After a span of 250 years, the long-lost letters exchanged between Benedict Arnold and John Stevens have finally found their way back to Fort Ticonderoga, New York. The historic correspondences document Arnold’s thoughts and feelings following the capture of the fort, providing a unique insight into this tumultuous period in American history.
The reunion of these letters at Fort Ticonderoga is considered a significant event in the historical community, as it provides an unprecedented look into the mind of one of America’s most infamous figures. The letters, which had been scattered across various private collections and institutions for centuries, were recently acquired by the fort’s museum and are now on display for the public.
The Importance of the Letters
The letters exchanged between Arnold and Stevens offer a unique perspective on the events surrounding the capture of Fort Ticonderoga. Benedict Arnold, a complex figure in American history, is perhaps best known for his defection to the British during the Revolutionary War. However, prior to his betrayal, Arnold was a respected military leader and played a crucial role in the capture of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775. 
John Stevens, Arnold’s correspondent, was a trusted confidant and advisor. The letters between the two men reveal Arnold’s strategic thoughts, personal reflections, and even doubt surrounding his actions at Fort Ticonderoga. As such, these missives provide an intimate look into the mind of a man who would later become one of the most notorious traitors in American history.
Acquisition and Verification of the Letters
The process of bringing the letters back to Fort Ticonderoga was a painstaking one, involving extensive research, negotiation, and authentication. The letters had been scattered across various private collections and institutions, and it took the dedicated efforts of historians and curators at the fort’s museum to track them down and verify their authenticity.
Each letter was carefully examined and authenticated by experts in the field. The process involved not only verifying the handwriting and signature of Arnold and Stevens, but also cross-checking the historical details mentioned in the letters with known facts about the capture of Fort Ticonderoga.
Public Display and Response
Following their successful acquisition and authentication, the letters are now on display at the Fort Ticonderoga Museum. The exhibit, which opened to the public last week, has already drawn significant interest from historians, scholars, and the general public alike.
The response to the exhibit has been overwhelmingly positive. Visitors have expressed their fascination with the deep historical significance of the letters and the insight they provide into Arnold’s character. The letters not only shed light on Arnold’s strategic thinking and military prowess, but also reveal a more personal side of the man who would later become one of America’s most contentious figures.
The reunion of these letters at Fort Ticonderoga marks a significant moment in the preservation and understanding of American history. As they continue to captivate audiences, these missives stand as a testament to the enduring intrigue of the Revolutionary War and the complex figures who shaped it.
