Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park | Groton

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park in Groton, Connecticut, preserves one of the most significant Revolutionary War sites in New England. Centered on the remains of Fort Griswold, the park commemorates the Battle of Groton Heights of September 6, 1781, where local militia made a desperate stand against British forces under Benedict Arnold. Today, it serves as both a memorial and an educational destination, combining historic structures, monuments, and scenic views.

Historical Significance

The Battle of Groton Heights: During the waning years of the American Revolution, Benedict Arnold-by then a British officer-led a raid on New London and Groton. After burning New London, British troops attacked Fort Griswold, defended by Colonel William Ledyard and about 160 Connecticut militia. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the defenders fought bravely. When the fort was finally overrun, more than 80 Americans were killed, including Ledyard, who was slain after surrendering.

National Impact: The massacre at Groton Heights became a symbol of British brutality and American sacrifice. It galvanized support for independence and remains one of the bloodiest Revolutionary War encounters in Connecticut.

Preservation: Fort Griswold is among the best-preserved Revolutionary War earthwork forts in New England, making it invaluable for understanding 18th-century military engineering.

Features of the Park

Fort Griswold Earthworks: Visitors can explore the original earthen walls, bastions, and ramparts, which outline the fort’s star-shaped design.

Groton Monument (Fort Griswold Obelisk): A 135-foot granite obelisk erected in 1830 to honor the defenders, standing prominently within the park.

Monument House Museum: Built in 1830, this small museum offers artifacts, documents, and exhibits relating to the battle, the fort, and the Revolutionary War in Connecticut.

Memorial Gate: A commemorative entrance highlighting the site’s importance as a place of remembrance.

Panoramic Views: The elevated site provides sweeping views of the Thames River, New London Harbor, and Long Island Sound, underscoring the fort’s strategic placement.

Visitor Experience

Walking Tours: Trails and interpretive signage guide visitors through the battlefield, fort walls, and monuments.

Climbing the Monument: The obelisk includes a spiral staircase leading to an observation platform, offering expansive views of Groton and New London.

Educational Programs: The park hosts talks, school programs, and reenactments that interpret Revolutionary War history and the events of 1781.

Reflective Atmosphere: The preserved battlefield and monuments provide a solemn space for honoring those who gave their lives in defense of liberty.

Cultural and Educational Importance

Commemoration: Annual ceremonies mark the anniversary of the Battle of Groton Heights.

Heritage Value: The site connects visitors to the personal sacrifices of ordinary militia who faced overwhelming odds.

Teaching Tool: As one of the few preserved Revolutionary War battlefields in the region, it provides students and history enthusiasts with direct insights into 18th-century warfare and community defense.

Visiting Information

Location: Groton, Connecticut, overlooking the Thames River across from New London

Admission: Free to the public

Hours: Grounds are open year-round; museum and monument hours vary seasonally

Facilities: Parking, picnic areas, restrooms, interpretive signage, and guided tours available during the season

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park stands as a lasting memorial to the courage and sacrifice of Connecticut’s Revolutionary War defenders. With its preserved fortifications, striking monument, and educational exhibits, it offers a profound look at both the human cost of war and the enduring spirit of independence.