Fort Stanwix National Monument : Interesting Facts, History & Travel Guide

Located in the heart of Rome, New York, Fort Stanwix National Monument is a historic fort that played a crucial role during the American Revolution. The fort was initially built by the British in the mid-18th century to serve as a military stronghold and trading post. However, during the American Revolution, the fort was captured by American forces and played a critical role in securing American independence.

Today, Fort Stanwix National Monument is a fascinating destination for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike, with its stunning natural scenery and rich historical significance.

In this blog, we will explore the interesting facts, history, and travel guide of Fort Stanwix National Monument, providing you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable visit to this remarkable site.

Interesting facts about Fort Stanwix National Monument

Some interesting facts about this site:

1. Fort Stanwix was built in 1758 by the British during the French and Indian War, and was originally called Fort Schuyler.
2. During the American Revolution, the fort played a crucial role in defending the Mohawk Valley and keeping the British from advancing into upstate New York.
3. In August 1777, the fort was besieged by a force of about 2,000 British soldiers and Loyalists. However, the American defenders, led by Colonel Peter Gansevoort, successfully repelled the attack after a nearly three-week siege.
4. The Treaty of Fort Stanwix, signed in 1784, was the first treaty between the United States government and a Native American tribe. The treaty was signed with the Six Nations, who agreed to give up their claim to lands west of the Appalachian Mountains.
5. The fort was reconstructed in the 1970s, using historical records and archaeological evidence. Today, visitors can tour the fort and see exhibits about the fort’s history and the lives of the people who lived there.
6. Fort Stanwix National Monument is also home to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, which preserves and promotes the history of the Erie Canal.
7. The fort is located near several other historic sites, including the Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site, where a Revolutionary War battle was fought in 1777, and the Rome Historical Society, which has exhibits on the city’s history.
8. Fort Stanwix National Monument is part of the National Park Service and is open year-round. Admission is free, and guided tours are available.
9. In 2018, the fort was designated as a “significant” historic site by the National Park Service, which recognized its importance in American history.
10. The fort has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including the 1977 TV movie “The Fort Apache Stampede” and the 2016 documentary “The Great Wall of America.”

Information & History of Fort Stanwix National Monument

The site was established in 1935 to commemorate the pivotal role that the fort played in the American Revolution. The fort was originally built by the British in 1758 during the French and Indian War, and was initially named Fort Schuyler. The fort was constructed to protect the British supply line from Albany to Oswego, which was used to transport troops and supplies to the western frontier.

During the American Revolution, the fort was occupied by American forces and played a crucial role in defending the Mohawk Valley against the British. In 1777, the fort was besieged by a force of about 2,000 British soldiers and Loyalists under the command of General Barry St. Leger. The American defenders, led by Colonel Peter Gansevoort, successfully repelled the attack after a nearly three-week siege. This victory was a turning point in the war and prevented the British from advancing further into upstate New York.

After the Revolution, the fort was abandoned and fell into disrepair. In the 19th century, the site was used for a variety of purposes, including a canal depot and a railroad yard. By the early 20th century, the site was threatened with destruction by urban development. In 1935, the National Park Service acquired the site and established Fort Stanwix National Monument to preserve and interpret the history of the fort and its role in American history.

Today, the fort has been reconstructed to its original 18th-century appearance, using historical records and archaeological evidence. Visitors can tour the fort and see exhibits about the fort’s history and the lives of the people who lived there. The park also includes a visitor center with exhibits, a bookstore, and a theater that shows a film about the history of the fort.

In addition to the fort, Fort Stanwix National Monument is also home to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, which preserves and promotes the history of the Erie Canal. The park is located near several other historic sites, including the Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site, where a Revolutionary War battle was fought in 1777, and the Rome Historical Society, which has exhibits on the city’s history.

Travel Guide for Fort Stanwix National Monument

If you’re planning a visit to Fort Stanwix National Monument, here’s a travel guide to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Hours and admission: Fort Stanwix National Monument is open year-round from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission is free.
2. Guided tours: Guided tours of the fort are available during the summer months, and are led by park rangers. These tours provide an in-depth look at the fort’s history and are a great way to learn more about the site.
3. Visitor center: The park’s visitor center is located near the fort, and features exhibits, a bookstore, and a theater that shows a film about the history of the fort. Be sure to stop by the visitor center before touring the fort to get a better understanding of the site’s history.
4. What to bring: The fort is located outdoors, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. Sunscreen, hats, and water bottles are also recommended.
5. Nearby attractions: Fort Stanwix National Monument is located near several other historic sites, including the Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site and the Rome Historical Society. Consider planning a day trip to visit these other sites as well.
6. Camping and lodging: There is no camping or lodging available within Fort Stanwix National Monument. However, there are several campgrounds and hotels located nearby in Rome and the surrounding area.
7. Accessibility: The park is accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are several designated parking spots for visitors with disabilities, and the fort has ramps and other accommodations to make it accessible for wheelchair users.
8. Photography: Photography is allowed in the park, but commercial photography requires a permit.
9. Pets: Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in the fort or other buildings.
10. Park rules: Be sure to follow all park rules, including staying on designated trails and respecting the site’s historic resources.

Overall, a visit to Fort Stanwix National Monument is a great way to learn about the history of the American Revolution and the important role that the fort played in this pivotal period of American history.

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Some frequently asked questions about Fort Stanwix National Monument:

What can visitors see at Fort Stanwix National Monument?

Visitors to the park can tour the reconstructed fort and see exhibits about its history and the people who lived there. The park also includes a visitor center with exhibits, a bookstore, and a theater that shows a film about the history of the fort.

When is Fort Stanwix National Monument open?

Fort Stanwix National Monument is open year-round from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Is there an admission fee to visit Fort Stanwix National Monument?

No, admission to the park is free.

Can visitors bring pets to Fort Stanwix National Monument?

Yes, pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not allowed in the fort or other buildings.

Are guided tours available at Fort Stanwix National Monument?

Yes, guided tours of the fort are available during the summer months and are led by park rangers.

Is there camping or lodging available at Fort Stanwix National Monument?

No, there is no camping or lodging available within the park. However, there are several campgrounds and hotels located nearby in Rome and the surrounding area.

Is Fort Stanwix National Monument accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the park is accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are several designated parking spots for visitors with disabilities, and the fort has ramps and other accommodations to make it accessible for wheelchair users.

Can visitors take photographs at Fort Stanwix National Monument?

Yes, photography is allowed in the park, but commercial photography requires a permit.

What other attractions are located near Fort Stanwix National Monument?

Fort Stanwix National Monument is located near several other historic sites, including the Oriskany Battlefield State Historic Site and the Rome Historical Society.