Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Mount’s “Finest Day”

Steve Zeoli Event, Coalition News, Hike, History, , , ,
This illustration by Gary Zaboly from Strong Ground: Mount Independence and the American Revolution, depicts the view from the Citadel (Horseshoe Battery) on October 28, 1776.

The Mount Independence State Historic Site in Orwell, Vermont, is commemorating the time in late October 1776, 250 years ago, when the British on Lake Champlain returned to Canada with three special events and an extended open season through to the end of October 28. All are included with regular site admission.

On Saturday, October 24, 1:00-3:00 pm, come along on a walk with experts and history buffs to the northern end of Mount Independence. This walk will honor October 28, 1776, when the sight of the impressive defensive strength of the American northern garrison helped convince British General Guy Carleton and his fleet to head back to Canada for the winter. Wear walking shoes or boots and dress for the weather. If inclement weather, inside discussion.

On Sunday, October 25, 1:00-4:00 pm, an afternoon or presentations. “You Say You Want a Revolution: Mount Independence & the Many Facets of the War for Independence.” Several talks of differing lengths during the afternoon, with breaks between. Enjoy one, some, or all presentations. Call 802-948-2000 for the schedule. Topics include Vermonters at Mount Independence, introductions to some of the Mount’s “Soldiers of 1776,”cultural and ethnic diversity of the soldiers, and the Revolutionary War artifacts of the site and the stories they tell.

For October 28, the Mount’s “Finest Day,” site interpreters will be on hand to talk to visitors about this day in history and how it gave General George Washington and the Americans time over the winter to prepare for the next efforts of the British. Visit the museum and walk the trails to envision this busy day in 1776. Refreshments. Last day of the 2026 season.

Admission is $8.00 adults, $1.00 ages 6-16, under 6 free, and free for Green Mountain Passport holders and members of the Mount Independence Coalition. Mount Independence is located at 497 Mount Independence Road, Orwell, VT, and is open daily through October 28, 2026, 10:00-5:00. It is a National Historic Landmark for its significance in the American Revolution. For questions, call 802-948-2000.