French Fort? British Fort? Fortified windmill!? The Crown Point State Historic Site is a significant historic site that offers all three!
Located on the peninsula where the new Lake Champlain bridge is currently under construction,the ruins of Fort St. Frederic, "His Majesty's Fort of Crown Point,"and surrounding lands were acquired by the State of New York in 1910. Guests can see the ruins of the original 18th-century structures and in the site's Visitor Center, view exhibits that interpret the French, British, and American chapters of Crown Point's history.
The new audio/visual show in the site's Visitors Center building clearly defines the "when and why" this strategic location was chosen, and what transpired there. There are also new exhibits in the museum that contribute to the story and reveal a first hand look at artifacts uncovered at the site. You can bring all your friends since the auditorium seats about 80 in air-conditioned comfort; a perfect respite from a scorching sun or a summer shower. Afterward, prowl the fort ruins with a greater appreciation of our backyard.
Ever been there? It's amazing just to walk the grounds, imagine the thousands of people who once lived there, and read the interpretive signs and take in the spectacular views!
-Submitted by Suzanne Maye. As the Lake Champlain Region marketing manager, her office is located at the Lake Champlain Visitors Center - right across the street from the CPHS!
