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A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
GEN. WASHINGTON'S ARMY
Major General, the Hon. John "Yankee" Sullivan, 1740-1795, Com-
mander-in-Chief of the "Sullivan Expedition" against the Six Indian
Nations in 1779. Governor of the State of New Hampshire, (president of
the province). United States district judge, for the district of N. H.,
1789-95, and friend of George Washington.
From a portrait by Otis, painted about 1772, and now in the State House
at Concord, N. H. This picture shows him in the uniform of a Major of
provincial militia.
A New Hampshire Lawyer in
General Washington's Army
A Biographical Sketch of the
HON. JOHN SULLIVAN, LL.D.,
Major General in the Continental Army
And an Account of the Expedition under his command
against the Six Indian Nations in 1779
By
OSCAR E. RISING
FIRST EDITION
GENEVA, N. Y.
PRESS OF W. F. HUMPHREY
I9IS
DEDICATION
To THE MEMORY OF MY MoTHER, Ab VILLA
Catherine Rising, who believed when
others doubted, and who is now num-
bered with the all wise though speech-
less dead, this book is lovingly dedi-
cated, by her son.
A FOREWORD
WHILE preparing this sketch of General Sulli-
van's life, I have been dominated by the feel-
ing that it behooves the people who live in the
Susquehanna, Lehigh, Chemung, Mohawk and Genesee
VaUeys, to know more about their Revolutionary fore-
fathers and the great work that those old fellows in buff
and blue did for the advancement of civilization and
the planting of the tree of liberty in our soil, the shade
of which we of today enjoy. John Sullivan, standing amid
his band of 4,000 devoted Continentals, forcing their
way out into the wilderness against the savage tribes,
is to me, the sublimest spectacle the history of our coun-
try furnishes.
"God bless John Sullivan's heroes of 1779,
For their brave deeds of soldier daring,
Which broke the chain of the Iroquois Hne,
And brought the peace we are this day sharing."
General SuUivan was my maternal grandfather's great-
uncle, and therefore I have the honor to be a great-great-
grand nephew of the hearty old patriot General. For
Col. Hubley's Journal, and General Sullivan's report,
as well as the roster of officers, I am indebted to "General
John Sullivan's Lidian Expedition in 1779," which was
compiled by the late George S. Conover, of Geneva, N. Y.,
and published by the State of New York in 1887.
I use this foreword as a medium to convey my thanks
to the Reynolds Library of Rochester, N. Y., for allow-
ing me the free use of reference works, of which, I regret
to say, there are not many, for strange as it may seem to
many of my readers, the story of General Sullivan's.
Expedition does not fill as large a page in our history, as
do the accounts of Burgoyne's invasion, or the siege of
Yorktown.
To some it may seem out of place for one to write of
one's ovm ancestors, but to quote from Goethe: "Happy
he who with bright regard, looks back upon his father's
fathers, who with joy recounts their deeds of grace, and
in himself, values the latent link in the fair chain of
noble sequences."
I hand this little book over to the American people,
(many of whom are descendants of "Yankee" Sullivan's
men), in the hope that it may find a few readers among
the millions of know;ledge seekers in our land. If it
succeeds in doing so, I will feel that my labor in preparing
it has not been in vain, and will be entirely satisfied.
OscAK E. Rising.
Rochester, N. Y., April, 1914.
ILLUSTRATIONS
Major General John Sullivan (Frontispiece).
The Home of General SuUivan at Durham, N. H.
The Old Sullivan Monument on Newtown battlefield.
The New Sullivan Monument on Newtown battlefield.
The Sullivan Memorial at Canandaigua, N. Y.
Boulder at Fort Sullivan (Athens, Pa.)
Outline of Fort Sullivan.
The Marker at Wysox, Pa.
The Old Athens Academy.
Standing Stone Rock in the Susquehanna River.
A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
GEN. WASHINGTON'S ARMY
CHAPTER I
Though generations have gone since then,
And scenes of life are often shifted,
We see John Sullivan and his men.
As mists of a hundred years and more are lifted.
ONE day in the year 1723, a young Irishman, accom-
panied by a young woman, landed from a small
sailing vessel at Berwick, Maine. The young
man's name was Owen O'Sullivan, and he was a descendant
of Donall O'SuUyvan, Lord of Bearehaven, in the time of
"good Queen Bess." The young woman was his sweet-
heart. A few years after their arrival at Berwick, they
were married, and took up their residence in Somers-
worth. New Hampshire, just across the river from Ber-
wick.
Seventeen years after their arrival in the Colonies,
(on the 17th of February, 1740), a son was born to them,
whom they christened John. This son grew to manhood,
and under his father's tuition received a good education,
and took up the study of law, and having qualified himself
for the practice of his chosen profession, he "hung out his
shingle" in the little town of Durham, in southeastern
New Hampshire, and soon became a prominent man in
the community. Then the cloud of the revolution
appeared on the horizon, and in September 1774, he was
chosen as a delegate to the first Continental Congress,
then assembling at Carpenter's Hall, in Philadelphia.
Upon his return from Congress, he and a friend by the
name of John Langdon, led a raid on Fort WiUiam and
12 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Mary at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, from which they
carried off all the cannon, and ammunition which consisted
of 97 kegs of powder, which they hid under the pulpit
of Durham Church. On the 19th of the following April,
(1775), the great drama of the revolution opened at
Lexington, and on the 17th of June, 1775, the Battle of
Bimker Hill was fought, where several cart loads of this
powder was used, and while Charlestown was wrapped
in flames, and the loud hurrahs were resounding over the
American lines. Congress was voting the appointment
of George Washington as Commander-in-Chief of the
Continental Army; at the same time they appointed eight
Brigadier Generals, John Sullivan being one of them.
Soon after his appointment he proceeded to headquarters
at Cambridge, Massachusetts. In 1776 he was put in
command of the troops in Canada, but on his arrival
at the Sorel River, he found the army just leaving the
province. He at once directed General Thompson to
attack the British at Three Rivers, but the attack was
poorly planned and poorly carried out. He was com-
pelled to retreat, and fell back on Crown Point, where
soon after General Gates arrived to supersede him. His
fiery and independent nature rebelled at finding a jimior
officer promoted over him, and he hastened away to
Congress to offer his resignation, but the President of
Congress persuaded him to retain his command, telling
him he was too valuable a man to be lost to the service.
This appealed to Sullivan's natural vanity, so he with-
drew his resignation, and joined the army of Washington.
He commanded a few regiments in the battle of Long
Island, and withstood the combined attacks, of DeHeister
and Clinton, being compelled to face his troops both ways
to meet this double enemy. He struggled desperately
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 13
for three hours to save his troops, but was at last com-
pelled to surrender, but was soon exchanged for the
British General Prescott. Again joining the army, he
was made a Major General, and was put at the head of
one of the divisions.
In the summer of 1777 Sullivan's division was stationed
at Hanover, New Jersey, where he planned an unsuccessful
attack on Staten Island. For this expedition he was
much blamed, and a court of inquiry called to sit on his
conduct, but he was honorably acquitted.
He commanded the right wing of the army at the battle
of Brandywine where he suffered a defeat, the loss of two
of his aides, and had his own horse shot from under him.
He escaped without injury to himself.
The caution of Washington had prevented any decisive
engagement during the early part of the year 1777, but
the march of the British toward Philadelphia induced
him to hazard a battle. His army met that of Howe near
the Brandywine River, and after a long and fierce battle,
Howe obtained a decisive victory over the Americans and
entered Philadelphia.
General Sullivan has been blamed, and unjustly so,
for the loss of this battle, the brunt of which was borne
by his division and that of "Mad Anthony" Wayne, who
is best known as the hero of Stony Point.
The British loss at Brandywine was estimated at six
hundred men in killed and wounded, and the fact that the
American loss was about one thousand, shows how firmly
Sullivan had contested his ground.
In the early morning of the 4th of October, 1777,
the battle of Germantown was fought, where General
Sullivan commanded one of the divisions, and throughout
the entire "engagement" he conducted himself nobly
14 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
and won new honors", and when his troops, becoming
panic-stricken, fled, he tried bravely but in vain, by
voice and example, to rally them. When the army went
into winter quarters at VaUey Forge, Sullivan was there,
and was as ever, ready to bear his share of the hardships.
While the American troops were laying at Valley Forge
in a half starved, half naked, and wholly wretched condi-
tion, during the winter of 1777-1778, he became destitute,
and asked permission of Washington to return to his
New Hampshire home for the purpose of raising fimds
to meet his pressing personal needs, but the shrewd, far-
seeing Washington, seeing the detrimental effect this would
have on his tattered soldiery, prevailed on Sullivan to
remain imtil spring, and so great was his love for Wash-
ington that he withdrew his temporary resignation and
remained. If Gen. Sullivan had not been of too kind
and gene/rous a heart to ask for the interest on money
that he had loaned, he would not have found himseK
in so destitute a condition at Valley Forge, but as he
thought the people had burdens enough to bear without
paying interest on the money that he had loaned, and as
he never allowed himself to be guided by —
The good old rule,
The simple plan,
That they should take who have the power,
And they should keep who can, —
he acted like the noble man he was and bore the burden
of want without a murmur.
In the month of March, 1778, he was given the com-
mand of the army in Rhode Island, where he was retained
until the early spring of 1779, when he was offered and
accepted the command-in-chief of that picturesque and
decisive expedition against the Six Indian Nations,where
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 15
he rendered his name immortal, and of which I will now
speak.
But before we accompany John Sullivan and his men
on their great march into and through the country of the
Six Nations, let us take a brief glance at that picturesque
and now almost extinct people, who were, for many
centuries "the brave ordainers of imperial law for western
wilds." The once proud and all-conquering Iroquois.
A GLANCE AT THE EROQUOTS
The Six Nations were originally the Five Nations,
and were composed of the Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas,
Cayugas and Senecas. But in the year 1712, the Tuscaro-
ras came north from South Carolina, and begged the privi-
lege of "spreading their blankets" among the Five Nations.
This was granted them, and they were given land between
the Onondagas and Cayugas, but were never allowed to
send a sachem to the council fires of their imperious
protectors. The English called the league the "Six
Nations." The French called them the "Iroquois" and
the Dutch, "mingoes." Their own name for their league
Was "Ho-do-no-sau-nee." "The People of the Long
House." They were almost constantly at war with the
Hurons upon the North, and the Delawares upon the
South, and their conquests extended north into Canada,
and as far westward as the Mississippi River. At the
zenith of their power they numbered about 25,000 people,
and held dominion over all the land of what is now in
New York State, with the exception of a strip west of the
Genesee River.
The Mohawks were the door-keepers upon the east,
while the Senecas guarded the western door of the "long
house."
16 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
At the time of Sullivan's Expedition they had reached
a high state of civilization, and lived in well built, and
painted log houses. Their villages were surrounded by
large fields of com, squashes, water-melons, beans, cucum-
bers, etc., besides large orchards of apple and peach trees.
Some of the orchards contained as many as twelve hundred
trees, and were of great age, having been planted by the
Jesuit Fathers, a century before. At the time of which
we write, Joseph Brant, was the great war-chief of the
Six Nations, and he led his dusky followers on many a
murderous raid, but it is not known for certain that he was
in command of the Indians at Cherry Valley. He was a
highly civilized Indian and well educated. In his old age
he translated the Bible into the Mohawk tongue. He
died at a good old age, on his estate in Canada. He was
a brother-in-law of *Sir William Johnson, his sister
(Molly), being Sir William's squaw- wife. The principal
though not the largest village of the Senecas, was Kanada-
saga, which stood on the site of the present city of Geneva,
N. Y. It contained about 50 well built houses, and was
surrounded by large orchards of apple and peach trees.
The burial mound of the Senecas, at this place, can still
be seen.
When the army reached here, about sundown of Sept.
7th, they found the town deserted by the Indians, (they
having fled to Kanandaigua, sixteen miles farther west)
and not a living thing in sight, except a male white child,
about three years old. General Sullivan took a personal
interest in the little waif and had it placed in a large
basket on a pack-horse load. It shared all the vicissitudes
of the campaign, and was afterwards- taken to New
*NoTE. Sir William Johnson, the founder of Johnstown, N. Y., and his Ma-
jesty 's Commissioner of Indian Affairs for North America.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 17
Windsor, New York, where it soon died of the smallpox,
no clue to its identity was ever discovered, but it was
doubtless the offspring of some unhappy captive. Sulli-
van's raid broke forever the power of the Iroquois, who,
as allies of the British, constantly harassed the patriots
of Central New York. The redskins were the most
dreaded enemy the colonists had to reckon with in the
war for our independence, for they had respect for neither
the helplessness of women and children, nor the infirmities
of age. Often as he hurried to war did the patriot shud-
der at the thought of what might happen to his loved ones -
in his absence. Only too frequently were his worst fears
realized as he returned to find his home in ashes, and his
wife and children killed, or carried into captivity. In
the month of July, 1778, the beautiful valley of Wyoming
was laid waste, and on Sunday morning, the 11th of
November, 1778, the horrible massacre of Cherry Valley
was perpetrated, when the Indians under the leadership
of the famous Mohawk chief, Joseph Brant (?) (Thayend-
anegea was his Indian name) and the Tories, under the
command of that fiend in human form. Colonel Walter
Butler, descended upon this thrifty settlement (which
was founded in 1740) and murdered the men, women and
children, regardless of age or sex.
It was then that Washington with martial ardor,
Called Sullivan in haste to go,
And cross the Indian's forest border,
And lay his field and orchards low.
For the Iroquois had lighted,
A thousand fires of hate and scorn,
From Cherry Valley's homes affrighted,
To fair Wyoming's vale forlorn."
It was Washington's intention to offer the command
of this Expedition to Major General Horatio Gates, as
18 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
will be seen by a perusal of the following letter from
Washington to the President of Congress:
(letter of general WASHINGTON TO THE PRESIDENT
OF CONGRESS, APRIL 14TH, 1779)
"The plan of operations for the campaign being deter-
mined, a commanding oflScer was to be appointed for
the Indian Expedition. This command, according to
all present appearances, will probably be of the second,
if not of the first, importance for the campaign. The
oflBcer conducting it has a flattering prospect of acquiring
more credit than can be expected by any other this year;
and he has the best reason to hope for success.
Gen. Lee, from his situation, was out of the question;
Gen. Schuyler was so uncertain of continuing in the army,
that I could not appoint him; Gen. Putnam I need not
mention. I therefore make the offer of it, for the appoint-
ment could no longer be delayed, to Gen. Gates, who was
next in seniority, though, perhaps, I might have avoided
it, if I had been so disposed, from his being in a command
by the special appointment of Congress. My letter to
him on the occasion, I believe you will think was con-
ceived in very candid and polite terms, and that it merited
a different answer from the one given to it.
G. Washington."
— But General Gates refused the command of the
expedition for the reasons stated in the following reply
to Washington's letter, offering him the appointment.
Lieut. General Washington:
Dear Sir:
"Last night I had the honor of your Excellency's let-
ter. The man who undertakes the Indian service.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 19
should enjoy youth and strength; requisites I do not possess.
It therefore grieves me that your Excellency should
offer me the only command to which I am entirely unequal.
In obedience to your command, I have forwarded your
letter to Gen. Sullivan, etc.
HoBATio Gates, M. G.
The letter from Washington to Sullivan which Gen.
Gates referred to in the above letter, ran as follows :
"Headquarters, Middle Brook,
March 6th, 1779.
Major General Sullivan:
Dear Sir:
Congress having determined upon an Expedition against
the hostile tribes of the Indians of the Six Nations, the
command is offered to Maj. Gen. Gates as Senior officer,
but should he decline, it is my wish it should devolve
upon you. That no time may be lost by General Gates'
nonacceptance, I have put this letter under cover to him,
and have desired him to forward it to you, should that be
his determination. Should it therefore be sent to you
I must request you to set out, as speedily as possible
after the rec't of it, to Head Quarters, as the season is
already far advanced. Upon your arrival, the whole
plan of the Expedition shall be communicated to you,
and measures concerted for carrying it into execution.
Nothing will contribute more to our success in the quarter
where we really intend to strike, than alarming the enemy
in a contrary one, and dra;wing their attention that way.
To do this, you may drop hints of an Expedition to Canada
by the way of Coos. This will be more readily believed,
as a thing of that kind was really once in agitation, and
20 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
some Magazines formed in consequence, which the enemy
are acquainted with. You may also speak of the probabil-
ity of a French Fleet making its appearance, in the Spring,
in the river St. Lawrence to co-operate with us. It wiU
be a great point gained if we can, by false alarms, keep
the force already in Canada from affording any timely
assistance to the Savages, refugees and those people
against whom the blow is leveled. I would wish you to
keep the motive of your journey to Head Quarters a
secret, because if it is known that an officer of your rank
is to take a command to the westward, it will be im-
mediately concluded that the object must be considerable.
I am, with great regard, Dear Sir,
Your most Obedient Servant,
Geoege Washington."
"Major General Sullivan."
The command of the expedition having been refused
by General Gates was promptly accepted by General
Sullivan, but the plans for carrying it on was not agree-
able to his mind, nor was the number of men destined
for it sufficient, in his opinion, to insure its success. He
had, early in April, 1779, received from the heads of the
quartermaster, and commissary departments, assurances
that everything would be in a perfect state of readiness
upon his arrival at Easton, Pa., where the main army was
mobilized, but on his arrival there he was informed by
Brigadier General Edward Hand (who then commanded
at that post), that there Was not the least prospect of the
boats or stores being in readiness in season. Bancroft, in
his history of the United States, says that if Sullivan had
not spent his time "writing strange theological essays"
the expedition would have gotten under way sooner.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 21
Now such a statement is absurd. While he was a man of
a high order of intellect, and could, doubtless, have writ-
ten theological essays, had he been so inclined, it is
ridiculous to think that a man of his sound common
sense, would have wasted his time in doing so, and more-
over at a time when his entire attention was occupied
with military affairs. Bancroft also says that "Sullivan
was so puffed up with the honors of command that it
was almost out of the question to deal with him." While
it is true that he had a slight streak of vanity and conceit
in his nature, he was not a man to be puffed up with the
honors of command for it was not the first time that he had
had such honors. There were no theological writings
found among General Sullivan's papers, after his death,
and I do not believe that he ever wrote any. It was the
fault of Congress alone that the army did not get started
sooner than it did. Lieut. Colonel Adam Hubley, ia his
journal, says : "Whilst I revere the merit and virtue of the
army I am sorry I am under the necessity of mentioning
that there was an unparalleled and unpardonable neglect
(and which ought not to pass with impunity), in those
whose business it was to supply them (the army) with a
sufficient quantity of necessaries to carry them through
the expedition, instead of which not more than 22 days
flour, and 16 days meat was on hand when it commenced."
The Executive Counsel of Pennsylvania agreed to
furnish 700 rangers and riflemen, and the President of
Pennsylvania (Reed), promised that they would be ready
in season, but not a man of them joined the army. The
reason for this was, that the quarter-master offered such
good wages to boatmen that they all enlisted into the
boat service, but this was a mistake, for they had scarcely
a hundred boatmen engaged for the army, and only 42
22 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
pack-horsemen, so that Sullivan was obliged to draft
900 for boatmen and pack-horsemen.
This reduced the army to 1,412 men, and from these
he had to deduct 150 for cattle drivers and for the artillery,
which left him only 1,262 men, and more than a third of
them were without a shirt to their backs. With this
force he was expected to advance against an enemy which
was allowed to be 2,000 strong, and who had been lately
reenJorced with 700 British troops from Canada. In a
letter to Congress sent from Wyoming late in July, 1779,
General Sullivan said: "I need not mention that it is
easy for the enemy to act with their whole force against
either part of our army before the junction with Clinton
is formed, and that common prudence wiU prompt to
this. I have, therefore, nothing to rely on but the ardor
and well known bravery of my troops, which I trust
will surmount all opposition, but should a defeat take
place, and the ruin of the army be the consequence,
whether I do or not perish ia the action, I call upon the
members of Congress to witness to the world that I early
foresaw and foretold the danger, and used every means
in my power to secure a force sufficient to insure success,
but failed to obtain it."
Following is a complete roster of officers of Sullivan's
division, divided into brigades and regiments. The 4th
brigade 1,600 strong, under the command of Brigadier
General James Clinton, started in the Mohawk Valley
to join Sullivan at Tioga Point (now Athens, Pa.). His
march was through an unbroken wilderness. As there
were no roads, their provisions were loaded in boats and
floated up the small streams, and there the freight, boats
and all, were carried by the men to the headwaters of
another stream. They had little trouble until they reached
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 23
Otsego Lake, and from this point they expected less as the
outlet of the lake formed the Susquehanna River. But
the weather was hot and for many weeks there had been
no rain. The river had not water enough to float the
boats and for a time Clinton thought he would be obliged
to turn back, but just as he was about to give up in despair,
he hit upon a scheme which promised success. He caused
a dam to be built across the Susquehanna, just where it
flows out of Lake Otsego. His soldiers rolled in great
boulders from the fields and filled the spaces between with
brush and clay so the water could not flow out freely.
This caused the lake to rise, and in three weeks it was six
feet above its summer level. The boats were then made
ready with the provisions and men aboard, and the dam
was torn down. The waters flooded the banks of the nar-
row stream and the whole brigade was carried down to
the place of meeting with Sullivan in safety.
The Lidians along the stream saw this sudden rise of
the waters and they were much frightened, no rain had
fallen in weeks, and the only way they could account for
it was that the Great Spirit had sent the waters to help
the pale faces, and they fled in the greatest alarm.
General Clinton did not meet one armed enemy, and
after the junction of his brigade with the rest of Sullivan's
division, the combined army numbered about 4,000 men,
and
It was soon to be tested
Whether the proud Indian league,
Would at its savage pleasure
Loose or bind, the lightnings of
Its burnished tomahawk.
CHAPTER II
Roster of Officers of Sullivan's Division, 1779
General Commanding, and Staff
Major-General John Sullivan, Commander-in-Chief
William Pierce,
Aides.
Captain Jonathan Dayton,
Major Adam Hoop,
Nicholas Van Cortlandt,
Col. C. Sheriff, Dep. Adjt. General.
Lieut. Col. Francis Barber, Adjutant General.
Col. Robert Hooper, Dep. Con. of Transportation.
Col. Bryan Bruen, Private Secty. to Gen. SuUivan.
Col. John Steele, Commissary General.
Rev. Samuel Kirkland, Chaplain.
Capt. Daniel Taphan, Con. of Militia Stores.
Lieut. Benjamin Lodge, Surveyor.
John Woodman, Asst. Commissary General.
Col. Henry Antie, Conductor of Boats.
James Cook, Express rider.
Dr. Hagan, Surgeon-in-Chief.
Mr. Brenion, Issuing Con. to Commander-in-chief.
Capt. John Franklin, 1
Jehaikim, (Indian) f-Guides.
Lieut. John Genkins, J
Lieut. Robert Pemberton, Judge Advocate.
First Brigade
New Jersey Troops
William Maxwell, Brigadier General.
Andrew Hunter, Chaplain.
24
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY
25
Aaron Ogden, Aide-de-Camp, and Captain.
John Ross, Brigadier Major.
Nathan Wilkinson, Quartermaster.
Matthias Ogden, Colonel 1st N. J. Regiment.
Israel Sherene, Colonel 2d N. J. Regiment.
Oliver Spencer, Spencer's Regiment.
Detachment of Cavalry, from E. Sheldon's Regiment.
Elias Dayton, Colonel 3d N. J. Regiment.
First New Jersey Regiment
Matthias Ogden, Colonel,
David Brearley, Lieut. Colonel,
Daniel Piatt, Major,
Jacob Piatt, Capt. Lieut, and Adjutant,
Ephriam Whitlock, Adjutant, l-StaflP.
Peter Trott, 2d Lieut, and Quartermaster,
Cyrus Ewing, Surgeon,
Cyrus D'Hart, 1st Lieut, and Paymaster,
Stephen Ball, Surgeon's Mate,
Jonathan Farnan, Captain.
Giles Mead, Captain.
Alexander Mitchell, Captain.
Peter Van Voorhies, Captain and Paymaster.
John Holmes, Captain.
Aaron Ogden, Captain.
William Piatt, Lieutenant.
John Hamell, Lieutenant.
William Barton, Lieutenant.
Absalom Martin, Lieutenant.
Ephriam Whitlock, Lieutenant.
Eben Burrows, Lieutenant.
Johnathan Snowden, Lieutenant.
Absalom Bonham, 2d Lieutenant.
Staff.
26 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Samuel Seeley, Lieutenant.
Silas Parrat, Lieutenant.
John Bistop, Ensign.
Aaron Rhea, Ensign.
John Geary, Ensign.
Asher Levy, Ensign.
Second New Jersey Regiment
Israel Shreve, Colonel,
WilHam D'Hart, Lieutenant Colonel,
John Ross, Major,
Luther Halsey, Adjutant and First Lieutenant
Derrick Lane, Quartermaster and 2d Lieut.
John Peck, Paymaster and Lieutenant,
Ebenezer Elmer, Surgeon,
Moses G. Elmer, Surgeon's Mate,
John N. Cummings, Captain.
Samuel Reading, Captain.
Johnathan Phillips, Captain.
Samuel Henry, Captain.
Nathaniel Bowman, Captain.
William Helms, Captain.
Abraham Appleton, 1st Lieutenant.
Samuel Conn, 1st Lieutenant.
Samuel Naglee, 1st Lieutenant.
Abel Weyman, 1st Lieutenant.
Demick Lane, 1st Lieutenant.
Samuel M. Sheete, 2d Lieutenant.
Jona Rhea, 2d Lieutenant.
John Shreve (son of Col. J. Shreve), 2d Lieutenant.
Benajah Osmun, 2d Lieutenant.
Joseph Buck, Ensign.
George Walker, Ensign.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 27
Third New Jersey Regiment
Elias Dayton, Colonel.
John Conway, Lieut. Colonel.
John HoUinshead, Major.
Joseph I. Anderson, Paymaster and Captain.
Samuel Shippard, Adj. and First Lieutenant.
Ephraim Darboy, Quartermaster and 1st Lieutenant.
Lewis F. Dunham, Surgeon.
Robert Henry, Surgeon.
Ephraim Tarring, Surgeon's Mate.
Wm. Giffard, Captain.
Richard Cox, Captain.
Jeremiah Ballard, Captain.
Joseph I. Anderson, Captain.
Seth Johnson, Captain.
Nathaniel Teanard, 1st Lieutenant.
John Reed, 1st Lieutenant.
Nathan Wilkinson, 1st Lieutenant.
Edward D. Thomas, 1st Lieutenant.
John Rencastle, 1st Lieutenant.
Benjamin Horn, 1st Lieutenant.
John Blair, 1st Lieutenant.
William Kersey, 2d Lieutenant.
Jarvis Bloomfield, 2d Lieutenant.
Wessel F Stout, 2d Lieutenant.
Jas. Rodgers, Ensign.
Jas. DeCamp, Ensign.
Spencer's New Jersey Regiment
Oliver Spencer, Colonel.
WiUiam S. Smith, Lieutenant Colonel.
Peter Taulman, Adjutant and Lieutenant.
John Sanford, Paymaster.
8 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
William Beach, Quartermaster.
Jabez Campfield, Surgeon.
John Darcy, Surgeon's Mate.
John McEmen, Ensign and Quartermaster.
John Burrows, Captain.
Michael Erickson, Sargent in Capt. Burrowes Co.
James Broaderiek, Captain.
Benjamin Weatherby, Captain.
John Sanford, Captain.
Nathaniel Town, Captain.
Abraham Neely, Captain.
James Bonnel, Captain.
John Combs, Captain.
William Beach, Captain Lieutenant.
William Bull, Lieutenant.
Ugal Meeker, Lieutenant.
Finch Gildersleeve, Lieutenant.
David Kirkpatrick, Lieutenant.
Anthony Maxwell, Lieutenant.
John Stagg, Lieutenant.
John Orr, Lieutenant.
Robert Pemberton, Lieutenant.
Peter Farnham, Lieutenant.
John Reed, Ensign.
Second Brigade
New Hampshire Troops
Enoch Poor, Brigadier General.
Jeremiah Fogg, Aide-de-Camp.
Elihu Marshall, Brigade Major.
Rev. Israel Evans, Brigade Chaplain.
Col. Joseph Silley, 1st New Hampshire Regiment.
Lieut. Col. George Reed, 2d New Hampshire Regiment.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 29
Lieut. Col. Henry Dearborn, 3d New Hampshire Reg.
Major Daniel Whiting, 6th Massachusetts Regiment.
*Col. PhiUip Van Cortlandt, M New York Regiment.
First New Hampshire Regiment
Joseph Silley, Colonel.
Jeremiah Gtilman, Lieutenant Colonel.
William Scott, Major.
Jeremiah Pritchard, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
K Benjamin Kimball, Captain and Paymaster.
Johnathan Willard, Lieutenant and Quartermaster.
Thomas Blake, 2d Lieutenant and Paymaster.
Joseph Mills, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
John Hale, Surgeon.
Amos Morrill, Captain.
Jason Wait, Captain.
Amos Emerson, Captain.
Ebenezer Frye, Captain.
Isaac Farwell, Captain.
Nathaniel Hutchings, Captain.
Simon Sartwell, Captain and Lieutenant.
Moody Dustin, 1st Lieutenant.
Nathaniel McCauley, 1st Lieutenant.
Josiah Monroe, 1st Lieutenant.
Daniel Clapp, Lieutenant.
William Hutchins, Lieutenant.
Asa Senter, Lieutenant.
Bazabeel Howe, 2d Lieutenant.
Simeon Morrill, 2d Lieutenant.
♦Transferred to 4th Brigade Aug., 1779.
Note — It was this brigade that bore the brunt of the decisive
battle of Newtown, fought on Sunday, August 29th, 1779. AH of
the killed, and most of the wounded, were New Hampshire men.
30 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Johnathan Perkins, Ensign.
Joshua Thompson, 2d Lieutenant.
Hubbard Carter, Ensign.
Samuel Thompson, Ensign.
Second New Hampshire Regiment
George Reed, Lieutenant Colonel.
Benjamin Titcomb, Major.
Richard Braum, Quartermaster.
William M. Bell, Adjutant.
Jeremiah Fogg, Paymaster and Captaiu.
Robert Q. Henry, Surgeon.
Rev. Ira Evans, Chaplain.
Caleb Robinson, Captain.
Janez Carr, Captain.
Elijah Clayes, Captain.
William Rowell, Captain.
Moses Dustin, Captain.
Enoch Chase, Captain.
George Aldrich, Captain.
Samuel Cherry, Captain Lieutenant.
Michael Hait, 1st Lieutenant.
Ebenezer Light, 1st Lieutenant.
Noah Robinson, 1st Lieutenant.
Joseph Potter, 1st Lieutenant.
Pelatiah Whittemar, 1st Lieutenant.
James Nichols, 1st Lieutenant.
George P. Frost, 1st Lieutenant.
Luke Woodbury, 2d Lieutenant.
Samuel Adams, 2d Lieutenant.
William Taggert, 2d Lieutenant.
Thomas Tyford, 2d Lieutenant.
James Butterfield, 2d Lieutenant.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 31
Joshua Merrom, Ensign.
Daniel Gookim, Ensign.
Caleb Blodgett, Ensign.
Geo. Burnham, Ensign.
Wm. Twombley, Ensign.
Thomas Callis, Ensign.
Third New Hampshire Regiment.
Henry Dearborn, Lieutenant Colonel.
James Norris, Major.
Nicholas Gilman, Captain and Adjutant.
Joseph Boynton, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
Joseph Blanchard, 2d Lieutenant and Paymaster.
John Hovey, Ensign and Quartermaster.
Jacob Hall, Surgeon.
Mark Howe, Surgeon.
Israel Evans, Brigade Chaplain.
Daniel Livermore, Captain.
Isaac Frye, Captain.
Wm. Ellis, Captain.
David McGregor, Captain.
Wm. A. Hawkins, Captain.
Thomas Simpson, Captain.
John Dennitt, Lieutenant.
Benjamin Ellis, Lieutenant.
Abner, Peminan, Lieutenant.
Johnathan Cass, Lieutenant.
Dudley T. Chase, Lieutenant.
Nathaniel Hoit, Lieutenant.
Nathaniel Teanitt, Lieutenant.
Johna Cilley, Ensign.
Archibald Stark, Ensign.
Nathan Weare, Ensign.
32 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Neal McGaflFey, Ensign.
Moses Page, Ensign.
Bradbury Richards, Ensign.
Sixth Massachusetts Regiment
(Alden's)
Daniel Whiting, Major.
William White, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
James Lunt, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
William McKundry, Lieutenant and Quartermaster.
Ezekiel Braun, Surgeon.
Francis DeBar, Surgeon's Mate.
Joseph Tucker, Ensign and Paymaster.
Asa Cobum, Captain.
Luke Day, Captain.
Benjamin Warren, Captain.
John Reed, Captain.
Daniel Lane, Captain.
Jonas Parker, Captain Lieutenant.
James Lunt, Captain Lieutenant.
Samuel Buffington, Lieutenant.
Robert Givens, Lieutenant.
Elijah Day, Lieutenant.
William Curtis, Lieutenant.
Eliphalet Thorp, Lieutenant.
Stephen Carter, Lieutenant.
Ebenezer Peabody, Lieutenant.
Luther Trobridge, Lieutenant.
Richard Baynall, Ensign.
Levi Parker, Ensign.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 33
Third Brigade
Pennsylvania Troops
Edward Hand, Brigadier General.
Jonathan Snowden, Aide-de-Camp and Lieutenant.
Capt. Wm. Sprout, Aide-de-Camp and Brigade Major.
Rev. Wm. Rogers, D.D., Chaplaiil.
John Van Anglin, Commissary.
William Kinnerly, Surgeon.
Lieut. Col. Wm. Butler, 4th Pennsylvania Regiment.
Lieut. Col. Adam Hibley, 11th Pennsylvania Regiment.
Major Dan'l Burghardt, Pennsylvania Gernons.
Col. Thomas Proctor, Artillery Regiment.
Major James Parr, Morgan's Riflemen.
Capt. Anthony Selin, Schott's Rifle Corps.
Capt. John Franklin, Wyoming Mihtia.
Capt. Simon Spalding, Independent Wyoming Company.
Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment
Wm. Butler, Lieutenant Colonel.
Thomas Church, Major.
George Bass, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
Erkuries Beatty, Lieutenant and Paymaster.
Peter Sumers, Lieutenant and Quartermaster.
Charles McCarter, Surgeon.
George Tudor, Captain.
William Gray, Captain.
Henry Booker, Jr., Captain.
Wm. Henderson, Captain.
Wm. Cross, Captain.
Garret Stediford, Lieutenant.
34 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Wilder Bevins, Lieutenant.
Matthew Polon, Lieutenant.
John Pratt, Lieutenant.
Henry Henley, Lieutenant.
Andrew Henderson, Ensign.
Nathaniel Smith, Ensign.
Eleventh Pennsylvania Regiment
Adam Hubley, Lieutenant Colonel.
Evan Edwards, Major.
George Bush, Captain and Paymaster.
-f William Husten, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
John Mahan, Lieutenant and Quartermaster.
Thomas Wiggins, Surgeon.
Lawrence Keene, Captain.
4 Andrew Walker, Captain.
Abraham G. Claypole, Captain.
Isaac Sweeney, Captain.
v-Henry Carbury, Captain.
Jeremiah Jackson, Captain Lieutenant.
Edward Burke, 1st Lieutenant.
Septimus Davis, 1st Lieutenant.
Wm. McCurdy, 1st Lieutenant.
Wm. Lennon, 1st Lieutenant.
Jonas Pettigrew, 1st Lieutenant.
Benjamin Street, 1st Lieutenant.
Samuel Morrison, 1st Lieutenant.
Jacob Weitzel, 2d Lieutenant.
Robert Allison, Ensign.
Samuel Reed, Ensign.
Henry Burley, Ensign.
Francis Thornbury, Ensign.
William Huston, Ensign.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY
German Battalion
Daniel Burchardt, Major.
Peter Boyer, Captain and Paymaster.
Jacob Royboldt, Ensign and Quartermaster.
John Weidman, Lieutenant and Adjutant.
Peter Peres, Surgeon.
Jacob Bummer, Captain.
Frederick Wm. Rice, Captain.
Bernard Hubley, Captain.
Philip Schramcher, Captain Lieutenant.
Jacob Crenes, Lieutenant.
Christian G. Swartz, Lieutenant.
David DiefiFenderfer, Ensign.
Christian Cleekner, Ensign.
Artillery Regiment
Nine Pieces
fThomas Proctor, Colonel.
Thomas Forrest, Lieutenant Colonel.
William Adams, Surgeon.
Isaac Craig, Captain.
Joseph Rice, Captain.
Francis Proctor, Captain.
John Brice, Captain.
Robert Caltman, Captain.
Patrick Duffy, Capta,in Lieutenant.
Warsley Eves, Captain Lieutenant.
Note — There were 131 fifers and drummers in SiiUivan's army,
including what was known as "Colonel Proctor's Band of Music."
S6 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Morgan's Riflemen
One Battalion
James Parr, Major.
Michael Simpson, Captain.
Thomas Boyd, Lieutenant. Massacred Sept. 13, 1779.
Benjamin Chambers, Ensign.
Independent Rifle Company
Anthony Selin, Captain.
Lawrence Myers, Lieutenant.
Christian Fraelich, Lieutenant.
Wyoming Militia
John Franklin, Captain.
Independent Wyoming Company
Simon Spalding, Captain.
John Jenkins, Lieutenant.
Fourth Brigade
New York Troops
James Clinton, Brigadier General.
Rev. John Gano, Chaplain.
John Pratt, Assistant Commissary of Issues.
William Popham, Aide-de-Camp.
Capt. Leonard Bleecker, ) Brigade Majors and Lispec-
Major Nicholas Fish, ) tors.
Dr. Stephen McCrea, Brigade Surgeon.
Col. Philip Van Cortlandt, 2d New York Regiment.
Col. Peter Gansevoort, 3d New York Regiment.
Lieut. Col. Frederick Weissenfele, 4th N. Y. Regiment.
Col. Lemie Dufois, 5th New York Regiment.
Volunteer Corps, under Col. John Harper as Captain.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 37
Second New York Regiment
Philip Van Cortlandt, Colonel.
Peine Regnier, Lieutenant Colonel.
Nicholas Fish, Major.
Charles Nukerk, Adjutant and Captain Lieutenant.
William Mundy, Quartermaster and 1st Lieutenant.
Timis Van Wagener, Quartermaster and 2d Lieutenant.
Robert Provoost, Paymaster and Ensign.
Daniel Minena, Surgeon.
Charles Graham, Captain.
Samuel F. Pell, Captain.
Jacob Wright, Captain.
Jonathan Hallet, Captain.
Abner French, Captain.
James Fairlie, Lieutenant.
Elihu Marshall, Lieutenant.
Gilbert I. Livingston, Lieutenant.
Charles F. Wussenfole, Lieutenant.
fJohn L. Hardenbergh, Lieutenant.
Tjerek Beekman, Lieutenant.
Andrew White, Lieutenant.
William L. Lenny, Lieutenant.
Bernardus Swarthout, Ensign.
John Braunn, Ensign.
Third New York Regiment
Peter Gansevoort, Colonel.
Marinus Willett, Lieutenant Colonel.
Robert Cochran, Major.
Note — In the year 1790, Lieut. John L. Hardenbergh founded
the settlement of Hardenbergh's Comers, which afterwards became
the village (now city) of Auburn, Cajruga County, N. Y.
B A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Christopher Hutton, Adjutant and Lieutenant.
Prentive Boman, Quartermaster and Lieutenant.
Jeremiah Van Rensselare, Paymaster and Ensign.
Hemlock Woodruff, Surgeon.
John Elliott, Surgeon's Mate.
Leonard Bleecker, Captain.
Henry Tiebout, Captain.
Thomas DeWitt, Captain.
Cornelius F. Jason, Captain.
Aaron Aarson, Captain.
George Syteg, Captain Lieutenant.
Wm. Colbrath, Lieutenant.
William Tapp, Lieutenant.
PhiUp Coniae, Lieutenant.
Gerrit Staats, Lieutenant.
Thomas McClellan, Lieutenant.
Benjamin Bogardus, Captain.
Levi Stockwell, Captain.
Josiah Bay ley. Ensign.
George T. Deimiston, Ensign.
Samuel Lewis, Ensign.
Peter Magee, Ensign.
John Spoor, Ensign.
D. T. Fonday, Ensign.
Benjamin Herring, Ensign.
Gerrit G. Lansing, Ensign.
Fourth New York Regiment
Frederick Weissenfels, Lieutenant Colonel.
Jos. McCracken, Major.
Israel Smith, Paymaster and Captain.
Peter Elsworth, Adjutant and Lieutenant.
James Barritt, Quartermaster and Lieutenant.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY
John F. Vasche, Surgeon.
Saml. Sackett, Captain.
John Davis, Captain.
Jonathan Titus, Captain.
Benjamin Walker, Captain.
Nathaniel Warton, Captain.
Theodosius Famler, Captain.
Edward Duscomb, Captain Lieutenant.
Joseph Frelick, Lieutenant.
Peter Van Bunschaten, Lieutenant.
Abraham Hyatt, Lieutenant.
Rudolphus Van Houenburg, Lieutenant.
Thomas Hunt, Lieutenant.
Silol Gray, Lieutenant.
Daniel Deniston, Ensign.
Azariah Tuthill, Ensign.
Samuel Talmadge, Ensign.
Ephraim WoodrufP, Ensign.
Fijth New York Regiment
Lewis Dubois, Colonel.
Henry Dubois, Adjutant and Captain Lieutenant.
Henry Dodge, Adjutant and Lieutenant.
Michael ConnaUy, Paymaster and 2d Lieutenant.
James Johnston, Quartermaster and Ensign.
Samuel Coope, Surgeon.
Eben Hutchison, Surgeon's Mate.
James Rosekrans, Captain.
John F. Hamtrach, Captain.
John Johnson, Captain.
Philip Dubois Bemis, Captain.
James Stewart, Captain.
40 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Henry W. Vanderburgh, Lieutenant.
Daniel Birdsall, 2d Lieutenant.
James Betts, 2d Lieutenant.
Barthol Vanderburgh, Ensign.
Francis Hanner, Ensign.
New York Artillery Detachment
(Col. John Lamb's Regiment)
Isiah Wool, Captain.
Thomas Machin, Captain.
Elisha Harvey, Lieutenant.
End of Roster
For a faithful and interesting account of the great
march of "John Sullivan and his Men" into that primeval
wilderness,
"Where Onondaga and Mohawk brave,
Oneida, Cayuga and Seneca founded
That union of Tribes that terror gave.
Where the Tuscarora war whoop sounded,"
let us turn to the Journal of Lieut. Colonel Adam Hubley.
Colonel Hubley, as we have seen, by our perusal of
the Roster, was the Commander of the 11th Pennsylvania
Regiment, and he tells the story of the great march in a
quaint and interesting style.
CHAPTER III
In Which Colonel Hubley Tells the Story
Sullivan's General Orders
"Headquarters, Easton.
May 24, A.D., 1779.
WHEN the army shall be fully assembled the fol-
lowing arrangements are to take place :
Light corps, commanded by Gen. Hand, to con-
sist of: Armandt's, Hubley's, Shott's, 6 Companies of
Rangers, Wm. Butler's battalion, Morgan's corps, and
all Volunteers who may join the army.
Maxwell's Brigade consists of: Dayton, Shreeve,
Ogden, Spencer, forming right of the first line.
Poor's Brigade consists of: Cilley, Reed, Scammel,
Courtland, and form left of first line. Livingston, Du-
bois, Gainsworth, Olden, and form second line of reserve.
The right of the first line to be covered by 100 men
draughted from Maxwell's brigade, the left to be covered
by 100 men detached from Poor's Brigade, each flank of
the second line to be covered by 50 men detached from
Clinton's brigade, the flanking division on the right to
consist of Hubley's regiment, and a draught from the line
of 100 men, the flanking division on left to consist of the
German battalion, and 100 draughted men from the line.
order of march
The light corps will advance by the right of companies
in files, and keep at least one mile in front. Maxwell's
41
42 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
brigade will advance by its right in files, sections, or
platoons, as the country will admit. Poor's brigade
will advance by its left in the same manner. Clinton's
brigade will advance by the right of regiment ia platoons,,
files, or sections, as the country will admit. All the cover-
ing parties and flanking divisions on the right wiU advance
by their left; those on the left of the army will advance
by their right. The artillery and pack horses are to
march in the centre.
Should the army be attacked in front while on its march,
the light corps will immediately form to repulse the
enemy, the flanking division will endeavor to gain the
flanks and rear of the enemy. While the line is forming
the pack horses will, in all cases, fall into the position
represented on the annexed plan. Should the enemy
attack on either flank, the flanking division attacked
will form a front, and sustain the attack tiU reinforced —
in which case a part of the light corps is to be immediately
detached to gain the enemy's flank and rear, the covering
parties of the 2d line to move to gain the other flank.
Should the enemy attack our rear, the 2d luie will face
and form a front to the enemy, the covering parties of the
first line will move to sustain it, while the flanking division
face about and endeavor to gain their flank and rear.
Should the light troops be driven back, they wiU pass
through the intervals of the main army, and form in the
rear. Should the enemy in an engagement with the
army, when formed, endeavor either flank, the covering
party will move up to lengthen the line, and so much as
may be found necessary from the flanking division will
display outwards to prevent the attempt from succeeding.
The hght corps will have their advance and flank guards
at a good distance from their main body. The flanking
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 43
division will furnish flank guards, and the 2d line a rear
guard for the main army.
When we find that the light corps are engaged in front,
the front of the pack horses halt, and the rear close up,
while the columns move in a proper distance, close and
display, which will bring the horses in the position they
are on the plan for the order of battle. Should the
attack be made on either, in flank or in rear, the horses
must be kept in the position they are at the commence-
ment of the attack, unless other orders are then given.
John Sullivan."
This is Colonel Hubley's Journal, just as he wrote it
from day to day.
Wyoming, July 30th, 1779. — Wyoming is situated
in the east side of the east branch of the Susquehanna,
the town consisting of about seventy houses, chiefly, log
buildings; besides these buildings there are sundry larger
ones which were erected by the army for the purpose
of receiving stores, etc., a large bake and smoke house.
There is likewise a small fort erected in the town,
with a strong abatta around it, and a small redoubt to
shelter the iohabitants in cases of an alarm. This fort is
garrisoned by 100 men, draughted from the western army,
and put imder the command of Col. Zeb's Butler. I can-
not omit taking notice of the poor inhabitants of the town :
two-thirds of them are widows and orphans, who, by the
vile hands of the savages, have not only deprived some
of tender husbands, some of indulgent parents, and others
of affectionate friends and acquaintances, besides robbed
and plundered of all their furniture and clothing. In
short, they are left totally dependent on the public, and
are become absolute objects of charity.
44 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
The situation of this place is elegant and delightful.
It composes an extensive valley, bounded both on the
east and west side of the river by large chains of mountains.
The valley, a mere garden, of an excellent rich soil abound-
ing with large timber of all kinds, and through the center
the east branch of the Susquehanna.
Wyoming, July 31st, 1779. — ^Agreeable to orders,
marched the western army under the command of Major
General Sullivan, from this place to Tioga.
Took up the line of march about one o'clock p. m.,
viz., light corps advanced in front of main body about a
mile; vanguard, consisting of twenty -four men, under
command of a sub-altem, and Poor's brigade (main body),
followed by packhorses and cattle, after which one
complete regiment, taken alternately from Maxwell's
and Poor's brigade (composed the rear guard).
Observed the country to be much broken and mountain-
ous; wood chiefly low, and composed of pine only. I was
struck on this day's march with the ruias of many houses,
chiefly built of logs, and uninhabited; though poor, yet
happy in their situation, until that horrid engagement,
when the British tyrant let loose upon them his emissaries,
the savages of the wood, who not only destroyed and laid
waste those cottages, but in cool blood massacred and cut
off the iahabitants, not even sparing gray locks or helpless
infancy.
About 4 o'clock, p. m., arrived at a most beautiful plain,
covered with an abundance of grass, soil excessively rich,
through which runs a delightful stream of water, known
by the name of Lackawanna; crossed the same, and
encamped about one mile on the northern side of it,
advanced about one-half mile in front of main body;
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 45
after night fell in with rain — continued until morning.
Distance of march this day, 10 miles.
Sunday, August 1st. — Continued at Lackawanna
waiting for the fleet, which, by reason of coilsiderable
rapids, was detained until nearly 12 o'clock this day
before the van could possibly cross there. In getting
through, lost two boats, chief of their cargoes were saved.
About 2 o'clock p, m., the whole arrived opposite our
encampment, in consequence of which received orders
for a march, struck tents accordingly, and moved about
2 o'clock p. M. About one mile from the encampment,
entered the narrows on the river, first detachment and left
column under command of Capt. Burk, to join the right
column of light corps, and across the mountain, which
was almost inaccessible, in order to cover the army from
falling in an ambuscade. Whilst passing through the
defile found passage though exceeding difficult and
troublesome, owing to the badness of the path; we passed
by a most beautiful cataract called the Spring Falls.
To attempt a description of it would be almost presump-
tion. Let this short account thereof sufiice. The first
or upper fall thereof is nearly ninety feet perpendicular,
pouring from a solid rock, uttering forth a most beautiful
echo, and is received by a cleft of rocks considerably more
projected than the former, from whence it rolls gradually
and empties into the Susquehanna. Light corps passed
and got through the defile about 6 o'clock p. m. ; arrived
about dusk at a place called Quilutimunk, and encamped
one mile in front of the place, occupied that night by the
maia army.
The main army, on account of the difficult passage,
marched nearly all night before they reached their encamp-
46 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
ing ground. Great quantities of baggage being dropped
and left lying that night obliged us to continue on this
ground. AU the preceding day numbers of our pack
horses were sent back and employed iu bringing on the
scattered stores, etc.; distance of march this day about
7 miles; fine clear evening. Quilutimunk is a spot of
ground situate on the river; fine, open and clear; quantity,
about 1200 acres; soil very rich, timber fine, grass in
abundance, and contains several exceedingly fine springs.
Monday, August 2d. — ^In consequence of the difficult
and tedious march the preceding day, the army received
orders to continue on the ground this day, in the mean-
time to provide themselves with five days provision,
and getting every other matter in perfect readiness for a
march next morning at 6 o'clock. Nothing material
happened during our stay on this ground.
Tuesday 3d. — ^Agreeable to orders took up the line of
march at 6 o'clock, A. M. Took the mountaias after we
assembled — ^found them exceedingly level for at least six
miles. Land tolerable, the timber, viz., pine and white
oak, chiefly large. About three miles from Quilutimimk
we crossed near another cataract, which descended the
mountain in three successive falls, the least of which is
equal if not superior to the one already described. Al-
though it is not quite so high, it is much wider, and Hke-
wise empties into the Susquehanna, seemingly white as
milk. They are commonly known by the name of Butter-
milk Falls.
About 12 o'clock we descended the mountains near the
river; marched about one mile on flat piece of ground,
and arrived at Tunkhannunk, a beautiful stream of water
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 47
SO called, which empties into the Susquehanna; crossed
the same, and encamped on the river about 1 o'clock,
p. M. Nothing material happened this day excepting
a discovery of two Indians by the party on the west side
of the river, Indians finding themselves rather near the
party were obUged to leave their canoe, and make through
the mountains. Party took possession of the canoe,
and brought it to their encamping place, for that evening
immediately opposite the main army. Distance of march
this day, 12 miles.
Wednesday 4th. — ^The army was in motion 5 o'clock,
A. M., and moved up the river for three miles, chiefly on
the beach, close under an almost inaccessible mountain.
We then ascended the same with the greatest diflaculty,
and continued on it for nearly seven miles. A consider-
able distance from the river the path along the mountain
was exceedingly rough, and carried through several very
considerable swamps, in which were large morasses. The
land in general thin and broken, abounds in wild deer
and other game. We then descended the mountains,
and, at the foot of it crossed a small creek called
Massasppi, immediately where it empties into the river.
We then continued up the same until we made Van-
derlip's farm, discovered several old Indian encamp-
ments; one of them appeared to have been very large.
The land, after crossing Massasppi, was exceedingly
fine and rich, the soil very black and well timbered,
chiefly with black walnut, which are remarkably large,
some not less than six feet over, and excessively high.
It is likewise well calculated for making fine and extensive
meadows. The main army took post for this night on
Vanderlip's farm, and the infantry advanced about one
48 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
mile higher up, and encamped about 1 o'clock p. m.,
on a place known by the name of Williamson's farm.
Distance marched this day, 14 miles; fine clear day, very
hot.
Thursday 5th. — In consequence of orders issued last
evening to march this morning at 5 o'clock, we struck
tents and loaded baggage. But the boats being consider-
ably impeded by the rapidness of the water some miles
below our encampment, could not reach us, and we were
obliged to halt all night. Did not join us until 9 o'clock,
A. M., all which time we were obliged to halt. On their
arrival the whole army was put in motion, and as more
danger on this day's iparch was apprehended than any
before, the following distribution of the army took place,
viz. : the right and left columns of the hght corps, con-
ducted by Gen. Hand, moved along the top of a very
high mountain; main body of light , corps, under Col.
Hubley's command, with an advance of twenty-four men,
moved on the beach several miles on the edge of the
water. The main army, followed by the baggage, etc.,
flanked on their right by four hundred men, who had
likewise to take this mountain. Thus we moved for
several miles, then arrived in a small valley called Depue's
farm; the land very good. Observed and reconnoitered
this ground for some distance, it being the place in which
Col. Hartley was attacked by the savages last year, on
his return from Tioga to Wyoming. The country being
fine and open, some loss was sustained on both sides;
the savages at last gave way, and Col. Hartley pursued
his route to Wyoming without further molestation.
Continued our march for about one mile, and formed a
junction with the parties on the right flank, ascended a
STANDING STONE ROCK
In the Susquehanna River, near Standing Stone, Pa. It is about six feet wide,
twenty-five feet high, and is mentioned in Col. Hubley's Journal.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 49
high mountain, and marched for some miles on the same.
Land poor, timber but small, chiefly pine, after which
descended the mountain nearly one mile in length, and
arrived in a fine large valley, known by the name of
Wyalusing. The main army took post at this place, and
the infantry ad' iced about one mile in front of them,
and encamped about 2 o'clock, p. m. Clear but very
warm day; distance of march this day, 103^ miles.
This valley was formerly called Oldman's farm, occu-
pied by the Indians and white people; together, they had
about sixty houses, a considerable Moravian meeting
house, and sundry other public buildings; but since the
commencement of the present war the whole has been
consumed and laid waste, partly by the savages and partly
by our own people. The land is extraordinarily calculated
chiefly for meadows. The grass at this time is almost
beyond description, high and thick, and chiefly blue grass,
and the soil of the land very rich. The valley contains
about 1200 acres of land, bounded on one side by an
almost inaccessible mountain, and on the other by the
river Susquehanna.
Feiday, Aug. 6th. — The boats not arriving before late
this day, the army received orders to continue on the
ground. In the meantime to be provided with three
days proAasions, get their arms and accoutrements in
perfect order, and be in readiness for a march early to-
morrow morning. A sub. and twenty-four men from my
regiment reconnoitered vicinity of camp; returned in the
evening; made no discoveries. Rain all night.
Satxjhday 7th. — ^The heavy rain last night and this
morning rendered it utterly impossible to march this,
day; continued on the ground for further orders.
50 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
A captain and thirty men from my regiment recon-
noitered vicinity of camp; made no discoveries.
This day received a letter (by express) from His Excel-
lency Gen. Washington, dated Head Quarters, at New
Windsor.
Sunday 8th. — ^The army moved (in the same order as
on 5th) this morning at 5 o'clock; crossed Wyalusing
creek, and ascended an extensive mountain, the top
remarkably level; land poor, and timber small. Arrived
about 10 o'clock, a. m., at the north end, and descended
the same close on the river side, and continued along the
beach for some distance, after which we entered an exten-
sive valley or plain, known by the name of Standing Stone;
made a halt here for about half an hour for refreshments.
This place derives its name from a large stone standing
erect in the river immediately opposite this plain. It is
near twenty feet in height, fourteen feet in width, and three
feet in depth. This valley abounds in grass, the land
exceedingly fine, and produces chiefly white oak, black
walnut, and pine timber. After refreshment, continued
our march along the same valley; land not quite so fine.
Arrived about 3 o'clock, p. m., at a small creek called
Wesauking; crossed the same, and encamped about one
mile beyond it, and immediately on the river.
Four o'clock, p. m. Since our arrival at this place
some of my officers discovered a small Indian encamp-
ment, seemingly occupied but a few days since; found
near the same a neat canoe, which they brought off.
This morning the scout (of three men) sent up to Sheshe-
quin some days since, returned without making any
discoveries.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 51
General Sullivan, on account of his indisposition, came
on in the boat.
Monday, August 9th. — ^The boats not being able to
reach Wesauking, the ground on which light corps en-
camped preceding evening. The main body ia conse-
quence thereof took post and encamped at Standing
• Stone, about three miles below light corps encampment,
for protection of the boats.
The light corps, on account of their detached situation
from main body the preceding evening, and apprehending
some danger, being considerably advanced in the enemy's
country, for their greater security, stood under arms
from 3 o'clock, a. m., until daylight, when they dismissed,
with orders to hold themselves in readiness at a moment's
warning. Previous to their dismissal my light infantry
was sent out to reconnoitre the vicinity of encampment;
returned about 7 o'clock, a. m., made no discovery.
This morning, 9 o'clock, boats hove in sight, in conse-
quence thereof received orders to strike tents, and be in
readiness for march; main army in the meantime arrived
about 10 o'clock; The whole was in motion, marched
through a difficult swamp; at north of same crossed a
small stream, and ascended a hiU; lands poor, and wood
but indifferent. About 12 o'clock, p. m., descended the
same, and entered a small valley; continued about half
a mile, when we ascended a very remarkable high
mountain, generally known by the name of Break Neck
Hill.
This mountain derives its name from the great height,
of the difficult and narrow passage, not more than one
foot wide, and a remarkable precipice which is immediately
perpendicular, and not less than 180 feet deep. One
miss-step must inevitably carry you from top to bottom
52 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
without the least hope of chance of recovery. At north
end of same entered a mountainous and beautiful valley
called Sheshecununk. General Sullivan, with a number
of officers, made a halt here at a most beautiful run of
water, took a bite of dinner, and proceeded on along the
valley, which very particularly struck my attention.
Any quantity of meadow may be made here; abounds with
all kinds of wood, particularly white oak, hickory, and
black walnut; the ground covered vdth grass and pea
vines; the soil in general rich. About 4 o'clock, p. m.,
arrived on the bank of the river; the whole encamped in
a luie on the most beautiful plaia; consists chiefly in
meadows, the grass remarkable, thick and high. On our
arrival here made discoveries of some new Indian tracks,
places on which fire had just been, and fresh boughs cut,
and prepared as if the place had just been occupied a few
hoixrs before our arrival. Distance of march this day,
9J^ miles.
Tuesday, August 10th. Set ia with rain, and boats
not reaching this place before 9 o'clock this morning,
army received orders to continue on the ground imtil
further orders. Men drew and cooked two days provi-
sions.
One regiment from each of the brigades attended General
Sullivan. The general and field officers of the army
whilst they were reconnoitering the river and groimd
near Tioga branch, about three miles above this place,
returned without any discoveries worthy of remark, about
4 o'clock, p. M.
Wednesday, August 11th. — ^Agreeable to orders the
army moved this morning at 8 o'clock, a. m. in the usual
order. Light corps moved half an hour before the main
The boufder that marks the hortfi point of Fort Sullivan, at Tioga Point,
(Athens, Pa.) placed by the Tioga Point Chapter, D. A. R., in 1902.
OUTLINE OF FORT SULLIVAN AT TIOGA POINT
(Now Athens, Pa.)
I, 2, 3. and 4, Blockhouses
M — ^Marker shown on reverse page.
Drawn by I. C. King, 1914, from details furnished by the author.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 53
army, took post on the banks of the river near the fording
place. On the arrival of the main army and boats. Col.
Forest drew up his boat at the fording place, and fixed
several six pounders on the opposite shore to scour the
woods and thickets, and prevent any ambuscade from
taking place. In the meantime the light corps marched by
platoons, linked together, on account of the rapidity of
the water, and forded the same, and effected a landing
about 9 o'clock; they immediately advanced about one
hundred yards from the river, and formed a line of battle,
in order to cover the landing of the main army, which
was safely effected about 10 o'clock, a. m., after which
came on pack horses, cattle, etc., covered by a regiment
which composed the rear guard. About half past ten
o'clock the whole moved in following order.
Previous to our arrival on the flats we had to pass about
one and a half mile through a dark, difficult swamp, which
was covered with weeds and considerable underwood,
interspersed with large timber, chiefly buttonwood. We
then entered the flats near the place on which Queen
Esther's palace stood, and was destroyed by Col. Hartley's
detachment last fall. The grass is remarkable thick and
high. We continued along the same for about one mile,
and arrived at the entrance of Tioga branch into Susque-
hanna about 1 o'clock; we crossed the same, and landed
on a peninsula of land which extends towards Chemung,
and is bounded on the east by Susquehanna, and on the
west by Tioga branch, and continued up the same for
about two miles and a half and encamped. This penin-
sula is composed of excellent meadow and upland; grass
is plenty, and timber of all kinds, and soil in general good;
distance of march this day, three miles. Since our arrival
a scout of eight men was ordered up to reconnoitre Che-
V/
54 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
mung, and endeavor to make discoveries of the number of
savages, and their situation, if possible.
Thuesdat, August 12th. — ^Tioga Plain. This being
a plain calculated to cover the western army during the
expedition to the northern part of it, a garrison for that
purpose is to remain until our return. Sundry works
for the security of the same are now erecting about two
and a halt miles distant from where Tioga branch empties
into the Susquehanna, and where the two rivers are about
190 yards distant from each other; these works extend
from river to river.
Capt. Cummings with his scout (sent out last evening)
returned this day at 11 o'clock, a. m., made several dis-
coveries at Chemung; an Indian village twelve miles
distance from this place; in consequence of which a
council of war sat, and determined an expedition should
immediately take place for the reduction of the same.
The army (two regiments excepted) received orders to
be in readiness for an immediate march. Eight o'clock,
p. M., the whole were in motion, and proceeded for
Chemung.
August 13th, 1779. — ^Eight o'clock, p.m., the army
having marched last evening in the following order, viz..
Light corps, under command of Gen. Hand, led the van,
then followed Gens. Poor and Maxwell's brigades, which
formed main body, and corps de reserve, the whole under
the immediate command of Maj. Gen. Sullivan. The
night being excessively dark, and the want of proper
guides, impeded our march, besides which we had several
considerable defiles to march through, that we could
not possibly reach Chemung till after daylight. The
morning being foggy favoured our enterprise. Our pilot,
on our arrival, from some disagreeable motions he felt.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 55
could not find the town. We discovered a few huts,
which we surrounded, but found them vacated; after
about one hour's march we came upon the main town.
The following disposition for surprising the same was
ordered to take place, viz: Two regiments, one from the
light corps, and one from main body, were ordered to
cross the river and prevent the enemy from making their
escape that way, should they still hold the town. The
remainder of the light corps, viz., two independent
companies, and my regiment, under command of Hand,
were to make the attack on the town. Gen. Poor was
immediately to move up and support the light corps.
We moved in this order accordingly, but the savages
having probably discovered our scouting party the
preceding day, defeated our enterprise by evacuating the
village previous to our coming, carrying off with them
nearly all their furniture and stock, and leaving an empty
village only, which fell an easy conquest about 5 o'clock
A. M. The situation of this village was beautiful; it
contained fifty or sixty houses, built of logs and frames,
and situate on the banks of Tioga branch, and on a most
fertile, beautiful, and extensive plain, the lands chiefly
calculated for meadows, and the soil rich.
The army continued for some small space in the town.
Gen. Hand, in the meantime, advanced my light infantry
company, under Capt. Bush, about one mile beyond the
village, on a path which leads to a small Indian habita-^-
tion, called Newtown. On Capt. Bush's arrival, there he
discovered fires burning, an Indian dog, which lay asleep,
a number of deer skins, some blankets, etc.; he im-
mediately gave information of his discoveries, in conse-
quence of which the remainder part of the light corps,
viz.: the two independent companies, and my regiment,
56 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
under Gen. Hand's command, were ordered to move some
miles up the path, and endeavor, if possible, to make
some discoveries. We accordingly proceeded on in the
following order, viz: Captain Walker, with twenty-
four men, composed the van, the eleventh regiment,
under my command, after which the two independent
companies, the whole covered on the left by Tioga branch,
and on the right by Capt. Bush's infantry company of
forty men. In this order we moved somewhat better
than a mile beyond this place. The first fires were
discovered when our van was fired upon by a party of
savages, who lay concealed on a high hill immediately
upon our right, and which Capt. Bush had not yet made. <. i
We immediately formed a front with my regiment,
pushed up the hill with a degree of intrepidity seldom to
be met with, and under a very severe fire from the savages.
Capt. Bush, in the meantime, endeavored to gain the
enemy's rear. They, seeing the determined resolution
of our troops, retreated; and, according to custom,
previous to our dislodging them, carried off their wounded
and dead, by which means they deprived us from coming
to the knowledge of their wounded and dead. The
ground on the opposite side of the mountain or ridge,
on which the action commenced, being composed of
swamp or low ground, covered with underwood, etc.,
favored their retreat, and prevented our pursuing them,
by which means they got off.
Our loss on this occasion, which totally (excepting two)
fell on my regiment, was as follows, viz: two captains,
one adjutant, one guide, and eight privates wounded,
and one sergeant, one drummer, and four privates killed.
Officers' names: Captain Walker (slight wound). Captain
Carberry, and Adjt. Huston (I fear mortal).
THE OLD ATHENS ACADEMY
Which stands near the site of "Fort SulUvan" at Tioga Point, (Athens, Pa.).
Built in 1798, nineteen years after the expedition.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 57
After gaining the summit of the hill, and dislodging
the enemy, we marched by the right of companies in eight
columns, and continued along the same line until the
arrival of General Sullivan. We then halted for some
little time, and then returned to the village, which was
instantly laid in ashes, and a party detached to cross the
river to destroy the corn, beans, etc., of which there were
several very extensive fields, and those articles in the
greatest perfection. Whilst the troops were engaged in
this business, Gens. Poor and Maxwell's brigades were
fired upon, lost one man, killed, and several wounded.
The whole business being completed, we returned to the
ruins of the village, halted some time and received orders
to return to Tioga plain, at which place we arrived at
8 o'clock, considerably fatigued. Lest the savages
should discover our loss, after leaving the place, I had the
dead bodies of my regiment carried along, fixed on horses,
and brought to this place for interment. The expedition
from the first to the last continued twenty -four hours,
of which time my regiment was employed, without the
least intermission, twenty-three hours; the whole of our
march not less than forty mUes.
Saturday, August 14th. — ^This morning 10 o'clock,
A. M., had the bodies of those brave veterans, who so
nobly distinguished themselves, and bravely fell in the
action of yesterday, interred with military honors (firing
excepted). Parson Rogers delivered a small discourse
on the occasion.
Was employed a greater part of the day in writing to
my friends at Lancaster and Philadelphia, which were
forwarded the same evening.
Sunday 15th. — ^Agreeable to orders of yesterday,
seven hundred men were ordered to march on the grand
58 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
parade for inspection, and to be furnished with ammuni-
tion and eight days provision, for the purpose of marching
up the Susquehanna and meeting General CUnton, who
is now on his march to form a junction with this army.
Two o'clock, p. M., a firing was heard on the west side
of Tioga branch, immediately opposite our encampment.
A number of Indians under cover of a high mountain,
advanced on a large meadow or flat of ground, on which
our cattle and horses were grazing. Unfortunately, two
men wsre there to fetch some horses, one of which was
killed and scalped, the other slightly woimded, but got
clear. One bullock was likewise killed, and several
public horses taken off. My regiment was ordered in
pursuit of them; we accordingly crossed the branch and
ascended the mountain, marched along the summit of
the same for upwards of two miles in order to gain their
rear; but the enemy having too much start got clear.
After scouring the mountains and valleys near the same,
we returned, much fatigued, about 5 o'clock, p. m.
Monday 16th. — The detachment under General Poor's
command agreeable to orders, moved this day, 1 o'clock,
p. M., up the Susquehanna for the purpose of forming a
junction with Gen. Clinton.
Several of our continentals alarmed the camp by firing
off several guns about 1 o'clock in the morning, in conse-
quence of which light corps stood under arms. Several
patrols were sent out to reconnoitre the front of encamp-
ment, returned near day -break, but made no discoveries —
alarm proved premature. Gen. Hand, being ordered
with the detachment under Gen. Poor, the command of
light corps devolved on me during his absence.
Tuesday, 17th. — Seven o'clock, p. m., a firing was
heard about five hundred yards immediately in front of
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 59
light corps' encampment. A party of fifty men was im-
mediately detached to endeavor to find out the cause of
it; returned at 8 o'clock, p. m.; reported that a party
of Indians, eleven in number, had waylaid a few pack
horsemen, who were just returning with their horses from
pasture; that they had killed and scalped one man, and
Wounded another; the wounded man got safe to camp,
and the corpse of the other was likewise brought in.
An alarm was fired by a continental about 11 o'clock,
p. M., but proved false.
Wednesday, 18th. — In order to entrap some of those
savages who keep sneaking about the encampment, the
following parties ordered out for that purpose, and to
be relieved daily by an equal number until we leave this
ground, viz: one subaltern and twenty men on the
mountain opposite the encampment; one subaltern and
twenty men on the island,' about a mile and a half above
the encampment, on Tioga branch, and one subaltern
and twenty men in the woods, about one and a half
immediately in front of light corps' encampment, with
orders to waylay and take every other means to take them.
" This day, by particular request of several gentlemen,
a discourse was delivered in the Masonic form, by Dr.
Rogers, on the death of Captain Davis of the 11th Penn.,
and Lieutenant Jones of the Delaware regiments, who
were, on the 23d of April last, most cruelly and inhumanly
massacred and scalped by the savages, emissaries em-
ployed by the British king, as they were marching with
a detachment for the relief of the garrison at Wyoming.
Those gentlemen were both members of that honour-
able and ancient Society of Freemen. A number of
brethren attended on this occasion in proper form, and
the whole was conducted with propriety and harmony.
60 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Text preached on this solemn occasion was the first
clause in the 7th verse of the 7th chapter of Job, "Remem-
ber my life is but wind."
Thuksdat, 19th. — ^Nothing remarkable this day.
Friday, 20th. — ^This day arrived Lieut. Boyd, of
Col. Butler's regiment, with accounts of Gen. Clinton's
movements on the Susquehanna, and that a junction
was formed by him with Gen. Poor's detachment,
Chokoanut, about thirty-five miles from this place.
Rain very heavy chief part of the day.
Saturday, 21st. — The detachments imder Gens. Clin-
ton and Poor, on account of the very heavy rain yesterday,
did not reach this encampment as was expected.
Sunday, 22d. — This day, 10 o'clock, a. m.. Gens.
Clinton and Poor's detachments, with about two hundred
and twenty boats, passed light corps' encampment for
the main army, about one and a half miles in their rear.
On their passing, they were saluted with thirteen rounds
from the park; the light corps being likewise drawn up,
and received them in proper form, with Col. Proctor's
music, and drums and fifes beating and playing.
Monday, 23d. — This day a most shocking affair hap-
pened, by an accident of a gun, which went off, the ball
of which entered a tent in which was Capt. Kimball, of
Gen. Poor's brigade, and a lieutenant; the captain was
unfortunately killed, and the lieutenant wounded.
Gen. Clinton, having formed a junction with the army
at this place yesterday, the following alterations in the
several brigades were ordered to take place, viz: Col.
Courtland's rtegiment to be annexed to General Clinton's,
Colonel, Older to General Poor's, and Colonel Butler's
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 61
regiment, with Major Parr's corps, to General Hand's
brigade.
Tuesday, 24th.— This day employed hands to make
bags for the purpose of carrying flour; hands employed
aU day and night in this business.
Agreeable to orders a signal gun was fired for the whole
army to strike tents, 5 o'clock, p. m., and marched some
distance in order to form the Une of march. Seven
o'clock, p. M., another signal was fired for the army to
encamp in proper order, and to be in readiness for an
immediate march. Col. Butler's regiment, with Major
Parr's riflemen, joined light corps, and encamped with
them this day, 7 o'clock, p. m.
Colonel Shrieve took command of Fort SuUivan this
day agreeable to orders. Flying hospital and stores
were moved this day to the garrison.
Wednesday, 25th. — ^This morning was entirely devoted
to packing up and getting everything in readiness for an
immediate march. A heavy rain fell in at 11 o'clock,
contiQued greater part of the day, which prevented our
movements.
Thursday, 26th. — The army not being perfectly ready
to march at 8 o'clock, a. m., agreeable to yesterday's
orders, the signal gun for march was not fired untU 11
o'clock, when the whole took up the luie of march ia the
following order, namely, light corps, conamanded by
Gemeral Hand, marched in six columns, the right com-
manded by Colonel Butler, and the left by myseh. Major
Parr, with the riflemen, dispersed considerably ia front
of the whole, with orders to reconnoitre aU mountains,
defiles, and other suspicious places, previous to the arrival
of the army, to prevent any surprise or ambuscade from
taking place. The pioneers, xmder command of a cap-
62 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
tain, subaltern, then followed after, which preceded the
park of artillery; then came on the main army, in two
columns, in the center of which moved the pack horses
and cattle, the whole flanked on right and left by the
flanking divisions, commanded by Colonel Dubois and
Colonel Ogden, and rear brought up by General Clinton's
brigade; in this position the whole moved to the upper
end of Tioga flats, about three miles above Fort Sullivan,
where we encamped for this night.
This day disposed of one of my horses to Mr. Bond,
Captain, on account of his indisposition, obtained leave
to continue either at Fort Sullivan, or go to Wyoming,
until the return of the regiment from the expedition.
Friday, August 27th. — On account of some delays
this morning army did not move until half past eight
o'clock, A. M. Previous to the march the pioneers, imder
cover of the rifle corps, were advanced to the first and
second defile, or narrows, some miles in front of our
encampment, where they were employed in mending and
cutting a road for the pack to pass. The army marched
in same order of yesterday, the country through which
they had to pass being exceediagly moimtaLaous and rough,
and the slow movements of the pack considerably im-
peded the march. About 7 o'clock, p. M., we arrived
near the narrows, at the lower end of Chemung, where
we encamped in the following order; light corps near
the entrance of the defile or narrows, and in front of some
very extensive corn-fields, some refugee Tories, now
acting with the favour of the main army, about one mile
in our rear, and immediately fronting the corn-fields.
After campiag had an agreeable repast of com, potatoes,
beans, cucumbers, watermelons, squashes, and other
vegetables, which were in great plenty, (produced) from
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 63
the corn-fields already mentioned, and in the greatest
perfection; distance of march this day, six miles.
Saturday, August 28th. — ^Fore part of this day being
employed by the general and principal officers of the army
in reconnoitering the river and finding out some fording
place for the artillery, pack horses, and cattle to cross,
to gain Chemung, the defile or narrows mentioned in my
yesterday's journal being so excessively narrow, and,
indeed, almost impracticable for them to pass.
The following disposition for the marching of the army
took place accordingly, namely: The rifle corps, with
General Maxwell's brigade, and left flanking division of
the army, covering the park, pack horses, and cattle,
crossed to the west side of the river, and about one and a
half mile above recrossed the same, and formed a junc-
tion on the lower end of Chemung flats with the light
corps, Generals Poor and Clinton's brigades, and right
flanking division of the army, who took their route across
an almost inaccessible mountain, on the east side of the
river, the bottom of which forms the narrows already
mentioned. The summit was gained with the greatest
difficulty; on the top of the mountain the lands, which
are level and extensive, are exceedingly rich with large
timber, chiefly oak, interspersed with underwood and
excellent grass. The prospect from this mountain is
most beautiful; we had a view of the coimtry of at least
twenty miles round; the fine, extensive plains, inter-
spersed with streams of water, made the prospect pleasing
and elegant from this mountain. We observed, at some
considerable distance, a number of clouds of smoke arisiag,
where we concluded the enemy to be encamped.
Previous to the movement of the army this day, a
small party of men were sent across the river in order
64 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
to destroy some few Indian huts, which were immediately
opposite our encampment. Before the business was quite
effected they were fired upon by a party of Indians, who,
after giving the fire, immediately retreated; the party
executed their orders, and all returned unhurt to the
army.
The scout sent out last evening to reconnoitre the
enemy near Newtown (an Indian village so called)^ returned
this day, and reported they discovered a great number of
fires, and that they supposed, from the extensive piece
of ground covered by the fires, the enemy must be very
formidable, and mean to give us battle. They hkewise
discovered four or five small scouting parties on their
way towards this place, it is supposed to reconnoitre our
army. Since our arrival here a great quantity of furni-
ture was found, by our soldiers which was concealed in the
adjacent woods. After forming the junction above
mentioned we took up the line of march, and moved to
the upper Chemung town, and encamped about 6 o'clock^
p. M., for this night. Distance of march on a straight
course, about two miles.
From the great quantities of com and other vegetables
here and in the neighborhood, it is supposed they intended
to establish their principal magazine at this place, which
seems to be their chief rendezvous, whenever they intend
to go to war; it is the key to the Pennsylvania and New
York frontier. The com already destroyed by our
army is not less than 5,000 bushels upon a moderate
calculation, and the quantity yet in the ground in this
neighborhood, is at least the same, besides which there
are vast quantities of beans, potatoes, squashes, pumpkins,
etc., which shared the fate of the corn.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 65
Sunday, August 29th. — ^This morning at 9 o'clock the
army moved in the same order of the 26 ; the riflemen were
well scattered in front of the light corps, who moved with
the greatest precision and caution. On our arrival near
the ridge on which the action of the 13th commenced
with light corps, our van discovered several Indians in
front, one of whom gave them a fire, and then fled. We
continued ^ our march for about one mile, the rifle corps
entered a low marshy ground which seemed weU calcu-
lated for forming ambuscades; they advanced with great
precaution, when several more Indians were discovered
who fired and retreated. Major Parr, from those cir-
cumstances, judged it rather dangerous to proceed any
further without taking every caution to reconnoitre
almost every foot of ground, and ordered one of his men
to mount a tree and see if he could make any discoveries;
after being some time on the tree he discovered the
movements of several Indians (which were rendered
conspicuous by the quantity of paint they had on them),
as they were laying behind an extensive breastwork,
which extended at least half a mile, and most artfully
covered with green boughs and trees, having their right
flank secured by the river, and their left by a mountain.
It was situated on a rising ground — about one hundred
yards in front of a difficult stream of water, bounded on
the marshy ground already mentioned on our side, and
on the other, between it and the breastwork, by an open
and clear fleld. Major Parr immediately gave intelli-
gence to General Hand of his discoveries, who im-
mediately advanced the light corps within about three
hundred yards of the enemy's works, and formed in line
of battle; the rifle corps, under cover, advanced, and
lay under the bank of the creek within one hundred yards
66 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
of the lines. Gen. Sullivan, having previous notice,
arrived with the main army, and ordered the following
disposition to take place: The rifle and light corps to
continue their position; the left flanking division under
command of Colonel Ogden, to take post on the left flank
of the light corps, and General Maxwell's brigade, some
distance in the rear, as a corps de reserve, and Colonel
Proctor's artillery in front of the light corps, and im-
mediately opposite the breastwork. A heavy fire en-
sued between the rifle corps and the enemy, but little
damage was done on either side. In the meantime.
Generals Poor and Clinton's brigades, with the right
flanking division, were ordered to march and gain, it
possible, the enemy's flank and rear, whilst the rifle and
light corps amused them Ln front. Col. Proctor had
orders to be in readiness with his artillery and attack the
lines, first allowing a sufficient space of time to Generals
Poor, etc., to gain their intended stations. About 3
o'clock, p. M., the artillery began their attack on the
enemy's works the rifle and light corps in the meantime
prepared to advance and charge; but the enemy, finding
their situation rather precarious, and our troops deter-
mined, left and retreated from their works with the great-
est precipitation, leaving behind them a number of
blankets, gun covers, and kettles, with corn boiling over
the fire. Generals Poor, etc., on account of several
difficulties which they had to surmount, could not effect
their designs, and the enemy probably having intelli-
gence of their approach, posted a number of troops on
the top of a mountain, over which they had to advance.
On their arrival near the summit of the same, the enemy
gave them a fire, and wounded several officers and soldiers.
General Poor pushed on and gave them a fire, as they
THE OLD SULLIVAN MONUMENT
On the Newtown battlefield, near Elmira, Chemung Co., N. Y. This picture
shows its condition in the go's. No trace of it now remains.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 67
retreated, and killed five of the savages. In course of
the day we took nine scalps (all savages) and two prison-
ers, who were separately examined, and gave the following
corresponding account; that the enemy were seven
hundred men strong, viz: five hundred savages, and two
hundred Tories, with about twenty British troops, com-
manded by a Seneca Chief, the two Butlers, Brandt, and
M'Donald.
The infantry pushed on towards Newtown; the main
army halted and encamped near the place of action, near
which were several extensive fields of corn and other
vegetables. About six o'clock, p. m., the infantry re-
turned and encamped near the main army.
The prisoners further informed us that the whole of
their party had subsisted on corn only for this fortnight
past, and that they had no other provisions with them;
and that their next place of rendezvous would be at
Catherines town, and Indian village about twenty-five
miles from this place.
Distance of march (exclusive of counter-marches)
this day, about eight miles.
Monday, August 30th. — On account of the great
quantities of com, beans, potatoes, turnips, and other
vegetables, in destroying of which the troops were em-
ployed, and the rain which set in after part of the day
obliged us to continue on the ground for this day and
night. The troops were likewise employed in drawing
eight days provisions (commencing 1st day of September).
The reason of drawing this great quantity at one time
was (however inconsistent with that economy which is
absolutely necessary in our present situation, considering
the extensive campaign before us, and the time of conse-
quence it will require to complete it), the want of pack
68 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
horses for transporting the same, and in order to expedite
this great point in view, are obliged to substitute our
soldiery for carrying the same.
From the great and unparalleled neglect of those per-
sons employed for the purpose of furnishing the western
army with everything necessary to enable them to carry
through the important expedition required of them.
General Sullivan was at this early period under the dis-
agreeable necessity of issuing the following address to the
army, which was communicated by the commanding
officers to their corps separately, viz :
GENERAL "SULLIVAN's ADDRESS
"The commander-in-chief informs the troops that he
used every effort to procure proper supphes for the
army, and to obtain a sufficient number of horses to
transport them, but owing to the inattention of those
whose business it was to make the necessary provision,
he failed of obtaining such an ample supply, as he wished,
and greatly fears that the supplies on hand will not,
without the greatest prudence, enable him to complete
the business of the expedition.
"He therefore requests the several brigadiers and
officers commanding corps to take the mind of the troops
under their respective commands, whether they will,
whilst in this country, which abounds with com and
vegetables of every kind, be content to draw one half
of flour, one half of meat, and salt a day. And he desires
the troops to give their opinions with freedom and as
soon as possible.
"Should they generally fall in with the proposal, he
promises that they shall be paid that part of the rations
which is held back at the full value in money.
THE NEW SULLIVAN MONUMENT
On the Newtown Battlefield, near Elmira, Chemung Co., N. Y. This monument
was erected in 1912 by the State of New York, at a cost of $20,000; it is
60 feet high, and is feet square at the base, and can be seen
for miles around.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 69
"He flatters himself that the troops who have dis-
covered so much bravery and firnmess will readily consent
to fall in with a measure so essentially necessary to
accomplish the important purpose of the expedition,
to enable them to add to the laurels they have already
gained.
"The enemy have subsisted for a number of days on
com only, without either salt, meat, or flour, and the
general cannot persuade himself that troops, who so far
surpass them in bravery and true valour, will suffer them-
selves to be outdone in that fortitude and perseverance,
which not only distinguishes but dignifies the soldier.
He does not mean to continue this through the campaign,
but only wishes it to be adopted in those places where
vegetables may supply the place of a part of the common
ration of meat and flour, which will be much better than
without any.
"The troops will please to consider the matter, and
give their opinion as soon as possible."
Agreeable to the above address, the army was drawn
up (this evening) in corps separately, and the same,
through their commanding oflBcers made known to them,
and their opinions requested thereupon, when the whole,
without a dissenting voice cheerfully agreed to the request
of the general, which they signified by unanimously
holding up their hands and giving three cheers.
This remarkable instance of fortitude and virtue
cannot but endear those brave troops to all ranks of
people, more particularly as it was so generally and
cheerfully entered into without a single dissenting voice.
Tuesday, August 31st. — ^Took up our line of march
in usual order at 9 o'clock, a. m.; marched about four
miles and a half through a broken and mountainous
70 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
country, and an almost continuous defile on the east
side of Cayuga branch, the west of the same for that dis-
tance was an excellent plain, on which large quantities
of com, beans, potatoes, and other vegetables stood,
and were destroyed by us the preceding day. We then
crossed Cayuga branch, where it forks with a stream of
water running east and west, and landed on a most beauti-
ful piece of coxmtry remarkably level. On the banks
of the same stood a small Indian village, which was im-
mediately destroyed. The soldiers found great quanti-
ties of furniture, etc., which was buried, some of which
they carried off, and some was destroyed. About 2
o'clock, p. M., we proceeded along the path which leads
to Catherines town (an Indian village), and leaves the
Cayuga branch on its left. About 5 o'clock, p. m., we
encamped on a most beautiful plain, interspersed with
marshes, well calculated for meadows. Wood chiefly
pine, interspersed with hazel bushes, and great quanti-
ties of grass; distance of march this day, 10 miles.
Wednesday, September 1st. — ^About 9 o'clock, p. m.,
whole army moved together in good order, on a level
piece of ground. About 11 o'clock, a. m., we entered an
extensive hemlock swamp, not less than six miles through;
the path though almost impassible, owing to the number
of defiles, long ranges of mountains, ravine after ravine,
interspersed with thick underwood, etc. The infantry,
with the greatest difficulty, got through about haH past
nine o'clock, p. m. The remainder of the army, with the
pack horses, cattle, etc., were chiefly the whole night
employed in getting through.
As the infantry were approachuig Catherines town we
were alarmed by the howling of dogs and other great
THE MARKER AT WYSOX, BRADFORD CO., PA.
Near the site of the Indian village of Wesauking. Placed by the Geo. Clyner
Chapter. D. A. R., in 1908.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 71
noise. A few of the riflemen were dispatched in. order
to reconnoitre the place. In the meantime we formed in
two solid columns, at fixed bayonets, with positive orders
not a man to fire his gun, but to rush on in case the enemy
should make a stand; but the riflemen, who had been sent
to reconnoitre the town, returned with the intelligence
the enemy had left it. We then immediately altered
our position on account of the narrowness of the road,
and marched in files through the first part of the town,
after which we crossed the creek; ia a field immediately
opposite, where there stood a number of houses also,
where we encamped, and substituted the timber of the
houses in room of fire-wood. On our arrival, we found
a number of fires burning, which appeared as if they had
gone off precipitately. This day's march completed
12 miles.
Thuksdat, Sept. 2d. — ^The dismal situation of our
pack horses and cattle, of which several were killed by
falling into ditches, and several otherwise disabled in
getting through this horrid swamp last evening, pre-
vented our march this morning. The fore part of this
day was entirely empl oyed in collecting them , which,
from their scaitered anJ dispersed situation, was attended
with the greatest difficulty.
We this morning found an old squaw, who, we suppose,
by reason of her advanced age, could not be carried off,
and therefore was left to our mercy. On examining her,
she informed us that the Indians, on our approach last
evening, went off very precipitately; that the women and
children had gone off in the morning to take shelter in
some mountains, until the army had passed them; that
Colonel Butler promised he would send back some war-
riors, who should conduct them bye-ways to some place
72 , A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
of safety. She further axids, that, previous to the squaws
going off, there was great contention with them and the
warriors about their going off; the former had determined
on staying and sulsmitting to our generosity; the latter
opposed it, and informed them that, by such a step,
the Americans would be able to bring them to any terms
they pleased; whereas, did they go off, they would have
it in their power to come to more favourable terms,
should a treaty of any kind be offered.
Catherines town is pleasantly situated on a creek,
about three miles from Seneca lake; it contained nearly
fifty houses, in general, very good — ^the coimtry near is
very excellent. We found several very fine corn-fields,
which afforded the greatest plenty of corn, beans, etc.,
of which, after our fatiguing march, we had an agreeable
repast. After getting everything in perfect readiness,
we_jo^L-U.P ourjmejjf march at 7 o'clock this morning..
The roads from this place for about one mile were rather
difficult and swampy. We then ascended a rising country,
which was, in general, level, excepting a few defiles which
we had to pass, but were by no reason dangerous or
difficult. The lands are rich, abounding with fine, large,
and clear timber, chiefly white oak, hickory, walnut,
and ash; bounded on the left for about three miles with
excellent marsh or meadow ground, after which proceeds
the beautiful Seneca lake, which abounds with all kinds
of fish, particularly salmon, trout, rock, that which
resembles perch, as also sheep-head.
Previous to our leaving this place, the squaw which
was taken here, was left, and a hut erected, of which she
took possession. A quantity of wood was also gathered
and carried to the hut for her use; she was also provided
with a quantity of provisions. All these favours had such
an effect on her that it drew tears from her savage eyes.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 73
It is about three miles in breadth, and about forty
miles in length. Upon the right, though considerably
up the country, is another delightful lake, called Kayuga
lake; abounds with all kinds of fish also, and is about
forty-six miles in length.
We proceeded along this beautiful country about twelve
miles, and encamped near a corn-field, on which stood
several Indian cabins; bearing between the light corps
and main army an advantageous ravine, and bounded
on our left by Seneca lake.
Previous to our arrival here the Indians who occupied
the cabins already mentioned, probably discovered our
approach, pushed off precipitately, leaving their ket-
tles with com boiling over the fire. During our march
that day we discovered several trees with the following
characters newly cut on them by those savages commanded
by Brandt and the Butlers, and with whom we had the
action on the 29th ultimo.
Satueday, Sept. 4th. — On account of the rain this
morning the army did not move until 10 o'clock, a. m.
We passed through a delightful level country, the soil
of which very rich, the timber fine and large, interspersed
with hazel bushes, fine grass and pea vines. On our
march we discovered several fires burning, which fully
intimated some of the savages were not far off in front of
us. We destroyed several fields of corn, and, after a
march.of thirteen' miles, we encamped in the woods, in the
front of a very large ravine, and about half a mile from
Seneca lake. On account of some difficulties with the
pack horses, etc., the main army did not reach so far as
the infantry, and encamped about two miles in their rear.
Sunday, Sept. 5th. — ^About 9 o'clock this morning the
army moved through a country much the same as yester-
74 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
day. About 12 o'clock we arrived at Canadia, about
three miles from the last encampment, where we encamped
for this night. Previous to our arrival we entered several
corn-fields, and furnished the men with two days allow-
ance of the same. The riflemen, who were advanced,
retook a prisoner who was taken last year by the savages
on the east branch of the Susquehanna. An Indian, who
lay concealed, fired, but without effect on our riflemen, and
immediately fled.
On examining the prisoner, he informed us that Brandt,
with near a thousand savages, including Butler's rangers,
left the town last Friday, seemingly much frightened and
fatigued — that they were pushing for Kanandauaga, an
Indian village, where they mean to make a stand and give
us battle. He further informs us that, exclusive of a
considerable number of savages killed and wounded in
the action of the 29th, seven Tories were killed; that all
their wounded, with some dead, were carried in canoes
up the Cayuga branch — that they allow they sustained a
very heavy loss in that action.
Canadia is much the finest village we have yet come to.
It is situated in a rising ground, in the midst of an exten-
sive apple and peach orchard, within half a mile of Seneca
lake; it contains about forty well finished houses, and
everything about it seems neat and well improved.
Monday, Sept. 6th. — ^The fore part of the day was
entirely employed in hunting up our horses and cattle,
a number of which were lost. About 2 o'clock we took
up our line of march, and moved about three miles,
where we encamped on a beautiful piece of wood land
(interspersed with vast quantities of pea vines, which
served for food for our horses), our rear covered by the
lake, our flank by considerable ravines.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 75
On the fourth, while on our march, several officers'
waiters, who had delayed in the rear, lost the path along
which the army moved, and, towards night, foimd them-
selves near an Indian village, which had been previously
evacuated. They foimd a quantity of plunder, which they
brought off, first putting the town in flames. A captain
and a party, on missing, being sent in pursuit, and fell
in with them as they were returning to the encamping
place occupied by the army the preceding day, and con-
ducted them safe to the army at Canadia.
An express from Tioga, where packets, etc., for the
army, arrived this day at head-quarters — received several
letters from my friends.
Tuesday, Sept. 7th. — ^At half past seven o'clock the
army moved and arrived at the head of the lake about
2 o'clock, p„M. The country we passed through was
exceedingly fine, and chiefly along the water for eight miles
and a half.
About 3 o'clock, p. m., the rifle and infantry corps
crossed at the mouth of the lake, abput knee deep, and
not above thirty yards wide. On our arrival on the
opposite shore, we immediately entered a dangerous and
narrow defile, bounded on the left by the head of Seneca
lake, and on our right by a large morass and flooded at
intervals, well calculated to form an ambuscade. From
every circumstance, both as to intelligence and the great
advantage the enemy might have had from its situation,
we fairly expected an attack . However, we moved through
in files, supported by the two flanking divisions, and gained
the other side. The main army then crossed, and took
our place. We then moved through a second deflle,
as difficult as the first, and formed again until the main
army possessed themselves of the same ground we had
76 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
just left. We then marched and passed a third defile,
and formed in a corn-field, near a large house, which was
beautifully situated on the head of the lake, and generally
occupied by Butler, one of the savage leaders.
The light corps, flanked by two flanking divisions,
received orders to move and gain the rear of the town.
The main army took the path, and marched immediately
in front of the same; but the enemy no doubt having
previous notice of our moTcments, had abandoned the
town, which we entered about dusk, leaving behind them
a number of bear and deer skins, and also a fine white
child of about three years old.
This town is called Kanadasaga, and appears to be one
of their capital settlements; about it is a fine apple or-
chard and a council house. There was in the neighbour-
hood a great quantity of corn, beans, etc., which, after
taking great quantities for the use of the army, we totally
destroyed; burned the houses, which were in number
about fifty, and girdled the apple trees. Distance of
march this day, about 12 miles.
Wednesday, Sept. 8th. — This day we lay on our
ground; the rifle corps, with several other parties, were
detached down the lake to destroy a small village, called
Gaghsiungua, and a quantity of corn, etc., in this neigh-
bourhood, and the army prepared for a march early
tomorrow morning.
Various opinions prevailed among many officers about
our proceeding any further on account of our provisions;
but General Sullivan, with a number of officers, nobly
resolved to encounter every difficulty to execute the
important expedition, and determined, notwithstanding
the horrid neglect in not furnishing us with provision,
horses, etc., sufficient to enable us to carry through the
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 77
expedition, even to proceed on with the scanty pittance,
and accomplish the arduous task of destroying the whole
Seneca country.
Thtjesdat, September 9th. — On account of a number
of pack horses which had gone astray and could not be
found, the army did not march at 6 o'clock agreeable to
yesterday's orders. A command of fifty men, under a
captain, returned from this place to Tioga to escort the
sick and those who were not able to proceed without
retarding the march of the army, which is now under the
necessity on account of our wants to be as expeditious
as possible to complete the expedition; all those pack
horses which were lame, or otherwise reduced, likewise
returned.
About twelve o'clock the army marched; their first
route was over bushy land, interspersed with remark-
ably wild high grass, and appeared to have been formerly
cleared. We then descended into an extensive maple
swamp, which was very rich, and well calculated for
meadow. After marching several miles , we came to a
creek, known by the name of Flint Creek, which the
whole, excepting Clinton's brigade, crossed, and encamped
on a plain which had just been occupied by the enemy but
a few days before for the same purpose. Distance of
march, seven miles. ^
The rifle corps who yesterday went to destroy Gaghsiun-
gua this evening returned. They report it was a fine
town, well improved, with a great quantity of corn near
the same; likewise, an abundance of beans, water
melons, peaches, and all kinds of vegetables, the whole of
which they totally destroyed.
Friday, Sept. 10th. — ^At 8 o'clock this morning the army
took up their line of march in the usual order. Their
78 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
route, about four miles, continued through the swamp,
which, in some places, was miry, and difficult for pack
horses, otherwise the foot would not have been much
retarded. We then arrived on very fine ground for march-
ing, which, to all appearance, was old cleared fields, as
they contained a great quantity of wild grass as high as
the horses in many places. The land contained in this
manner (alternately having a strip of wood between)
for about four miles, when we arrived at a lake (the name
I could not learn), which appeared to be a mile wide, and
six or seven miles in length. We marched haK a nule
along this lake, and came to the mouth, which we crossed;
the water was not knee deep, and about thirty yards over;
but it narrowed so fast that, about twenty yards from the
mouth, it was not in width more than five, but much deep-
er. We then moved up a fine country from the lake,
and in half a mile came to Kanadalaugua, beautifully
situated town, containing between twenty and thirty
houses, well finished, chiefly of hewn plank, which we
immediately burned, and proceeded about half a mile
on our right, where we found a large field of com, squashes,
beans, etc. At this place we encamped, but were very
badly off for water, having none but what we sent half a
mile for, and that very bad. The Seneca country, from
its extreme fiatness, having no good springs, which is
extremely disagreeable for a marching army. Distance
of march this day, 9 miles.
In this town a dog was hung up, with a string of wam-
pum round his neck, on a tree, curiously decorated and
trimmed. On inquiry, I was informed that it was a
custom among the savages before they went to war to
offer this as a sacrifice to M ars, th e God of war, and
praying that Jie might strengthen them. In return
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 79
for those favors, they promise to present him with the
skin for a tobacco pouch.
SATtTBDAY, Sept. 11th. — ^Agreeable to orders we took
up our line of march this morning precisely at 6 o'clock.
We moved through a thicket and swamp near one mile
before we gained the main path. T^he infantry, on ac-
count of this difficult swamp, could not possibly march
in the usual order, without being considerably dispersed.
We moved along this path for about three miles, after
which we ascended a rising ground; the country remark-
ably fine and rich, covered chiefly with pine, oak, and
hickory timber. At intervals we crossed considerable
clear fields, with remarkably high, wild grass. About
1 ,o'clock we descended into a most beautiful valley,
within one mile of an Indian village, known by the name
of Anyayea, situate on a fine plain, within about half
a mile of Anyayea lake, which is but small and very beauti-
ful, and abounds with all kinds of fish. This town con-
tains about twelve houses, chiefiy hewn logs. About it
are several large corn-fields, and a number of apple and
other fruit trees. We encamped about two o'clock for
this day, after completing a march of thirteen miles.
Sunday, Sept. 12th. — ^In order to expedite our march,
and prevent the enemy from making off with their effects
from Jenese, their capital, and last town in the Seneca
country, it was determined a garrison of fifty men, with
those soldiers who were not very able to march, should
continue at this post, in order to guard our stores, viz.,
ammunition and flour, until our return.
The rain having set in very heavy this morning, we
could not move until about twelve o'clock. We then
began to march, but, on account of a defile which we had
80 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
to cross, could not march in the usual order. After pass-
ing the same, we took up our line of march as usual, and
ascended a rising piece of ground. After marching about
five miles, we came to a lake, which we crossed at the
mouth, being about knee deep, and about ten yards over.
We then ascended another rising piece of ground, com-
posed of exceedingly fine, rich land, with large oak and
hickory timber, and at intervals, with marsh or swamp,
well calculated for meadow ground. After arriving
within haK a mile of Kanaghsas, a small Indian village,
which was previously destined for this day's march,
night set in, and the main army being at least a mile
in our rear, we received orders to encamp for this night,
which was in the woods, and exceedingly iU calculated
for that purpose, no water being nearer than half a mile.
This day's march completed twelve hours.
After we encamped. Lieutenant Boyd, of the rifle corps,
some volunteers, and as many riflemen, made up six and
twenty in the whole, were sent up to reconnoitre the town
of Jenese, having for their guide an Oneida Indian,
named Hanjost, a chief of that tribe, who has been
remarkable for his attachment to this country, having ,
served as a volimteer since the commencement of the
war.
Monday, Sept. 13th. — ^This morning before daylight
we left; the general beat, on which the tents were immedi-
ately struck, and in half an hour the army marched into
the town of Kanaghsas, which contained ten houses,
situate on a flat near the head of a small lake. The
flat contained a great quantity of com, and vegetables
of all kinds, which were remarkably well tended. At
this place we halted, to draw provisions, viz., beef (half
allowance), and to destroy the town, corn, etc.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 81
Four men of Lieutenent Boyd's party this morning
returned, bringing information of the town of Gagsuqui- Nf
lahery (which they took for Jenese — being abandoned.
About 12 o'clock we were alarmed by some Indians
firing and giving chase to Mr. Lodge and a few men who
went forward to survey. They wounded a corporal,
who died next day, and chased them until one of our camp
sentinels fired on them and stopped their career.
Lieutenant Boyd having retired from the town of
Gaghsuquilahery to await for the arrival of the main
army, which was detained longer than he expected, he
sent back two men to know the cause; these two men had
not gone far before they discovered a few tidians ahead.
They then retired and informed Lieutenant Boyd, who
immediately, with his party, gave chase, and followed
them within about two miles and a half from the main
army, where a body of savages, of at least four or five
hundred, lay concealed, and probably intended giving
the main army (the ground being favorable on their side),
a fire, and push off according to custom, who immediately
surrounded him and his party. He nobly fought them
for some considerable time; but, by their great superiority,
he was obliged to attempt a retreat, at the same time
loading and firing as his party ran.
The Indians killed, and in the most inhuman manner,
tomahawked and scalped six that were found. Nine of
the party have got safe in; but Lieutenant Boyd and
Hanjost (the Indian already mentioned), with seven
others, are yet missing, one of whom we 6now is a prisoner,
as one Murphy, a rifleman of the party, who made his
escape, saw him in their possession. This Murphy is a
noted marksman, and a great soldier, he having killed and
scalped that morning, in the town they were at, an Indian,
82 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
which makes three and thirtieth man of the enemy he
has killed, as is well known to his officers, this war.
There being a swamp or morass totally impassable for
our horses, in front of Kanaghsas, the infantry and rifle
corps passed over, and ascended the hill, wherein Indians
lay, in hopes to come up with them; but they had fled,
leaving behind them upwards of one hundred blankets,
a great number of hats, and many other things, which we
took, and then halted until the main army arrived, they
having first been obliged, in order to enable them to move,
to throw a hedge over the morass.
The whole then took up their line of march, and pro-
ceded to the town of Gaghsuquilahery, through the finest
country I almost ever saw, without exception. Before
dusk we arrived within sight of the town. The Indians,
having thrown themselves in a wood on the opposite
side, the following disposition for an attack was im-
mediately ordered to take place, viz.; the infantry,
with the artillery, to push on in front; General Maxwell's
brigade, with the left flanking division, to endeavour
to gain the enemy's right; General Poor's brigade to move
and gain their left; the right flanking division, and two
regiments from General Clinton's brigade to move round
Poor's right flank; the infantry to rush on in front,
supported by the remainder of Clinton's brigade. We
then moved forward, and took possession of the town
without opposition, the enemy flying before us across a
branch of Genesee river, through a thicket, where it was
impossible for us £o follow, we not being acquainted with
the country, and night having set in. We received orders
to encamp, after making a march of eight and a half
miles.
GENERAL WA^T^INtiTON'S ARMY 83
Tuesday, Sept. 14th. — ^Previous to our march this
morning parties were ordered out to destroy the corn,
which they did, plucking and throwing it into the river.
About 11 o'clock we took up our line of march and pro-
ceeded for Jenese, the last and capital settlement of the
Seneca country; the whole crossed a branch of the Jenise
river, and moved through a considerable swamp, and
formed on a plain the other side, the most extensive
I ever saw, containing not less than six thousand acres
of the richest soil that can be conceived, not having a
bush standing, but filled with grass considerably higher
than a man. We moved up this plain for about three
mUes in our regular hne of march, which was a beautiful
site, as a view of the whole could be had at one look, and
then came to Jenise river, which we crossed, being about
forty yards over, and near middle deep, and then ascended
a rising ground, which afforded a prospect which was so
beautiful that, to attempt a comparison, would be doing
an injury, as we had a view as far as our eyes could carry
us of another plain, besides the one we crossed, through
which the Jenise river formed a most beautiful winding,
and, at intervals, cataracts, which rolled from the rocks,
and emptied into the river.
We then marched on through a rough but rich country,
until we arrived at the capital town, which is nauch the
largest we have yet met with in our whole route, and en-
camped about the same.
At this place we found the body of the brave but
unfortimate Lieutenant Boyd, and one rifleman, mas-
sacred in the most cruel and barbarous manner that the
human mind can possibly conceive; the savages having
put them to the most excruciating torments possible,
by first plucking their nails from their hands, then spear-
84 A NEW HAMP3HTME LAWYER IN
ing, cutting, and whipping them, and mangling their
bodies, then cutting off the flesh from their shoulders
by pieces, tomahawking and severing their heads from
their bodies, and then leaving them a prey to their dogs.
We likewise found one house burned, in which, probably,
was a scene as cruel as the former.
This evening the remains of Lieutenant Boyd and the
riflemen's corpse were interred with military honors.
Mr. Boyd's former good character, as a brave soldier,
and an honest man, and his behaviour in the skirmish of
yesterday (several of the Indians being found dead, and
some seen carried off), must endear him to all friends of
mankind. May his fate await those who have been the
cause of his. Oh! Britain, behold and blush. Jenise
town, the capital of the Seneca nation, is pleasantly
situated on a rich and extensive flat, the soil remarkably
rich, and great parts well improved with fields of com,
beans, potatoes, and all kinds of vegetables. It con-
tained one hundred and seven well finished houses.
Wednesdat, Sept. 15th. — ^This morning the whole
army, excepting a covering party, were engaged in destroy-
ing the com, beans, potatoes, and other vegetables,
which were in quantity immense, and in goodness un-
equaled by any I ever yet saw. Agreeable to a moderate
calculation, there was not less than two hundred acres,
the whole of which was pulled and piled up in large heaps,
mixed with dry wood, taken from the houses, and con-
sumed to ashes. About 3 o'clock, p. m., the business was
finished, and the immediate object of this expedition
completed, viz., the total ruin of the Indian settlements,
and the destruction of their crops. The following is a
part of the orders issued this day, viz :
"The commander-in-chief informs this brave and reso-
lute army that the immediate objects of this expedition
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 85
are accomplished, viz: total ruin of the Indian settle-
ments, and the destruction of their crops, which were
designed for the support of those inhuman barbarians,
while they were desolating the American frontiers. He
is by no means insensible of the obligations he is imder
to those brave officers and soldiers whose virtue and forti-
tude have enabled him to complete the important design
of the expedition, and he assures them he will not fail
to inform America at large how much they stand indebted
to them. The army will this day commence its march
for Tioga."
Previous to our leaving Jenise, a woman with a child
came in to us, who had been taken prisoner last year near
Wyoming, and fortunately made her escape from the
savages. She, with her bantliag, was almost starved for
want of food; she informs us that the Indians have been
in great want all last spring — ^that they subsisted
entirely on green com this summer — ^that their squaws
were fretting prodigiously, and continually teasing their
warriors to make peace — ^that by promises by Butler and
his minions, they are fed up with great things that
should be done for them— that they seem considerably
cast down and frightened; and, in short, she says distress
and trouble seem painted on their countenances. Dis-
tance of march this day, six miles.
Thuksdat, Sept. li!th.— After destroying several
corn-fields, we took up our line of march about il o'clock,
A. M., and proceeded towards Kanaghsas. Previous to
our arrival there, parties were ordered out to reconnoitre
the woods, and gather the bodies of those soldiers who fell
in the skirmish of the 13th. Fourteen, including those
six mentioned in my journal of the 13th, were found,
and buried with military honors. The sight was most
86 A HEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
shocking, as they were all scalped, tomahawked, and most
inhumanly mangled. Amongst those unfortunate men
was Hanjost, the volunteer Indian, who fared equally
with the rest. About six o'clock we arrived at Kanaghsas,
and encamped. We found several corn-fields, which
were immediately laid waste. Our march this day, 9
miles.
Fbiday, Sept. 17th. — ^About 5 o'clock this morning the
general beat, the tents were struck, and the line of march
taken up about 6 o'clock. We arrived at Anyeay about
12 o'clock, being the place our stores, with a garrison, was
left. It was not with little satisfaction that we found
everything safe. We were not without our apprehensions
about them, on account of the intelligence we were fearful
the enemy might have collected from the unfortunate
prisoners who fell in their hands on the 13th. We en-
camped in the same order and on the same ground as on
the 11th inst.
Saturday, Sept. 18th. — ^This morning about 8 o'clock
the army moved; the rear was ordered (before they left
the ground) to kill all such horses as were unable to move
along, lest they should fall into the enemy's hands.
On our route we fell in with several Oneida Indians (our
friends), who seemed much rejoiced at our great success
against the Seneca nations. We arrived about 6 o'clock,
p. M., at the east side of the Kanadauga lake, where we
encamped, after completing a march of thirteen miles
and a half.
Sunday, Sept. 19th. — ^The army moved at eight o'clock
this morning in the usual order; excepting a few obstruc-
tions they met with passing through several swamps,
they marched remarkably steady. On our route we were
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 87
met by an express from Tioga, who brought a number
of letters and papers informing us of Spain declaring war
against Great Britain. They also brought us the agree-
able intelligence of a good supply for the army having
come on to Newton (about twenty miles above Tioga), to
meet us. This agreeable intelligence conspired to make
us exceedingly happy, as we had not only been a long
time entirely in the dark with respect to home news,
but the disagreeable reflection of half allowance was
entirely dispelled. We pursued our march until we
arrived at Kanadasaga, which was about dusk. When
the infantry got up; we encamped on the same ground,
and in the same position, as on the 7th, after completing
a march of fifteen miles.
Monday, Sept. 20th. — ^The greater part of the day was
employed at head-quarters in holding a council in conse-
quence of the intercession made by sone Oneida Indians
(our friends) in favour of the Cayuga tribe, who had been
for some time past in alliance with the Senecas, and acted
with them, and are now desirous to make peace with us.
The council determined no treaty should be held with
them and a command of five himdred infantry, with .Major
Parr's rifle corps, were immediately detached and sent
to Cayuga lake, on which their settlement lay, with orders
to lay wait and destroy their towns, corn, etc., and receive
none of them but in the characters of prisoners of war.
Col. Smith, with two hundred men, was also dispatched
down the north side of the Seneca lake in order to finish
the destruction of Gausiunque, an Indian village about
eight miles below Canadasaga. Colonel Gainsworth,
with one hundred men, was likewise detached, and sent
to Fort Stanwix for some business, from whence he is to
88 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
proceed to head-quarters on the north river, and join the
main army.
About 4 o'clock, p. m., the army took up their Une of
march, and moved steadily. About half past five they
reached and crossed the outlet of Seneca lake, and en-
camped about one mile beyond the same.
Tuesday, Sept. 21st. — ^The army marched this morning
about eight o'clock, and continued moving steadily until
we passed Canadia about two miles, where we encamped,
near the lake. Previous to our marching this morning.
Colonel Dearboum, with a command of two hundred men,
marched to destroy a town on the north side of Cayuga
lake, distance of march this day, 13 nules.
Thuesday, Sept. 23d. — About 8 o'clock this morning
the army marched, and arrived at Catherines town about
2 o'clock, p. M., where we made a small halt. We found
at this place the old Indian squaw who was left here on
our march up the country. General Sullivan gave her
a considerable supply of flour and meat, for which,
tears in her savage eyes, she expressed a great deal of
thanks. During our absence from this place a yoimg
squaw came and attended on the old one; but some
inhuman villian who passed through killed her. What
made this crime still more heinous was, because a manifesto
was left with the old squaw positively forbidding any
violence or injury should be committed on the women or
children of the savages, by virtue of which it appears
this young squaw came to this place, which absolutely
comes under the virtue of a breach of faith, and the
offender ought to be severely punished.
I went to view, in company with a number of gentle-
men, a very remarkable fall of water, which is about one
mile above this place. Its beauty and elegance surpass
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 89
almost anything I ever saw. The fall is not less then two
hundred feet. About 3 o'clock the army moved about
three miles further, and encamped on a plain at the en-
trance of the great swamp, after completing a march of
thirteen miles and a half.
Friday, Sept. 24th. — ^This morning precisely at 8
o'clock the army moved, and contiaued their route
through the hemlock swamp mentioned in the 1st inst.,
meeting with much fewer obstructions than we expected,
owing to the very dry weather which we had had for this
month past. After passing through the same we came to
a fine open coimtry, and soon arrived at Kanawaluhery,
where there was a post established with a reinforcement
of stores, which was a most pleasing circumstance, as
the last was issued, and that at half allowance at Kana-
dasaga. On our arrival, the garrison saluted with the
discharge of thirteen cannon, which complement was
returned them by the army.
Saturday, Sept. 25th. — In consequence of the acces-
sion of the King of Spain to the American alliance, and the
generous proceedings of the present Congress in augment-
ing the subsistence of the officers and men of the army.
General Sullivan ordered five head of the best cattle, viz :
one for the use of the officers of each brigade, with five
gallons of spirits each, to be delivered to them respectively,
thereby giving them an opportunity of testifying their
joy on this occasion.
In the evening the whole was drawn up and fired a
feu-de-joie, thirteen cannon being first discharged. The
infantry then commenced a running fire through the whole
line, which, being repeated a second time, the whole army
gave three cheers, viz: one for the United States of
America, one for Congress, and one for our new ally,
the King of Spain.
90 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
The army being then dismissed. General Hand, with
the officers of his brigade, attended by the officers of the
park or artillery, repaired to a bowery, erected for that
purpose, where the fatted bullock was served up (dressed
in different ways), the whole seated themselves on the
groimd around the same, which afforded them a most
agreeable repast. The officers being very jovial, and the
evening was spent in great mirth and jollity.
After dinner the following toasts were drank, the drums
and fifes playing at intervals.
1st. The thirteen states and their sponsers.
2d. The honourable, the American Congress.
3d. General Washington and the American Army.
4th. The commander-in-chief of the western expedi-
tion.
5th. The American navy.
6th. Our faithful allies, the united houses of Bourbon.
7th. May the American Congress, and all her legisla-
tive representatives, be endowed with virtue and wisdom,
and may her independence be as firmly established as the
pillars of time.
8th. May the citizens of America, and her soldiers,
be ever unanimous in the reciprocal support of each other.
9th. May altercations, discord, and every degree of
fraud, be totally banished the peaceful shores of America.
10th. May the memory of brave Lieutenant Boyd,
and the soldiers under his command, who were horribly
massacred by the inhuman savages, or by their more
barbarous and detestable allies, the British and Tories,
on the 13th inst., be ever dear to his country.
11th. An honourable peace with America, or perpetual
war with her enemies.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 91
12th. May the kingdom of Ireland merit a stripe in the
American standard.
13th. May the enemies of America be metamor-
phosed into pack horses, and sent on a western expedition
against the Indians.
An express with dispatches for General Sullivan,
from Philadelphia, arrived this morning, by whom I
received a packet enclosing the commissions for my
officers.
About 11 o'clock, A. M., the command under Colonel
Dearbourn, who left us the 21st of June to proceed to
Cayuga lake, returned, bringing two squaw prisoners;
he having, in his route, destroyed several towns and a
great quantity of fine corn.
Monday, Sept. 27th. — The detachment ordered to
march yesterday moved this morning up Tioga branch
to an Indian village, about twelve mUes from this place,
with orders to destroy the same.
Coleman and Caldwell, two of my soldiers, after wander-
ing for seven days in the wilderness, found and joined us
at this place. They subsisted, during their absence,
on the hearts and livers of two dead horses which they
found on the path along which the army had marched.
At dusk, this evening, the detachment which marched
this morning returned, after destroying a considerable
quantity of corn, beans, and other vegetables, sixteen boat
loads of which they brought with them for the use of
the army; they also burned a small village.
Tuesday, Sept. 28th. — Several commands were ordered
out this day, viz., one up and the other down the Tioga
branch, for the purpose of destroying com, etc., of which
there was a great quantity left on our march towards the
Seneca country.
92 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
All the lame and sick soldiers of the army were this
day ordered to go to Tioga in boats, and the pack horses
least able for other duty.
Colonel Butler, with his command, after laying waste
and destroying the Cayuga settlements, and com, etc.,
of which there was a great quantity, returned, and joined
the army about 10 o'clock this morning.
Wednesdat, Sept. 29th. — ^The army marched this
morning about 8 o'clock, and continued moving steadily
until we passed Chemung about one mile, where we
encamped on the same ground, and in the same position,
as on the 27th. The two commands ordered out yester-
day morning returned, and joined the army at this place
about 9 o'clock, p. m., after destroying large quantities
of corn, beans, and other vegetables.
Thuesdat, Sept. 30th. — This morning about 8 o'clock
the army moved. About 2 o'clock they arrived at Tioga
plains, near Fort Sullivan, where the whole formed in
regular line of march, and moved into the garrison in
the greatest order, when we were received with mihtary
honours, the garrison turning out with presented arms
and a salute of thirteen rounds from their artillery, which
complement was returned them from the park of artillery
with the army.
Colonel Shrieve, governor of the garrison, had an ele-
gant dinner provided for the general and field officers
of the army. We regaled ourselves, and great joy and
good humor was visible in every countenance. Colonel
Proctor's band, and drums and fifes played in concert
the whole time.
Friday, Oct. 1st. — ^This morning the horses belonging
to the officers of the brigade were forwarded to Wyoming.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 93
We also sent our cow which we had along with us the whole
expedition, and to whom we are under infinite obligations
for the great quantity of milk she afforded us, which
rendered our situation very comfortable, and was no
small addition to our half allowance.
This afternoon Colonel Brewer, General Sullivan's
secretary, set off to Congress with the dispatches, which
contained a relation of the great success of the expedition.
Sattjbdat, Oct. 2d. — This day the commander-in-
chief made an elegant entertainment, and invited all the
general and field officers of the army to dine with him.
In the evening, to conclude the mirth of the day, we
had an Indian dance. The officers who joined in it
putting on visors (alias Monetas). The dance was
conducted and led off by a young Sachem of the Oneida
tribe, who was next followed by several other Indians,
then the whole led off, and, after the Indian custom,
danced to the music, which was a rattle, a knife, and a
pipe, which the Sachem continued clashing together and
singing Indian the whole time. At the end of each, the
Indian whoop was set up by the whole.
Sunday, Oct. 3d. — Agreeable to the orders of yester-
day, the garrison of Fort Sullivan this day joined their
respective corps, and the fort was demolished. The
stores and other baggage with the park of artillery were
put on board the boats, and every other matter put in
perfect readiness to move with the army, on their route
to Wyoming, tomorrow morning at 5 o'clock.
The young Sachem, with several Oneida Indians,
relatives and friends of the unfortunate Indian Hanjost,
who bravely fell with the party under command of the
much lamented Lieutenant Boyd on the 13th ult., who
94 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
faithfully acted as guide to the army, left us this day, well
pleased (after bestowing some presents on them), for their
native place, the Oneida coimtry.
The German regiment, which composed a part of the
flanking divisions of the army, was this day ordered to
join and do duty with the third Peimsylvania brigade,
commanded by Gen. Hand.
Monday, Oct. 4th. — ^This day about 8 o'clock the army
took up their line of march. We arrived at Wessaukin
about 6 o'clock in the evening, after completing a march
of fifteen miles. On account of the rain, marching was
rather disagreeable this day.
On my arrival at this place I received a letter, with
some newspapers, etc., from his excellency, President
Read, which contained agreeable news, etc.
Wednesday, Oct. 6th. — About 8 o'clock this morning
the whole embarked again, and moved, paying no atten-
tion to order down the river.
Thxtesday, Oct. 7th. — ^Embarked about 6 o'clock, and
kept on steadily until we arrived at .Wyoming. About
3 o'clock, p. M., the whole army landed and encamped
on the same ground, and in the same order, as on the
30th of July.
Thus, by the perseverance, good conduct, and deter-
mined resolution of our commander-in-chief, with the
assistance of his council, and the fuU determination of
his troops to execute, have we fully accomplished the great
end and intentions of this important expedition; and I
flatter myseK we fully surpassed the niost sanguine expec-
tation of those whose eyes were more immediately looking
to us for success.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 95
The glorious achievements we have exhibited in extend-
ing our conquests so far, and, at the same time, render
them so very complete, will make no inconsiderable
balance even in the present politics of America. Its
future good consequences I leave to the eloquence of
time to declare, which will, in ages hence, celebrate the
memory of those brave sons who nobly risked their lives,
disdaining every fatigue and hardship, to complete a
conquest, the rear good effects and advantages of which
posterity will particularly enjoy.
Whilst I revere the merit and virtue of the army, I
am sorry I am under the necessity of mentioning that
there was an unparalleled and unpardonable neglect
(and which ought not to pass with impunity), in those
whose business it was to supply them with a sufficient
quantity of necessaries to carry them through the expedi-
tion, instead of which not more than twenty-two days
flour, and sixteen days meat was on hand when it com-
menced. And, although the army possessed a degree of
virtue, perhaps unparalleled in the annals of history,
in undertaking an expedition on half allowance, which
was in every instance hazardous and imperious, yet,
had we not been favored with the smiles of Providence,
in a continuation of good weather, the half allowance
itself would not have enabled us to perform what, from
that circumstance, we have.
End of Col. Hubley's Journal.
CHAPTER IV
General StTLLiVAN Tells the Story
THE chronicle of his expedition against the Iro-
quois in 1779 — ^The Devastation of the Genesee
Country.
*Teago, Sept. SO, 1779.
Sir: In mine of the 30th ultimo to His Excellency
George Washington, and by him transmitted to Congress,
I gave an account of the victory obtained by this army
over the enemy at Newtown, on the 29th of August. I now
do myself the honor to inform Congress of the progress
of this army, and the most material occurrences which
have since taken place.
The time taken up in destroying the corn, in the
neighborhood of Newtown, employing the army near two
days, and there appearing a probabiUty that the destruc-
tion of all the crops might take a much greater length
of time than was first apprehended, and being likewise
convinced, by an accurate calculation, that it could not
be possible to effect the destruction of the Indian country
with the provisions on hand, which was all I had in store,
and indeed all I had pack horses to transport from Teago;
in this situation I could think of but one expedient to
answer the purposes of the expedition, which was to
prevail if possible, on the soldiers to content themselves
with half a pound of flour and the same quantity of fresh
beef per day, rather than leave the important business
unfinished. I therefore drew up an address to them, a
copy of which I have the honor to enclose you, which
(*Tioga Point (Athens, Pa.)
96
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 97
being read, was answered by three cheers from the whole
army. Not one dissenting voice was heard from either
officer or soldier. I had then on hand, from the best
calculation I could make, twenty -two pounds of flour and
sixteen pounds of beef per man; the former liable to many
reductions by rains, crossing rivers and defiles; the lat-
ter much more so, from the almost unavoidable loss of
cattle, when suffered to range the woods at night for their
support. I was, however, encouraged in the belief, that
I should be enabled to effect the destruction and total
ruin of the Indian territories by this truly noble resolu-
tion of the army, for which, I know not whether the public
stand more indebted to the persuasive arguments which
the officers began to use, or to the virtuous disposition
of the soldiers, whose prudent and cheerful compliance
with the requisition anticipated all their wishes, and
rendered persuasion unnecessary.
I sent back all my heavy artillery on the night of the
30th, retaining only four brass three pounders, and a
small howitzer; loaxled the necessary ammunition on
horseback, and marched early on the 31st for Catherine's
Town. On our way we destroyed a small settlement
of eight houses, and a town called Konowhola, of about
twenty houses, situated on a peninsular at the conflux
ot the Teago and Cayuga branches. We also destroyed
several fields of com. From this point Colonel Dayton
was detached with his regiment and the rifle corps up the
Teago about six miles, who destroyed several large fields
of com. The army resumed their march, and encamped
within thirteen miles and a half of Catherine's Town,
where we arrived the next day, although we had a road
to open for the artillery, through a swamp nine miles
in extent, and almost impervious. We arrived near
98 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Catherine's Town in the night, and moved on, in hopes
to surprise it, but found it forsaken. On the next morn-
ing an old woman belonging to the Cayuga nation was
found in the woods. She informed me that on the night
after the battle of Nexvtown, the enemy, having fled the
whole night, arrived there in great confusion early the
next day; that she heard the warriors tell their women
they were conquered and must fly; that they had a great
many killed and vast numbers woimded. She likewise
heard the lamentations of many at the loss of their con-
nections. In addition to this, she assured us, that some
of her warriors had met Butler at this place and desired
him to return and fight again. But to this request they
could obtain no satisfactory answer, for, as they observed,
"Butler's mouth was closed." The warriors who had
been in the action were equally averse to the proposal,
and would think of nothing but flight, and removal of
their families; that they kept runners on every mountain
to observe the movements of our army, who reported
early in the day on which we arrived, that our advance
was very rapid; upon which all those who had not been
before sent off, fled with precipitation, leaving her without
any possible means of escape. She said that Brandt had
taken most of the wounded up the Teago in canoes. I was,
from many circumstances, fully convinced of the truth
and sincerity of her declaration, and the more so, as we
had, the day we left Newtown, discovered a great number
of bloody packs, arms and accoutrements, thrown away
in the road, and in the woods each side of it. Besides
which, we discovered a number of recent graves, one of
which has been since opened, containing the bodies of
two persons who had died by wounds.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 99
These circumstances, when added to that of so many
warriors being left dead on the field, a circumstance
not common with Indians, were sufficient to corroborate
the woman's declaration, and to prove what I before
conjectured, that the loss of the enemy was much greater
than was at first apprehended. I have never been able
to ascertain, with any degree of certainty, what force
the enemy opposed to us at Newtown, but from the best
accounts I have been able to coUect, and from the opinion
of General Poor, and others, who had the best oppor-
timity of viewing their numbers, as well as from the
extent of their fines, I suppose them to have been 1,500,
though the two prisoners, whom I befieve totally ignorant
of the number at any post but their own, as well as of
the enemy's disposition, estimate them only at eight
hundred, while they allow that five companies of rangers,
all the warriors of Seneca, and six other nations, were
collected at this place. In order to determine their
force with as much accuracy as in my power, I examined
their breastworks, and foimd the extent more than half a
mile. Several bastions ran out in its front to flank the
lines in every part. A small block-house, formerly a
dweUing, was also manned in the front. The breastwork
appeared to have been fully manned, though I supposed
with only one rank. Some parts of their works being
low, they were obliged to dig holes in the ground to cover
themselves in part. This circumstance enabled me to
judge the distance between their men in the works.
A very thin scattering line, designed, as I suppose, for
communicating signals, was continued from those works
to that part of the mountain which General Poor ascended,
where they had a very large body, which was designed,
I imagined, to fall on our flank. The distance from the
100 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
breastwork to this was at least one mile and a half. From
thence to the hill in the rear of our right, was another
scattering line of about one mile, and on the hill a breast-
work with a strong party, destined, as it is supposed, to
fall on our rear. But General Clinton being ordered so
far to the right occasioned his flank to pass the mountain,
which obliged them to abandon their post. From these
circumstances, as well as from the opinions of others,
I cannot conceive their numbers to be less than what
I have before mentioned.
The army spent one day at Catherine's destroying
com and fruit trees. We burnt the town, consisting of
thirty houses. The next day we encamped near a small
scattering settlement of about eight houses and two days
after reached Kendaia, which we also found deserted.
Here one of the inhabitants of Wioming, who had been
last year captured by the enemy, escaped from them
and joined us. He informed us that the enemy had left
the town in the greatest confusion three days before our
arrival. He said he had conversed with some of the
Tories on their return from the action at Newtown, who
assured him they had great numbers killed and wounded,
and there was no safety in flight. He heard Butler
tell them he must try to make a stand at Kanadasaga; but
they declared they would not throw away their Uves in
vain attempt to oppose such an army. He also heard
many of the Indian women lamenting the loss of their
connections and added that Brandt had taken most of
the wounded up the Teago in water crafts which had been
provided for that purpose in case of necessity. It was
his opinion that the King of Kanadasaga was killed as he
saw him go down but did not return and gave a descrip-
tion of his person and dress corresponding with those of
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 101
one found on the field of action. Kendaia consisted of
about twenty houses which were reduced to ashes, the
houses were neatly built and finished. The army spent
a day neatly at this place, in destroying com and fruit
trees of which there was a great abundance. Many of the
trees appeared to be of great age. On the next day we
crossed the outlet of the Seneca Lake and moved in three
divisions through the woods to encircle Kanadasaga,
but found if otherwise abandoned. A white child of
about three years old, doubtless the offspring of some
unhappy captive, was found here and carried with the
army.
A detachment of four hundred men was sent down on
the west side of the lake to destroy Gothseimquean and
the plantations in the same quarters; at the same time
a number of volunteers under Colonel Harper, made a
forced march towards Cayuga Lake and destroyed
Schoyere while the residue of the army were employed
in destroying the corn at Kanadasaga of which there
was a large quantity. This town consisted of fifty houses
and was pleasantly situated. In it we found a great
quantity of fruit trees which were destroyed with the
town. The army then moved on and in two days ar-
rived at Kanandaque, having been joined on the march
by the detachment sent along the Seneca Lake which
had been almost two days employed in destroying the
crops and settlements in that quarter. At Kanadaque
we found twenty-three very elegant houses mostly finished
and in general, large. Here we also found very extensive
fields of corn, which having been destroyed, we marched
for Hannayaye, a small town of ten houses, which we
also destroyed.
102 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
At this place we established a post leaving a strong
garrison, our heavy stores and one field piece and pro-
ceeded to Chinesee, which the prisoners informed us was
the grand capital of the Indian country, that Indians
of all nations had been plantiag there this spring; that
all the Rangers and some British had been employed in
assisting them in order to raise sufficient supplies to sup-
port them while destroying our frontiers, and that they,
themselves, had worked three weeks for the Indians
when planting. This information determined me at all
events to reach that settlement, though the state of my
provisions, much reduced by unavoidable accidents,
almost forbade the attempt. My flour had been much
reduced by the failure of pack horses and in the passage
of creeks and defiles; and twenty-seven of the cattle had
been unavoidably lost. We however marched on for the
Chinesee town and on the second day reached a town of
twenty -five houses, called Koneghsaws. Here we found
some large com fields which part of the army destroyed
while the other part were employed in building a bridge
over an unfordable creek between this and Chiaesee.
I had the preceding evening ordered out an officer with
three or four riflemen, one of our guides and an Oneida
chief to reconnoitre the Chinesee town, that we might, if
possible, surprise it. Lieutenant Boyd was the officer
entrusted with this service, who took with him twenty-
three men, volunteers from the same corps, and a few
from Colonel Butler's regiment, making in all twenty-
six, a much larger number than I had thought of sending,
and by no means so likely to answer the purpose as that
which had been directed. The guides were by no means
acquainted with the country, mistook the road in the night,
and at daybreak fell in with a castle six miles higher up
than Chinesee, inhabited by a tribe called Squatchegas.
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 103
Here they saw a few Indians, killed and scalped two,
the rest fled. Two runners were immediately dispatched
to me with the account and informed that the party were
on their return. When the bridge was almost completed
some of them came in and told us that Lieutenant Boyd
and men of his party were almost surrounded by the
enemy; that the enemy had been discovering themselves
before him for some miles; that his men had killed two
and were eagerly pursuing the rest; but soon found them-
selves almost surrounded by three or four hundred Indians
and rangers. Those of Mr. Boyd's men who were sent to
secure his flanks fortunately made their escape; but he
with fourteen of his party and the Oneida chief being in
the centre, were completely encircled. The light troops
of the army and the flanking divisions were immediately
detached to their relief; but arrived too late, the enemy
having destroyed the party and escaped.
It appears that our men had taken to a small grove,
the ground around it being clear on every side for several
rods, and there fought till Mr. Boyd was shot through the
body, and his men all killed except one, who, with his
wounded commander was made prisoner. The firing
was so close, before this brave party were destroyed,
that the powder of the enemy's muskets was driven
into their flesh. In this conflict the enemy must have
suffered greatly, as they had no cover, and our men were
possessed of a very advantageous one. This advantage
of ground the obstinate bravery of the party, with some
other circumstances, induced me to believe their loss
must have been very considerable. They were so long em-
ployed in removing and secreting their dead, that the
advance of General Hand's party obliged them to leave
one alongside the riflemen, and at least a wagon load of
104 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
packs, blankets, hats and provisions, which they had
thrown off to enable them to act with more agility ia
the field. Most of. these appeared to have appertained
to the rangers. Another reason which induces me to
suppose they suffered much was the unparalleled tortures
they inflicted upon the brave and unfortunate Boyd, whose
body, with that of the equally unfortunate companion,
was found at Chinesee. It appeared that they had whip-
ped them in the most cruel manner, pulled out Mr.
Boyd's naUs, cut off his nose, plucked out one of his eyes,
cut out his tongue, stabbed him with spears in sundry
places, and inflicted other tortures which decency will
not permit me to mention; lastly, cut off his head, and
left his body on the groimd with that of his unfortunate
companion, who appeared to have experienced nearly
the same savage barbarity. The party Mr. Boyd fell
in with, was commanded by Butler, posted on an advan-
tageous piece of ground, in order to fire upon our army
when advancing; but they found their design frustrated
by the appearance of this party in their rear.
The army moved on that day to the castle last men-
tioned, which consisted of twenty-five houses, and had
I very extensive fields of corn, which being destroyed, we
moved on the next day to Chinesee, crossing in our route
a deep creek and the Little Seneca river; and after march-
ing six miles we reached the Castle, which consisted of
128 houses, mostly large and elegant. The town was
beautifully situated, almost encircled with a cleared flat,
which extended for a number of miles, covered by the
most extensive fields of corn, and every kind of vegetable
that can be conceived. The whole army was immediately
engaged in destroying the crops. The corn was collected
and burned in houses and kilns, so the enemy might not
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 105
reap the least advantage from it, which method we have
pursued in every other place. Here a woman came to us
who had been captured at Wiomiag. She told us the
enemy evacuated the town two days before; that
Butler at the same time went off with three or four hun-
dred Indians and rangers, as he said, to gef a shot at our
army. This was undoubtedly the party which cut off
Lieutenant Boyd. She mentioned they kept runners
constantly out, and that when our army was in motion,
the intelligence was communicated by a yell, immediately
on which the greatest terror and confusion apparently
took place among them. The women were constantly
begging the warriors to sue for peace, and that one of the
Indians had attempted to shoot Colonel Johnson for the
falsehoods by which he had deceived and ruined them;
that she overheard Butler telling Johnson that it was
impossible to keep the Indians together after the battle
of Newtown; that he thought they must soon be in a
miserable situation, as all their crops would be destroyed,
and that Canada could not supply them with provisions
at Niagara; that he would endeavor to collect the war-
riors to assist in the defense of that fort, which he was of
opinion this army would lay siege to, and the women
and children he would send to Canada. After having
destroyed this town, beyond which I was informed there
was no settlement, and destroyed all their houses and
crops in that quarter, the army having been advancing
seventeen days with the supply of provisions before
mentioned, and that much reduced on the march by
accidents, and the Cayuga country being as yet unpene-
trated, I thought it necessary to return as soon as possible
in order to effect the destruction of the settlements in
that quarter. The army therefore began its march to
Kanadasaga.
106 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
I was met on the way by a sachem from Oneida and three
warriors, one of whom I had sent from Catherine's with
a letter, a copy of which I have the honor to enclose to
Congress. They delivered me a message from the war-
riors of that nation respecting the Cayugas; copies of
that and my answer I also enclose from this place. I
detached Colonel Smith with a party down the west side
of the Lake to destroy the corn which had not been cut
down, and to destroy anything further which might be
discovered there. I then detached Colonel Gansevoort
with one hundred men to Albany to forward the baggage
of the York regiments to the main army, and to take with
him such soldiers as were at that place. I directed him
to destroy the lower Mohawk castle in his route, and
capture the inhabitants, consisting of six or seven families
who were constantly employed in giving intelligence to
the enemy, and in supporting their scouting parties
when making incursions on our frontiers. When the
Mohawks joined the enemy, those few famihes were
undoubtedly left to answer such a purpose and to keep
possession of their lands. The upper castle now inhabi-
ted by Orkeskes, our friends, he was directed not to dis-
turb. With him I sent Mr. Deane, who bore my answer
to the Oneidas.
I then detached Colonel Butler with six hundred men
to destroy the Cayuga country, and with him sent all
the Indian warriors who had said if they could find the
Cayugas they would endeavor to persuade them to
deliver themselves up as prisoners; the chief of them called
Teguttelawana being a near relation to the sachem. I
then crossed the Seneca river and detached Colonel
Dearborn to the west side of the Cayuga lake to destroy
all the settlements which might be found there and to
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 107
intercept the Cayugas if they attempted to escape Colonel
Butler. The residue of the army passing on between the
lakes, toward Catherines. Colonel Dearborn burnt in
his route six towns, including one which had been before
partly destroyed by a small party; destroying at the same
time quantities of corn. He took an Indian lad and
three women prisoners, — one of the women being very
old and the lad a cripple; he left them, and brought
on the other two and joined the army on the evening of
the 26th. Colonel Courtland was then detached with
300 men up the Teago branch to search for settlements
in that quarter; and in the space of two days destroyed
several fields of corn and burnt several houses. Colonel
Butler joined the army on the 28th whereby a complete
junction was formed at Conowaloala on the 29th day
after our leaving Newtown. Here we were met by plenty
of provisions, from Teago, which I had previously directed
to be sent on. Colonel Butler destroyed in the Cayuga
country five principal towns and a number of scattering
houses, the whole making about one hundred in number,
exceedingly large and well built. He also destroyed two
hundred acres of excellent com with a number of orchards,
one of which had in it 1,500 fruit trees. Another Indian
settlement was discovered near Newtown by a party,
consisting of 39 houses, which were also destroyed. The
number of towns destroyed by this army amounted to
40 besides scattering houses. The quantity of corn
destroyed, at a moderate computation, must amount to
160,000 bushels, with a vast quantity of vegetables of
every kind. Every creek and river has been traced,
and the whole country explored in search of Indian
settlements, and I am well persuaded that, except one
town situated near the Allegana, about 50 miles from
108 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
Chinesee, there is not a single toxvn left in the country
of the Five Nations.
It is with pleasure I inform Congress that this army
has not suffered the loss of forty men in action or other-
wise since my taking the command; though pCThaps few
troops have experienced a more fatiguing campaign.
Besides, the difficulties which naturally attend marching
through an enemy's country, abounding in woods, creeks,
rivers, mountians, morasses and defiles, we found no
small inconvenience from the want of proper guides, and
the maps of the country are so exceedingly erroneous
that they serve not to enlighten but to perplex. We had
not a person who was sufficiently acquainted vdth the
country to conduct a party out of the Indian path by
day, or scarcely La it by night; though they were the
best I could possibly procure. Their ignorance, doubt-
less arose from the Indians having ever taken the best
measures in their power to prevent their country's being
explored. We had much labor in clearing out the roads
for the artillery, notwithstanding which, the army moved
from twelve to sixteen miles every day when not detained
by rains, or employed in destroying settlements.
I feel myself much indebted to the officers of every
rank for their unparalleled exertions, and to the soldiers
for the unshaken firmness with which they endured the
toils and difficulties attending the expedition. Though
I had it not in command I should have ventured to have
paid Niagara a visit, had I been suppUed with fifteen
days provisions in addition to what I had, which I am
persuaded from the bravery and ardor of our troops
would have fallen into our hands.
I forgot to mention that the Oneida sachem requested
me to grant his people Uberty to hunt in the country of
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 109
the Five Nations, as they would never think of settling
again in a country once subdued, and where their settle-
ments must ever be in our power. I, in answer, informed
him that I had no authority to grant such a license;
that I could not at present see reason to object to it,
but advised them to make application to Congress, who,
I believed, would, Ln consideration of their friendly
conduct grant them every advantage of this kind that
would not interfere with our settlement of the country,
which I believed would soon take place. The Oneidas
say that as no Indians were discovered by Colonel Butler
at Cayuga, they are of opinion they are gone to their
castle, and that their Chiefs will persuade them to come
in and surrender themselves on the terms I have pro-
posed. The army began its march from Conowalohala
yesterday, and arrived here this evening. After leaving
the necessary force for securing the frontiers in this
quarter, I shall move on to join the main army.
It would have been very pleasing to this army to have
drawn the enemy to a second engagement, but such a
panic seized them after the first action that it was impos-
sible, as they never ventured themselves in reach of the
army, nor have they fired a single gun at it on its march or
in its quarters, though in a country exceeding well cal-
culated for ambuscades. This circumstance alone would
sufficiently prove that they suffered severely in their
first effort.
Congress will please pardon the length of this narration,
as I thought a particular and circumstantial detail of
facts would not be disagreeable, especially as I have
transmitted no accounts of the progress of this army
since the action of the 29th of August. I flatter myself
that the orders with which I was entrusted are fully
110 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
executed, as we have not left a single settlement or field
of com in the country of the Five Nations, nor is there even
the appearance of an Indian on this side of Niagara.
Messengers and small parties have been constantly-
passing, and some imprudent soldiers who straggled from
the army, mistook the route and went back almost to
Chinesee without discovering even the track of an Indian.
I trust the steps I have taken with respect to the Oneidas,
Cayugas and Mohawks will prove satisfactory; and here
I beg leave to mention that in searching the houses of
those pretended neutral Cayugas, a number of scalps
were found, which appeared to have been lately taken,
which Colonel Butler showed to the Oneidas, who said
that they were then convinced of the justice of the steps
I had taken. The promise made to the soldiers in my
address at Newtown I hope will be thought reasonable
by Congress, and flatter myself that the performance
of it will be ordered.
Colonel Bruin will have the honor of delivering these
dispatches to your Excellency. I beg leave to recommend
him to the particular notice of Congress, as an officer who,
on this as well as several other campaigns, has proved
himself an active, brave, and truly deserving officer.
I have the honor to be, with the most exalted elements
of esteem and respect, your Excellency's most obedient
and ever humble servant,
John Sullivan.
His Excellency John Jay, Esq.
Some of those who were Sullivan's subordinate officers
during the Western Expedition, said afterwards that the
above report which he rendered to Congress, was a
"pompous account of his military peregrinations."
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 111
While it is an account of his "military peregrinations,"
the word "pompous" should be omitted. True, it
is written in the florid style of the 18th century, but we
should remember that the revolutionary period was one
of great formality and dignity both in manners and speech,
and in writing the way he did, Sullivan was only adhering
to the custom of his time.
One reason why he was disliked in certain quarters
was on account of his mental caliber, as one authority
has said, "Sullivan always had the best intelligence of
any man in the army," and we all know that the greater
a man is, the greater will be the number of his enemies.
Washington always entertained a great regard for him
and a man had to possess some pretty sterling qualities
in order to gain and hold the friendship of "The father of
his country." That Washington was no believer in form-
ing quick friendships xviU be seen by a perusal of the
following advice contained in a letter from him to his.
nephew, Bushrod Washington, written in 1783, in which
he advises the young man to be courteous toward all but
intimate with few, and let those few be well chosen before
you give them your confidence, for true friendship is a.
plant of slow growth.
Washington never missed an opportunity to show his;
esteem for General SuUivan, and he ranked next to.
Lafayette in his affections.
An Afterword
And now, dear reader, that we have accompanied
"John Sullivan and his men" through the picturesque
and stirring scenes of the great Indian Expedition let us
take a glance at the man who was the commander-in-
chief. Let us glance at him as he enters his tent to hold.
112 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
a council of war with his four brigadier generals (Clinton,
Maxwell, Poor and Hand), while the army lay in camp
on the shores of Conesus Lake. At the time appointed
for the coimcil he enters his tent from a tour of personal
inspection of the camp. Genial in disposition he salutes
each of the officers as he takes his camp stool at the head
of the council table; The expression of his sun-burnt
face is grave and even anxious. We see a man 40 years of
age, 5 feet 9 inches tall, his face is oval in contour and
swarthy in color. His eyes are dark brown and his
gold-laced hat covers a mass of dark brown wavy hair.
He is inclined to corpulency which but adds to the grace
and dignity of his deportment. He is full of chest,
straight as an arrow and as he sits there at the head of the
council table, he looks every inch the brave soldier and
gallant gentleman, and he is a man who challenges our
respect. His father, Owen Sullivan, belonged to an upper
class Irish family of ancient lineage, and as we have seen,
came from Ireland to the colonies in 1723. All of his
sons were men of note. James became governor of
Massachusetts, and William Governor of Vermont,
John, the third son (and subject of this biography),
received a good education from his father, who was a
school teacher, and after taking a trip abroad, read
law in the office of Judge Livermore of Portsmouth
N. H., and a little later established himself in the small
town of Durham, N. H. He retired from the continental
army in the late autumn of 1779 and was at once elected
member of Congress, and took his seat in 1780, but left
the next year to engage in the practice of law. He served
two terms as governor of the State of New Hampshire,
and one term was Attorney General of the same State.
When the United States District Courts were erected in
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 113
1789, President Washington appelated him judge for
the District of New Hampshire. In a letter to the
President of Congress, under date of November 9th,
1779, General Sullivan says: "It is with the deepest
regret I find myself compelled to request from Congress
liberty to retire from the Army. My health is so much
impaired by a violent bilious disorder, which seized me
in the commencement and continued during the whole
of the western expedition that I have not the smallest
hope of a perfect recovery. My physicians have assured
me that nothing but a total release from business, and a
particular attention to my health, can restore me; and
my own feelings indicate that even this will fall far short
of my own wishes and their expectations." Washington
endeavored to prevent General Sullivan from retiring
from the service, but seeing that "matters were drawing
to a happy conclusion" he persisted, and Congress ac-
cepted his resignation, accompanying the acceptance,
however, with renewed thanks for his meritorious and
patriotic services. As we see him bend his steps toward
his New England home, and the loving arms of wife and
children, his health wrecked by five years service under
his country's flag, and his fortunes depleted, as a conse-
quence of his neglect of his private affairs, we murmur,
"Great and good man, may peace and happiness hover
about thy declining years, and the smile of God be on
thy last hours." Such was not to be, however, for during
the last fifteen years of his hfe he was hounded by creditors,
and even death did not end the rugged chapter of a life
of rugged fortunes, for under an infamous statire of that
day, his creditors attached the body and held it from
burial until Colonel Cilley (he who had moved shoulder
to shoulder with him, during the great Indian raid, six-
114 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
teen years before) drew his pistols, and held the officers
of the law at bay, while the remains of the good General
were committed to the soil of the old Granite State.
His death occured on the 23d of January, 1795, from a
stroke of apoplexy, at an inn, where he had put up for
the night. It is sad to think that a man who had faced
death on the fields of Brandywine and Germantown,
at the cannons mouth at Trenton, and in the wilds of the
"Genesee country" at last had to die among strangers
xvith none of his own kin around him. General SuUivan,
while he was filling the office of District Judge, always
traveled about on the back of a fine(^^e^;Jiorse, and it was
his habit to tell his wife uponjejmng home, to attend
court, that if she saw his big white horse coming, without
him, she Would know that he was dead. He left his wife,
who survived till 1820, three sons, all graduates of Harvard
College, and one daughter. General Sullivan's niece>
Margaret Sullivan, was the writer's great-grandmother.
General Sullivan was a very positive man, who entertained
and freely expressed his sentiments. He never minced
words, but always declared himself freely. His ambi-
tion and self-confidence were enormous. Born to rule,
he was ill-fitted to obey. No doubt he was a little too
independent and out-spoken at times, but reader, let
us judge him not, for we should remember that he long
ago, went —
"To join the innumerable caravan
Which moves to that
Mysterious realm where each
Shall take
His chamber in the silent halls of death."
and that long ere this, he has been judged by a supreme
power, by Him who has said more than eighteen hxmdred
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 115
years ago, "Vengeance is mine." He was a lineal descend-
ant of Lord Donall O'SuUivan, "O'SuUivan of the Glen's."
who was dispossessed of his castles and vast estates,
in South Ireland, by Sir Charles Wilmot, and his English
forces, in December, 1602. He was a man who was easily
excited and quick to anger, but his was not a vengeful
disposition, and he was always susceptible to kind words.
Like many of his brother officers in the continental army
he never received his just rewards from the country he
served so well, and the grim reaper, when he came, on
January 23d, 1795, found him as poor as the proverbial
"church mouse." After the disbandment of the conti-
nental army, in 1783, both officers and men strove to
secure their pay, which was hopelessly in arrears. Con-
gress had voted half pay to the officers for life, and many
had agreed to accept a commutation of this in form of
full pay for a certain number of years. Certificates
for these amounts were issued but in this as in other cases,
it was found impossible to procure the money for the
purpose from the States. When the disbandment was
finally effected, the officers found their certificates depre-
ciated in value and the State's indisposed to honor them.
They consequently received only a small part of their
due and in some cases nothing at all. This deplorable
result was due in part to poverty but quite as much to
bad faith. The covmtry, at the close of the revolution,
was in a most demoraUzed condition, the result of the long
seven years' war and the general collapse of public and
private credit, which had accompanied it.
As a friend of the great hearted and noble-minded
Washington, the brave and patriotic Greene, the chival-
rous young marquis De Lafayette, and all the noblest
statesmen and generals of the revolution, whose esteem
116 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
for Mm is universally knowiij and to whom his attachment
never wavered, he will be valued for his high integrity,
his steadfast faith and his loyal and generous character.
Were it necessary I could say much more in praise of
General Sullivan, but I think that I have already said
enough to show that he was an honest, brave and patriotic,
self-sacrificing man and one who deserves to have his
name inscribed high on the wall of the temple of fame,
as one of the foremost actors in the great drama of the
past. The states of New York, New Hampshire, and
Pennsylvania, have perpetuated his name by giving it
to counties, townships and villages.
In the spirit land,
Stands Sullivan's band,
In that far distant home in glory,
But through the years,
A procession appears,
Far famed in the world's great story.
The End.
AN APPENDIX
containing notes, acknowledgments, biographical
sketches, etc.
Biographical Sketch of Lieut. Thomas Boyd
Lieut. Thomas Boyd, who was massacred near Little-
beards Town, on Sept. 13, 1779, was born in Pennsylvania,
in 1756, and was, therefore, at the time of his death, in
the 23d year of his age. He had enUsted as a Sergeant
in Capt. Stephen Bayard's Company from Derry, Pa.
in January, 1776, and was transferred to Capt. Matthew
Smith's Company in November of the same year, and in
January, 1778, was made Captain Lieutenant in the 1st
Pennsylvania Regiment. Soon after, with other rifle-
men, he was detached from his regiment and joined Col.
Butler, and subsequently served under Major James
Parr, to whose command he belonged at the time of his
death. He was of fine physique, and engaging manners.
His younger brother, William, fell at Brandywine, in 1777.
The remains of Boyd and Parker, were found by the
army the day after the massacre, and buried under a
clump of wild plum trees, where they lay in unmarked
graves, until 1841. Jn July of that year, a movement
was set on foot by some of the leading citizens of Roches-
ter, N. Y., including Henry O'Reilly, editor of the Union
(now the Union and Advertiser), to have the remains
removed to Mt. Hope Cemetery, which was done with
imposing ceremonies. Here they lay imtil 1903, when the
Irondequoit Chapter, Daughters of the American Revo-
lution, had them removed to their present resting place,
in the extreme northern part of the great city of the dead.
117
118 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
The writer's mother sleeps the eternal sleep, less than half
a mile away.
We can thank the Irondequoit Chapter, Daughters of
the American Revolution, that from a twenty-five foot
steel flag staff, the stars and stripes now float, day and
night, over the graves of John SulUvan's men.
Biographical Sketch of Capt. Simon Spalding
At the terrible bombardment of Wyoming, on June 30<
1778, Lieut. Spalding (whose name appears in the roster
of officers), commanded a detachment of Ransom's
regiment. Almost every shot from the British tore
through the fort, and men fell on every side. A soldier
of Spalding's threw himself flat on the ground. "No-
body," he said, "can stand this." "Get up my good man,"
said Spalding cooly. "I should hate to have to run
you through. You can stand it if I can" and the man
returned cheerfully to his duty. After the war. Captain
Spalding was commissioned Brigadier General of the
militia of Pennsylvania. He is buried in the little church-
yard at Sheshequin, Bradford Co., Pa.
For the foregoing facts relating to Spalding, I am indebted to
Mrs. Chas. C. West, of Sayre, Pa., and Mrs. E. C. Rosenfield, of
Towanda, Pa. Both of these ladies are descendants of Captain
Spalding.— O. E. R.
Note — Lieut. Col. Adam Hubley, was born in Lancaster County,
Pa. in 1744, the son of Michael and Rosina Hubley. He died in
Philadelphia of yeUow fever in 1793.— O. E. R.
Note — Col. "Tory" Walter Butler wasldlledby an Oneida Indian
in 1781 while fleeing from the redskins, he tripped and fell over a
log; before he could regain his feet, the Indian was upon him.
The inhuman Tory begged for mercy, but the Oneida, shouting in
broken English, "Sherry Valley, remember Sherry Valley" buried
GENERAL WASHINGTON'S ARMY 119
his tomahawk in his brains. Thus passed out of the world, the
"Fiend in human form." — O. E. R.
Note — It is told of General Sullivan's mother, (who was the
writer's great-great-great grandmother) that one time when she was
in a gathering of ladies (among whom she was a partial stranger)
she was questioned about her Irish origin in a slighting manner.
The brave and proud little woman, answered "Yes, I came to
America to give you judges and generals.'' — O. E. R.
Note — General Sullivan was a great lover of horses (so is the
writer), and after the battle of Brandy wine, he remarked that the
horse which was shot from under him, there was "the best horse in
America." — O. E. R.
Note — The force that attacked Cherry Valley numbered 800,
and consisted of 600 Indians, 150 Tories, 50 British soldiers and four
officers. Of Colonel Walter Butler, Brandt said of him that he
was "more savage than the savages themselves". — O. E. R.
Note — ^For the picture of the marker at Wysox, Pa., and the
one of Standing Stone Rock, Pa., my thanks are due to Mrs. Sue R.
Mercur, of Towanda, Pa. — O. E. R.
Note — The Irish family of O'SuUivan derives its descent from
Oliol OUun, King of Munster, who reigned about the year 125 A. D.
— O. E. R.
Note — The Abbe Belmont, who was the historian of the De Non-
viUe expedition in the summer of 1687, asserts that it was the
custom of the Indians "to change their viUages every ten years
in order to bring themselves near the woods and permit them to
grow up again."
This may have been true during the period of the earlier Indian
occupation of Western New York, when perhaps the red man
depended more for his subsistence on the chase than the pursuit
of agriculture. But certain it is that during the later years of their
ownership of the soil their villages were occupied for many years in
succession. Such was the case with Kanandasaga, for we learn
from the manuscripts of Sir William Johnson, dated at Albany,
June 15th, 1754, that "whereas the French have long been endeavor-
ing to prevail on the Senecas to come and settle at Irondequoit,
120 A NEW HAMPSHIRE LAWYER IN
in order to have them nearer to their settlements, the more easily
to effect their design of debauching them from the British interest.
The Commissioners are of opinion that His Honor should insist
that the Senecas who at present live very remote from one another,
to make a general castle near the mouth of the Seneca river, where
they have already begun to buUd a new castle.
In 1746, on the recommendation of the Commissioners of Indian
Affairs, Sir William Johnson as superintendent, in order to more
fuUy bind them to the "British interests" caused to be erected at
Kanandasaga a large stockade fort, whose ruins were visible as late
as the year 1845, when the Hon. Lewis H. Morgan of Rochester,
N. Y., visited it and made a drawing of its site.
The theory of the Abbe Belmont could hardly apply to this
settlement of Kanandasaga, for we have quite convincing proof that
it was continually occupied for more than twenty-five years previous
to 1779, when it met the same fate as the other Indian towns at the
hands of General Sullivan's invading troops. — O. E. R.
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