Episode 26 - The Revolutionary War pt. 6: The Battle of Valcour Island Artwork

Crossroads of a Continent Podcast

This podcast explores the amazing history of Lake Champlain and the surrounding valley. The lake is the most historic body of fresh water in America, and is situated along the natural water highway consisting of the Richelieu River, Lake Champlain, Lake George, and the Hudson River. This water highway was known as "The Great Warpath," as many tribes and nations used this water route for trade and battle. The episodes will explore the names and places involved in the struggle for the continent on the front lines of Lake Champlain.

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Crossroads of a Continent Podcast

Episode 26 - The Revolutionary War pt. 6: The Battle of Valcour Island

September 06, 2026 • Crossroads of a Continent • Season 1 • Episode 26

0:00 | 41:03

In this episode, we cover the criminally-overlooked Battle of Valcour Island. This naval battle on Lake Champlain saved the American Revolution by delaying Guy Carleton and his British naval fleet long enough to retreat back into Canada for the winter of 1776-77. Benedict Arnold was once again the hero, utilizing his rag-tag fleet against the most powerful navy in the world. While the Battle of Valcour Island was an American defeat on paper, it was a strategic victory. The brave defense of Lake Champlain prevented Carleton from joining Howe in New York City in what likely would have been a revolution-ending event. The following year in 1777 would see a battle at Saratoga that changed the world. If not for the Battle of Valcour Island, Saratoga would likely have never happened, and France may have not entered the war on the side of the Americans.

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