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Clinton, Castle
Description: Castle Clinton, formerly known as the West Battery, was a fortification in New York City built in 1807. During the War of 1812, the fort maintained a garrison, but the base never saw combat. From 1855 to 1890, Castle Clinton served as the predecessor to Ellis Island. Over 7.5 million people entered the United States during this period. The castle, since 1986, has served as a visitor center as well as a port for ferries bound for Liberty Island.
Notes:
- More than half a dozen forts were built to defend the New York Harbor during the War of 1812.
- Castle Clinton was constructed on the rocks off the tip of Manhattan Island.
- The castle was armed with twenty-eight cannons, but never saw combat.
- In 1824, the castle was converted into a restaurant called "Castle Garden".
- The castle had a brief tenure as an opera house and theater, between 1840 and 1854.
County: New York County
City, State: New York City, New York