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Connecticut
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Connecticut State Parks

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Connecticut
Mystic Country Region
Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
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FORT GRISWOLD BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK
FORT GRISWOLD BATTLEFIELD STATE PARK
Groton, Connecticut   06340
(lat:41.3539 lon:-72.0799) map location

Phone: 860-449-6877
Add a touch of reality to your Revolutionary War history lesson with a visit to Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, site of the 1781 massacre led by the traitorous Benedict Arnold.

This is the historic site where, on September 6, 1781, British Forces, commanded by the infamous Benedict Arnold, captured the Fort and massacred 88 of the 165 defenders stationed there. The Ebenezer Avery House which sheltered the wounded after the battle has been restored on the grounds. A Revolutionary War museum also depicts the era. Fort Griswold was designated as a state park in 1953.

Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is a stop on the Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi route. The Water Taxi offers an exciting, affordable, and fun trip across the Thames River between New London and Groton on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during the summer, with special sunset tours, in season. The three taxi stops are at the New London City Pier, Fort Trumbull and Fort Griswold landings which bring excitement and endless photo opportunities.
History of the Area
Located in Groton, Connecticut, the site was originally a fortification during the American Revolutionary War. Named after then Governor Matthew Griswold, it played an important role in defending against British forces.

On September 6th, 1781 - known as Battle of Groton Heights - British troops led by Benedict Arnold attacked and captured Fort Griswold. This resulted in heavy casualties for both sides but particularly devastating losses for Americans.

The state acquired this historic battlefield area around late-19th to early-20th century with preservation efforts starting from thereon. In 1953 it became officially recognized as a State Park.

Today visitors can explore restored earthwork batteries along with monuments commemorating those who fought here including Colonel William Ledyard's memorial monument erected on-site.

Passes
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
Nearby Accommodations
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BBs / Inns
Located along the CT Shoreline midway between New York City and Boston, and only one hour from Hartford, with tons of local attractions both on the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River.
14.6 miles from park*



Trails
- Monument Street Trail: A short, paved path leading to the monument; approximately 0.2 miles long.

- Thames River Overlook Trail: Offers stunning views of the river and surrounding area; about a quarter-mile in length.

- Fort Griswold Loop: This trail circles around the historic fort site with interpretive signs along its route; roughly half a mile long.

- Baker's Cove Viewpoint Pathway: Leads hikers towards an excellent viewpoint overlooking Baker's Cove Marina and Ledge Light lighthouse at Groton Long Point Road entrance - distance unknown.

- Historic Battlefield Route : Follows markers that highlight key points during Battle of Groton Heights fought on September 6,1781 - exact length not specified but covers entire park grounds.

-Ebenezer Avery House Walkway : Short pathway from parking lot leads directly to this restored house used as hospital after battle- no specific measurement available for walkway.

-Fort Top Lookout Stairs Access Way : Steep stair access way up to top lookout point over old fort ramparts offering panoramic view across New London Harbor - precise extent is unspecified due it being stairs rather than traditional hiking trail.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
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Nearby Hotels
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Directions
From New York City:
- Head northeast on I-95 N.
- Take exit 87 for CT Route 349 toward Groton/Long Point.
- Turn right onto Clarence B Sharp Hwy (signs for Fort Griswold).

From Boston:
- Start by getting to I90-W/Massachusetts Turnpike
- Merge with I395-S via the ramp towards Norwich
- Continue into Connecticut and take Exit 9-US1/Boston Post Road in East Lyme, heading westward.

From Providence:
- Get yourself onto RI138W then merge with US1S/W Main Street through Hopkinton city center, following signs directing you southwards towards Westerly/New London.

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Connecticut
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Connecticut State Parks

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