Incorrectly called "Fort Blunder," partially torn down to build the foundation for the old Rouses Point Bridge, and not even inspiring much interest on eBay, Fort Montgomery may finally be getting some respect.
The old stone fort, built in the pre-Civil War era, quietly kept the peace for many decades as it stood watch at the mouth of the Richelieu River on the shore of Lake Champlain. In fact, it did its job so well that no major battle ever had to be fought there, a fact that ironically has detracted from its historic significance in the eyes of some.
But, for the past decade, the fort has had a champion. Historian and author Jim Millard has written two books about its history and has worked tirelessly to try to get it on the path to restoration, preservation and public appreciation.
It looks as if his efforts may finally be bearing fruit.
The recent Fort Montgomery Days, a rare opportunity for public viewing, unexpectedly attracted an overflow crowd of thousands, despite being up against the Battle of Plattsburgh Commemoration for public attention that weekend.
And the organizers were up to the task. Millard conducted tours, and an array of photos, documents, books and artifacts dramatically told the fort's story. An impressive variety of preservation groups, historical societies and government agencies turned out to show their support.
The event came about after the fort was named one of the Seven to Save historic sites by the Preservation League of New York State, the first break it's gotten in memory.
And the publicity may have come just in time. A northern bastion of the fort collapsed into the moat some years ago, and the remaining section is showing cracks and shifts from constant freezing, thawing and exposure.
Fort owners Victor and Stephen Pod were also on hand to express their wish for public access and preservation. The family has been trying unsuccessfully to sell the fort for years, and, up to now, the state and other preservation agencies have shown too little interest.
Maybe now that all can change. The threat to the fort's survival and the inability to consummate a private sale have limited the options.
The best prospect would be that, if the owners were amenable, a group such as the Nature Conservancy could step forward and buy it until the state budget improved. Public or private funds could be raised for stabilization and, as is done with Adirondack Park land, the state could acquire it later.
Eventually, perhaps, at least the moat and drawbridge could be restored as well as a couple of the officers' quarters to show what it used to be like. But even as is, it would be a magnificent waterfront park in a historic setting.
If all else fails, perhaps the Pod family would be willing to donate it for public use, freeing themselves of liability and property taxes. Such generosity would be a legacy for which the community would be forever grateful.
Whatever the solution, it's crucial to capitalize on the recent momentum. Now, no one can lay the blame on a lack of interest. It's time for everyone to pull together and save the old fort.
Opinion
October 3, 2009
EDITORIAL: It's time to revive Fort Montgomery
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