Copyright: New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation
Steuben Memorial State Historic Site
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Description - This plain but large monument marks Baron von Steuben's final resting place. Steuben played an integral role during the Revolutionary War. George Washington's army was in shambles when Steuben volunteered his services to Benjamin Franklin. Steuben converted the ragged, starving army into an effective fighting force. As gratitude for his services, he received this parcel of land where he summered until his death in November 1794. The site is open mid-May through Labor and available to group tours.
Attractions
- The Steuben Memorial honors the "Drillmaster of the American Revolution," Baron von Steuben, whose valuable wartime services have been described as being second in importance only to those of George Washington. In 1777, Steuben volunteered his services to Benjamin Franklin to advise the ill-trained American army. At Valley Forge, he converted the ragged, starving army into an effective fighting force. His program greatly increased the morale and strengthened the army. He authored the "Blue Book," which still remains a basic reference for military training and organization.
After the war, Congress granted von Steuben a life annuity and deeded him a large parcel of land in appreciation for his wartime contributions. He summered on his land in a two-room log house until his death in November 1794. Although in his will he requested an unmarked grave, in 1804, his remains were transferred to what is now known as the "Sacred Grove." Today a plain, but large monument marks Baron von Steuben's final resting place.
Recreation - The Steuben Memorial State Historic Site offers demonstrations, educational services, group tours, guided tours, picnicking, gift shop, views of the historic house, re-enactments, scenic views and interpretive signs. The group tours must be arranged in advance. Many of the amenities are handicapped accessible. The site is open mid-May through Labor Day, Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The site is also open Monday holidays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Climate - The historic site experiences average January temperatures from 18 degrees to above 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-8 to above -6 degrees Celsius). It is important to note that this area receives some of the heaviest snowfalls in the nation. Summer temperatures average around 72 degrees Fahrenheit (around 22 degrees Celsius). Precipitation in the region ranges from 36 inches to more than 44 inches of rain and snowmelt. The heaviest precipitation is received in the region's northeast segment. Location -
Steuben Memorial is located 2.5 miles west of the tiny burg of Remsen off SR 28 / 12 on Starr Hill Road.
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