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H is for Historic Sites

© Gary W. Taylor

The Adirondacks are bookended between two important historic sites - Fort Ticonderoga National Historic Landmark to the north, and the Saratoga National Historical Park to the south. Each marks an important site in our nation's history, and each has many great programs and activities to offer.

The Saratoga National Historical Park marks the site of the battle that is also know as the "turning point" of the American Revolution. The Battle of Saratoga, fought in 1777, was crucial to the success of the American Revolution because it was the first battle in which the American troops fought and defeated the British army. That victory led to France recognizing the cause of the Americans and entering the war as an important ally. Their help was critical in the winning of the war.

This year, Saratoga National Historical Park is commemorating the 225th anniversary of these battles. The anniversary celebration will take place on Saturday & Sunday, September 28 and 29, 2002. There will be an encampment and reenactment of the battles over that weekend.

There are many events and programs offered at this park. Daily living history demonstrations, natural history hikes, concerts, lectures and many other programs of interest begin on Memorial Day weekend. In addition, the Schuyler House museum is open for tours daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The visitor center is open all year. Park fees are $5 per car, and $3 for individuals on foot, bicycle or horseback.

At the other end of the Adirondack Park, near Lake Champlain, is Fort Ticonderoga National Historic Landmark. This is the site of the greatest French victory in the Seven Years War, and the site of important battles during the French & Indian War and the American Revolution.

The Fort Ticonderoga Museum has an impressive collection of books, maps, manuscripts, and historical artifacts. These tell the history of the Fort itself, as well as the military history of the Lake Champlain and Lake George valleys.

The Fort and museum are open daily in the spring and summer months. A wide range of activities are scheduled, including the Grand Encampment of the French and Indian War which will be held on June 29 and 30. The Fort Ticonderoga Fife and Drum Corps performs throughout the summer, and there are daily musket and artillery demonstrations and historical narratives. And while you are there, don't miss the chance to visit the famed garden areas. They are beautiful!

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