Current Events Post -
Constitution Island in Need of Repair
October 9, 2009

Constitution Island, a little known treasure of American history, was featured in the news recently. This Revolutionary War landmark on the Hudson River, about an hour north of New York City, is in much need of repair. The land was at one time owned by the Warner sisters, famous authors of the 19th century. In fact, the famous Bible school song, "Jesus Loves Me," was written by Anna Warner. The Constitution Island Association is raising funds to help restore the island and its buildings so this American treasure is not lost. Don't forget to leave your comments at the bottom of the page!

Constitution Island -
Warner House

Constitution Island in Need of Repair

Constitution Island sits across the Hudson River from the United States Military Academy at West Point. In the early part of the Revolutionary War, George Washington instructed that a fort be built on this land. Fort Constitution, as it was called, was never finished. The British invaded the island in 1777 and the few colonial troops that were stationed there burned down the unfinished fort so it would not fall into British hands. Later a fort was built across the river at West Point.

Constitution Island is probably best known for being the east shore anchor of the "Great West Point Chain." The colonists stretched a large chain with gigantic links across the river in 1778 to prevent British warships from wreaking havoc on the inhabitants of the upper Hudson River valley. Col. Thaddeus Kosciusko built the new Fort Constitution at West Point, and built several fortifications on Constitution Island to protect the eastern end of the chain. A large military barracks was built there and on December 20, 1783, George Washington's detachment of personal guards was disbanded from there shortly after his resignation as Commander of the Continental Army.

Anna Warner

The island was eventually bought by the Warner family. Anna and Susan Warner lived there from 1834 - 1915. They became famous authors and Anna was a hymn writer as well. Their great- great-grandfather William Warner owned a tavern that was a regular meeting place of the local patriots during the Revolutionary War. Many of his sons fought in the war and were present at the decisive Battle of Saratoga. Their uncle Thomas, was the Chaplain at West Point for many years. Anna and Susan taught Bible classes to West Point cadetss for forty years.

Anna Warner gave the island property to West Point in the early 20th century. The property has been open to the public over the years under the supervision of the Constitution Island Association. The property has gradually deteriorated however and is in much need of renovation. The Warner House in particular is no longer safe to enter. West Point and the Constitution Island Association have developed a plan to restore the building and they are asking for donors to help cover the cost of the project.

Constitution Island is still open for tours during the summer months. If you are in the area, it would be a great place to learn a little more about American history. If you would be interested in donating to the fund to help restore this national treasure or would like more information, you can visit their website here - www.constitutionisland.org

The Minuteman

You can read more about other Revolutionary War Attractions here.

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Constitution Island, a Story In Hiding Not rated yet
What interesting information. I am a midwesterner who never has been to the northeast but who enjoys history. I do nor know why I never really heard ...

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