Trophy Point and the Great Chain
The Hudson River’s narrow width and sharp turns at West Point created adverse sailing conditions and prompted construction of a great chain in 1778 as an obstacle to the movement of British ships north of this point. American soldiers positioned the chain to impede the progress of a ship should it attempt to turn into the east-west channel against frequently unfavorable winds and a strong current. Cannon were placed in forts and batteries on both sides of the river to destroy the ship as it slowed to a halt against the obstacle.
In addition the great chain was placed across the river on April 30 1778. This chain was 600-yard long and made up of iron links two feet in length and weighing 114 pounds, including swivels, clevises, and anchors, the chain weighed 65 tons.
Trophy Point and the Great Chain
The Hudson River’s narrow width and sharp turns at West Point created adverse sailing conditions and prompted construction of a great chain in 1778 as an obstacle to the movement of British ships north of this point. American soldiers positioned the chain to impede the progress of a ship should it attempt to turn into the east-west channel against frequently unfavorable winds and a strong current. Cannon were placed in forts and batteries on both sides of the river to destroy the ship as it slowed to a halt against the obstacle.
In addition the great chain was placed across the river on April 30 1778. This chain was 600-yard long and made up of iron links two feet in length and weighing 114 pounds, including swivels, clevises, and anchors, the chain weighed 65 tons.