Fort Tompkins (Sackets Harbor, New York) facts for kids

Fort Tompkins was a small but important fort built between 1812 and 1815. It was located in Sackets Harbor, New York. This fort was part of a strong defense system designed to protect the town during the War of 1812.

Fort Tompkins: A War of 1812 Stronghold

Fort Tompkins was a type of small fort called a "redoubt." A redoubt is a strong, enclosed building or area used for defense. It was part of a line of four similar forts that protected Sackets Harbor from attacks by land. These forts included Fort Kentucky, Fort Virginia, Fort Chauncey, and Fort Stark. This line of forts was connected to a larger base called Fort Pike, which later became known as Madison Barracks. Together, these forts helped keep Sackets Harbor safe.

What Was Fort Tompkins?

Fort Tompkins was a "redoubt," which means it was a small, temporary fort. It was built to help defend a larger area. Think of it like a mini-fortress! It was part of a chain of four such forts. These forts were like a protective wall around Sackets Harbor. They were built to stop enemy soldiers from getting into the town from the land side.

Why Was Sackets Harbor Important?

Sackets Harbor was a very important place during the War of 1812. It was a key naval base for the United States on Lake Ontario. This lake was a major waterway for moving goods and soldiers. Controlling Sackets Harbor meant controlling a big part of the lake. Because it was so important, the British often tried to attack it. This is why places like Fort Tompkins were so necessary to protect the town and its naval base.

Fort Tompkins and the War of 1812

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain. It lasted from 1812 to 1815. Fort Tompkins was built and used during this time. Its main job was to help defend Sackets Harbor from land attacks. Even though it was a small fort, it played a part in the overall defense strategy. The New York Army National Guard helped build these defenses.

Who Was Daniel D. Tompkins?

Fort Tompkins was named after Daniel D. Tompkins. He was a very important person in New York at the time. Daniel D. Tompkins served as the Governor of New York from 1807 to 1817. He later became the Vice President of the United States under President James Monroe. Naming the fort after him was a way to honor his leadership and service during the war.