgomery and nearby Fort Clinton. The Americans, outnumbered
3 to 1, fought desperately until driven out of the forts at the points of the British bayonets. About 50% of the American
forces were killed, wounded, or taken prisoner.
Archeologists have revealed many of Fort Montgomery’s remains,
including the stone foundations of barracks where the troops lived, the ruins of the powder magazine blown up by the British
after the battle, and the eroded walls of the North Redoubt, where the outnumbered Americans courageously defended the fort.
There is a spectacular view of the Hudson River from the Grand Battery, where, in 1777, massive 6,000-pound cannons guarded
a giant iron chain across the river.
Hikers will enjoy the walk to a beautiful new suspension footbridge that crosses
the Popolopen Creek, where in 1777, a pontoon bridge connected Fort Montgomery with Fort Clinton. The trail continues to the
Trailside Museums and Zoo (the former site of Fort Clinton), Bear Mountain State Park, and the Appalachian Trail.
Tours
of Fort Montgomery are self-guided. Illustrated signs explain the fort’s history and its archeological remains. Group
tours led by an interpreter are available by appointment.
© 2003-2007
The Palisades Parks Conservancy. Administration Building. Bear Mountain, NY 10911.
Phone:
845-786-2701
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