Watervliet Arsenal, located on the west bank of the Hudson River, sits about eight miles south of Albany, NY and is only 150 acres across. While the arsenal is not the largest, it is the oldest continuously active armory in the United States and still services the army with artillery and gun tubes. The arsenal remains a distinct landmark and can be appreciated for both its functionality and history.
Quick Facts
| Coordinates | 42° 43' 12.90" N 73° 42' 24.68" W |
|---|---|
| City | Watervilet, NY 12189 |
| Phone | — |
| DSN | — |
History
The arsenal was created in response to the War of 1812 attacks on ports along the Hudson River. The facility was used to prepare for threats by stocking equipment such as gun carriages, drug ropes, ladles, wormers, sponges, and shot. The site was first comprised of very few buildings and spanned just 12 acres; however, the base quickly expanded in the coming years. Soon the facility contained a variety of buildings, including stables, brick arsenals, gun houses, offices, a hospital, and a guard house.
While the structure of the facility has not changed much since its first renovation, the items provided have advanced quite a bit. Notably, in 1992 the site underwent a significant extension plan, taking 10 years and costing over 350 million dollars, in attempts to update their technology. These efforts have paid off, as Watervliet is not one of the most advanced and sophisticated arsenals in the world.
Employment Opportunities
The arsenal employees a wide range of professionals, including:
- Metal Processor
- Machinist/Assembler
- Electronic Industrial Controls Mechanic
- Fork Lift Operator
- Machine Tool Work Inspector
- Machine Tool Operator
- Security Officer
Apprenticeships (mostly for Machinist jobs) are available as well for those who wish to acquire the skills necessary to work at the arsenal. Job fairs may also help if you want to learn more about work possibilities at Watervliet.
Security
Protection of items, employees, and civilians is a high priority at Watervliet Arsenal. The base acknowledges its vulnerability to attacks from groups such as ISIS, and works to prevent these events by offering top-of-the-line security. If suspicious content is seen or heard, it can be reported to 1-866-SAFE-NYS.
Exchange/PX
The Exchange Store can be reached at (518) 273-2424. Its hours are as follows:
- Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
- 1st/3rd Sat of month: 9am-12pm
- Sun Closed
Family
If you are employed on base and have children, you may want to consider schools around the area:
Elementary
- Watervliet Elementary School
- Blue Creek School
Junior/Senior High
- Watervliet Junior/Senior High School
- Shaker Junior/Senior High School
Private
- Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish
- Troy Preparatory Charter School
- Henry Johnson Charter School
- Latham Christian Academy
Moral, Welfare & Recreation
Conference/Catering
- Cannon Community Club
- Pavilion Rental
Social/Dining
- Cannon Community Club
Outdoor Recreation
- Equipment rental
- Pavilion Rental
- Watervliet Outdoor Pool
Sports/Fitness
- The Body Forge
- Watervliet Outdoor Pool
Contact (518) 266-4697 for more information.
Recreation at Watervliet is not only for active duty—children can also take part in the fun through summer camps, offered by Watervliet Civic Center to all kids age 4-13. Click here for an application or call (518) 273-5922 for details.
Tours
Unfortunately, the Museum at Watervliet, known as the Iron Building, was recently closed down in 2013 due to security concerns. In effect, guided tours are unavailable. However, if you want to explore the historical area, browse nearby museum.