View Near Fort Montgomery (No. 22 (later changed to No. 18) of The Hudson River Portfolio)

Fort Montgomery sits on the west bank of the Hudson south of West Point, it should follow plate 17--here it is bound in at the end. John Agg's related text states, "the accompanying view looks down the Hudson, and affords one of those happy groupings of mountain and water scenery, which, among the windings of the highlands, are so abundant, as to render selection difficult. The artist, however, has displayed a judicious discretion in making choice of a subject which combines historical interest with picturesque beauty. In the fall of the year 1777, the vicinity of Fort Montgomery was the scene of military operations of no mean importance. This fort and Fort Clinton were considered the main defenses of the highlands, and were placed under the command of Governor Clinton, and garrisoned with the best troops...The contemplation of its now quiet verdure calls up a thousand associations of ideas, which clothe the artist’s skill in new charms, and kindles up a thousand lights of memory."