This week in Revolutionary War History, let’s discuss what was going on 250 years ago in and around the colonial Province of Massachusetts Bay. Last week, Washington split his focus between a campaign to the north to assault Quebec and a proposition to attack Boston with Washington writing a letter to Canadians in an attempt to sway them to the Thirteen Colonies’ side and calling for a meeting with top generals to discuss plans to recapture Boston, the third most populous city in the colonies.
On September 10, 1775, Washington receives word from Brigadier General Nathanael Greene of Rhode Island that a number of Pennsylvania riflemen stationed near Bunker Hill have deserted. This will eventually lead Washington to order the Generals Charles Lee and Nathanael Greene to march 500 troops, with bayonets fixed, to disperse and call for mutiny. The armed mutineers set down their weapons and surrender at the sight of Washington’s quick reaction. That same day, Washington writes to his younger brother, John Augustine Washington, and says“we are well and in no fear or dread of the Enemy.” He candidly hints at his desire to attack Boston.
The next day, the commanders Washington ordered to come convene in a Council of War at the military headquarters in Cambridge. Washington is accompanied by Generals Nathanael Greene, Charles Lee, Israel Putnam, Artemas Ward, John Thomas, William Heath, John Sullivan, and Joseph Spencer. Washington immediately outlines his plans, reportedly to mixed feelings.
He offers the following five reasons for a preemptive assault: “First That the Winter was fast approaching,” which follows into the second and third reasons, being the winter will necessitate extra resources, mainly firewood, wood for shelters, and clothing, which he notes the army doesn’t have the money for. The fourth reason, he adds, is “If the present army should not incline to engage for a longer time than the 1st January – you must levy new troops.” In other words, if we don’t use these troops now, they’ll have to go home soon. Finally, the fifth and final main reason is powder, or lack thereof. Reported at the time, the council’s decision was “After duly weighing the above proposition, considering the state of the enemies lines, and the expectation of soon receiving some important advices from England it was unanimously agreed that it was not expedient to make the attempt at present at least.” The generals have unanimously rejected Washington’s plan.
The next day, Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin in Chelsea sends Washington news of worrying troop movements. He writes, “I have observed that the boat at Charlestown Ferry have passed more frequently than usual last night and this morning. Those from Boston to Charlestown being deeply loaded with soldiers.” Could the British be moving troops north in an attempt to drive Washington out of Cambridge?
On September 13, in his General Orders, Washington writes of the 33 men from the mentioned mutiny a few days prior, saying they have been found guilty of “disobedient and mutinous behavior.” They are ordered to pay 20 shillings, except for their leader John Leamon, who pays and receives six days in prison.
The following day, Colonel Benedict Arnold sets off for the north. Washington writes, “You are entrusted with a command of the utmost consequence to the interest and liberties of America: upon your conduct and courage and that of the officers and ⟨soldiers⟩ detached on this expedition, not only the success of the present enterprise and your own honor, but the safety and welfare of the whole continent may depend.” He adds, “consider yourselves as marching not through an enemy’s country, but that of our friends and brethren.” Again, further showing Washington and the Continental Congress’ desire and belief that the Canadians will pick up arms and assist in driving out the British. Arnold and his men are to meet with General Philip Schuyler before a unified campaign.
This Week in Revolutionary History…
By Sam Bishop