SCHUYLERVILLE, N.Y. (NEWS10)—History was made 242 years ago at this memorial plaza, that was dedicated on Thursday. A British army surrendered for the first time ever. British General John Burgoyne surrendered his sword and his army to American General Horatio Gates.
This was a turning point in the revolutionary war and caused the British to change how they were fighting against the Americans. Many historians also believe this surrender is what caused the French to ally with American forces.
The Saratoga surrender site is located 1 mile south of Schuylerville. It took over a decade of community effort to purchase and develop the land as a memorial. The memorial will become part of the Saratoga National Historic Park.