Fort Clinton facts for kids
Fort Clinton was an important fort built by the American army during the American Revolutionary War in 1776. It was located on the west side of the Hudson River in what is now New York.
Guarding the Great Chain
Fort Clinton was one of two forts that stood close together. It was on the south side of Popolopen Gorge, while Fort Montgomery was on the north side. These forts were built to protect a huge iron chain that stretched across the Hudson River. This chain went from Fort Montgomery to Anthony's Nose on the river's east side. The goal was to stop British ships from sailing up the river. Both forts were located in what is now Highlands, in Orange County, New York.
Fort Clinton had about 300 soldiers, which was fewer than Fort Montgomery. However, Fort Clinton was built on higher ground. Its defenses were also stronger and more complete. General James Clinton was in charge of Fort Clinton, and the fort was named after him. He was not to be confused with his brother, General George Clinton, or the British general Sir Henry Clinton.
The Battle of Forts Clinton and Montgomery
On October 6, 1777, British soldiers attacked Forts Clinton and Montgomery. The attack was led by Sir Henry Clinton. The fight was fierce but short. Both forts were taken over by the British within an hour. General James Clinton, who was wounded, had to retreat with his soldiers through Popolopen Gorge.
After the battle, the British destroyed the forts. They also took apart the large iron chain that the forts were meant to protect. The American forces later put another Hudson River Chain further up the river.
Today, you can still see the ruins of Fort Montgomery. It is a National Historic Landmark. However, the site of Fort Clinton was destroyed in the 1920s. This happened when U.S. Route 9W and the Bear Mountain Bridge were being built. Now, the Fort Clinton site is part of Bear Mountain State Park. It is used for the Trailside Museum and Zoo.
