Underwater Archaeology of the American Revolution on Lake Champlain: A Presentation by Chris Sabick
Lake George, NY – On Thursday, March 19, at 7 PM, the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance will host Chris Sabick, Executive Director of the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, for a presentation entitled “Underwater Archaeology of the American Revolution on Lake Champlain” at the Holiday Inn Resort Lake George. The event is free and open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to RSVP by emailing info@lakegeorgebattlefield.org to ensure sufficient space.1
Focus on the 250th Anniversary and Lake Champlain’s Role
As the nation approaches the 250th anniversary commemorations of 1776, the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum has concentrated its research efforts on the American Revolution. Sabick’s presentation will delve into previous, recent, and ongoing research, particularly focusing on the Battle of Valcour Bay in October 1776.3
Archaeological Sites and Discoveries
The presentation will cover archaeological excavations at Valcour Bay and Arnold’s Bay, as well as recent documentation and research on the gunboat Spitfire, a vessel commanded by Benedict Arnold during the Battle of Valcour Bay.3 The integration of historical research and archaeological evidence provides a more comprehensive understanding of the pivotal events that unfolded on Lake Champlain in 1776.1
The Importance of Archaeological Study
Sabick emphasizes that the archaeological study of Revolutionary War shipwrecks and battlefields is refining our understanding of these crucial events. He notes, “Archaeology provides a window into the past that is not readily available from historical documents alone.”1 This is particularly relevant given increased public interest fueled by documentaries, such as the Ken Burns PBS series, and commemorations of early milestones like the capture of Fort Ticonderoga and Henry Knox’s Noble Artillery Train.
About Chris Sabick and the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum
Chris Sabick has been with the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum since 1999 and has served as its Executive Director since 2023.3 He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology/History from Ball State University and a Master of Arts in Anthropology from Texas A & M.3 Sabick has collaborated with the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance since the early 2000s, contributing to artifact conservation and advising on the potential re-establishment of a Submerged Heritage Preserve in Lake George.3
Lake George and Lake Champlain: Intertwined Histories
John DiNuzzo, President of the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance, highlights the deep connection between the 18th-century military histories of Lake Champlain and Lake George, stating, “Chris Sabick’s presentation at Lake George is bound to expand our understanding of these two key maritime links over which so much blood was shed.”3
About the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance
The Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the Lake George region’s role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. The Alliance manages the Battlefield Park’s Visitor Center and hosts educational events throughout the year. They are currently involved in the “Repose of the Fallen” project, which will reinter the remains of 44 Continental Army soldiers and support personnel in May 2026.1 More information is available at www.lakegeorgebattlefield.org.