Hudson Heights Tutors Come To You

Hudson Heights is a residential neighborhood in Manhattan, New York; and is home to James Gordon Bennett Park, otherwise known as Bennett Park. The park opened in 1929, and sits in the same location as the historical site of Fort Washington. Fort Washington was a fortified position located at the highest peak of Manhattan Island. The fort was located directly across from Fort Lee, which sat on the New Jersey side of the Hudson River. Both forts were made to create a secure escape route for the Continental army, and stop the British from traveling up river.

In 1776, Fort Washington was the location of a devastating battle. In a final attempt to maintain ownership of the fort, Colonel Robert Magaw informed the British that he would never surrender and would fight to the last extremity. The battle ended with the British gaining control of the fort, and taking over 2,800 Continental soldiers captive. While the Battle of Fort Washington was brutal and discouraging, there was one very important detail.

During the Battle of Fort Washington, Margaret Corbin joined the First Company of Pennsylvania Artillery. Margaret was married to John Corbin, a soldier killed during one of the early assaults on Fort Washington. Margaret learned how to clean, load, and fire her husband’s cannon and took over his post. She survived the battle but was severely injured, and lived the rest of her life without the use of her left arm. Margaret Corbin is now known as the first ever female soldier to fight for the American Army; and is considered one of the women who inspired Molly Pitcher. Molly Pitcher is a famous story of a woman who fought in the early American Army. So many stories have been told about Molly Pitcher that she has become American folklore and is now said to be inspired by many true stories of women who played their part in American military history.

While the Battle of Fort Washington was a low point in the Revolutionary War. The Continental soldiers would eventually win back the fort, and they are credited with delaying the advance of British troops in 1779. In 1902, a commemorative sculpture was dedicated to the park, and in 1932, an American elm tree was planted to celebrate the bicentennial of the birth of George Washington. There are several memorials in Bennett Park, honoring many different people and occasions. The park also contains a stone marker indicating the highest natural spot in Manhattan, Manhattan schist. That point is 265 feet above sea level, just a few dozen feet shorter than the statue of liberty. Today Bennett Park is known for hosting several events, including the Revolutionary War Reenactment of the Battle of Fort Washington. The park could tutor others in keeping our nation’s history alive.

Hudson Heights tutors want to see every student do well in school. If your student is struggling, a Hudson Heights tutor could be just what you need. Every student deserves the chance to succeed.