236th anniversary of the Battle of Groton Heights
Top photo: It had rained nearly all day Sunday, but in the middle of the commemoration speeches, the clouds broke and the sun beamed in, creating a rainbow behind Fort Griswold. In the foreground (inside tiny fence) is the stone that marks the spot where American Lt. Col. William Ledyard was run through with his own sword after surrendering to British forces under the command of Gen. Benedict Arnold on Sept. 6, 1781.
Second photo: A short ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the completion of the new stone outline of the original barracks (you can see the lines on the ground behind the group). Ground-penetrating radar was used to determine where the barracks foundations had been.
Third photo: Volunteers with several American Revolution-related organizations and historical sites took turns reading out the names of the 88 American rebel soldiers who died defending Fort Griswold during the battle.
Fourth photo: Wreaths were laid at the foot of Col. Ledyard’s marker to commemorate those who fought and died in the battle.
Fifth photo: Reenactors conduct a three-volley salute.
Sixth photo: After the salute, the reenactors filed out of the fort, a somber display as the sun was setting.
