Plattsburgh Bay facts for kids
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Plattsburgh Bay
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Bay in 2012
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 Location in New York
Location in the United States
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| Location | Plattsburgh, NY |
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| Area | 7,025 acres (2,843 ha) |
| Built | 1814 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000507 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | December 19, 1960 |
Plattsburgh Bay, also known as Cumberland Bay, is a special part of Lake Champlain in New York. It's a large inlet on the western side of the lake. The bay is home to the city of Plattsburgh.
This bay is famous for a big event that happened a long time ago. On September 11, 1814, a major battle took place here. It was called the Battle of Plattsburgh, and it was a key moment in the War of 1812. Because of its important history, Plattsburgh Bay and some nearby land areas were named a National Historic Landmark in 1960.
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Exploring Plattsburgh Bay's Location
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Plattsburgh Bay is in the northern part of Lake Champlain. It sits on the western shore, across from a large piece of land called Grand Isle. A long strip of land, Cumberland Head, forms the northern and eastern edges of the bay. The city of Plattsburgh is on the western side.
About 2.8 miles (4.5 km) east of the city's shore is the southern tip of Cumberland Head. A few miles south of the bay, you'll find Crab Island. This small island was also very important during the 1814 battle. Both Crab Island and Cumberland Head are part of the historic landmark area.
The Battle of Plattsburgh: A Key Moment
In September 1814, British forces from Canada attacked Plattsburgh. They wanted to win land to help them in peace talks that were happening. On September 6, British soldiers took over the city. Both sides then got ready for a huge naval battle on the lake.
American ships lined up across the mouth of the bay. They stretched between Cumberland Head and Crab Island. The American fleet won a big victory against the British ships. At the same time, American soldiers on land fought off British attempts to cross the Saranac River. One important American defense was Fort Brown, which is also part of the landmark.
Honoring a Hero: The Macdonough Memorial
A special monument, the Macdonough Memorial, stands in front of Plattsburgh City Hall. It was built in 1926. This tall stone tower, 135 feet (41 meters) high, honors Captain Thomas Macdonough. He was the brave leader of the American naval forces during the Battle of Plattsburgh.
Images for kids
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Bay in 2012
