The American Revolution in what is now Clinton County, NY, was defined by its strategic position on Lake Champlain, a critical corridor for both Continental and British forces. The county’s history is deeply intertwined with the naval struggle for control of this waterway, which served as a gateway between Canada and the Hudson Valley.
Clinton County was a constant site of troop movements and tactical maneuvering. The region remained a front line of defense as an important line of communication and a barrier against northern incursions even after the war ended.
Revolutionary Clinton County
The Battle of Valcour Island (October 11, 1776) was a pivotal engagement in which America’s first Navy, commanded by Benedict Arnold, met a superior British fleet.
While the American forces were eventually defeated, their resistance delayed the British advance south, buying the Patriots another year to prepare for British General John Burgoyne‘s campaign to take the Hudson Valley, leading to the decisive Battles of Saratoga (September-October, 1777).
Point au Fer, a peninsula in the Town of Champlain, is one of the most historic locations in the county. It was the site of the British-built “White House” garrison in 1770.
Brick barracks and a stockade with entrenchments and cannon were located here by 1775 and it served as a major cantonment for Burgoyne’s invading army in 1777.
The garrison remained under British occupation until 1796, 13 years after the war ended. It was largely destroyed by fire in 1805, but historic markers near the site are located at 548 Point au Fer Road, at the intersection with Scales Road and 534 Point au Fer Road.
A historical marker about four miles east of Peru, NY on Bear Swamp Road identifies the location of one of five blockhouses erected in Northern New York in 1794 to protect settlers during the volatile post-war period.
In West Plattsburgh the Baker Burying Ground is the final resting place for nine Revolutionary War veterans. The Saranac Chapter of the DAR is active in preserving this site.
250th Anniversary Efforts and Events
The Clinton County Historical Association has taken a leading role in coordinating the county’s America250 commemoration activities. The organization is focusing on volunteer engagement and regional storytelling about the county’s unique role in the founding of the nation. Their efforts include research, publishing, public lectures, and larger-scale community events.
Preparing for Valcour, taking place September 26–27, 2026 at Crown Point State Historic Site nearby in Essex County, will include living history demonstrations and 18th-century replica bateaux on the lake to simulate the buildup to the Battle of Valcour Island.
The Battle of Valcour Reenactment, set for October 11, 2026 will be a centerpiece of the local celebrations, featuring a historical reenactment at Plattsburgh City Beach to mark the 250th anniversary of the battle.
For those interested in staying informed or participating, the Battle of Valcour website will serve as a central hub for upcoming event listings and volunteer opportunities.
The Lake Champlain Maritime Museum will hold special “Commemoration Days” on July 4, 2026, and October 11, 2026. These include on-water programs, shipwreck tours, and special exhibit openings related to the Revolutionary War.
Feel free to add additional events in the comments below.
Read more about Clinton County history.
Illustrations, from above:
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