The Plain (West Point)

The Plain is the parade field at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York.

The Plain rises approximately 150 feet (45 m) above the Hudson River and has been the site of the longest continually occupied U.S. Army garrison in America since 1778.

In its early years, the entire academy was located on the Plain and it was used for varying activities ranging from drill and mounted cavalry maneuvers to an encampment site for summer training to a sports venue.

From its earliest days until just after World War I, the Corps of Cadets spent their summers encamped on the Plain as part of their tactical field training.

Before the construction of Michie Stadium, the Army football team played their home games upon the Plain.

Cadets also use the Plain for recreational activities or as a place to retreat from the barracks during the late spring or early fall.

Shortly before 2330 hours, the entire corps assembles in silence on the large paved southern edge of the plain, known as the Apron.

In the far north west corner, Thayer Monument commemorates the "Father of the Military Academy", and stands watch over the Plain.

The Plain in 1828. All structures in the painting are now gone and Wood's Monument is moved to the cemetery . [ 2 ]
Football on the Plain, c1900. Execution Hollow is clearly visible just above the diagonal walkway in the mid-right of this picture. Battle Monument is on the back right side of it.
Artillery training, 1908
Cadet review on the Plain