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Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park: A Revolutionary War Memorial

Explore a Revolutionary War battlefield, monument, and museum at Fort Griswold State Park, a site of courage and sacrifice in Groton, Connecticut.

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Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park in Groton, CT, marks the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle. Explore the original fort, a museum, the Ebenezer Avery House, and a towering monument honoring those who fell during the 1781 Battle of Groton Heights, where Benedict Arnold led British forces in a massacre.

A brief summary to Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park

  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • The park grounds are open daily from sunrise to sunset, but the Museum and Monument have seasonal hours, typically from Wednesday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM, Memorial Day through Labor Day.
  • Take the cell phone tour by dialing (860) 424-4005 to learn about the key points within the park.
  • Climb the Groton Monument for panoramic views of the Thames River and surrounding area.
  • Visit the Ebenezer Avery House to see how wounded soldiers were cared for after the Battle of Groton Heights.
  • Check out the Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi schedule for a unique way to arrive at the park.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 87 (Clarence B. Sharp Highway). Turn right at the first traffic light onto Meridian Street, then left onto Mitchell Street. Take the second right onto Park Avenue. The park is one block straight ahead. Free and ample parking is available on side streets adjacent to the fort.

  • Public Transport

    The Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi provides seasonal service to Fort Griswold from New London. Check the schedule for times and stops. A one-way fare is typically around $10.

  • Walking

    From the Groton Water Taxi Landing, the park is approximately a 0.5-mile walk. Head north on Thames Street, turn left onto Monument Street, and then turn right onto Park Ave. The park will be on your left.

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Discover more about Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, perched on a vantage point overlooking the Thames River, is a poignant reminder of Connecticut's role in the American Revolution. The park's grounds encompass the remains of the original Fort Griswold, the Groton Monument, the Monument House Museum, and the restored Ebenezer Avery House. Construction on Fort Griswold, originally known as Groton Fort, began in December 1775 and finished in 1778. It was strategically positioned to defend the port of New London, a vital supply center for the Continental Army, and a safe harbor for Connecticut privateers. In September 1781, British forces led by Benedict Arnold attacked the fort, resulting in the Battle of Groton Heights. Despite being outnumbered, the American defenders fought bravely until the British captured the fort and massacred many of the surrendering soldiers. The Groton Monument, a 135-foot granite obelisk, stands as a tribute to the American soldiers who died defending the fort. Completed in 1830, it is the oldest monument of its kind in the United States, with 166 steps leading to the top. The Monument House Museum, built in 1830, features exhibits about the Revolutionary War, including Colonel William Ledyard's sword, a painting depicting the battle, and a model of the fort. The Ebenezer Avery House, dating back to 1750, served as a refuge for wounded soldiers after the battle and has been restored with period furnishings. Visitors can explore the fort's earthworks, cannons, and interpretive signs that offer insights into the fort's design and the events of the battle. A cell phone tour is available, providing a six-stop recorded guide to the park's key features.

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