A 149-foot granite Doric column topped by a bronze lantern rises from the top of Fort Greene Park, and beneath it is a crypt holding remains of the more than 11,500 Americans who died on British prison ships in Wallabout Bay. In the Revolution's 250th year, this plaza tells one of the war's grimmest and least-known stories. If you're a Brooklyn history fan, or just curious about the column you've passed a hundred times, come for the tribute.
What to expect
The ceremony is held on the open plaza at the top of the park's hill, with the Stanford White column and its wide granite staircase behind it. Expect a short, solemn program at the base of the monument and sweeping views over Fort Greene toward the Brooklyn Navy Yard waterfront, where the prison ships were once anchored.
Good to know
- Nearest trains: B/Q/R to DeKalb Av, C to Lafayette Av, G to Fulton St.
- The plaza sits at the top of the park's hill, so allow a few minutes for the climb.
- It's a solemn remembrance; plan to stay quiet during the ceremony.
- Fort Greene Park's lawns and the nearby Myrtle and DeKalb Avenue cafés make it easy to spend the afternoon.
- Good for history lovers, families studying the Revolution and anyone who loves Brooklyn landmarks.
Going? Keep it.
The whole weekend, in one email.
Friday at 5pm, one email. Unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
What is the Prison Ship Martyrs' Monument?
It's a 149-foot Doric column by Stanford White, dedicated in 1908. It honors more than 11,500 American prisoners who died aboard British prison ships in Wallabout Bay during the Revolutionary War, and their remains are entombed in a crypt b
Where in Fort Greene Park is the ceremony?
At Monument Plaza, the open plaza at the top of the park's central hill at the base of the column.
