American Battlefield Trust Transfers Hallowed Ground at Saratoga to National Park Service

(Schuylerville, NY) — Amid commemorations of the 247th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga, the American Battlefield Trust is thrilled to announce the transfer 25.6 historic acres to the National Park Service (NPS) for permanent care and stewardship, allowing the park to deepen its interpretive offerings, particularly related to the siege that occurred between the opening and concluding battles of this month-long engagement. Saratoga, considered by historians to be the turning point of the Revolutionary War, saw the first-ever surrender of a British field army, which helped to seal the alliance between the new American nation and France. 

“The American Battlefield Trust has committed itself to protecting 2,500 acres of important Revolutionary War battlefield land by the conclusion of the conflict’s 250th anniversary,” said Trust President David Duncan. “Our successful purchase and transfer of these properties to Saratoga National Historical Park epitomize the meaningful work we hope this goal will enable.” 

From initial discussions with landowners until transfer of properties to NPS, preservation can be a lengthy process, and the journey for these two parcels began as far back as 2018. Since completing the purchase of these properties, the Trust has acted as their steward; a 2021 minor adjustment to the park’s boundary cleared the way for the land to become federally owned. 

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Battlefield Caucus, it is my great honor to champion the preservation of our many battlefields and historic sites in Upstate New York, the North Country, and across our country,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik. “As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Battles of Saratoga, I am proud to support the transfer of more than 25 acres back to the American people and ensure we preserve and honor the site where so many gave their last full measure of devotion.” 

The land sits on the heights overlooking the Fish Kill and, containing a majority of the American artillery emplacements, represented the central segment of the siege line between the fighting for Bemis Heights and the ultimate surrender of the British Army. It also served as the staging area for the October 11 attempt to attack British positions, although the American attack force was recalled while crossing the river. 

“As we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War, we must never forget the pivotal role Saratoga played in the fight for our nation’s freedom and independence,” Congressman Paul Tonko said. “The hallowed ground in Saratoga acts as a permanent reminder of that rich history. I’m thrilled to celebrate this land transfer and I thank American Battlefield Trust and Saratoga National Historical Park for their continued work that fosters a deep sense of place and connection to the story of our nation.” 

The land transfer is just one way that the Saratoga region is marking the month of the battle’s anniversary. The American Revolution Experience, a collaborative project of the American Battlefield Trust and the Daughters of the American Revolution, will be on display at the Champlain Canal Regional Gateway Visitor Center from October 13-28, 2024, in Schuylerville, NY.  

The innovative pop-up exhibition includes display panels and interactive digital kiosks that use storytelling, illustration, technology and unique artifacts and primary accounts to connect modern audiences with the people and places that shaped the birth of our nation.  

From a grassroots organization started by historians nearly 40 years ago, the American Battlefield Trust has grown into one of the most successful land preservation and education organizations in the nation. The Trust has protected nearly 60,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War, representing 160 sites in 25 states from Massachusetts to New Mexico. Its 350,000 members and supporters believe in the power of place and the continued relevance of our shared history to modern American society. Learn more at www.battlefields.org. 

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