Fort Ti primes for 250th anniversary of War of Independence

TICONDEROGA — As the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution approaches, Fort Ticonderoga is ready.

Fort Ticonderoga President and CEO Beth Hill said the fort will play a major role in the nation's 250th anniversary celebration starting in 2025 until 2027.

"Fort Ticonderoga serves as a central rallying point in the national 250th celebration as the site of the first American victory of the Revolution on May 10, 1775, when Ethan Allan, Benedict Arnold and the Green Mountain Boys captured the fort from the British," she said. "Today, the fort shines as a touchstone for our nation's proud heritage."

Fort Ticonderoga has announced the creation of the Northern Department, a new tourism initiative connecting collaborators in New York, Vermont and Canada, including Tribal partnerships.

The historic Northern Department was created by Continental authorities in 1775 and established to manage the war against the British in the northern part of New York and New England, and in Canada, Hill said.

"Today, this initiative is inspired by the region's defining role in the War for American's Independence from the rivers, lakes, and mountains between Saratoga and Montreal, the Northern Department will promote historic sites and museums during the commemorative period," Hill said.

A new interactive website highlights 18 historic destinations across New York, Vermont, Québec, and tribal nations connected to the American Revolution, along with video productions and social media.

"It might be said that Washington's tour of the forts and battlefields of the Northern Department in 1783 made this region collectively the site of the first Revolutionary War tourism," Dr. Matthew Keagle, Fort Ticonderoga's Museum curator, said.

"The Northern Department was critical to American victory in the Revolution and was recognized early on as the site of remarkable human achievements combined with some of America's most dramatic scenery."

New York State Historian Devin R. Lander said he was thrilled to see Fort Ticonderoga initiate the recreation of the Northern Department.

"The Northern Department shouldered the assault of British forces from Canada in 1776 and 1777, culminating in the surrender of John Burgoyne's army in October of 1777, forever altering the course of American history," Lander said.

"As we commemorate the 250th anniversary of the War for the American Independence, we are This project, connecting key partners in New York, Vermont, and Canada, will promote Northern Department historic sites and draw hundreds of thousands of visitors to the region during the commemorative period."

Hill said the fort is implementing a multi-year exhibition to provide visitors with new methods to understand the people and events of the American Revolution.

"Rare artifacts, tactile experiences, public tours, and a robust digital presence with audio and video content will ensure universal accessibility and an enhanced understanding of the revolution's significance for all guests," she said.

"Fort Ticonderoga is a world-class destination and educational resource."