Knox's Headquarters State Historic Site facts for kids
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Knox Headquarters
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The Ellison House at Knox's Headquarter's State Historic Site in New Windsor, NY
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| Location | Vails Gate, NY |
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| Nearest city | Newburgh |
| Built | 1755 |
| Architect | William Bull |
| Architectural style | Georgian |
| NRHP reference No. | 72000901 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | November 9, 1972 |
| Designated NHL | November 28, 1972 |
Knox's Headquarters State Historic Site is a special place in New Windsor, Orange County, New York. It features a beautiful Georgian-style house, built in 1754 by William Bull. The site is located on Old Forge Hill Road, near Vails Gate.
This historic site is most famous for its connection to Henry Knox. He was a very important person during the American Revolutionary War. Knox used this house as his headquarters when the war was ending in the early 1780s. However, other generals like Nathanael Greene and Horatio Gates also used it throughout the war.
The site was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1972. Today, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation owns it. The Palisades Interstate Park Commission helps manage it.
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A Look Back at Knox's Headquarters
A Home for Generals
The Ellison family built the main house in 1754. It is a great example of Georgian architecture from that time. During the American Revolutionary War, this house became a key spot. It served as a headquarters for several important generals.
General Henry Knox is the most famous person linked to the site. He was a "Founding Father" of the United States. Knox was known for leading the Continental Army's artillery. He stayed here as the war was coming to an end.
A National Treasure
Because of its important role in American history, Knox's Headquarters was named a National Historic Landmark. This happened on November 9, 1972. This special title means it is a place of great national importance.
The site is now part of the New York State park system. It helps people learn about the past. It shows how people lived during the 1700s.
What You Can See Today
Exploring 18th-Century Life
When you visit Knox's Headquarters, you can take a tour of the house. Guides will show you what life was like for families like the Ellisons in the 1700s. You can imagine what it was like to live without modern electricity or plumbing.
Special Events and Demonstrations
On certain holidays and special days, the site comes alive. Staff members dress up in clothes from the 1700s. They put on special events and demonstrations. You might even see staff dressed as soldiers from the 2nd Continental Artillery.
They often show how cannons were used during the war. This is a fun way to learn about military history. It helps visitors understand Henry Knox's role.
More to Discover
A Book About the House
The house and its grounds were even featured in a children's book. It was called Buried Treasure: A Tale of an Old House. The book was written in 1919 by Henry Everett McNeil. He was a popular children's author.
The book even included photos McNeil took around 1911 or 1912. These photos showed the buildings and a bridge at the site.
Nature and History Combined
Near the headquarters, you can find the Jane Colden Plant Sanctuary. This area has trails through the woods. It honors America's first female botanist, Jane Colden. She also lived in this area a long time ago.
See also
