Built in 1778 by
Colonel Rufus Putnam's
Regiment of
Massachusetts Infantry
Rebuilt and enlarged 1794
Restored 1909
Lower Marker:
Fort PutnamFort Putnam was the key defensive work in West Point's fortified zone during the American Revolution. It was constructed in 1778 by soldiers of the 5th Massachusetts Regiment and named for the Regimental Commander, Colonel Rufus Putnam. Fort Putman was built to protect Fort Clinton (originally Fort Arnold) from inland attack. In 1780, Benedict Arnold described it as follows:
"Fort Putman, stone, wanting great repairs. Wall on the east side broke down, and rebuilding from the foundation. At the west and south side have been a chevaux-de-frise; on the west side broke in many places. The east side open; two bomb proofs and provision magazine in the fort, and a slight wooden barrack."
The fort, as it stands today, is a composite of many eras. In 1794, it was enlarged and the casemates were added. In 1909, it was restored to its present general condition as a war monument. The 1909 restoration approximated the 1794 fort. In 1975 - 1976, during the Bicentennial of the American Revolution, Fort Putman was partially restored and refurbished to serve as a center for the interpretation of the military history of the Hudson Highlands and West Point during the Revolution. The work was done in great part through the generosity of Mrs. Albert J. Bowley, wife of Lieutenant General Albert J. Bowley, Class of 1897; Colonel Henry C. McLean, Class of 1912; the Class of 1952; the West Point Fund; and with the help and support of the West Point community, faculty and students associated with Temple University, and several civilian contractors. The historical displays inside Fort Putnam have been designed to explain the military history of the region and to emphasize the importance of the West Point fortifications and the local terrain in the American Revolution. Reproduced artillery and mortars have been emplaced to show the approximate complement in 1780. In addition, at several points on the parapets (protective walls on the ramparts) plaques have been placed to identify the many other forts, redoubts (small enclosed works used to fortify hilltops, passes, etc.), and batteries (works in which guns and mortars are placed) which formed "Fortress West Point" from 1775 to 1783.
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