The Battle of Valcour Island on Lake Champlain
A brave stand that changed the trajectory of the American Revolution.
Lake Champlain in New York State’s Adirondack Park.
When we think of the American Revolution, Saratoga, Bunker Hill, and Yorktown are names that come to mind.
But long before those decisive victories, a lesser-known yet pivotal battle occurred on Lake Champlain's calm October waters, just south of modern-day Plattsburgh.
This was the Battle of Valcour Island—a courageous stand in the Adirondacks by the fledgling Continental Navy that helped delay a British invasion and ultimately altered the trajectory of the war.
A makeshift fleet in a mountain wilderness.
It was October 1776. The ink on the Declaration of Independence was barely dry, and the young United States faced enormous odds.
The British had devised a plan to divide the colonies by advancing south from Canada down the Hudson River corridor—a natural invasion route.
Pointe au Roche near Plattsburgh, NY.
To thwart the British plan, the Americans hastily built a fleet on Lake Champlain, one of the few navigable north-south waterways in the region. Leading this hastily assembled armada was Benedict Arnold—a name later infamous for treason but a determined and effective leader at the time.
In just a few short months, Arnold supervised the construction of a small fleet of gunboats, sloops, and galleys at Skenesborough (modern-day Whitehall, NY - also the Bigfoot capital of NY, but more on that later).
Most vessels were no match for the powerful British ships coming south from Quebec. But Arnold wasn’t counting on winning based on firepower—he was counting on geography, grit, and time.
The battle begins.
On October 11, 1776, Arnold deployed his fleet in a narrow channel between Valcour Island and the western shore of Lake Champlain. He hoped the cramped location would limit the British fleet’s maneuverability and give his smaller, more agile vessels a chance.
Bluff Point Lighthouse on Lake Champlain.
The British, under General Guy Carleton, didn’t expect a fight and were caught off guard. A fierce naval engagement ensued, with cannon fire echoing off the forested shores. Though outgunned, Arnold’s fleet inflicted damage and delayed the British advance.
By nightfall, with several American ships crippled, Arnold made a daring escape through the British lines under cover of darkness.
Over the next few days, as the British forces hunted down the battered American fleet, many ships were scuttled to prevent capture. But Arnold and many of his men escaped on foot through the Adirondack woods.
Why Valcour Island mattered.
Tactically, the Battle of Valcour Island was a British victory—but strategically, it was a game-changer for the Americans, a masterstroke that altered the course of the war.
Benedict Arnold in better times.
By delaying the British advance until winter set in, Arnold prevented them from reaching Albany and linking up with other British forces from the south. This bought the Americans precious time to regroup and prepare defenses.
When the British tried again in 1777, the American forces met them and triumphed at the Battle of Saratoga.
This victory was a decisive moment that persuaded France to join the American cause.
The Battle of Saratoga is often considered the turning point of the American Revolution. It boosted American morale and convinced the French that the Americans could win the war.
General Horatio Gates later said Arnold’s action "retarded the enemy’s progress more than can be described." George Washington recognized the importance of engagement, despite the tactical loss.
Visiting the battle sites today.
For history buffs, paddlers, or curious travelers, Valcour Island and the surrounding Lake Champlain region offer a peaceful, reflective way to explore this critical piece of American history.
Valcour Island – South of Plattsburgh, NY
Valcour Island is part of the Adirondack Coast and is accessible only by boat. Now part of the Adirondack Forest Preserve, it features hiking trails, primitive camping, and stunning views across the lake.
Kayak or boat access is available from the Peru Dock Boat Launch or Plattsburgh’s Wilcox Dock.
The Valcour Island Lighthouse (Bluff Point Light)
On the island’s western edge is a picturesque historic site—open for occasional tours in summer.
Battle of Valcour Island Exhibit – Clinton County Historical Association
Located in Plattsburgh, the Clinton County Historical Museum has an excellent permanent exhibit on the battle, including artifacts, maps, and ship models.
It’s a great stop to contextualize what you’ll see on the water.
Lake Champlain Maritime Museum – Vergennes, VT
The Maritime Museum offers a wealth of Revolutionary War naval history just across the lake.
They’ve even reconstructed a replica of the Philadelphia, one of Arnold’s gunboats, and frequently offer talks on the Battle of Valcour Island.
Reflecting on courage in a quiet corner.
Standing on the shores of Valcour Island today, it’s hard to imagine the sound of cannon fire bouncing off the cliffs. The waters are calm, the forests serene. But the courage displayed here was no less monumental than that at Yorktown or Bunker Hill.
On Memorial Day or July 4th weekend—or anytime you visit the Adirondacks—consider stopping at Valcour Island or Fort Ticonderoga. These sites don’t just tell stories—they hold them in their soil and stone, preserved in the echo of waves and wind.
And in that quiet, you might hear the whispers of history—and the defiant voice of a fledgling nation refusing to be conquered.
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