The Ticonderoga Historical Society will present a free public program on Friday, August 4 at 7 p.m. at the Hancock House Museum, 6 Moses Circle, Ticonderoga. “The Taking of Ticonderoga 1777; A Non-Battle” will be presented by Brian O’Connor, who will discuss how Fort Ticonderoga fell to British forces in July 1777.

“Fort Ticonderoga earned a reputation as the Gibraltar of America in the French and Indian War,” said O’Connor. “Yet it fell easily to Burgoyne’s army during the American Revolution. Arthur St. Clair’s American defenders were relatively numerous and spoiling for a fight, but an evacuation was planned even before the British threatened the fort with cannon on Mt. Defiance.”

The talk will include a look at the aftermath of the defeat, including the court martials of the commanding officers.

O’Connor, a former history professor, currently serves as Director of Libraries at North Country Community College.

The program will be held in the museum’s program room. Reservations may be made by calling the Hancock House at 518-585-7868 or via e-mail to: tihistory@bridgepoint1.com.