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| January of 1776 |
Upon learning of an impending British expedition
against the southern colonies, Congress requests that the provinces
cooperate on defense and security. North and South Carolina and Georgia
are instructed to occupy St. Augustine.
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The Continental Congress passes a resolution
calling on colonial committees to indoctrinate those "honest
and well-meaning, but uninformed people" by expounding to them
the "origin, nature and extent of the present controversy."
The body also calls for confirmed tories to be disarmed and confined,
if necessary.
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In
Norfolk, Virginia, an officer aboard the British sloop Otter writes
home: "I have the pleasure to assure you that this rebel town . . . is
in ashes. It is glorious to see the blaze of the town and shipping. I
exult in the carnage of these rebels. . . ."
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Washington promises Congress that he will attack Boston at his first opportunity.
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New Hampshire establishes a colonial government
in accordance with the recommendation of the Continental Congress.
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The Council of Safety in South Carolina advises
its counterpart in Georgia that British warships leaving the Charleston
harbor are likely headed for Savannah. The South Carolina council
asks Georgia to return their Governor, Lord Campbell, if he is apprehended.
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In Philadelphia, Samuel Adams writes that the
idea of a confederation among the colonies "is not dead, but
sleepeth."
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Local merchants in Glasgow, Scotland, who profit
from the selling of American tobacco in Holland and France, are encouraged
to "stimulate [their] correspondents and agents [in Virginia
and Maryland] . . . to side with the King. . . "
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Thomas Paine's pamphlet Common Sense appears
in today's session of the Continental Congress.
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North Carolina Governor Martin, aboard the
warship Scorpion, issues a proclamation calling on the King's loyal
subjects to raise an armed force to combat the rebels, raise the royal
standard, and restore the province to "its former glorious freedom."
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The County Committee in Tryon County, New York,
sends an urgent appeal to General Schuyler for men and arms to repress
an impending attack by loyalists.
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Congress allows the expense of two dollars
per week for the board and lodging of officers taken prisoner, the
total to be repaid by the officers before they are released from captivity.
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British Admiral Shuldham reports to First Lord
of the Admiralty Lord Sandwich that he will be "surprised to
learn how fast the armed vessels of the rebels have multiplied lately,
how many of our storeships and victuallers they have taken, and how
successfully they have defeated all our force."
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Washington writes from Cambridge that army
enlistment problems continue: "Our total number upon paper amounts
to about ten thousand five hundred; but as a large portion of these
are returned not joined, I never expect to receive them . . ."
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The New York Committee of Safety orders all
ship pilots to avoid the entrance to the harbor at Sandy Hook; the
committee also forbids pilots from boarding any enemy warship or troop
transport.
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Boston loyalist Peter Oliver reports that the
old North Meeting House is pulled down for fuel for the loyalist Associators.
The meeting house had been abandoned by the Reverend John Lathrop
and his patriot congregation, most of whom had left Boston.
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The Virginia Convention orders the jailing
of all African Americans who carried arms in Dunmore's service. They
are then to be appraised and sent to the West Indies or Bay of Honduras
to be sold.
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In Savannah, Georgia, Governor Wright is arrested
and confined to his house.
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Washington and other patriot generals agree
that troops cannot be spared for service in Canada and that Boston
must be attacked before Howe received reinforcements.
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The Virigina Convention declares that best
method of opposing British oppression would be to open all ports to
international trade from every country except England.
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Washington directs each regiment to send out
two officers to purchase weapons for their unit. Soldiers enlisting
with their own firearms are promised one dollar for its use and reimbursement
if the weapon is lost during the campaign.
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The South Carolina Council of Safety resolves
"that able-bodied negro men be taken into the public service,
and enrolled and employed, without arms for the defence of the several
batteries in Charles-Town, Fort Johnson and other batteries, at the
rate of two to each gun, . . . That they be in constant pay at the
rate of ten shillings per day, and the public to find them provisions.
. . . suitable rewards shall be given to those slaves, who behave
well in time of action."
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Washington writes in a letter to Joseph Reed,
"I have often thought how much happier I should have been if,
instead of accepting of a command under such circumstances, I had
taken my musket upon my shoulder, and entered the ranks . . ."
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The Continental Congress approves a letter
to the Canadians promising a renewal of efforts to expel the British
and urging the Canadians to associate with the Americans by appointing
delegates to the Congress.
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The Continental Congress authorizes a memorial
in honor of General Richard Montgomery who was killed at Quebec on
December 31, 1775.
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The Connecticut Committee of Safety learns
that enlistments for service in a regiment to be raised in the western
counties of the colony would suffer if the designated colonel for
the regiment came from an eastern county; they therefore accepted
the resignation of the colonel.
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In an attempt to maintain the friendship and
trust of Indian tribes, Congress votes to allow the import of £40,000
worth of their trade goods.
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In Virginia, the Committee of Sussex County
pledges to help the inhabitants of Norfolk find shelter and land to
cultivate.
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Congress agrees to Washington's request that
regiments be raised in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Connecticut
for service in Canada, the cost to be underwritten by the Continental
Congress.
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The Continental Congress directs that no apprentices
be enlisted for military service without the written consent of their
master or mistress. Persons under the age of 21 could secure a discharge
from service within twenty-four hours of enlisting by refunding any
money or supplies received from the recruiting officer.
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In the absence of credentials from the Massachusetts
Assembly, Congress decides to accept the current delegates from that
body on the basis of newspaper accounts of their appointments.
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| February of 1776 |
In Salem, North Carolina, the Moravians, a
pacifist religious group, decline to obey Governor Martin's proclamation
to join the King's standard.
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King George confers exclusive command over
naval operations in North America to Admiral Richard Howe.
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In Annapolis, Maryland, the Council of Safety
authorizes the Baltimore Committee to expend £6,200 for harbor
defenses, including a triple boom across the entrance and a permanent
fortification with a battery, barracks, and powder magazine.
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The general order for the day at the American
camp in Cambridge calls for the colonel of each regiment to identify
the number of fire arms needed by his men and a method for obtaining
them.
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Great Britain and Germany sign an agreement
providing the British with 660 German infantrymen.
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Congress alerts the southern colonies that
General Clinton is headed in their direction.
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Congress adopts resolutions to quarter British
prisoners in private facilities in Trenton, New Jersey.
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In Exeter, New Hampshire, the Provincial Legislature
asks the Continental Congress to raise a military force to defend
the colony's seacoast.
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Upon the arrival of 200 British troops in New
York, General Lee requests that Congress send the city a battalion
of troops from Philadelphia to assist in the construction of fortifications.
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From Philadelphia, the North Carolina delegation
to the Continental Congress warns that all accounts from England indicate
an upcoming attack on the colony.
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In Savannah, Georgia, Governor Wright escapes
from his residence to one of the British warships anchored at the
mouth of the river.
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In North Carolina, patriots and tories continue
to mobilize their forces. The Committee of Safety orders the militia
to assemble in the districts north of Cross Creek.
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Congress adopts a resolution allowing the individual
provinces to import naval stores from North Carolina and elects Patrick
Henry colonel of the first Virginia battalion.
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In Salem, North Carolina, the Moravians note
that in Cross Creek "the Governor's party was very strong, and
. . . the King's Standard had been raised. From Richmond, Virginia
we hear that Minute Men, are being divided into Companies, and are
preparing to march to Guilford and beyond against the Governor, etc.
All is alarm and confusion . . . "
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In Halifax, Governor Legge reports to London
that traitorous elements in Cumberland, Nova Scotia, had contacted
George Washington to express their sympathy for the rebel cause and
invite him to invade the province.
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Congress spends most of the day considering
"the propriety of opening the ports, and the restrictions and
the regulations of the trade of the colonies" after March 1.
Because Great Britain controlled the seas, some members stress the
need to enter into treaties with other foreign powers in order to
protect American trade.
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The eight-vessel American navy sails today
on its first "ocean-going cruise." Although the navy's mission
is to protect American shipping and capture and destroy enemy warships,
the first voyage is to the Bahamas in search of gunpowder.
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From Norfolk, Virginia, Lord Dunmore dispatches
a note to Lord Dartmouth expressing his "inexpressible Mortification"
upon learning that General Clinton has been ordered to the "insignificant
province of North Carolina to the neglect of this the richest and
powerfully important province in America."
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In Charleston, South Carolina, the Provincial
Convention, apprehensive of a British attack, votes to summon militia
to defend the city.
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In Williamsburg, Lord Dunmore offers to go
to England to negotiate a peaceful reconciliation. The Virginia Committee
of Safety responds that they are "neither empowered nor inclined
to intermeddle with the mode of negotiation; that we looked to the
Congress for management of this important matter." They urge
him to demonstrate his intentions by suspending hostilities.
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In Philadelphia, Congress spends most of the
day considering "the number and denominations of the bills in
which the four millions of dollars, directed by Congress to be issued,
ought to be emitted . . . "
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Many members of Congress question New York's
failure to mobilize troops; the body resolves to request the province
to explain what efforts had been made to raise the four battalions
for their own defense.
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A resident of New York writes, "I forbear
to mention the distressed state of this once happy city. To see the
vast number of homes shut up, one would think the city almost evacuated.
Women and children are scarcely to be seen in the streets. Troops
are daily coming in; they break open and quarter themselves in any
houses they find shut up. Necessity knows no law. Private interest
must give way to the public good."
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A British agent informs London that American
vessels entered Bilbao and Santander, Spain. "Their business
can only be to load gunpowder and other warlike stores, perhaps not
in the ports of Spain, but very probably at sea, where it is believed
they are supplied by the Dutch."
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Washington receives information that the British
had taken over every ship in the harbor at Boston for government service.
All signs point to an evacuation of the city in the near future.
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The Spanish government orders its West Indies
fleet to establish a patrol in order to observe the conduct and movements
of the British squadrons, and under the guise of preventing smuggling,
detain British vessels and try to obtain information on the whereabouts
of warships. The intelligence was to be exchanged with French authorities.
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At Moores Creek, North Carolina, North Carolina
patriots defeat loyalists at the Battle of Moores Creek Bridge. The
defeat ends Governor Martin's hopes of regaining control of the colony
for the British crown.
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Washington's troops prepare to move ahead on
the proposed occupation of Dorchester Heights. He writes in a letter,
"We are preparing to take possession of a post which will, it
is generally thought, bring on a rumpus between us and the enemy."
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In London, the House of Commons approves treaties
with German principalities supplying Great Britain with German troops.
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| March of 1776 |
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Congress supersedes a previous resolution sending
General Charles Lee to Canada; he is ordered instead to take immediate
command of the continental forces in the south where a British attack
is expected.
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American artillery bombard Boston from a redoubt
at Lechmere Point.
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Silas Deane travels to France on a secret mission.
He is instructed by the Committee of Secret Correspondence that if
he meets with French Foreign Minister Vergennes he is to stress America's
need for military stores and assure him that the colonies are moving
toward "total separation."
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King George concurs with Parliament that mercenaries
fighting for Britain be dressed in British uniforms and not those
of their home country.
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A British Council of War decides to evacuate
from Boston.
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A committee of the New York Provincial Congress
instructs Major William Malcolm to dismantle the Sandy Hook lighthouse,
telling him to "use your best discretion to render the light-house
entirely useless."
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In Cambridge, all soldiers and officers observe
a day of fasting, prayer, and humiliation.
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Congress passes a resolution prohibiting the
enlistment of Indians without the prior permission of both Congress
and the national council of the tribe to which they belong.
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In Philadelphia, the Congress resolves to prohibit
military officers from imposing loyalty oaths on the inhabitants of
any colony.
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A resident of New Bern, North Carolina, writes
that Governor Martin threatened to burn the city of Wilmington in
the colony if it did not furnish him with supplies. The city refused
and was prepared to fight. The colony of North Carolina had 9,400
armed men in the southern part of the province; the three southern
colonies of Georgia and North and South Carolina had a force of 20,000
men prepared to fight General Clinton if he landed on the coast.
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The British Admiralty orders a convoy of ships
with seven infantry battalions and a hospital ship to the St. Lawrence
River to establish British authority in Quebec.
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In Baltimore, Maryland, a public notice announces:
"The necessity of taking all imaginable care of those who may
happen to be wounded in the country's cause, urges us to address our
humane ladies, to lend us their kind assistance in furnishing us with
linen rags and old sheeting, for bandages . . . "
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In anticipation of the departure of the British
from Boston, the general order for the day in Cambridge reads: "If
upon the retreat of the enemy any person whatsoever, is detected in
pillaging, . . . the severest punishment will be his lot—The
unhappy Inhabitants of that distress'd town have already suffer'd
too heavily from the Iron hand of Oppression!—their Countrymen
surely will not be base enough to add to their misfortunes."
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Congress resolves to send 8,000 men to New
York for the colony's defense.
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Congress requests authorities in Connecticut,
New York, and New Jersey to hold their militias in readiness to march
in defense of New York.
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The Admiralty informs British Admiral Shuldham
that American vessels are loading military supplies in three Spanish
ports: Corruna, St. Andro, and Bilbao.
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The British begin their evacuation of Boston.
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Washington visits Boston where he is impressed
by the strength of the fortifications in the city. He writes that
"[t]he town, although it has suffered greatly, is not in so bad
a state as I expected to find it."
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Washington's Quartermaster General estimates
that the amount of booty recovered by the British evacuation of Boston
amounted to £25,000 or £30,000.
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General Clinton informs Georgia Governor Wright
that he cannot protect loyalists in the province.
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General Howe reports that a combination of
adverse factors led to the British evacuation of Boston: the fortifications
on Dorchester Heights, a lack of supplies and tonnage, the need to
preserve his army, and the non-strategic value of the city.
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The Acting Governor of the Bahamas writes
that a rebel fleet removed the militia stores from two local forts
and kidnapped the Governor.
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The South Carolina Provincial Congress instructs
its delegation in Philadelphia "to concert, agree to, and execute,
every measure," which it and the Continental Congress shall "judge
necessary, for the defence, security, interest or welfare of the Colony
in particular, and America in general."
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In Paris, the Count de Vergennes, French Foreign
Minister, directs his ambassador in London to deny charges that French
agents had met with Washington and the Continental Congress. In fact,
two French "merchants" had met Washington on December 14
and Congressional delegates on December 30, 1775.
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Congress votes to present their thanks and
those of the colonies to Washington and his troops for their "wise
and spirited conduct in the siege and acquisition of Boston,"
and to give the General a gold medal commemorating the event.
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The Provincial Congress of South Carolina approves
a new constitution and government for the province. The legislature
is now the General Assembly of South Carolina; the group elects John
Rutledge as President, Henry Laurens as Vice President, and William
Henry Drayton as Chief Justice.
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Upon the final departure of the British from
Boston, Washington decides to send a brigade under General Sullivan
to New York.
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Congress appoints Jeremiah Dugan to command
300 rangers in Canada.
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Washington appoints Major General Putnam commander
of the troops in New York; he is to concentrate on the execution of
all plans for the defense of the city and its waterways.
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In Jamaica, attorneys claim that American vessels
and their crews captured by British warships prior to January 1, 1776,
when the Trade Prohibitory Act became effective could not be detained.
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Abigail Adams urges her husband John to "Remember
the Ladies" in making laws for the new nation, an important early
plea for women's rights.
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April of 1776
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The Continental Congress establishes a permanent
treasury office and proposes the appointment of an auditor general.
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The South Carolina General Assembly empowers
its new president, John Rutledge, to design and have made a Great
Seal of South Carolina.
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The Continental Congress gives privateers permission
to "by force of arms, attack, subdue, and take all ships and
other vessels belonging to the inhabitants of Great Britain."
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In New York, American Quartermaster General
Thomas Mifflin informs the Committee of Safety that within ten days
a total of 12,000 troops would be in the city.
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General Charles Lee arrives in Williamsburg,
Virginia, and writes Washington that he fears the British will attack
the defenseless city.
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Congress resolves to allow exports from the
colonies to any part of the world not under British rule. They also
vote to allow the importation of any goods except those grown, produced,
or shipped from any country under the King's rule.
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Captain John Barry, commander of the sloop
of war Lexington, makes the first U.S. Navy capture of a British warship,
the sloop Edward, under battle conditions.
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In Friedberg, North Carolina, several members
of the Moravian congregation are forced to participate in military
drills.
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The South Carolina General Assembly votes to
establish a Court of Admiralty in all cases of the capture of British
ships by armed American vessels.
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General Wooster informs John Hancock that the
patriot situation in Canada is not improving. Only half of the two
or three thousand soldiers in Quebec were fit to serve.
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Writing to her husband from Braintree, Massachusetts,
Abigail Adams states, "I miss my partner, and find myself unequal
to the calls which fall upon me; I find it necessary to be the directress
of our Husbandery and farming. . . I hope in time to have the Reputation
of being as good a Farmeress as my partner has of being a good Statesmen."
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The Provincial Congress in North Carolina empowers
its delegates to the Continental Congress to concur with delegates
from other colonies in declaring independence. They are the first
colony to do so.
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George Washington arrives in New York with
General Gates.
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John Adams addresses his wife Abigail's concerns
about women's rights writing, "We have been told that our Struggle
has loosened the bands of Government every where . . . that schools
and colledges were grown turbulent—that Indians slighted their
Guardians . . . But your Letter was the first Intimation that another
Tribe more numerous and powerfull than all the rest were grown discontented."
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Congress resolves that New England colonies
fortifying their ports should write and request Washington to send
a proper person to examine the ports. A Congressional committee would
do likewise for ports between New York and Chesapeake Bay.
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John Hancock writes the Maryland Council of
Safety advising them to seize Robert Eden, governor of the colony.
The request is made as a result of information received by Congress
that Eden was carrying on a correspondence with the British Ministry
"highly dangerous to the liberties of America."
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Martha Washington arrives in New York from
Cambridge.
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The Irish transport ship Isabella arrives in
Cape Fear, North Carolina, and is greeted by American militiamen.
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The New York Committee of Safety orders all
persons be prohibited from holding any intercourse with British ships
under penalty of being considered enemies of the cause.
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Germany and Britain arrange to have more troops
sent from Germany to America, including 670 infantrymen.
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British Governor James Wright of Georgia arrives
in Halifax, Nova Scotia, aboard the HMS Scarborough.
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In Williamsburg, Virginia, General Charles
Lee instructs regimental recruiting officers to enlist no natives
of Great Britain or Ireland unless they have been longtime residents
of America, have dependents in the country, or can provide a strong
recommendation.
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Congress accepts the resignation of General
Artemus Ward and resolves that an expedition should be undertaken
against Detroit.
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The Shawnee tribe writes to Congress, "the
road between us has been opened and lately cleared, we desire it may
remain open and clear for our young men and yours to pass and repass
whenever they please. . ." The road was the Wilderness Trail
over the Cumberland Gap.
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As of this date, 10,192 soldiers of the United
Army had been stationed in New York.
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Virginia militiaman John Page writes to Thomas
Jefferson asserting that the citizens of the various colonies should
be commended for maintaining order while they were "free from
the Restraint of Laws."
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Lord Germain informs General William Howe that
the first division of Hessian troops were preparing to sail to America.
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From Savannah, Georgia, Colonel Lachlan McIntosh
informs Washington that he is pleased with recruitment efforts in
the colony. He concludes, however, that because the South has so little
manufacturing, making the price of needed goods two or three times
higher than in the North, procurement of clothing and arms was difficult.
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In Brussels, Belgium, an ordinance is passed
prohibiting the trade of munitions or articles of war with the American
colonies.
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Samuel Adams writes of his hopes for another
battle between British and American troops, stating his belief that
it "would do more towards a declaration of independency than
a long chain of conclusive arguments in . . . Continental Congress."
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| May of 1776 |
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In London, King George issues a proclamation
extending the bounties for encouraging enlistments in the Royal Navy.
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King Louis XVI of France agrees to loan one
million livres to Hortalez & Cie., a company specifically organized
to provide funds and military stores to the American cause, thereby
establishing secret aid to the patriots.
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British Commodore Parker and General Cornwallis
arrive in North Carolina with twenty transports.
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From Williamsburg, Virginia, General Charles
Lee, commander of the southern military department, informs Washington
that "we want arms, medicines, and blankets, most cruelly; indeed
we want some battalions." He also asks Washington to request
that Congress raise the salaries of military engineers in order to
engage qualified individuals for that service.
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In North Carolina, General Clinton issues a
proclamation denouncing the "wicked rebellion" and recommending
that the inhabitants return to their duty to the King. He offers full
pardon to all persons, except General Robert Howe and Cornelius Harnett.
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In Providence, Rhode Island, Governor Cooke
sends Washington a copy of an act discharging the inhabitants of the
colony from allegiance to the King. In Williamsburg, Virginia, the
House of Burgesses meets for the last time; in its place, the General
Convention of Delegates from the Counties and Corporations convenes
and elects Edmund Pendleton President.
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Congress authorizes North Carolina to raise
a sixth battalion for the continental service and to direct the appropriate
committee to furnish the colony with twelve field guns, three tons
of powder, and a medicine chest for each battalion. The body also
takes measures to protect Philadelphia from the threat of two British
warships in the Delaware River.
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Patriot vessels attack the British warships
Roebuck and Liverpool on the Delaware River. Both sides suffer minimal
damage.
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Washington urges General Ward, commander of
the Continental troops in Boston, to continue working on the defenses
for the city. He feared the British might return to the city.
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Congress recommends to the colonial assemblies
and conventions, "where no government sufficient to the exigencies
of their affairs have been hitherto established, to adopt such government
as shall . . . best conduce to the happiness and safety of their constituents
in particular, and America in general."
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In a letter to Congress, Washington recommends
raising companies of Germans to send among the Hessians fighting for
Britain when they arrive. The purpose would be "for exciting
a spirit of disaffection and desertion. If a few trusty, sensible
fellows could get with them, . . . they would have great weight and
influence with the common Soldiery, who certainly have no enmity towards
us, having received no Injury, nor cause of Quarrell from us."
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The King of France instructs a naval squadron
to patrol the coastal waters and English Channel to secure information
on the positions and activities of British warships. The squadron
is directed to maneuver so as to discourage the seizures of American
merchantmen and neutral shipping carrying supplies to the patriots.
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From Antigua, British Admiral Young relays
intelligence to Admiral Gayton at Jamaica that American vessels plan
to intercept homeward bound West India ships.
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The Continental Congress's Committee of Secret
Correspondence receives information that King George demanded and
received from the Queen of Hungary a pledge to ban exports of military
stores to America.
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The Virginia Convention instructs its delegates
to the Continental Congress to propose "to that respectable body
to declare the United Colonies free and independent states, absolved
from all allegiance to, or dependence upon, the crown or parliament
of Great Britain . . . "
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Congress asks George Washington to come to
Philadelphia to consult with that body "upon such measures as
may be necessary for the carrying on the ensuing campaign."
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In London, an Order in Council extends the
ban on exports of gunpowder, saltpetre, and any type of arms or ammunition;
the order also bans the transportation of those products to the coast
without the previous permission of the King or his privy council.
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A resolution in Congress requests the Committee
of Secret Correspondence to dispatch vessels to the French West Indies
to purchase at least 10,000 muskets and to learn, if possible, whether
the large French military force concentrated there would act "for
or against the colonies."
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Conservatives and the radical local Committee
become involved in a bitter struggle for control of the Pennsylvania
Provincial Assembly. The Assembly had ordered its delegation in Congress
to desist from voting for independence.
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Lyman Hall and Button Gwinnett of Georgia take
their seats in the Continental Congress with instructions to use their
own judgment in voting on any measures.
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The Maryland Convention adopts resolutions
stating that: the people had the "sole and exclusive right to
regulate internal affairs and police" of the colony; the Convention
could reject oppressive acts of Parliament; all royal authority was
now totally abolished; and the people no longer had to take an oath
of allegiance to Great Britain. The recently reelected delegation
to Congress, however, was instructed to abstain from any measures
leading to independence without the express authority of the Convention.
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Congress votes to give General Schuyler authority
to take any measures for supplying the troops in Canada with provisions.
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From Boston, representatives to the General
Assembly are instructed to advise the Massachusetts delegation in
Congress that the colony will support a declaration of independence
"with their lives and the remnant of their fortunes."
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After conferring with Washington, Gates, and
Mifflin, Congress votes to inform the commanding officer in Canada
to "contest every foot of the ground" and especially prevent
the enemy from ascending the St. Lawrence River.
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In Pennsylvania, a resolution passes calling
for a popularly elected provincial convention to draw up a new form
of government.
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Edmund Pendleton, President of the Virginia
Convention warns Maryland that Lord Dunmore's fleet has "turned
up the bay and passed the mouth of the York rivers."
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Indian deputies of the Six Nations hold an
audience with Congress. The delegates stage a military parade with
Continental troops and soldiers from the local Association.
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The London Post prints portions of Common Sense;
the publisher deleted all abusive and insulting references to the
King.
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A sloop from St. Eustatius arrives in Charleston,
South Carolina, with 10,000 pounds of powder. The master of the vessel
states that the French West Indies ports are now open to the Americans
and French warships are protecting the rebel vessels.
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British General Clinton agrees to undertake
an effort to capture the city of Charleston, South Carolina.
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Expresses sent from Christ Church Parish in
South Carolina warn authorities in Charleston that a large British
fleet has been observed off Dewee's Island, about twenty miles north.
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| June of 1776 |
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In Philadelphia, Congress agrees to raise 6,000
militia "to reinforce the army in Canada, and to keep up communication
with that province;..." Meanwhile in Charleston, South Carolina,
President Rutledge received intelligence that a fleet of 50 or more
vessels were anchored north of Sullivan's Island.
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Like many of the men under his command, American
Major General John Thomas dies of smallpox near Sorel, in Quebec,
Canada.
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To protect the middle colonies, Congress resolves
to reinforce troops in New York with 13,800 militia and set up a special
mobile force of 10,000. Meanwhile, at Sullivan's Island in South Carolina,
Colonel William Moultrie informs President Rutledge that a British
landing is imminent, and vows to "make the best defense I can
with what I have got."
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John Hancock exhorts the colonies to exert
"every Nerve to distinguish yourselves. Quicken your Preparations
and stimulate the good people of your Government and there is no Danger,
notwithstanding the mightly Armament with which we are threatened,
but you will be able to lead them to Victory, to Liberty, and to Happiness."
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In Philadelphia, Congress requires monthly
status reports from all non-combat or supply departments of the floundering
Army in Canada. In Massachusetts, a traitor examiner recommends that
all suspected persons should be sent inland at least 10 miles from
the coast.
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From the HMS Sovereign comes a Proclamation
from British General Clinton to the people of Charleston, South Carolina,
"to return to their Duty to our common Sovereign, and to the
Blessings of a free Government, as established by law..." In
Philadelphia, Samuel Adams writes: "tomorrow a Motion will be
made, and a Question I hope decided, the most important that was ever
agitated in America."
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Richard Henry Lee of Virginia introduces to
Congress three resolutions: total independence from Great Britain,
the formation of foreign Alliances, and preparation of a plan of the
colonial confederation. John Adams seconds the resolutions.
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While the Philadelphia Congress considers Lee's
resolutions of the previous day, in South Carolina, Colonel Moultrie
receives notice that General Clinton has landed troops on the Southern
tip of Long Island; Moultrie in turn orders American troops to occupy
the northern part of Sullivan's Island.
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John Adams writes to William Cushing: "We
are in the very midst of revolution, the most complete, unexpected,
and remarkable, of any in the history of nations." In Loudon
County, VA, small tenant farmers petition the Convention for relief.
Unable to sell their harvests of wheat to foreign markets, many are
becoming destitute.
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In Philadelphia, Congress stops short of declaring
"total independence" from Britain, but calls for a committee
to prepare a declaration based on the premise: "That these United
Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states,
that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown: and
that all political connexion between them and the state of Great Britain
is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.
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Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin,
Roger Sherman, and Philip Livingston comprise a committee chosen to
prepare the declaration of independence. Jefferson is chosen to prepare
the first draft.
In New York, residents roam the streets and attack suspected Tories
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In Philadelphia, Congress creates "A Board
of War and Ordnance," inspired in part by the failing Canadian
campaign.
In Williamsburg, Virginia, George Mason and the Virginia Convention
adopt A declaration of rights.
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In Boston, General Benjamin Lincoln directs
the placement of cannon around the harbor. A short cannonade convinces
the British to weigh anchor, inspiring Lincoln to write "Thus
is the port of Boston again opened by our own authority, after being
closed during two years vy virtue of an act of the British Parliament."
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Congress orders General Philip Schuyler to
confer with the Six Nations Indians - Mohawk; Oneida; Tuscarora; Onondaga;
Cayuga; Seneca - and "engage them in our interest upon the best
terms that can be procured" and to procede to erect a fortification
at Fort Stanwix (NY).
Meanwhile, General Sullivan decides to evacuate Canada and make a
stand at Fort Ticonderoga (NY).
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In Burlington New Jersey, the New Jersey Provincial
Congress brands Governor William Franklin "an enemy to the liberties
of this country..."
The New HampshireProvincial Congress instructs its delegation to join
the other colonies by "Solemnly Pledging our Faith and Honor,
that we will on our parts support the measure with our Lives and Fortunes...".
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In Boston, General Benjamin Lincoln directs
the placement of cannon around the harbor. A short cannonade convinces
the British to weigh anchor, inspiring Lincoln to write "Thus
is the port of Boston again opened by our own authority, after being
closed during two years by virtue of an act of the British Parliament."
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Congress orders General Philip Schuyler to
confer with the Six Nations Indians - Mohawk; Oneida; Tuscarora; Onondaga;
Cayuga; Seneca - and "engage them in our interest upon the best
terms that can be procured" and to procede to erect a fortification
at Fort Stanwix (NY).
Meanwhile, General Sullivan decides to evacuate Canada and make a
stand at Fort Ticonderoga (NY).
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In Burlington New Jersey, the New Jersey Provincial
Congress brands Governor William Franklin "an enemy to the liberties
of this country..."
The New Hampshire Provincial Congress instructs its delegation to
join the other colonies by "Solemnly Pledging our Faith and Honor,
that we will on our parts support the measure with our Lives and Fortunes...".
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Benedict
Arnold notifies General Sullivan of his garrison's successful movement
out of Montreal, along with some spirits and molasses siezed in that
town.
In Boston Harbor, an armed Connecticut vessel along with several
schooners sieze two British ships and take 200 sailors and soldiers
prisoner.
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Congress requests additional soldiers from Connecticut to be sent to Canada.
In Watertown, the Massachusetts Assembly resolves to ban the export by
water of all produce except for Jamaica or pickled fish, unless the
items are used to to supply armed American vessels or colonial
inhabitants.
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In
Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson shows his first draft of "a declaration
of independence" to John Adams and other members of Congress.
In Burlington, New Jersey, Governor Franklin appears before the New
Jersey Provincial Congress but refuses to answer any questions on the
grounds that body was an illegal instrument which usurped the powers of
the rightful government. He was declared a dangerous enemy to American
liberties and ordered confined in such place and manner as the
Continental Congress may direct.
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At
La Prairie, Canada, General Baron Riedesel reports to the Duke of
Brunswick that the British had recovered Canada and only the lack of
shipping prevented a rapid advance into the rear of the American
colonies.
In New York, a resolution by the Provincial Congress recommends
that residents of the sea coast sell their fit cattle to the army.
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In
Philadelphia, the Provincial Conference of Committees urges the people
to "elect qualified patriots to the Convention, who shall know the
ideas and sentiments of their constituents. And, above all, assure the
timid and fearful of the high purposes of the Convention."
Meanwhile, off the coast of Charleston, SC, Commodore Parker
notifies General Clinton that he would land on the mainland tomorrow on
the flood tide if the wind was from the south. Parker and his fleet
were thwarted by a sandbar for nearly two weeks.
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Congress resolves that New Jersey's Governor
Franklin - son of Benjamin Franklin - be sent under guard to Connecticut.
Congress also appoints an investigative committee to "enquire into
the cause of the miscarriages in Canada."
The County Committee of Bergen, New Jersey, votes to raise troops and
observe the movements of the enemy. It also asked the people of the
county to "aid and assist the families of those brave men who are
necessarily abroad in defence of their country, in getting in their
harvest, that their wives and families may not suffer by their
absence."
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The
Conference of Committees urges its more pacifist associates to military
action by declaring that they were fighting for "permanent liberty, to
be supported by your own government, derived from you, and organized
for all and not for the benefit of one man or class of men."
Off the coast of South Carolina, after spending three weeks getting
his fleet across a sandbar, Commodore Parker's plans to bombard the
fort on Sullivan's Island are canceled by unfavorable wind and tidal
conditions.
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In
a letter to his wife Abigail, John Adams complains that the Congress
was giving him "more business than I am qualified for, and more than, I
fear, that I can go through, with safety to my health. In the same
letter, he attributes the Army's failure in Canada to the outbreak of
Small pox.
From Gwynn's Island in Virginia, Governor Dunmore reports to Lord
Germain in England that the Island is his new base, and that if the
fever had not killed most of the slaves that flocked to his banner, we
would have stayed on the mainland.
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Congress
resolves to organize rifle regiments in Virginia, New York, and
Maryland. In addition, the members vote to to form a battalion of
Germans.
Off the coast of South Carolina, Commodore Parker gives the signal to
to get under way towards Sullivan's Island, but is again halted when
the wind suddenly shifts to the opposite quarter.
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Convicted
of mutiny and sedition, Thomas Hickey, former Life Guard for George
Washington, was hanged near Bowery Lane in New York in front of 20,000
spectators.
Charleston, SC: About 10 am, Commodore Parker's squadron opens fire
on Fort Sullivan. To the surprise of the British, the fort's palmetto
log wall absorbs the British shot like a sponge, preventing typical
splinter injuries to the garrison. More surprising is the accurate and
effective fire directed by Colonel Moultrie at the British fleet. Their
two largest warships suffer extensive damage and severe crew losses;
Commodore Parker suffers painful physical injuries and the embarrassing
loss of his breeches; HMS Sphinx looses its bowsprit; the Actaeon runs
aground; smaller British frigates are damaged. Moultrie's attack costs
Parker 261 injured and dead. American casualties are slight.
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Contrary
to most of his colleagues in Congress, Edward Rutledge of South
Carolina advocates patience in regards to declaring independence. In a
letter to John Jay of New York, Rutledge worries whether he and other
conservatives can "effectually oppose" such a resolution.
Meanwhile, on Staten Island in New York, signals indicate the
appearance of General Howe's fleet from Halifax, prompting Samuel Webb
to declare "a warm and Bloody Campaign is the least we may expect; may
God grant us victory and success..."
Inspired by his stunning success in repulsing Commodore Parker's
naval squadron, a William Logan sends a gift of a hogshead of old
Antigua rum to Colonel Moultrie.
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Now
heading the newly created Board of War, John Adams asserts how military
stores are of the utmost importance: "I cannot think that Country safe,
which has not within itself every Material necessary for War, and the
Art of making Use of those Materials. I shall never be easy, then,
until We shall have made Discoveries of Salt Petre, Sulphur, Flynts,
Lead, Cannon Mortars, Ball, Shells, Musquetts, and Powder in sufficient
Plenty, so that We may always be sure of having enough of each."
On Gwynn's Island, VA, Maryland's Royal Governor Robert Eden joins Governor Dunmore in self-imposed exile from the mainland.
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| July of 1776 |
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| George Washington's letter of June 29 is read
to Congress. In it he announces the arrival of the British fleet in
New York. Shortly thereafter, the Continental Congress approves Richard
Henry Lee's resolution of respecting independence, but South Carolina
delegates postpone determination by the entire house until July 2.
A committee from the Virginia Convention informs Patrick Henry
of his election as Governor under the new constitution.
In honor of Colonel William Moultrie, the state legislature of
South Carolina renames Fort Sullivan "Fort Moultrie."
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| Congress formally adopts Lee's resolution for
independence, asserting that the "United Colonies are, and of
right ought to be, free and independent States; that all political
connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought
to be, totally dissolved." The vote is unanimous with only New
York abstaining.
Arriving at Crown Point, NY, General John Sullivan writes to John
Hancock about his experience in Canada: ""to give you
a particular account of the miserable State of our Troops there
and the numbers which Daily kept Droping in there Beds and Graves
would rather Seem like The effect of Imagination than a history
of facts."
After landing at New York, British Captain Archibald Robertson
reports on "The Rebels" he encountered, and notes how
they "fired musquetry at the nearest ships without effect...Lucky
for us the Rebels had no cannon here or we must have suffered a
good deal."
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| In a letter to his wife Abigail, John Adams
writes: "Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever
was debated in America, and a greater perhaps, never was or will be
decided among Men..."
During the same day, Congress considers Jefferson's "Declaration"
for independence, and decides to continue their examination at the
next session.
In New York, troops requested from the colonies to the south begin
to arrive with General Nathaniel Heard and his New Jersey Militia.
At Crown Point, Army Doctor Lewis Bebe notes in his journal that
"Since I have been writing, one more of our men has made his
exit. Death visits us almost every hour."
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| In Philadelphia, Jefferson's Declaration of
Independence is adopted and signed by the appropriate parties.
Meanwhile, on Staten Island in New York, George Washington expresses
dismay that many islanders are "too favourably disposed"
to join the British.
And at Crown Point, NY, Dr. Bebe writes that "The Capts and
Subs may generally be found at the grog shops, the soldiers either
sleeping, swimming, fishing, or cursing and swearing most generally
the Latter."
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| On this day, British prisoners of war become
an issue. In New York, George Washington requests to move prisoners
from the city to a safer place in the country. In New Jersey, That
colony's Convention requests that Congress provide for the removal
of prisoners because they were causing dissension by ridiculing the
Congress and the American army.
At Willamsburg, VA, the Virginia Convention resolves to omit prayers
acknowledging the authority of the English King from their services.
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| From Philadelphia, John Hancock sends the Declaration
of Independence to the New York Convention meeting in White Plains
with a letter which closes "The important consequences to the
American States from this Declaration of Independence, considered
as the ground and foundation of a future Government, will naturally
suggest the propriety of proclaiming it in such a manner that the
people may be universally informed of it.
He sent the same letter to New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut
and Rhode Island.
At a conference at Fort Pitt, PA, a Mingo chief, just returned
from a meeting at Niagara, advised the Virginians and Pennsylvanians
that the Indians did not wish to fight but would prevent either
the English or Americans to cross their lands.
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| At Crown Point, NY, General Schuyler withdraws
his Northern Army and moves toward Ticonderoga. George Washington
writes to New York's Governor Trumbull: "The Situation of our
Affairs calls aloud for the most Vigorous Exertions and nothing
else will be sufficient to avert the Impending blow...General Howe
has already about ten Thousand men."
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In Philadelphia, Committee member Christopher
Marshall writes how "...in the presence of a great concourse
of people, the Declaration of Independence was read by John Nixon.
The company declared their approbation, by three repeated huzzas.
The King's arms were taken down in the Court Room, State House, same
time."
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| A New York newspaper reports: "The Equestrian
Statue of George III, erected in the year 1770, was thrown from its
Pedestal and broken in Pieces; and we hear the Lead wherewith this
Monument was made, is to be run into Bullets." On Gwynn's
Island off the coast of Virginia, Dunmore and his men are routed,
leaving control of the island to the patriots.
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The Virginia Gazette, reporting on the rout
at Gwynn's Island, writes: "His Lordship (Dunmore) lost his china
by a double-headed shot, and it is said he himself was wounded in
the leg by a splinter The fleet is drove off without water; and although
they have plenty of prize flour, there is not a biscuit on board."
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Boston's Major General Artemus Ward sends "73
Fire Arms, 60 Bayonets, 73 Bayonet belts, 73 Slings, 73 Shot Pouches,
50 Cartridge boxes, 73 Knapsacks" to New York.
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In Philadelphia the Congress, concerned about
the regions around the Great Lakes, directed General Schuyler to order
the construction of gallies to protect Lake Ontario and sought to
establish how large a naval force would be necessary to secure Lake
Erie.
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| Abigail Adams received John's letters from
the 3rd and 4th as well as a copy of the declaration. "Nor am
I a little Gratified when I reflect that a person so nearly connected
with me has had the Honour of being a principal actor, in laying a
foundation for its (the country's) future Greatness. May the foundation
of our new constitution, be justice, Truth and Righteousness."
In Salem, NC, in April, the North Carolina Congress passed a resolution
that since the Moravians, "do not bear arms their guns shall
be taken,...but they themselves shall not be forced into service."
However, they noted in their journal on this day that, "Brethern
have been called for service, so the question is one whose authority
it has been?"
The Declaration of Independence arrives in Rhode Island.
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Anticipating
a British attack on New York, the Congress asked the Pennsylvania
Committee of Safety to send any available musket-cartridges and balls
to the "Flying-Camp" and militia in New Jersey. At the same time, they
requested that all British officers being held prisoner in Philadelphia
be transferred to various interior places.
In New York,General Washington's aide,Colonel Samuel Webb recorded in
his journal that he had refused a truce flag and letter delivered from
Lord Howe. The letter concerned a meeting for presentation of Admiral
Howe's offer of reconciliation which become only a pardon for all who
would return their former loyalty to the King.
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Castle Island, Massachusetts Bay: Private David How reported that, "This Day our Regt. Had orders to march to New York."
In Annapolis, Maryland, the Council of Safety received information that
Lord John Dunmore had appeared off George's Island in the mouth of the
Potomac River. Two of the boats from the fleet, infected with smallpox,
had been driven onto the mainland shore. Fearing an invasion of the
colony, the Council requested that a Captain Hindman and his troops
come to Annapolis rather than proceed to Philadelphia as originally
ordered.
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John
Adams learned for the first time yesterday that his wife intended to
undergo a smallpox inoculation with their children. Today he wrote, "It
is not possible for me to describe, nor for you to conceive my Feelings
upon this Occasion. Nothing, but the critical state of our Affairs
should prevent me from flying to Boston, to your Assistance… I shall
feel like a Savage to be here while my whole Family is sick at Boston."
The New York Mercury reported that a second flag of truce from Lord
Howe addressed to George Washington, Esq. was rejected, "for the same
Reason as the former."
In Exeter, NH, the letter of July 6 from John Hancock transmitting the Declaration of Independence reached there today.
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The
Continental Congress, learning of Washington's refusal to accept Howe's
misaddressed dispatch, asserted that the commander-in-chief "acted with
a dignity becoming his station," and directed all American commanders
to receive only letters addressed to them "in the characters they
respectively sustain."
Northampton, MA: In a letter to Eldbridge Gerry, Major Joseph Hawley
advocated death for all Tories - "Can we subsist - did any State every
subsist, without exterminating traitors?...No one thing made the
Declaration of Independence indispensably necessary more than cutting
off traitors."
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In
Boston, loyalist lawyer William Lynchon of Salem wrote, "At noon the
Congress Declaration of Independence of the Colonies on Great Britain
was read in the balcony of the Town house; a regiment under arms, and
artillery Co. in King Street, and the guns at the several batteries
were fired, three cheers given, bells ringing, etc.; (in the) afternoon
the King's arms were taken down and broken to pieces in King Street,
and carried off by the people."
Virginia Governor Patrick Henry receives the official report of the Declaration of Independence.
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The
Congress resolved to publish in "several gazettes," a copy of the
circular letter and enclosed declaration with Lord Howe had sent to
former Royal Governors Franklin, Penn, Eden, Dunmore, Martin, and
Wright. They hoped that in publishing the Commission's terms "the few,
who still remain suspended by a hope founded in justice or moderation
of their late King, may now, at length, be convinced, that the valour
alone of their country is to save its liberties."
Off the coast of Charleston, British General Henry Clinton sailed
from here with his troops convoyed by the one frigate that Commodore
Peter Parker had in condition to go to sea. He would join Howe on
Staten Island on August 1, 1776.
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The
Convention of the State of Pennsylvania elected nine new delegates to
the Continental Congress. The new control of the State of Pennsylvania
had been effected; the formal constitution would be completed in
September.
In Paris, Silas Deane, American Emissary to France, informed the
committee of Secret Correspondence in Congress of his progress in
achieving a trade alliance with France.
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In New York, General Nathaniel Greene informed
Washington that a, "negro, belonging to one Strickler," had reported
that eight hundred negroes had assembled on Staten-Island and were
forming a regiment.
Benjamin Franklin, who had received a copy of the Peace Commission's
circular letter and declaration, wrote and thanked Lord Howe, but
expressed regret that the dispatch was nothing more than "offers of
pardon upon submission."
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Congress,
sitting as a committee of the whole, considered the printed draft of
John Dickinson's "Articles of Confederation." They would be adopted in
November, 1777.
The correspondence from John Hancock transmitting the Declaration arrives in Halifax, North Carolina.
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Congress
informed Washington that their "confidence in his judgment" was such
that they will give him no direction on the disposition of troops in
and about New York.
St. George's Island, MD: Major Thomas Price, in a letter to the
Maryland Council of Safety wrote that they had captured several
prisoners, but that most had the smallpox.
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In
a letter to General Phillip Schuyler, Congress President John Hancock
asserted that the Congress was "concerned to find there should be a
necessity of recommending harmony to the officers and troops of
different States under your command…nothing can show greater weakness
or wickedness that to throw provincial reflections on one another,
which must have direct tendency to impede publick service, and weaken
the union of the American States."
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Congress
was in the midst of discussing the first draft of Dickinson's "Articles
of Confederation." Among other things, they discussed the boundaries of
the thirteen states. Jefferson believed all Indian lands should be
immediately bought and that Congress should in no way fix state
borders. Others, Samuel Chase and James Wilson among them, disagreed,
setting the stage for later debate.
Near St. George's Island, VA., the diary of British prisnor Miguel
Antonio Edwards revealed that the British fleet headed Southward,
"having learned that General Lee had arrived with the Troops that had
forced them recently to retire from Gwin Island (Virginia)."
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Congress
discussed Article XVIII of the confederation proposal which granted
Congress the power of "regulating the Trade, and managing all Affairs
with the Indians."
News of the Declaration of Independence reached the post of Ticonderoga, New York.
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Silas
Deane wrote a letter to the Congress Committee that he had been
successful beyond his expectations in France. One affluent Frenchmen
had even offered the colonies credit for one million livres. However,
Deane also wrote that negotiations for arms and supplies could not
proceed until Independence, "in the most full and explicit terms" was
declared." Word of Congress' July 4 action had not yet reached Paris.
The Massachusetts Council directed Captain John Lambert, schooner
Diligent, to transport a Francis Shaw and the "Indians now under his
care" to St. Johns River in Nova Scotia. Lambert was then to return to
Watertown with "any Indians he may Inlist into the Service of the
United States."
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New
York: Colonels' Sargent and Hutchinson with their Continental troops
from Boston as well as several British ships arrived at Horn's Hook,
New York on this day.
In Ticonderoga, New York, the Declaration of Independence was read
by Colonel Arthur St. Clair and when he read, 'God save the free
independent States of America' the Army manifested their joy with
cheers. "It was remarkably pleasing to see the spirits of the soldiers
so raised, after all their calamities; the language of every man's
countenance was, Now we are people; we have a name among the Sates of
this world."
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In
his letter to Abigail of this day, John Adams, remarking on his wife's
love of "picking a political Bone," posed this question "If a
Confederation should take Place, one great Question is how shall we
vote. Whether each colony shall count one? Or whether each shall have a
Weight in Proportion to its Numbers, or Wealth, or Exports and Import,
or compound Ration of all?"
In the North Carolina frontier, to discourage a reported Indian
alliance with the British, troops from Virginia, North and South
Carolina invaded Cherokee territory and began a campaign which would
ultimately destroy 32 Indian towns and villages.
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Debate
on the "Articles of Confederation" continued. On the subject of voting
in Congress, Dr. Franklin believed that for the smaller colonies to
have an equal vote, they should have to give equal money and men." John
Witherspoon (NJ), however, feared that "smaller states will be
oppressed by the great ones."
In New York, General Washington informed General William Howe that
Congress had authorized a "General Exchange of Prisoners...for those of
equal rank...Soldier for Soldier, Sailor for Sailor and Citizen for
Citizen." A particular mention, he noted, was made of Col. Ethan Allen
who would be exchanged for any officer.
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John
Hancock wrote General Washington that he had explained to General John
Sullivan the reasons General Horatio Gates was promoted over him.
Sullivan withdrew his resignation and Congress had assigned him to
Washington in New York.
Also in New York, Major General Henry Clinton and Cornwallis with
their troops transported by a part of Commodore Peter Parker's fleet
arrived at Sandy Hook from Charleston.
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|
| August of 1776 |
|
The
Congress continued consideration of two troublesome issues relative to
the Articles of Confederation; namely, how much money individual states
would contribute to the central government and the number of votes
allocated to each.
On Staten Island, the bulk of Henry Clinton's troops and Peter Parker's
warships arrived from their ill-fated expedition against Charleston,
S.C.
In Ninety-Six, South Carolina, James Cresswell reported that Indian
raids had converted the community into a frontier settlement.
"Plantations lie desolate-and hopeful cropps are going to ruin. In
short, dear Sir, unless we get some relief, famine will overspread our
beautiful country."
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Members
of Congress affixed their signature to the engrossed copy of the
Declaration of Independence. John Dickinson, Pennsylvania; James Duane,
New York; John Jay, New York; and Robert Livingston, New York refused
to sign. Carter Braxton, Virginia; Robert Morris, Pennsylvania; George
Reed, Delaware; and Edward Rutledge, South Carolina; opposed the
document but signed in compliance with their instructions. Five
delegates were absent; Generals Washington, Sullivan, Clinton and
Gasden and Governor Patrick Henry of Virginia.
In Charleston, South Carolina, news of the Declaration of Independence arrived there today.
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In
New York, American row gallies tried but failed completely to capture
or destroy the two British warships which had ascended the Hudson River
to Tappen Zee.
In view of the serious British threat to New York and its own
shores, the State Convention in New Brunswick, New Jersey, resolved to
fine all able-bodied men who refused to bear arms.
In German-Flats, N.Y., General Horatio Gates felt reassured that
the energetic Benedict Arnold would be responsible for building and
commanding the fleet in order to oppose the inevitable invasion from
Canada.
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Colonel
Joseph Reed in New York, an astute member of Washington's staff,
observed to a friend that although Admiral Howe spoke convincingly of
"peace and accommodation," his written communications fail to disclose
any "serious intention of relinquishing one jot of their despotic claim
over this country." He also revealed that Washington had considered an
attack on Staten Island where the British troops were garrisoned but a
lack of men and boats forced him to abandon the idea.
During July and August the entire frontier from Virginia to Georgia was
thrown into a turmoil by Indian attacks, instigated by British agents.
Colonel Andrew Williamson reports to President Rutledge that his state
militia had fought its way out of an Indian ambush and on the following
day crossed the Kenowee River to destroy four Indian towns.
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On
Long Island, General Nathanael Greene proposed to Washington that he
withdraw the army from New York and burn the city; thus depriving the
British of an excellent base, barracks, and a general market which
would attract American trade in direct violation of the "law of their
country." Greene could not see on advantage in preserving the city.
Washington himself had considered this drastic step but instead decided
to fight for the possession of this strategic community.
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The
Congress directed General Phillip Schuyler to contact British General
John Burgoyne for the purpose of entering a prisoner of war exchange
agreement. By now the members were convinced that Howe would assault
New York.
In Perth Amboy, NJ, Elizabeth, the wife of exiled Governor William
Franklin wrote to her father-in-law Benjamin: "My troubles do indeed
lie heavily on my mind, tho' many people may suffer still more than I
do, yet that does not lessen the weight of mine,...but allow me, dear
sir, to mention that it is greatly in your power to relieve them (my
afflictions)." She asked Franklin to secure the release of her husband
from confinement in Litchfield, Conn. There is no record that the
plaintive note was acknowledged.
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The
College of New York (formerly King's, now Columbia) agreed to turn its
telescope over to Washington for his use, " in discovering the
arrangements and operations of the enemy." Upon viewing the growing
strength of the British forces under the Howe Brothers, Joseph Reed,
Washington's aide, felt that the "whole world seems leagued against us.
Enemies on every side, and no new friends arise. But our cause is just,
and there is a Providence which directs and governs all things."
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On
Board the H.M.S. Eagle: Ambrose Serle, Admiral Howe's secretary
confided in his journal: "I almost wish that the colonies had never
existed. They have weakened our national Force; and are now a Force
turned against us. They have wasted our Treasures and laid upon us a
heavy Dept for their Protection; and are plunging us into Expences to
keep them under that Protection."
In New York, Washington is alarmed by the rapid of expansion of British
forces and seeks desperately to secure additional militia from
neighboring states. "The New Levies are so incomplete, the Old
Regiments deficient in the Compliment, and so much Sickness, that we
must have an immediate Supply of Men."
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On
Staten Island, Guy Johnson, Superintendent of Indian Affairs, just
arrived here back from England. He reassured Lord George Germain that
the six nations would cooperate with the royal troops as soon as Howe
and Burgoyne initiated the "grand operation." The Americans, he felt,
could depend only on those Indians who came under the influence of New
England missionaries, which was a small fraction of the total number of
Indians in the northern provinces.
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The
New York Convention in Harlem resolved this day that all males between
16 and 50, residing in any county more than 14 days, should be enrolled
in the militia of that county. This was designed to prevent people from
moving from place to place in order to avoid military duty.
In Savannah, GA, the town held a day-long celebration in honor of
the Declaration of Independence. The celebration was concluded that
evening with the burial of an effigy of King George III.
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General
orders prohibited furloughs or discharges to officers and soldiers
without the knowledge and consent of General Washington.
In Boston, the Declaration of Independence was read in all the local Churches today.
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Washington
wrote to General Lee that his situation had deteriorated what with
small pox and desertion. He now feared that the superior British navy
might blockade New York thus isolating the city from communications
with all the adjacent states.
In a communication to the Connecticut Assembly, Ethan Allen in
Halifax, Nova Scotia, predicted that France and Spain would react to
the Declaration of Independence by accelerating their military
assistance and eventually entering into an alliance with the Americans.
Today in Charleston, SC, President John Rutledge issued a call to
the members of the General Assembly to convene on September 17. South
Carolina had successfully resisted the attack of General Clinton and
Admiral Parker. It was in a state of war.
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In
New York, the Provincial Convention empowered Washington to convert
some 12 private residence into a general hospital. Having decided that
Howe would attack in the very near future, Washington packed all his
important papers and ordered them to be forwarded to Philadelphia for
safe keeping.
The French Ambassador in London reported to Paris that, "the
government has not thought it necessary to take notice of it
(Declaration of Independence) and indeed I do not see that this
uprising causes any sensation here."
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Congress
today resolved to offer all foreign deserters from the British army a
secure refuge, including religious liberty, the investment of the
rights, privileges and immunities of natives, "as established by the
laws of the states;" and 5 1/4 acres of unappropriated lands.
In Boston the city observed the 11th anniversary of the popular
resistance which prevented the execution of the Stamp Act in Boston.
The Sons of Liberty erected a pole at the site of the original liberty
tree.
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In
New York, General Greene informed Washington that on the previous
evening the Hessian troops had disembarked on Staten Island. His own
troops, busy removing livestock and grain and dismantling mills, were,
he felt, in excellent spirits and confident of putting up a good fight.
Without doubt, the most ominous information for Washington was the fact
that Greene, a most promising General, had fallen victim to a raging
fever.
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On
the H.M.S. Eagle off Staten Island, Lord Admiral Howe, in a letter to
his "worthy friend" Benjamin Franklin, insisted that although the
supremacy of the king was a necessity in any arrangement for
reconciliation, he possessed that authority to negotiate and "effect a
lasting peace and reunion between the two countries," if the Americans
genuinely desired a restoration of their former relationship with the
mother country.
On this night in New York, two fire-boats launched a desperate but
unsuccessful attack on two British frigates anchored in the Hudson. One
enemy tender was destroyed and the warships abandoned the river.
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Members
of the Maryland Convention on motion of Congressional Delegate Samuel
Chase, "Resolved, That a Committee be appointed to prepare a
Declaration and Charter of Rights, and a plan of Government, agreeable
to such rights as will best maintain peace and good order, and most
effectually secure happiness and liberty to the people of this State."
With Admiral Howe's permission, Lord Drummond, sent a packet of letters
containing both Howe's and his own proposals for settling the current
difficulties. Washington accused Drummond of violating of his parole;
refused to see him but promised to forward the correspondence to the
Congress.
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Washington
issued a General Order to dismissl rumors that a reconciliation was in
the works. The troops were urged to remain mentally and physically
prepared for the attack which would come with the first favorable wind
and tide.
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The
Congress revised its policy on Indian Affairs. The prime objective was
to secure strict neutrality rather than armed support from the tribes.
The various agents were directed to urge the principal chiefs and
sachems to visit Congress for consultations; particularly the headman
of the Creeks, whom the Cherokees were pressuring to join in the war
raging on the southern frontier.
John Adams and others confessed that the members of Congress for
some time had avoided considering the Articles of Confederation. There
were strong feelings about the loss of power by the states.
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Washington
appointed General John Sullivan to succeed the ailing General Greene.
Captain Nathan Hale informed his brother: "For about 6 or 8 days the
enemy have been expected hourly, whenever the wind and tide in the
least favored. We keep a particular look out for them this morning. The
place and manner of attack time must determine. The place and manner of
attack time must determine. The event we leave to Heaven...We hope,
under God, to give a good account of the Enemy whenever they choose to
make the last appeal."
On Board the H.M.S. Eagle Ambrose Serle entered into his journal: "Every thing now begins to look extremely serious..."
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On
Staten Island, Stephen Kemble, British Adjutant General for
intelligence wrote in his journal: "Embarkation of the whole Troops
completed. Embark about Eleven thousand eight hundred and fifty English
Foot, Near five hundred Artillery and about 12 Light Horse, with
fifteen hundred Foreigners under Col. Donop."
Although Washington now possessed an accurate account of the
British troop embarkation, he notified Congress: "The Situation of the
Armies being the same as when I had the pleasure of addressing you
last, I have nothing special to communicate on that Head, nor more to
add." He believed the major attack would be against New York.
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Corporal
Thomas Sullivan related in his journal the arrival of the British on
Long Island between Gravesen and New Utrecht, "After our being on board
ship a day & two nights, waiting for the weather, which was wet, to
clear up; the whole Army got ready for landing on Long Island. The
Light-Infantry and Grenadiers embarked in the morning at 6'oclock on
board the Flat-bottomed Boat. The British and Hessian troops, dropt
down the River, and ranged in order under cover of the Men of War; Our
Brigade i.e. the 2d. was under cover of the Eagle and Centurion of 50
guns...The whole Army were ready together in Flat-boats; the sight of
which was very beautiful and delightful to any English Solider or
Subject, to see near twenty four thousand men ready to land in a
moment." (His estimate was high.)
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Washington
reported to the Congress that the British had landed on Long Island, to
which sector he had detached six battalions as a reinforcement, "which
are all that I can spare at this Time, not knowing but the fleet may
move up with the remainder of their Army and make an Attack here on the
next flood Tide."
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Washington
informed Congress that he had visited Long Island and had sent
additional troops, but was still concerned over an enemy landing in New
York. He also requested Governor Trumbull to send 1,000 Connecticut
militia to the eastern part of Long Island.
General Charles Lee informed the Congress that Georgia was more
valuable than he had originally suspected. Its salubrious climate,
crops of rice, numerous harbors and rivers, livestock and proximity to
the West Indies made it mandatory to keep this state out of enemy
hands. To safeguard Georgia, Lee recommended additional reinforcements.
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John
Adams, like Abigail, had an observation: If we survive this year, "We
shall have more and better Soldiers. We shall be better armed. We shall
have a greater Force at Sea. We shall have more Trade. Our Artillery
will be greatly increased, our Officers will have more Experience, and
our Soldiers more Discipline-our Politicans more Courage and Confidence
and our Enemies less Hope."
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Now
confident that the British would not attack New York, Washington poured
additional reinforcements into the lines around Brooklyn Heights. "The
papers designed for the foreign (Hessian) Troops, have been put into
several Channels, in order that they may be conveyed to them, and from
the Information I had yesterday, I have reason to believe many have
fallen into their Hands." The papers contained inducement to the
Hessian troops to desert.
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In
an effort to encourage German officers to desert, Congress resolved to
offer unappropriated lands in quantities ranging from 1,000 acres to a
colonel to 100 acres to non-commissioned officers.
On Long Island, General Clinton's troops began to roll up the
unprotected American left flank and General Sullivan was pinned down by
frontal attacks until he was forced to surrender. On the right, General
Grant was surrounded on three sides and he orders his soldiers to
retreat to Brooklyn Heights. The British Victory was rapid and
complete.
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During
the day on Long Island, the opposing forces kept up a brisk fire.
However, General Putnam's hopes that Howe would repeat his tactics at
Bunker Hill were not realized. This time he proposed to advance by
siege trenches. In anticipation of their need, Washington directed
General Heath to assemble all craft capable of transporting personnel.
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A council of War, summoned by Washington, voted
to fall back across the East River to New York. Washington spent the
night riding between forts and the shore encouraging and directing
his men. Fortunately the wind, tide, and weather assisted the Americans
and equallyfortunate was the failure of Admiral Howe to order his
numerous warships to block the retreat.
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In
Savannah, GA, General Charles Lee, in a letter to the Governor of
Haiti, described the vast economic and political benefits which would
go to France if America maintained its independence. It therefore, was
in its own best interest to assist this country by sending military
stores, machines, accouterments, clothing and artillerymen.
In New York, Washington listed three reasons for the American
retreat, the need to reunite his forces, the extreme fatigue of the
soldiers and the lack of proper shelter from the weather. General
Sullivan also visited Washington with General Howe's proposals for
reconciliation and desire to meet with members of Congress. Washington
refused to accept the papers but gave Sullivan the permission to
deliver them to Philadelphia.
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The British moved from Long Island north to Newton (opposite present day 34th street) and established their headquarters.
General Washington in a letter to Congress, reported that the retreat
had been made without loss of men or ammunition. He also explained the
justifications to the Council of War for evacuating Long Island.
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| September of 1776 |
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New
Hampshire delegate Josiah Bartlett wrote: "We have not had the
particulars of the engagement…on Long Island (August 27 - 30), but
believe it was very sharp and bloody. I believe the enemy
out-generalled our people, by decoying them out of their entrenchments,
and them surrounding them;..."
In New York, General Washington reorganized his army into three
divisions under Putnam; Heath and Spencer. Putnam's troops occupied the
lower part of the city, Heath's the northern end of the island at Kin's
Bridge. Spencer's division was considered a mobile force, prepared to
reinforce the other divisions.
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On
board the Eagle, Captain James Wallace expressed a view held by many
British officers, "America has grown rich at the Expense, & not to
the Advantage of G. Britain; that the northern American in particular
are rather Rivals to our trade than Merchants in it..."Now was the time
to smash the rebels since reconciliation would merely delay an
inevitable and more formidable "storm."
"Our situation is truly distressing." wrote Washington Hancock. The
militia, "dismayed, intractable and impatient to return (home)," were
deserting in droves and "with the deepest concern I am obliged to
confess my want of confidence, in the generality of the troops. Only a
permanent, standing army can now guarantee our liberties."
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A
resolution in Congress on this day directed Virginia, North Carolina
and Rhode Island to send troops to reinforce Washington. A second
resolve directed Washington to refrain from any damage to New York if
obliged to retire.
President John Hancock wrote to the assemblies of North Carolina, South
Carolina and Georgia, urging the return of delegates to Congress. The
matters before Congress were "of the utmost importance to the welfare
of America" and the States should be fully represented.
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British
Ambassador to Versailles, Lord David Stormont, sent a gloomy report to
London that a powerful French fleet would soon sail for the West
Indies. The capable, energetic Governor of St. Domingo, M. Dennery, had
agreed to serve one more year and would no doubt pursue his
pro-American policies.
On Board the Dunmore, Lord Dunmore notified Lord Germain that the
lack of watering places and the ravages of disease which reduced his
force to 108 effective rank and file forced him to abandon Virginia and
move to New York where he could provide the Howe Brothers with
intelligence on the southern states. London authorities were highly
critical of Dunmore's conduct since the eruption of the colonial
difficulties, especially the policy of enlisting Negro slaves as
soldiers.
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It
was reported in Boston that the Governor of Nova Scotia banned
publication of the Declaration of Independence, except one excerpt from
the final clause. He feared that it may gain over to them (the Rebels)
many converts, and inflame the minds of his Majesty's loyal and
faithful subjects of the Province.
The State Convention in New York, requested that Washington arrange
for the removal of all the bells in the various churches and public
buildings and to transport the same to Newark, New Jersey, so that they
not fall into the hands of the enemy. If required, the bells were to be
recast into cannons.
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In
Congress, delegates elected John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Edward
Rutledge a committee to confer with Lord Howe. "This day, I think has
been the most remarkable of all," wrote John Adams to his wife,
Abigail. He doubted whether the conference would produce any tangible
results but felt obliged to undertake the assignment since the same
committee "will be directed to inquire into the Sate of the Army, at
New York."
First use of submarine in war. The "American Turtle" unsuccessfully attacks British fleet off Staten Island.
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A
Council of War recommended to Washington that the American Army remain
in New York and fight to hold the city. Washington ordered Col. Thomas
Knowlton to organize a picked unit of rangers, to be used chiefly on
scouting duties. Among the volunteers was a genteel, young officer
named Nathan Hale who later would undertake an espionage assignment to
determine British activities on Long Island.
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On
the ever of his departure to confer with Lord Howe, John Adams wrote,
"I presume his Lordship cannot see us, and I hop he will not; but if he
should, the whole will terminate in nothing." He stressed that his
initial reluctance to accept the assignment evaporated under pressure
of the "solicitation of the firmest men in Congress, and the particular
advice of my own colleagues;" namely John Hancock and Elbridge Gerry.
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Name
'United States of America adopted by Congress on this day: "Resolved,
That in all continental commissions, and other instruments, where,
heretofore, the words 'United Colonies' have been used, the stile be
altered for the future to the "United States.'
William Lee in London, informed C.F.W. Dumas in Paris, that the
Declaration of Independence had "totally changed the nature of the
contest" and for Britain military effort, the Americans required more
military stores and experienced officers.
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After
seven weeks the Pennsylvania Convention completed a draft to a
constitution and printed it for review. Christopher Marshall wrote,
"was published the proposed Plan or Frame of Government for the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (printed for consideration), in twelve
small pages, folio, containing forty-nine Sections."
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General
Howe met with the Congress committee in the Billop Mansion. Howe urged
peace, but admitted he could not recognize Congress or an independent
America. Franklin and Adams replied that independence was now an
established fact from which the states would not retreat. Aware of the
mood of the King and the Ministry, Howe refused to transmit to London
their proposals regarding independence.
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The
Maryland Convention resolved that no vessel, owned by a resident of
that state could sail without a license from the Council of Safety and
that they must take an oath that no part of the cargo belonged to a
subject of King George.
A petition, signed by 7 generals, urged Washington to summon a
Council to reconsider the decision to stay and fight for possession of
the city. He did so and the Council of War voted that withdrawal was
"not only prudent but absolutely necessary."
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A resolution by the Massachusetts Legislature ordered one-fifth of the militia to assist Washington.
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Congress
finally focused attention on the northern military department and voted
to send large quantities of flints, lead and cartridge paper to General
Gates. General Schuyler was ordered to erect suitable winter quarters
for the soldiers.
In Watertown, MA: Informed that two Negroes, captured by a privateer,
were offered for sale in Salem, the General Court resolved that all
persons concerned with said Negroes are forbidden to sell them or treat
them differently than white prisoners. Any sale of Negroes is null and
void for the present and future.
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The British, under General Clinton's command,
landed in New York on Kipps's Bay (present day 34th Street).
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30
Americans were killed today in the Battle at Harlem Heights, NY.
General Washington wrote that the troops behaved with "bravery and
intrepidity."
Congress voted to raise without delay 88 battalions to serve for the
duration of the war. Each state received a quota, ranging from 15
battalions each from Massachusetts and Virginia to one each from
Georgia and Delaware. To spur enlistments, soldiers were offered
bounties which included $20 an 100 acres of land.
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Silas
Deane in Paris promised Robert Morris that he would forward to America
vast quantities of military stores in October, including clothing for
20,000 troops.
Congress adopted a plan of a treaty to be proposed to the king of France by the American Commissioner to that country.
The Maryland Convention completed a draft of a Bill of Rights and Constitution.
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In
Washington's report toCongress, he praised the conduct of his troops in
the skirmish at Harlem Heights even though his orders were not obeyed
implicitly.
Today the Congress granted commissions to two French volunteers as
officers in the Continental army and thePennsylvania Gazette reported
that several other French officers arrived from Martinique also to
offer their services to America.
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The
British released a Declaration which urged the inhabitants of New York
to return to their former loyalty to the King and in return the King
would revise all obnoxious orders to his royal governors and concur
with any reform measures by Parliament.
Washington assured the Congress that the army was hurriedly
constructing a strong defense line north of New York to withstand an
impending attack.
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Congress
adopted a new body of Articles of War which were formulated to resolve
the problems of discipline, administration, organization, recruitment,
etc. which had persistently plagued Washington.
The New Jersey legislature voted an act to make both the Continental
money and that of New Jersey legal tender and set punishment by death
for counterfeiting either bills.
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A
letter arrived in London from Paris describing the debate in the French
Cabinet on the question of entering a treaty with America. Many
Ministers were opposed to the idea but the Queen (Marie Antoninette)
sided with the rebels.
In Charleston, General Robert Howe on his way north from Georgia warned
the authorities of that state that the islands off their coast were
indefensible and urged every effort be made to remove the livestock to
prevent seizure by the British. Stripping the islands of livestock and
all other property would be the most effective deterrent to enemy
occupation.
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The British executed Captain Nathan Hale for espionage, creating America's first widely acclaimed martyr.
In a letter to his brother, Washington wrote: "The Dependence which the
Congress had placed upon the Militia, has already greatly injured, and
I fear will totally ruin our Cause."
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Congress ordered the German Battalion raised in Maryland and Pennsylvania to join Washington immediately.
In London, Arthur Lee observed that a military defeat at New York
would be fatal to the the British but not for America. He was not
disturbed by the hatred and suspicion directed against him by the
followers of the Ministry since he believed in the expression that that
"enmity of bad men is the most desirable testimony of virtuous merit."
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In
Newbury, NH: A deserter from the Canadian Royal Emigrants Regiment
informed Colonel Bayley and Governor Carleton he had assembled an army
of regulars, French-speaking Canadians and Indians to assist the
Colonists.
Congress prepared instruction for the guidance of those agents who would be appointed to negotiate a treaty with France.
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Congress
spent the day approving payments to individuals and adopting resolves
intended to increase the supply of winter clothing for the army. John
Adams wrote: "This was another measure I constantly urged...,convinced
that nothing short of the Roman and British discipline could possibly
save us..."
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Congress
elected Franklin, Jefferson and Silas Deane commissioners to France and
ordered the strictest secrecy to be observed on all aspects of
Franco-American negotiations.
The Pennsylvania Assembly declared illegal and dangerous the
Convention's ordinances which taxed non-associators and permitted
judges to imprison without a jury trial.
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The
South Carolina House sent a report to President Rutledge that opposed
the idea of forcing captured Indians into slavery. They argued that the
idea would hurt future relations and encourage Indians to retaliate in
a similar fashion.
Washington transmitted to Congress the British military forces in
Canada: 8,000 men, one 18-gun ship, two brigs, three scooners,
gondolas, batteaus and artillery companies with about 100 cannon, the
finest ever sent form England.
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In New York, Generals Howe and Washington were preparing strong defensive positions.
The State Convention of Pennsylvania adopted a Constitution and Bill of
Rights. The Constitution featured two distinct features which were, a
unicameral legislature and the election of a Board of Censors every 7
years to determine if the Constitution had been violated.
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Abigail
Adams wrote to her husband: "Vast numbers are employed in that way
(privateers). If it is necessary to make any more drafts upon us, the
women must reap the harvest. I am willing to do my part. I believe I
could gather corn and husk it, but I should make a poor figure at
digging potatoes.
British Secretary of State to the Colonies, Lord George Germain
ordered the suspension of all shipments of supplies to Virginia when he
learned that Lord Dunmore had abandoned the state and joined General
Howe in New York.
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Spanish
authorities expressed concern over reports of an increase in British
naval strength, which indicated to them a possible war with countries
other than the Colonies.
General Washington, in a letter to Lund Washington, his nephew in
charge of Mt. Vernon, he blamed the reliance on the militia as the
chief root of his problems. Washington complained that the militia were
not "worth the bread they ate...I tell you that I never was in such an
unhappy, divided state since I was born."
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| October of 1776 |
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Benjamin
Franklin and Robert Morris received information that the French were
going to purchase arms and ammunition in Holland and send them to the
West Indies for the Americans.
Silas Deane, American agent in France, wrote Congress pleading for
information, "...For Heaven's sake, if you mean to have any connection
with this kingdom (France), be more assiduous in getting your letters
here."
Americans occupy the three strong points in New York: Harlem Heights, King's Bridge and Mt. Washington.
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Thomas Jefferson resigned his seat in Congress to return to Virginia to be a member of the new House of Delegates.
In Lebanon, CT: The supply of salt was so short that the Council of
Safety ordered ships to sail at state expense, to buy salt wherever it
was available.
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Two British ships Phoenix and Roebuck sailed up the North River.
The Maryland Convention reassembled to continue drafting a Bill of Rights and Constitution.
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John
Adams writing his wife observed the new governments emerging. "We live
on an age of political experiments. Among many that will fail, some, I
hope will succeed."
Washington wrote Congress that its political establishment of a new permanent army had not provided enlistments.
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In Savannah, GA: The first Constitutional Convention met to draft a plan of government for the state. It was adopted in 1777.
Congress following up on the committee's report on the Army in New York
ordered the continental agents to turn over all salt in their hands to
the commissary general.
General and Admiral Howe both went to Long Island to find out the
ability to land in Westchester County to get in the rear of Washington
and his Army.
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Since
the Battle of Harlem Heights on September 16, Howe concentrated on
constructing a line across Manhattan from Bloomingdale to Hell Gate and
Washington built three lines at Harlem Heights.
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The
New York Mercury, now safely British, reported "His Majesty's Forces
are now now in Possession of the City of New York with all the Harbour
and Sound, of Long and Staten-Island."
The new Virginia State Senate and House of Delegates convened on this day.
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Congress
moved to enlist more soldiers for the duration of the war and urged
each state to send a committee to the camps to appoint officers and
encourage enlistments.
For several months, 297 Charleston citizens had been doing militia
duty to protect the town now find that it has "injured their fortunes."
They petition the Assembly to establish one or more watch companies to
guard the town.
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The British ships, the Phoenix and the Roebuck landed in New York near Blommingdale.
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Salem,
NC: Moravians recorded: "All day soldiers marched through, returning
from the expedition with Gen. Rutherford. Col. Armstrong, who had been
with the General, was also here. According to him they burned the
Middle Towns of the Cherokee, ruined about 2000 acres of corn, and
killed some of the Indians and took others prisoner."
Because of General Guy Carleton release of American prisoners in Canada, Congress released all the Canadian prisoners.
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Congress
urged Washington to obstruct the Hudson River and hold the British at
Fort Washington on New York and Fort Lee in New Jersey.
On Lake Champlain, NY, the British fleet under General Carleton surprised the American fleet lying near Valcour Island.
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Thomas
Jefferson: "obtained leave to bring in a bill declaring tenants in tail
to hold their lands in fee simple." The laws of entail allowed transfer
of land to an heir of body, not wives or adopted child and led to large
land holding interests.
British General Henry Clinton led a force of 4000 men up the East River
at Throg's Neck. Washington sent a force, not to oppose but to remove
the bridge that connected the neck with the mainland.
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At Throg's Neck, the wind kept the remainder of Howe's forces from crossing over from Long Island.
General Carleton's British fleet caught up with the American fleet
moving south to Crown Point. General Waterbury was captured and
Benedict Arnold escaped with only 3 of his 15 boats.
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Congress dispatched 500,000 dollars to New York to pay a bounty to all soldiers would would reinlist.
Salem, NC: The Moravain diary recorded, "Tomorrow is the Election
of Delegates to the next Congress. Since last February we gave the
commission a written declaration that we did not meddle in political
affairs we have decided to abide by it."
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In Salem, NC, this day was the election day for the delegates to the Provincial Congress.
The Virginia Navy Board ordered seven state galleys "to proceed
immediately with their said Vessels from their present stations to
Portsmouth in Order to Assist in Transporting the Carolina Troops up to
the Head of Elk who are on their March to New Jersey."
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Washington
called a Council of War to determine whether to stay on Manhattan
Island in the face of Howe's moves at Throgg's Point. All except
General Clinton voted to move north.
In Saratoga, NY: General Phillip Schuyler wrote to Berkshire County,
Massachusetts to send militia immediately for anticipation of an attack
on Fort Ticonderoga.
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Charleston,
SC: It was reported to the South Carolina and American Gazette that the
sailing men of War had left North Carolina and were on their way to New
York. It was probable that there were no British ships between
Pennsylvania and East Florida.
The proposed new Pennsylvania constitution as considered
unsatisfactory by many. Christopher Marshall wrote: "Past six, went to
Philosophical Hall, being called here by invitation printed tickets,
where met a large number of respectable citizens in order to consider
of a mode to set aside sundry improper and unconstitutional rules laid
down by the late Convention, in what they call their Plan or Frame of
Government."
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St.
Augustine, FL: Governor Patrick Tonyn wrote to Lord Germian, Secretary
for the American Colonies, "There are numbers of fugitives from the
Neighboring Provinces, many of whom, without a little assistance have
not where withal to support themselves; there a number of Negroes from
Georgia...and twenty eight prisoners taken by Lord Dunmore, I have
committed them to the Fort until these unhappy differences terminate."
The South Carolina Assembly approved the revision this day of the Constitution adopted March, 1776.
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Thomas
Warton, Jr., President of the Council of Safety wrote to Colonel John
Cadwallader, "Frequent complaints having been made to this Board that
the officers who have received the pay of the privates do withhold
their money from them, to the great injury of the service, as it tends
to discourage the soldiery and unfit them for duty, and is certainly an
unjust, base conduct, beneath the character of good officer and an
honest man."
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The
William Morris & Co. wrote this day that the American coast was
quite clear (of British ships) "so that the spirits of enterprize has
seized most People and they are making or trying to make Fortunes."
Rev. William McKay gave a sermon at Fort Ticonderoga in which he begged
them not to be be weak and afraid, but to "do yourselves honor by using
the weapons of your warfare with that heroism, firmness, and
magnanimity which the cause requires."
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The
Secret Committee of Congress pleaded with merchants in Martinique to
send woolen goods for winter use, "they are already much wanted."
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Congress
elected Arthur Lee of London as Commissioner to France. "Mr. (Thomas)
Jefferson having informed Congress that the state of his family will
not permit him to accept the honour of going as their Commissioner to
France." Benjamin Franklin was the second Commissioner chosen.
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Washington moved his headquarters from Harlem Heights to White Plains.
The Maryland Convention reported that inhabitants of Caroline
County had marched into Dorchester County and in a "violent manner"
taken and carried away salt from the local inhabitants.
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The
Secret Committee of Congress retained the Ship Reprisal, Captain
Lambert Wickes, to carry Benjamin Franklin to Nantes, France.
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King
George issued a proclamation encouraging seamen to enlist in the Navy.
Only two days later the Navy impresses a thousand seamen from the boats
on the Thames. The King also placed an embargo on all meats, cheeses
and on provisions for export from Ireland.
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Benjamin
Franklin accompanied by his grandsons, Temple Franklin, 17 and Benjamin
Franklin Bache 7, departed from Philadelphia for France. It carried a
cargo of indigo to pay the expenses of the mission of Franklin, Arthur
Lee and Silas Deane.
The Maryland Convention resolved that "the last will of any young man
in the service" aged sixteen or over who dies shall have the same force
and effects "as if he was of the full age of twenty-one."
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White
Plains, NY: From Washington's General Order for this day, "...the army
seems unacquainted with the enemy's Horse;...any party attaching them
may be sure of doing it to advantage in the woods by the roads or along
stone walls." One hundred dollars was offered for every "Trooper"
captured.
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White
Plains, NY: American Private David Howe wrote, "This Day the Enimy's
Main Body all Advanced as Far as the W Plains Within 1 Mile of our
Camps and Pitch there tents there Some Part of our Army Engaged them on
their March Killed a good many on both Sides."
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This
night the British troops diverted from White Plains occupied Fort
Independence on the heights (Bronx) above King's Bridge. The Americans
on Manhattan were now cut off from the mainland.
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The
Congress recognized the difficulty of recruitment for the continental
Navy because of the more profitable service on privateers. It approved
the sharing of one half the prize money from vessels captured by naval
ships after November 1, 1776.
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At
the opening of Parliament on this da,y the King's speech was not a
confident one. He "alluded with triumphant hope to the victory on Long
Island, but informed his Parliament that, notwithstanding the fair
prospect, it was necessary to prepare for another campaign."
Private David How was on the Commissary guard but reported, "The
Regulars (British) have been Building Breast Work for To Play upon Use
Here."
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| November of 1776 |
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On October 28, Howe forced his way to Chatterton's Hill and from it dominated Washington's position.
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London: Former Governor Thomas Hutchinson of Massachusetts received word of Howe's landing in New York on September 15.
An American officer deserted to Lord Hugh Percy and took with him the plans fro Fort Washington on Manhattan Island.
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The Maryland Convention passed "The Declaration of Rights" and considered the final draft of the constitution.
In the General Order for the day, Washington made both a plea and then order against desertion, which was widespread.
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Congress
received a letter from George Mason, Fairfax County, Virginia
transmitting a resolution that if the State did not appoint officers
for the new, long term Army, that Washington would be ordered to
commission his own officers and recruit men.
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Benjamin Harrison arrived in Philadelphia to replace Thomas Jefferson who had resigned to serve as a delegate for Virginia.
The Committee of Charlton, Massachusetts asked advice from the
State legislature on their authority to take action to prevent
loyalists property from vandalism. The local people had been stripping
the land for crops and timber from people like William Brown, a King's
Councilor, of Salem who had fled.
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Lord
Germain, Secretary of State for America, wrote two letters to Admiral
Howe. The first acknowledged his report of the capture of New York. The
second letter reminded Howe that the King wanted him to engage the
Southern Indians through John Stuart, Superintendent of Indians.
At an American Council of War, it was agreed that Howe would move his
troops to New Jersey. Therefore, Washington would go to New Jersey and
three thousand men were to be posted at Peekskill.
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The
Congress chose Richard Bache to succeed his father-in-law,Benjamin
Franklin as Postmaster General. Franklin had sailed for France last
month.
The Americans had drawn into Fort Washington on upper Manhattan.
Connecticut Governor Jonathan Trumbull issued a proclamation laying an
embargo "upon the exportation out of this State, by land or water,
(without a permit from the Governor) of wheat, rye, Indian corn, pork,
salt, peas, beans, bread, flour, and every kind of meal, except
necessary stores for vessels outward-bound; likewise all kind of
Cloths, Linen and Woolen, fit and suitable for clothing for the Army."
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Washington
wrote General Greene at Fort Lee, " I am therefore inclined to think it
will not be prudent to hazard the men and store at Mount Washington;
but as you are on the spot, leave it to you to give such orders as to
evacuate Mount Washington as you judge best. Greene chose to remain at
Fort Washington.
The new Pennsylvania Constitution gave citizens the right to hold
public meetings to instruct their representatives in the legislature.
Christopher Marshall reports: "past six, went to the Philosophical
Hall; called there by notices, to consider a Set of Instructions to be
handed to a town meeting, which was concluded to be called on Third day
next."
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The
citizens of Rochester, NY pleaded for aid from the New York Convention.
"The town of Rochester is in great need for salt, as the season of the
year is now for killing their winter provision and pork for next
summer, and when they can't get a supply of salt, they will be obliged
soon to turn their fat hogs out of the pen, and their fat cattle among
their other, to a great loss of several poor families.
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Christopher
Marshall recorded that reports on the Battle of White Plains, October
28 began to arrive in Philadelphia. There were estimates on killed and
wounded, prisoners taken and the plundering of Howe's army. The reports
were that Howe might march through New Jersey to Philadelphia.
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Congress
ordered the Board of War to confer with the Council of Safety for
Pennsylvania on plans to defend Philadelphia should it be attached by
General Howe.
The Maryland Convention ordered that copies of the new constitution
be sent to all the counties. The Maryland Constitution provided for a
bicameral legislature, with the senators elected by an electoral
college method, only property owners could vote; office holders had to
have property too.
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The British fleet sailed for England today. It consisted of the empty transports which had brought Howe's army from England.
North Carolina elected 169 delegates to the Fifth Provincial
Congress. Out of this a committee of 8 was chosen to draw up a Bill of
Rights and Constitution.
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Washington reached Fort Lee on this day and learned that the New Jersey militia were not coming out.
Connecticut Governor Trumbull replied to Washington's request for
militia from the New England states. He called the legislature in
session for Novemeber 19th to take action on the matter.
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The
St. James Chronicle in London, carried an item stating, "The very
identical Dr. Franklyn (Benjamin Franklin), whom Lord Chatham so much
caressed, and used to say he was proud in calling his friend, is now at
the head of the rebellion in North America.
Reports in Congress that a British fleet was sailing south caused
concern in the Congress. The ship was actually headed back to England
but the Board of War authorized the Marine Committee to defend the
Delaware River.
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On
this night the British working party constructed batteries to cover the
crossing of the Harlem River and the attack on Ft. Washington.
In Philadelphia, salt was in such short supply that Congress ordered half the public supply distributed there.
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Washington
was at Fort Lee with General Greene and Putnam trying to get
reinforcements to Fort Washington. They were too late and stayed at
Fort Lee.
Congress recommended on this day that North Carolina station
General Maurice Moore with regular troops in such an area that they can
be available to oppose the British in either North Carolina and South
Carolina.
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The
Rev. Jacob Bailey, the Episcopal Missionary in Powalborough, MA., was
required to post bond after he refused to read the Declaration of
Independence because he had taken an oath to King George II in 1760.
The British were busy removing stores from Fort Washington which they
captured yesterday. Howe controlled the entire island that is now
Manhattan.
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In honor of the Hessian troops, Howe renamed Fort Washington, Fort Kuyphausen.
Samuel Kirkland, Missionary to the New York Indians translated a
speech of Ojistatale, the Grasshopper, in which he related that the
British force at Niagara would not move against New York this winter.
He reported that the Senacas "had agreed to side with the King of Great
Britain."
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Congress
reminded, "the several States, how indispensable it is to the common
safety, that they pursue the most immediate and vigorous measures to
furnish their respective quotas of Troops for the new Army, as the time
of service for which the present Army was enlisted, is so near expiring.
At opening of the Virginian legislature in October, Thomas Jefferson
introduced a bill, among others to disestablish the Episcopal Church.
"For although the majority of our citizens are dissenters," Jefferson
wrote "a majority of the legislature were churchmen." The latter
reported out a bill this day that would only exempt dissenters from
financial support of the Church. It would become law in December.
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Christopher
Marshall wrote that the reports on Fort Washington were at first
believed only by the enemies and the timid, but today, "The reduction
of Ft. Washington is confirmed."
General Cornwalis had departed by boats with one division of his force
to cross to New Jersey where he landed about 9:00 am on this day. His
second division marched by land up the Hudson, crossed the river, and
"were landed with their cannon by ten o'clock."
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Washington
wrote General Lee in Westchester County, New York to report the loss of
Ft. Lee and to order Lee to bring his forces to New Jersey. Lee wanted
to stay in New York.
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In
order to expedite enlistments for the new army on January 1st, Congress
sent Washington a supply of blank commissions to issue at headquarters.
British General Orders assigned troops for winter residence; ordered
the outlines of old Ft. Washington leveled and usable construction
materials to be sent to New York.
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Washington
wrote Congress that he had 5,410 troops with him. Enlistments for 2,060
would expire on December 1; 950 more January 1. He pleaded for more
troops and money to pay the Flying Camp, many of whom might stay of
paid.
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A
prize ship on a voyage from Barbados to Liverpool, captured by the
Continental Sloop Independence, came in today. She had on board "Twenty
Thousand (Dollars), two tons and a half of ivory and one hundred bars
of iron!"
Dr. John Pine sent to the Maryland troops at White Plains as a
regimental surgeon arrived without medicine. He wrote the Council of
Safety that Dr. Morgon, Continental Surgeon, told him "he had nothing
to say to the Maryland troops and suggested he go to New York to get
the drugs. I told him by the time I went there and got back, that the
most of the Maryland troops would be expired."
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British
Col. Guy Johnson, Indian Superintendent in New York, reported to Lord
Germain in England that the Indians had kept their promises to him of
last year and that he had sent an officer in disguise to the
Six-Nations.
William Franklin wrote a on letter to his wife in Perth Amboy, NJ.
Regarding their son going to Paris with his father Benjamin, "if the
old gentlemen has taken the boy with him, I hope it is only to put him
in some foreign university, which he seemed anxious to do when he spoke
to me last about his education."
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A
British fleet left Staten Island to transport General Clinton with
6,000 troops to Newport, RI. to start a campaign into New England.
Clinton had led the British at Long Island, and into Westchester County
but he an General Howe were often at odds. General Cornwalis now led
the British in New Jersey.
The body of Peyton Randolph was returned to Williamsburg, VA. on
this day for services. He died in October, 1775 while presiding as the
first President of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.
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From
Newark, NJ. Washington wrote General Lee in Westchester urging him to
join him in New Jersey. "I confess I expected you would have been
sooner in motion. The force here when joined by yours, will not be
adequate to any great opposition; at present it is weak, and it has
been more owing to the badness of the weather that the enemy's progress
has been checked, than any resistance we could make. They are now
pushing this way."
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John
Adams who had been at home in Braintree, MA since October 13th, was
summoned to attend the House of Representatives in Boston.
Orders to the American forces to move from here were issued yesterday
evening with the march south to begin about 7:00am. General Cornwalis'
column was reported to be four miles north of Newark and it did enter
the city later this day.
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The
Congress continued to approve support for the Northern Army. This day
the members ordered medicines for scurvy, continued the hospital for
contagious diseases at Fort George and ordered that there be a garden
near the generally hospital for growing fresh vegetables.
A newspaper in Waterbury, CT. carried an account of a militia company
made up of local volunteers who marched to New York. "It consists of 24
men; their ages, added together, are a thousand years. They are all
married men, and when they came from home, left behind their wives,
with 149 children and grandchildren...A worthy example of patriotism.
Let others go and do likewise."
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Admiral
Richard Howe and General William Howe, "The King's Commissioners for
restoring Peace," issued a proclamation promising pardon to those who
will within 60 days subscribe to a declaration that they will desist
from "treasonable Actings and Doings."
The New York Convention on this day authorized that a chain be built at
Fort Constitution across the Hudson River to obstruct passage. The Fort
was opposite West Point on the east side of the Hudson.
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| December of 1776 |
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Washington
wrote to Congress on this day that he did not have the troops to stop
the enemy at the Raritan River and had started moving stores toward
Philadelphia.
British Corporal Thomas Sullivan heard that Conrwallis' Vanguard had
reached New Brunswick and found the bridge destroyed and was unable to
follow the "enemy" to Princeton.
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In
an air of emergency, the Congress ordered funds for enlisting units in
the armies', a crew for the Ship,Randolph, and removal of 2,000 barrels
of beef to Christian Bridge, Delaware.
Washington arrived in Princeton, NJ. from New Brunswick.
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Washington
reported to Congress that he had much of the Army stores and baggage
across the Delaware. If the boats arrived from Philadelphia, the move
would be finished by the next night. He had also received General Lee's
letter from November 30 that he was about to cross into New York near
Peekskill.
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Washington
wrote to the Board of War not to bring three ranking British prisoners
to Trenton for passage to New York because they would report to General
Howe the condition of the American Army.
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In
New York, a British officer writes of the 5000 prisoners held there.
"...many of them are such raggamuffins, as you never saw in your life;
I cannot give you a better idea of them than by putting you in mind of
Falstaff's recruits, or poor Tom in King Lear; and yet they had
strained every neve to cover their nakedness, by dismantling all the
beds."
Washington writes to Congress that he was moving supplies and men
across the Delaware to Pennsylvania protected by a rear guard at
Princeton, commanded by Lord William Striling and General Adam
Stephens. He then made a long plea for a standing army instead of the
militia.
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Major
General Robertson orders that "Soldiers are not to pull down House,
Fence, or injure the Property of any Person whatever, under several
penalty."
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Benjamin Franklin arrived in Nantz, France on this day.
President John Hancock wrote the four New England states urging
troops be sent to reinforce General Schuyler in northern New York.
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From the Falls of the Delaware, across from Trenton, NJ, Washington reported his further retreat to Congress.
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Connecticut
Governor Trumbull: "Is America to be lost?" He opened a strong plea to
Massachusetts urging the New England States to meet to discuss their
finances, defense and "to bring about a general reformation of the
people." In the meantime, the State began moving militia and supplies
to Rhode Island to counter the arrival of the British fleet.
General Henry Clinton in Newport, RI., informed Lord Germain in
London that he had landed his troops and was in possession of this
city, "without the least opposition."
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The
Congress prepared and published an address to the American people. It
was a plea for military support aganist the advancing British army. "
What a pity it is then that the rich and populous city of Philadelphia
should fall into the enemy's hands."
Trenton Falls: Washington was uncertain whether Cornwallis would
cross the Delaware above here or down river form Trenton. He also wrote
to General Lee at Chatham, New Jersey once more to join him to save
Philadelphia.
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Congress'
resolution to go to Baltimore if it had to abandon Philadelphia,
apparently became known for the rumor spread that the Congress was
about to disperse. The members asked General Washington to issue an
order denying it, be he declined to do so. The situation was serious.
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The North Carolina committee preparing a constitution for the state, submitted a Bill of Rights to the Provincial Congress.
Congress gives Washington dictatorial powers to raise forces, then
abandon Philadelphia as British advance, return in March 1777.
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In
London: Former loyalist Governor Thomas Hutchinson, Massachusetts,
wrote, "A Fast on account of the American war, observed with strictness
and great external devotion, the churches crowded more than ever known
on Sundays, and shops everywhere shut, and few people to be seen in the
streets."
Governor Cooke of Rhode Island wrote both Massachusetts and
Connecticut asking for a Council of War to oppose the British force of
some 6 to 8,000 that landed in Newport on December 8, 1776.
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British
General Conrwallis returned to Trenton after a short march to inspect
the Delaware and "the weather having become too severe to keep the
field...the troops marched to their respective stations in the
Neighborhood."
Lord Stirling wrote Washington, "If our troops were not so much
worn out I would propose...that about twelve hundred good men cross
over at Tinicum and come down on them suddenly from the north."
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From
information beginning to come back from spies sent across the Delaware,
Washington surmised that the British were beginning to pull back the
supply forces for their troops and they showed no signs of forcing a
river crossing.
Captain John Paul Jones arrived in Boston on this day. He was blown off course from Newport, RI. by the British.
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Bethlehem,
PA: John Trumbull wrote his father Governor Trumbull of Connecticut
that he had crossed the Delaware to this city with General Gates. "But
I despair of joining General Washington, His Army is still inferior to
the enemy and the country is quite stupid...My situation is droll, but
I cannot desert in so critical a time."
Robert Morris wrote John Hancock that Congress may have been better
advised to have stayed in Philadelphia. He also asked for help in the
form of a committee of delegates in Philadelphia to act for the
Congress.
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The
Council of Safety in Philadelphia, "respecting the Militia who refuse
to do their duty in the present occasion" authorized Washington to
issue orders in Bucks and Northampton counties to disarm every person
who does into obey the summons.
Washington wrote to General Howe and his own officers to compile the names of captured Americans in order to expedite exchanges.
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Exeter,
England: Ex-patriot Samuel Curwen's journal for this day read, "It
piques my pride, I confess, to hear us called our Colonies, our
Plantations, with such airs as if our property and persons are
absolutely theirs, like the villains of the old feudal system."
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The
Virginia Assembly approved unanimously a resolution to require the
departure of all persons who were "partners with factors, agents,
storekeepers or clerks for a merchant or merchants in Great Britain."
Exceptions would be made for those with a "friendly disposition to the
American cause" or housewives and children here.
From Thomas Paines' "The American Crisis," published on this day in
the Pennsylvania Gazette: "These are the times that try men's souls.
The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis,
shrink from the service of this country."
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Benjamin Franklin arrived in Versailles on this day.
Congress met in Baltimore and acted to improve the quarters in
which prisoners were held and to provide provisions and clothing. They
also asked General Howe concerning the conditions under which General
Lee was held in New York.
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Robert
Morse received a shipment of blankets and cloth on a Continental sloop
and sent the blankets off to Washington. There were 16 bales, 856
blankets, intended for the recruits but "as the inclemency of the
weather and the exceeding severe duty of the troops now with him
entitles them to every comfort we can afford."
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Congress
received reports from the Northern Army in Ticondergoa, NY. that were
no better than those from Philadelphia. "The poor creatures is now
(what's left alive) laying on the cold ground, in poor thin tents, and
some none at all, and many down with the pleurisy. No barracks, no
hospitals to go in. The barracks is at Saratoga. If you was here, your
heart wooed melt. At present we have not one pair of shoes nor blanket
in the store."
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Franklin,
Deane and Lee called on the Count de Vergennes to inform him they had
been "empowered by the Congress of the United States of America to
propose and negotiate a treaty of amity and commerce between France and
The United States."
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Congress
requested the President to inform the New England States of the
"critical state" of the Fort at Ticonderoga and the threat of invasion
from General Carlton of Canada and the need of 4500 men to fill the
militia quotas.
Washington's army was issued ammunition and provisions for three days
in preparation to march the next day at noon to McKonkey's Ferry on the
Delaware.
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Washington had given his orders for march this
day. He wrote a few letters, including one to Robert Morris which
closed, "I hope the next Christmas will prove happier than the
present to you and Dear Sir."
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Battle at Trenton, first major U.S. victory.
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In
Philadelphia spirits rose. The militia came to life. Christopher
Marshall noted, "News brought this day of our troops under General
Washington's attacking Trenton yesterday morning, having beat the enemy
and drove them out of town."
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In
Congress on this day, much of the day was taken up on plans for
strengthening the Northern Army that for the last year in Canada had
been neglected. The Army would be supplied under the same regulations
and by the same committees as the other Continental armies.
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Congress spent much of this Sunday in a Committee of the Whole discussing a plan for obtaining foreign assistance.
On this day, Washington published the "list of Pennsylvania Associators
who not entered into the service under the command of his Excellency,
General Washington." There were 238 names on the list.
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General
Phillip Schuyler, impatient with no action on his requests for
supplies, clothing, arms and men, admitted that the action in New
Jersey took the attention of Congress. Nevertheless, he continued to
write Congress and the New England states for needed militia.
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Congress read Washington's letter reporting his success in the attack on Trenton the morning of December 26.
Washington persuades majority of force due for discharge to re-enlist.
The Battle of Princeton would begin the afternoon of January 1 and
continue January 2 with Cornwallis stopped as Washington moved into
winter quarters at Morristown.
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