Today, the Village and Town of Lake George, in partnership with state and local stakeholders, dedicated the “Repose of the Fallen” memorial at Lake George Battlefield State Park. The ceremony marks the solemn reinterment of the remains of 44 individuals who are believed to be Continental Army soldiers and camp followers who perished from smallpox in 1776 at Fort George’s military hospital.

These early American patriots, whose unmarked graves were discovered in 2019 on nearby Courtland Street, now rest with dignity on the very ground where they served during the Revolutionary War. The new memorial features columbaria, interpretive signage and a plaza designed to honor their sacrifice while educating future generations.

Assemblyman Matt Simpson (R,C-Adirondack), who was invited to attend the luncheon, said, “These brave souls helped forge the republic we cherish today. It is incredibly moving that a quarter of a millennium later, we can recognize their sacrifice under the very nation they helped create. I want to thank all the dedicated stakeholders who made this day possible: the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance, the Courtland Street Reinterment Committee, the Town and Village of Lake George, the Department of Environmental Conservation, private donors for their contributions and Gov. Kathy Hochul. Their work has ensured these heroes receive the respectful resting place they deserve, and this memorial will stand as a lasting reminder of the high cost of liberty.”

The dedication ceremony includes remarks by state and local officials coinciding with the lead-up to Memorial Day weekend and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

Town Supervisor Vinnie Crocitto Jr. added, “The beauty and magnificent history of Lake George are both accentuated by the completion of this project. Local residents and the thousands who annually visit Lake George will benefit from this demonstration of our importance to America’s heritage.”

Village Mayor Ray Perry said, “To create a beautiful memorial plaza in our community for these early patriots is a fitting tribute as we celebrate America’s 250th birthday. I’m very grateful for the State-local partnership under the DRI program that has made this possible.”