Fort Hamilton Turns 200 in Our Backyard

By Y.M. Lowy

Most people pass the Verrazzano Bridge without realizing that right next to it stands a real Army base that’s been around for 200 years. Fort Hamilton isn’t just a name from the past. It’s still active today, with soldiers living and working there, keeping a long tradition of service alive in the middle of New York City.

Built in the 1800s and named after Alexander Hamilton, the fort was designed by a former officer who once worked for Napoleon. It was originally built to protect New York Harbor from enemy ships. Over the years, it played big roles in the Civil War, World War I, and World War II.

Even today, Fort Hamilton is busy with Army activity. It’s home to soldiers, National Guard members, and their families. It supports thousands of veterans and helps run important military operations across the region. During emergencies like 9/11 and COVID, soldiers based at Fort Hamilton helped protect the city and support relief efforts.

Some old buildings were taken down to make space for the bridge, but parts of the original fort are still standing. There’s even a museum on site with weapons, uniforms, and stories from hundreds of years of American military history.

This June, the fort celebrated its 200th birthday with a public concert and fireworks. It was a reminder that history isn’t always something you read in a book. Sometimes, it’s right around the corner.

photo: Shutterstock