Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park is a Revolutionary War fortification with a monument dedicated to soldiers who died in battle. The fort overlooks the Thames River, and was designed so Americans could protect the river and Port of New London, help supply the Continental Army and fight off a land assault. On September 6, 1781, Benedict Arnold led a British fleet to the Thames River and two divisions of 800 soldiers landed on the either side of its banks. Lieutenant Colonel Edmund Eyre took the Groton side, and assaulted Fort Griswold. British soliders were driven back twice before finally overtaking the American fort. 88 Americans died during the battle, including Colonel William Ledyard. 35 were wounded. The Monument Museum House is adjacent to the fort and offers a look at Revolutionary War exhibits.