Fort Clinton Site

The steep bluffs bordering the southern shoreline of the Harlem Meer played a significant historical role in American Revolution and the War of 1812. Vestiges of this chapter of pre-Park history can still be seen in the form of the military fortifications overlooking the Meer.

During the Revolutionary War, General George Washington used the area that now makes up the northeast swathe of Central Park to counter the invading British force. The British eventually seized the hills, erecting a chain of fortifications across the Harlem bluffs to the shores of the Hudson. After the war ended in 1783, the area was quiet and deserted until the War of 1812.

Anticipating a British invasion, over 200 American volunteers hastily rebuilt the network of military fortifications over six weeks. Among the buildings was Fort Clinton, positioned to the east and named after Mayor DeWitt Clinton. The others were Nutter’s Battery and Forth Fish. Together, they served as important lookouts for advancing forces. The British never invaded, however.

Today, the sites remain as a reminder of the role that New York City played in the early history of the American Republic. Perched on a steep inclined of Manhattan schist, Fort Clinton is surrounded by a curved iron railing and offers Park visitors a stunning view of the Meer.