The New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site marks the location where the Continental Army of the United States spent the last winter and spring of the Revolutionary War. Located in the Town of New Windsor, New York, the site features genuine, restored and recreated pieces of history that allow audiences to explore the day-to-day lives of the soldiers who built and lived in this virtual city.
The British Army’s Last Stronghold in America
In 1782, General George Washington moved a large part of his army to New Windsor to be within striking distance of New York City, which was the British army’s last stronghold in America. The troops set up winter quarters or a “cantonment” which saw them build log huts for shelter and to keep ready for a possible spring campaign. Washington issued a cease-fire order from the New Windsor Cantonment in 1783, officially ending the war for the Army.
The New Windsor Cantonment Historic Site preserves 120 acres of the original 1,600-acre cantonment. One of the more notable buildings on the site is the “Temple of Virtue,” which was originally built to serve as a chapel for Sunday services. Also used for a variety of officer functions, it was the site where Washington persuaded his officers not to march on the Continental Congress and demand back pay.
While the original Temple building was destroyed, today’s structure is a representation built in 1964-1965. It is just one of the many preserved buildings and structures on the site, which also includes a stone monument that was placed on the site in 1891 in memory of the Masons who served in the Contenential Army.
Visitors will find costumed staff demonstrating musket drills, blacksmithing, military medicine and other 18th century skills taking place at the blacksmith shop, the Mountainville hut and other locations across the New Windsor Cantonment. Special events include an encampment by Revolutionary War reenactors each April, Memorial Day and Independence Day. Additionally, the museum building contains artifacts uncovered during archaeological digs, dioramas, and a large exhibit of artillery.
The site is also home to the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, which is connected to the small purple cloth Badge of Merit that Washington awarded to some of his troops, inspiring the present-day Purple Heart medal. All of these connections have enabled visitors to experience the history of the site in multiple ways, ensuring it will continue to capture the hearts and minds of audiences across the eras.
Connecting Audiences Across the Eras
With free admission and activities scheduled throughout the year, audiences can experience the history that the New Windsor Cantonment State Historic Site preserves in several ways. Doing so has ensured the site will remain a vital part of a community that connects the past with the future of the entire region.
