In Recognition of the War of 1812 Bicentennial, the Town of Ledyard, , and Boy Scout Troop 12 are sponsoring guided tours of Mount Decatur and the site of Fort Decatur in Gales Ferry on Saturday, July 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The fort was made during the War of 1812.
According to a press release, Commodore Stephen Decatur established Fort Decatur in 1813 when his fleet of three ships was bottled up by the British Fleet. Unable to rejoin his squadron, Decatur fortified the hilltop with cannons and structures made of earth and stone. Remnants of the fort include stone structures and a monument inscribed on a boulder.
Mayor John Rodolico said the view from the river is incredible and people can get a sense of how the war was fought.
The hill is on private property and Rodolico urged people to go Saturday because, “it may be your last opportunity to make the hike for another year, so please take advantage of it.”
Visitors should park in the lot at United Methodist Church of Gales Ferry at 10 Chapman Lane in Gales Ferry. All visitors will be required to sign a liability release form. Tours will be guided by Scouts from Troop 12 and should take between 45 minutes and 1-hour.
- The hike is fairly strenuous on uneven and steeply sloping trails and people of poor health or limited mobility should not attempt this hike.
- All visitors should wear sturdy walking shoes and bring any sunscreen or bug repellent they may need.
- Appropriate clothing to offer protection from thorns and branches should also be worn.
- Bottled water will be provided at the top of the hill.
- The only available restroom facilities are located at the United Methodist Church of Gales Ferry.
