A Crucial Crossing

A Crucial Crossing. . Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route National Historic Trail , , During the American Revolution, King’s Ferry was the most secure Hudson River crossing north of British-held New York City. It was the key connecting New England with the rest of the thirteen states. From August 2-25, 1781, 1,200 American troops under Washington and approximately 4,500 French troops under Rochambeau crossed from Verplanck and landed on the shore below you on their way to Yorktown, Virginia., Heavy artillery and provisions wagons (including travelling forges, ammunition chests, and officers’ baggage) crossed on the ferry boats and barges the army used during the war years. Oxen and horses pulled these wagon trains south from the ferry landing along roadways and made their way to the Ramapo Pass. Soldiers walked great distances and often carried heavy loads. , When French forces made their return trip to New England following the allied victory at Yorktown, they again crossed at King’s Ferry in mid-September of 1782. The ferry continued to operate through the early 20th century., [upper left caption; map view to top is to south] , This 1781 French-illustrated map shows the strategic 1/2-mile crossing from Verplanck to Stony Point at King’s Ferry.