Constitution Island in Philipstown in Orange County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Redoubt 7
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 25, 2012
1. Redoubt 7 Marker
Built in 1778 on the island’s highest ground, Redoubt 7 blocked the western land approach to the Great Chain’s anchor on Constitution Island. In constructing the redoubt’s stone rampart, the Army used a large granite outcropping as part of the southwest wall. On this rampart was an earthen parapet held in place by timber or fascines. About 80 infantrymen, unsupported by cannon, were expected to defend Redoubt 7.
In 1782, with the war drawing to a close, Henry Knox, the West Point commandant, wrote George Washington that “the West redoubt on Constitution Island has a roof put upon it, and is otherways prepared as a temporary deposite of powder.” Its use as a magazine continued until 1797, when all of the powder was transferred to West Point.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Forts and Castles • War, US Revolutionary. A significant historical year for this entry is 1778.
Location. 41° 24.182′ N, 73° 57.503′ W. Marker is in Philipstown, New York, in Orange County. It is on Constitution Island. Marker is on the west side of Constitution Island, at the U.S. Military Academy. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Cold Spring NY 10516, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Soldiers’ Huts (approx. 0.2 miles away); Romans’ Battery (approx. ¼ mile away); Fort Constitution Area
this page online
Also see . . . The Revolutionary War on Constitution Island. The Constitution Island Association website. (Submitted on August 25, 2012, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 25, 2012
2. Redoubt 7 Marker
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 25, 2012
3. Marker on Constitution Island
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 25, 2012
4. Redoubt 7 and Marker
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, August 25, 2012
5. Redoubt 7
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, June 8, 2012
6. Redoubt 7 from West Point
Redoubt 7 is seen here from the west side of the Hudson River.
Credits. This page was last revised on July 20, 2023. It was originally submitted on August 25, 2012, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 469 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. submitted on August 25, 2012, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.
