The Old Stone House
Revolutionary War Heritage Trail
The Old Stone House, also known as the Vecte-Cortelyou House, was built in 1699 along the Gowanus Road, which skirted a creek of the same name. During the Battle of Brooklyn, on August 27, 1776, approximately 2,000 combined British forces captured the house and began to shell American troops retreating from behind British lines across the creek, towards the American fortifications on Brooklyn Heights. To cover the retreat, 400 soldiers from Maryland and Delaware, led by General William Alexander, also known as Lord Stirling, boldly counterattacked. Six times they advanced on the house, regaining it twice, only to be driven off again.
At battle’s end, General Stirling had been captured, and well over half of his men lay dead or taken prisoner with him. However, their heroism enabled many of their fellow soldiers to reach safety. Washington’s army, though badly battered, remained intact. By all rights, the Revolution should have been over that day. But by a combination of luck, leadership, and the bravery of a few, Washington was able to escape with his army nearly intact, and the Revolution continued.
The Old Stone House is owned by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, is operated by The Old Stone House of Brooklyn, Inc. and is a member of the Historic House Trust of New York City.
Marker is at the intersection of 5th Avenue and 3rd Street, on the right when traveling south on 5th Avenue.
Courtesy hmdb.org
