Join Us to Commemorate This Anniversary

Sunday, October 11, 2026
3:00 - 5:00 PM EASTERN
In-person or Virtual
 
U.S. Navy Memorial | 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW

Free & Open to the Public

REGISTER TO STAY UPDATED

A Lecture and Panel Discussion With: 

  • Naval History and Heritage Command Underwater Archeologist
  • National Museum of the United States Navy
  • United States Navy Memorial

About the Battle of Valcour Island

The Battle of Valcour Island, fought on October 11, 1776, on Lake Champlain, was one of the first major naval engagements of the American Revolution. A small American fleet commanded by Benedict Arnold confronted a larger, better-armed British force advancing south from Canada.

Although the Americans were defeated and most of their vessels were destroyed or captured, Arnold’s resistance delayed the British advance long enough to prevent an invasion of the Hudson Valley before winter.

That delay gave American forces valuable time to strengthen their defenses and regroup, making Valcour Island a tactical defeat but an important strategic success for the American cause.

In partnership with

Underwater Archaeology, Naval History and Heritage Command
National Museum of the United States Navy
United States Navy Memorial
Washington DC Chapter of the Archaeological Institute of America
Lake Champlain Maritime Museum

Know Before You Go

  • Address: 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
  • Parking: If you are driving, please enter 875 D Street NW into your GPS for directions to the PMI Parking garage, located across from the Navy Memorial. Our ship store offers discounted parking validation.
  • Nearest Metro: The closest Metro stop is Navy Memorial–Archives (Yellow/Green Line).
  • Arrive Early: And browse our new interactive exhibits in our Visitor Center, and grab some snacks and drinks in our Ship's Store.