Tracing the Battle of Brooklyn: A Revolutionary War Battlefield Walk

New York Adventure Club | www.AdventureClub.com

On August 27, 1776, the Battle of Brooklyn — also called the Battle of Long Island — raged across much of present-day Brooklyn in the first engagement of the American Revolution after independence was declared. What moments during this weeklong conflict helped General Washington and the rest of the Colonial Army miraculously escape from Brooklyn Ferry to Manhattan under cover of darkness and morning fog? It's time to walk through this former battlefield and uncover one of the most pivotal moments in American history.

Join New York Adventure Club as we explore the sights and stories of the Battle of Brooklyn, with a focus on the vital part played by the geography of Brooklyn in the conflict.

Led by licensed New York City Tour Guide Ann McDermott, this unique experience of the first and most consequential battle of the American Revolution will include:

• An overview of the broad battlefield across modern-day Brooklyn, with discussions about the strategic sites and commanders from both sides who won, lost, or were captured
• A walk through portions of Prospect Park, including Battle Pass, where the Americans led by General John Sullivan were surrounded by English and Hessian troops and ultimately forced to surrender
• A discussion of key locations tied to the conflict, including Battle Hill in Green-Wood Cemetery — the highest point in Brooklyn and the site of some of the bloodiest fighting — and Fort Defiance in Red Hook, where American artillery bombarded the British navy and temporarily neutralized its strategic advantage
• A final stop at the Old Stone House, where the heroic Maryland 400 — led by Major Mordecai Gist and General William Alexander (Lord Stirling) — made a heroic stand against Cornwallis and Howe's onslaught during one of the battle’s most dramatic moments

See you there!

*Please bring a water bottle and comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be on our feet for the duration of the experience

**This tour concludes at the Old Stone House in Washington Park on 4th Avenue between 3rd and 4th Streets

About Ann

Ann McDermott, a native Brooklynite, was born up the block from where the tour ends and spent her early years playing on this battlefield. She knows the neighborhood and area extremely well and will tell you how to visit each site seen from afar on the tour, if you wish to go there.

Testimonials

"Ann was very knowledgeable and open to questions and chatting. And a fun way to think about this important battle right in my own backyard." -Cynthia

"Very interesting." -Shalom

"Introduction to new sites in Brooklyn. Friendly group members." -Bernadette

"Deeper knowledge of the role Brooklyn played in the Revolutionary War" -Daniel

"Amazing tour guide!" -Alicia

Disclaimer

Event takes place rain or shine.

By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.

Categories: In-Person, Neighborhood Tours