Description: Fort Neilson: 1777, Saratoga, Revolutionary War. The initial American blocking position for Burgoynes advance was on Bemis Heights, centered on the barn of John Neilson. The barn was strengthened with a double tier of logs on three sides. A circular form of strong batteries extended 150 feet to the south. The entire position was encircled by a deep trench with palisade. A bombproof magazine was built in the center of the works.