Fort Trumbull
Title
Fort Trumbull
Description
New London’s geography as a deep-water harbor has shaped its maritime commercial and military history. Already in the late 18th century, the city was an important port of entry, and a defense fort was built on Mamacock. In the fervor and chaos of the American Revolution, New London was a major target for the British as a gateway city and privateering hub known for its wealth and patriotism. The small defense site on the Thames River was deemed inadequate protection against possible British invasion. By 1777, the renovated and expanded fortifications were renamed Fort Trumbull. The site was turned into a Connecticut State park in 2002. The historic structure and museum features reconstructions of the fort’s 19th century living quarters and a 1950s research laboratory.
Contributor
Jennifer Wilson
Collection Items
Aerial Photograph of the Fort Trumbull Area
Dating to the American Revolution, Fort Trumbull has served as the hub of military action for centuries. Today, it is a Connecticut State Park, where the historic structure of the fort is preserved, and a visitor center displays the defense history…
Fort Trumbull Heritage Center
In the 1970s, the city of New London proposed a restoration of the historic Fort Trumbull. This architects’ survey report includes a historical background, development and organization proposals, and design recommendations. In the 1990s, the Fort…
Fort Trumbull Coast Guard Base, New London, Conn.
In 1910, U.S. Coast Guard Academy Cadets sailed the Itasca (a tall ship similar to the ones seen in this postcard) to Fort Trumbull, claiming it for the Academy. When the school moved in 1932, Fort Trumbull became the official U.S. Coast Guard…