The West Point Museum
Introduction
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The museum offers a variety of exhibits related to each conflict in the history of the US Army
The West Point Museum is located in Taylor Hall, constructed in 1909.
Backstory and Context
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The United States Military Academy has trained officers for the army since its creation by Congress in 1779. This location at West Point was selected both for its strategic importance along the Hudson River, but also because of its proximity to New York. During the American Revolution, George Washington's continental army fortified the mountainous location. In addition to cannon, the defenders built a chain across the river with 150 tons of iron that could be used to stop British ships from traveling north along the river. Although the traitorous officer Benedict Arnold promised to surrender West Point to the British when he switched sides, the British were not able to take the fort.
Following the war, Congress expanded the fort and built an officer training academy. Today, various degree programs are offered by graduates and officers, as well as civilian instructors. Famous graduates include Dwight D. Eisenhower, Robert E. Lee, and Douglas McArthur.
The West Point museum is the oldest military museum in the United States. The 60,000 artifacts related tot he history of the US Army can be found in a variety of permanent and temporary exhibits that change throughout the year and make this museum a different exhibit with each visit.