More than a picture-perfect vacation destination, Lake George has a rich history involving the French and Indian War. Located on the frontier between the British Province of New York and the French Province of Canada, Lake George served as a crucial battleground during the war, and the events that took place here are considered instrumental in the formation of the United States.
Learn more about the historical significance of Lake George and the museums and historic sites you can visit when you stay at Cramer’s Point Lake Breeze.
Battle of Lake George
During the French and Indian War, the British wanted to expel the French from North America, and Lake George was a strategic location in that campaign. On August 28, 1755, British Army Officer William Johnson led British colonial forces to occupy the lake, naming it Lake George after King George II.
On September 8, 1755 the Battle of Lake George was fought between the forces of Britain and France resulting in a strategic victory for the British and their Iroquois allies. Following the battle, Johnson ordered the construction of a military fort at the southern end of the lake. Fort William Henry, named after the King’s grandson Prince William Henry, opened in November 1755.
Battle of Fort William Henry
Fort William Henry endured two French attacks, the second led by General Marquis de Montcalm. Following the second attack, British Lieutenant-Colonel George Munro agreed to surrender, but France’s Native American allies attacked the unarmed soldiers and civilians, resulting in the Fort William Henry Massacre.
The events at Lake George and Fort William Henry highlighted the perceived weakness of British military tactics and control, leading the colonists to further distrust and resent British Rule. Colonial unity and the desire for independence increased, ultimately contributing to the outbreak of the American Revolution, in which Lake George once again served as a vital route for transporting supplies and troops.
Historic Sites & Museums
Today, historic sites and museums are some of the top attractions in Lake George. After 200 years of abandonment, the Fort William Henry was reconstructed in the 1950s as a tourist destination and museum. Likewise, the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance was established in 2001 to support the preservation and interpretation of Lake George Battlefield Park, the site of both French and Indian War and Revolutionary War battles.
Fort William Henry Museum – Visitors can step back in time at the Fort William Henry Museum, where expert guides take you through a replica of the fort and the realities of fort life, sharing tales of bravery, strategy, and survival from the French and Indian War. Meet British Regulars, Provincial Troops, Rangers, Native Americans and Sutlers, witness musket and cannon demonstrations, and explore the rich historical exhibits.
Lake George Battlefield Park – This 35-acre park at the southern end of Lake George on Beach Road, across from the steamboat docks and Million Dollar Beach, remains an important open space and day-use area. Battles between the Algonquin and Iroquois tribes, and between England and American colonists were fought on this land, and several monuments constructed in the 1900s remain a must-see stopping point for history-lovers visiting Lake George.
Lake George Lodging Near Historical Sites
For those interested in experiencing Lake George’s rich history, and exploring our museums and historic sites, Cramer’s Point Lake Breeze offers cabin rentals, suites and motel room lodging in Lake George. We are conveniently located less than 4 miles from the Fort William Henry Museum and Battlefield Park. We also have several vacation home rentals in Lake George, Brant Lake and Queensbury, NY. Book online or call (518) 668-2292.