A Fight for Control

Oswego was a strategic spot in many military campaigns. Control of the river, an important military route, changed many times. The loss of Oswego in August, 1756 was viewed as a triumph by the French and as a national misfortune by the English as it was the loss of their most important frontier post.

A Military Route
This 18th century map of central New York shows the military transport route that connected the Mohawk Valley to the Oswego River. This route allowed war material and troops to travel from the Atlantic to the western frontier, through Oswego.

Fort Ontario
The original Fort Ontario was built during this struggle between the English and French, and it was held by each at different times.

The Fall Of Oswego
The Marquis de Montcalm, commander of the French forces in North America, takes the surrender from the English officers who had defended Oswego in the three day battle which ended August 14, 1756. Notice old Fort Oswego in the background.

Louis XV Medal
A special medal issued by Louis XV in 1758 shows the importance attached in France to the capture of Oswego. Oswego is one the places named on this rare medal, as furnishing the foundation for the French monarch's claim of universal dominion. One of only two of these medals ever issued is on display here in Oswego at the Richardson-Bates House Museum.

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Show me all markers in:  Oswego, NY  |  Oswego County  |  13126  |  New York  |  United States of America

The Fur Trade
Seaway Trail
Early Shipping
Age of Iron Horses
The Oswego Canal
River Industries
Bicentennial Peace Garden
The O & W Railroad Pedestrian Promenade and Bikeway
On This Site
Richardson - Bates House Museum

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