Futile Approach
During the August 1777 Siege of Fort Stanwix, British forces dug trenches near this site. This attempt to bring their guns closer to the fort's powder magazine, located in the bastion in front of you, failed.
At the end of the three-week siege, the trench was abandoned, incomplete.
British trenches, cannons, and artillerymen were protected by fascines, bundles of brush bound tightly and set horizontally into a wall of earth.
The trenches allowed the British to move their siege guns closer to the fort and permitted the Patriots to fire at the British who were now closer.
This day our Guards kept a Constant fire at those at work in the Trench. And in the Evening 12 of the best Marksmen were pick't out to harrass them when at work in the Night.
Ensign William Colbrath, August 21, 1776
Marker is at the intersection of North James Street (New York Route 26) and Liberty Street, on the left when traveling south on North James Street.
Courtesy hmdb.org
