Old Fort Park

Gazing up at George Washington High School, can you envision a Revolutionary War fort here at Old Fort Park? Old Fort Park, now occupied by the imposing school, was once a key strategic point during the Revolutionary War. Originally a wooden fort, it was part of a defensive line stretching between the Harlem and Hudson Rivers. In 1776, volunteers from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, led by Colonel William Baxter, valiantly defended this hill, then known as Laurel Hill. Their courageous, yet ultimately unsuccessful, stand against British and Hessian forces bought General George Washington precious time. This allowed him to escape north to White Plains and continue the fight for independence. The British, after capturing the fort, renamed it Fort George after King George III. After the war, Fort George was abandoned. It became a picturesque overlook for travelers, offering breathtaking views of Kingsbridge Heights and the Harlem River gorge. Fast forward to the early 20th century. Old Fort Park transformed into an amusement park, Manhattan’s answer to Coney Island. Roller coasters and Ferris wheels thrilled visitors, perched precariously on the cliff’s edge. However, this era of entertainment was short-lived. Fires and neighborhood complaints led to the park’s closure. Social worker Lillian Wald championed the transformation of the site into a park. Finally, in 1925, the grand George Washington High School opened its doors on this historic ground. A plaque, placed on a glacial boulder by the Daughters of the American Revolution, commemorates the sacrifices made here at Old Fort Park. It’s a testament to the site’s layered history, from revolutionary battlefield to amusement park to the educational institution it is today. As you stand here, remember the echoes of the past, a reminder that history is made in the most unexpected places.