Battle of Valcour Bay

Event

Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

Event Name

Event Description

The Battle of Valcour Bay is often referred to as the first naval battle of the American Revolution. While it was a defeat for the American General Benedict Arnold’s fleet to drive the British out of Lake Champlain, their efforts stalled the plan to take control of the Hudson River. This stalling gave American soldiers time to gather resources at Fort Ticonderoga and keep Lake Champlain under American control. The conflict caused many of Arnold's ships to sink, including Philadelphia and Royal Savage. This loss meant the only way out of the battle was to escape after nightfall, leading to the two-day frantic retreat to Fort Ticonderoga.