Mount Independence, a naturally strong height on Lake Champlain opposite Ticonderoga, became a major American defensive position after the defeat in Canada in 1776. Renamed on July 28, 1776, after the Declaration of Independence was read to the troops, it was rapidly developed into one of the largest military complexes in the new United States, linked to Ticonderoga by floating and later larger bridges. Despite extensive fortifications and a combined force that once exceeded 13,000 men, illness, hunger, and declining numbers weakened the garrison. When Burgoyne advanced in 1777, the Americans abandoned the position, which British and Hessian troops then occupied.

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Photo: Wikipedia · Public domain

Putnam, New York · USA