6 Must-See Revolutionary War-Era Historical Sites in Orange County

By Brigitt Earley July 10, 2018

The state of New York—and Orange County, in particular—played a pivotal role in American history, and now, in partnership with Orange County Tourism, current residents and visitors can visit the many Hudson Valley sites that were at the epicenter of the Revolutionary War. Visitors will be transported back to the 1700s to the time of George Washington through battle reenactments, lectures, and guided tours at New York’s most famous historical sites. Trace George Washington’s steps to the New Windsor Cantonment where his famous “farewell address” was made, visit the homes occupied by his generals, and tour the forts where the continental army defended our freedom.

Here, a complete list of the historic landmarks in Orange County, New York:

United States Military Academy at West Point
2107 New South Post Road, West Point
Bus tours of the Military Academy and the West Point Museum depart the Orange County Visitor’s Center daily. Visitors can also take a ferry to the fortifications on Constitution Island and its charming Warner House from West Point’s South Dock on designated weekdays through September.

Fort Montgomery State Historic Site
690 Route 9W, Fort Montgomery
Take a hike past the historic ruins will where the fierce battle of 1777 for control over the Hudson River turned the course of the Revolutionary War. Guests will get sweeping views of the Hudson River, plus see a 15-minute film and view original artifacts and weapons. Special events feature costumed interpreters and demonstrations of artillery, music, and camp life.

Washington’s Headquarters State Historic Site
84 Liberty Street, Newburgh
In 1850, this property, which was home to George and Martha and served as Washington’s Continental Army Headquarters, became our nation’s first public historic site. Tour the Dutch-style stone Hasbrouck House and explore a separate interactive exhibit called “Unpacked and Rediscovered” that showcases pieces taken from the museum’s vast collection.

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Knox’s Headquarters State Historic Site
289 Old Forge Hill Road, New Windsor
Once known as Mount Ellison, this elegant 1754 fieldstone mansion showcases the unique blend of English and Dutch influences in the Hudson Valley's history. During the Revolutionary War, the property served as a bustling military headquarters for some of Washington's highest-ranking officers, including Generals Knox, Greene, and Gates.

New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site and National Purple Heart Hall of Honor
374 Temple Hill Road, New Windsor
Visit the site of the final winter encampment of 8,000 soldiers, civilians, and artisans during the closing days of the Revolutionary War. The property has also recently become the site of the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, since it is here that Washington awarded the first badges of military merit.

Last Encampment of the Continental Army and Edmonston House
19 Causeway Road, Vails Gate
In addition to replicated 1782 military huts, guests can roam nature trails and explore an observation tower. Just around the corner, visit the restored 1755 Edmonston House—the headquarters of Generals Horatio Gates and Arthur St. Clair—to see period exhibits, a blacksmith shop, and slave quarters.

Visit the Orange Tourism website for a full list of lodging, activities, and attractions, and check Orange County Tourism’s Facebook page for the most up-to-date list of area events and activities.

Brigitt Earley

Brigitt Earley is a freelance writer and editor based in NJ. She’s a new mom to a baby boy, runs an Instagram account full of the most delicious food she can find (@literallyallthefood), and loves to hate a good barre class. See More.

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