[Major General Henry] Knox proudly stepped aside on Tuesday, October 9 [1781] to allow Washington the honor of igniting the bore hole of a heavy siege gun and ceremoniously discharging the first shot from the American battery at Yorktown. The shell was clearly visible as it streaked across the sky and land with precision within the British compound, setting off cheers throughout the American ranks. The Continental artillery corps then continued an uninterrupted stream of fire that produced a relentless, unnerving, and deafening roar. Cornwallis would later recall: The fire continued incessant from heavy cannon, and from mortars and howitzers throwing shells from 8 to 16 inches, until all our guns on the left were silenced, our work much damaged, and our loss of men considerable
Arnold, Benedict
Rome, NY — Built by the British in 1758, it went from American to British to American hands again during the war. The fort is almost completely reconstructed and includes an extensive archaeological collection, a visitor's center, and trails.
Ticonderoga, NY — Built by the French 1755—59 as Fort Carillon, it was taken by the British in 1759 and renamed. During the war the fort went from British to American to British and to American again. Reconstruction began in 1908.
Tarrytown, NY — The Museum has a comprehensive display of research materials, art, and artifacts pertaining to the capture of the British Major John Andre, who was involved in Benedict Arnold’s defection.
Henry Knox: Visionary General of the American Revolution (2008)