Saratoga National Battlefield / by Dave Hileman

This was our first visit to this well-preserved crucial battlefield of the American Revolution. We were here three days shy of the 241st anniversary of the battle and on the same type of day, heavy overcast with periodic rains. The battlefield consists of two primary battles one on 9/19 and one in early October. The Americans held their own in September at Frazier’s farm and turned the latter battle into a complete victory. This is the first time in history a British army surrendered. It allowed France to enter the war on the American side and is seen as the military turning point of the war. Good place to tour, lots of places to walk and super scenery along the Hudson River. This structure, the Neilson House, is original to the battle and about 60% of the structure is dated to the battle. It was the center of the American line of defense. New park number 10 for this vacation.

A touch of fall color and a threatening storm cloud approaching.

A touch of fall color and a threatening storm cloud approaching.