Copyright: New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Crown Point State Historic Site
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Description - Long before the Revolution, the British and the French both claimed Crown Point in the struggle for a North American empire. Four failed campaigns to oust the French between 1755 and 1758 were mounted by the British. It was not until 1759, however, that the abandoned French Fort St. Frederic was taken over by the British. The British immediately began construction of "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point." This extremely ambitious fortification complex contributed to the British conquest of Canada, the last French stronghold, and control of Lake Champlain as a communication highway. Today, guests can see the ruins of the original 18th century structures and view exhibits that interpret the French, British and American chapters of Crown Point's history.
Attractions
- Long before the Revolution, the British and the French both claimed Crown Point in the struggle for a North American empire. Four failed campaigns to oust the French between 1755 and 1758 were mounted by the British. It was not until 1759, however, that the abandoned French Fort St. Frederic was taken over by the British. The British immediately began construction of "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point." This extremely ambitious fortification complex contributed to the British conquest of Canada, the last French stronghold, and control of Lake Champlain as a communication highway.
In 1775, at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, the rebellious colonists captured the fort and secured sorely needed cannons and heavy ordnance. Crown Point was occupied by General John Burgoyne's army in 1777 after the American evacuation to Mount Independence and remained under British control until the end of the war. The ruins of Fort St. Frederic, "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point," and surrounding lands were purchased by the State of New York in 1910.
Recreation - Visitors to Crown Point State Historic Site will enjoy viewing the original 18th century structures. In the visitor center, folks can view exhibits that interpret the French, British and American chapters of Crown Point's history. They may also enjoy audio-visual programs, period-costumed interpreters, educational services, group tours, self-guided tours, biking, hiking and viewing beautiful scenery. The visitor center is open from mid-May through October, Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. The historic site is also open Independence Day and Labor Day. Visitors need an appointment other times of the year. The grounds are open year-round. Vehicle access fee is $5.00 cars and trucks weekends and holidays only, $25.00 nonprofit organization buses, $50.00 scheduled bus tours. $1.00/person for school groups. Climate - The historic site has a varied climate with average January temperatures ranging from 14 to 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 to -6 degrees Celsius). Summer temperatures average around 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius). Precipitation in the region ranges from 36 to more than 44 inches of rain and snowmelt. A slender parcel along the eastern state line receive the heaviest precipitation. Location -
Crown Point State Historic Site rests in Crown Point at Lake Champlain Bridge along SR 17.
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