With its central location in one of New York’s most strategically important regions, it’s no surprise that throughout the centuries, Washington County has played a crucial role in American military history.

Once stretching all the way to Canada and encompassing part of Vermont, the area formerly known as Charlotte County has born witness to many conflicts within its borders, from pre-settlement skirmishes amongst natives along The Great War Path to atrocities committed by foreign soldiers during the Revolutionary War.

Luckily, you can still see where history happened even in the present day! Many locations from past eras remain well-preserved as local historic sites, including battlefields, old military infrastructure, residences and more.

Let’s explore the long-lasting impact Washington County, NY has made on American military history, and the modern ways you can experience it today:

French & Indian War

Way back in 1609, Samuel de Champlain and a party of First Nations natives encountered a force of the Iroquois Nation at what is now Gourlies Point in Putnam. This skirmish kicked off many long years of hostilities between the Iroquois and the French.

As major world players competed for control of North America, natives and settlers in this region were caught in the crossfire. The Hudson Valley served as a strategic outpost for both sides, with Lake Champlain and the Hudson River acting as vital waterways for transportation and military operations alike.

Want a glimpse into what life was like during this era? While “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992) was filmed in the Carolinas, it was set in the Lake George region during the French & Indian War and mentions many familiar locations including Fort Edward, NY! Or, would you like to experience the beauty of this natural area in real life? Explore the trails throughout Hudson Crossing Park, or the stunning overlook at the top of Buck Mountain.

Rogers Island in Fort Edward, NY

One major component of these skirmishes? Rogers Island in Fort Edward, NY, which served as one of the largest British fortifications in North America during the French & Indian Wars. Interestingly enough, the island’s population was so large at the time it became the country’s third largest city behind New York City and Boston!

During the final years of the conflict, the island also served as a base camp for Major Robert Rogers and his company of Rangers. It was there he wrote his “Ranging Rules,” methods of training and rules of order that formed the basis of military tactics adopted by irregular fighting forces the world over.

Once the Revolutionary War came about, colonial troops garrisoned in the remaining barracks on the island were forced to flee as General John Burgoyne advanced his army en route to the Battle of Saratoga.

Learn more about Rogers Island and its large collection of pro-colonial native artifacts at the Rogers Island Museum and Visitors Center!

Revolutionary War

Believe it or not, much of the struggle for our nation happened within Washington County’s borders! Luckily, there are many modern ways to see the past brought to life. Follow in history’s footsteps with the Turning Point Trail and Battle of Bennington audio tours, which invites visitors to explore unique locations through a historic lens. You can also learn more about Burgoyne’s Saratoga Campaign in our recent article, or visit the iconic Fort Ticonderoga in Essex County just to the north.

In the Revolutionary period, Washington County was a hotbed of Patriot activity, including many prominent leaders overseeing military maneuvers such as General Philip Schuyler, President George Washington, General John Stark, Joseph McCracken, and more.

Revolutionary Battles Within Our Borders

As testament to this area’s importance, many of this county’s villages began life as forts, armed outposts holding defensive positions throughout the frontier. This includes Fort Ann, the site where the “Stars and Stripes” flag first flew during a Revolutionary War battle on July 8, 1777. Later, this became known as the Battle of Fort Ann. The nearby Battle Hill Brewing Company pays homage to this facet of local history. On the other side of the county, Fort Salem (now the town of Salem) was built by the British, and then used during the Revolution as Patriot barracks. A final key location was the Old Fort House in Fort Edward, NY (now a museum), which was occupied by leaders of both sides during the conflict, including Burgoyne.

As the war went on, several smaller yet highly impactful clashes occurred that began to turn the tides and increase local support for the Patriots. This includes the John Allen Farm Massacre and the abduction and murder of Jane McRea, both of which escalated tension and fear within the area. This change in sentiment helped ensure Britain’s defeat as news began to ripple through the nation.

These days, evidence of this rich history hides behind every corner. Just over the border in Rensselaer County you’ll find the Bennington Battlefield, part of which lies in Washington County. Many local men fought in the battle, their victory ensuring the British failed to obtain the the supplies they needed to continue advancing on Albany. Visit the Revolutionary War Cemetery in Salem, NY to see the real impact of this conflict: a massive loss of life. There, you’ll find what’s believed to be the largest Revolutionary burial ground in the state, including many soldiers who fought in the the Battle of Saratoga.

“The Birthplace of the United States Navy”: Whitehall, NY

Skenesborough, on the shores of Lake Champlain, emerged as one of the foremost settlements during the Revolutionary era and beyond. Under Benedict Arnold’s command, colonists constructed and sailed the country’s first warships, earning it the distinction of being the “Birth Place of the United States Navy.” Later on, the town now known as  Whitehall continued to be vital during the War of 1812. You can see many neat artifacts, dioramas and drawings of this era in the Skenesborough Museum‘s extensive collection!

War of 1812

Arguably, no other state played a greater role in the War of 1812 than New York. From Buffalo to Plattsburgh, Americans fought the British on both land and water in an ongoing conflict that came to be known as America’s “Second War for Independence.” For the first time in history, Congress was forced to declare war on a foreign nation in response to the British impressing American soldiers into service and aiding Native American tribes in attacks on the frontier.

During this clash between nations, Washington County, NY once again played a critical role. Whitehall served as a military warehouse for both British and American fleets, underscoring its strategic importance as a logistical hub with quick access to Lake Champlain, Lake George and the Hudson River. Additionally, the town’s shipbuilding capabilities helped ready the American navy for war. Many men in local militias were called upon to serve, traveling north to the Canadian border to help lead Americans to victory during the Battle of Plattsburgh on Lake Champlain.

Naturally, there are lasting pieces of history everywhere you look! Visit the Skenesborough Museum in Whitehall, NY. to view the remains of the U.S.S. Ticonderoga warship which fought in the Battle of Plattsburgh.

Civil War

As the Civil War approached, Washington County was much like the rest of the nation: deeply divided. Many residents supported the Union, while others sympathized with the Confederacy. Plus, while some locals kept slaves during this time, others helped the enslaved reach freedom in Canada by helping them travel the Underground Railroad in secret.

Many young men from across the county enlisted to serve the Union, traveling thousands of miles to fight their countrymen. Surviving artifacts and tales from this time are displayed at the Hartford, NY Museum & Civil War Enlistment Center, the only remaining original enlistment center in New York State. Yet the war didn’t only affect men – with husbands, fathers and brothers away from the fields, many farm families in Washington County struggled to survive.

Legacy and Significance

As you can see, Washington County’s rich military history is closely intertwined with the broader narrative of American history! The county’s forts, battlefields, and historic landmarks stand as testaments to the sacrifices and triumphs of those who fought for our nation’s freedom and independence.

Today, Washington County preserves and celebrates its military heritage through various historical sites, museums, and educational programs. These efforts ensure that the county’s contributions to American military history continue to be remembered and honored.

Seeking more things to do during your next trip exploring Washignton County, NY’s rich heritage? Find unique experiences, unforgettable museums, scenic golf courses and world-class wineries right here in Washington County, NY! Or, you may want to check out our variety of hiking, fishing, learning and shopping opportunities.

And finally, why not explore places to stay, from unique historic stays to traditional bed & breakfasts?

Still looking for more cool stuff to do? Check out our experiential Trails, exploring everything from antiques, maple and fiber to ice cream, hands-on experiences and haunted places!