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| March of 1775 |
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A town meeting in Boston erupts in panic when
a British soldier yells "fie", which is mistaken for "fire" by the
townspeople.
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Cherokees, by the Treaty of Sycamore Shoals,
sell to the Transylvania Company of North Carolina all land between
the Kentucky and Cumberland Rivers.
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At a meeting at St. John's Church in Richmond,
the Second Virginia Convention hears Patrick Henry deliver his "liberty
or death" speech supporting a resolution to put Virginia "into
a posture of defense."
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The Virginia Convention requires each county
to form a volunteer company of calvary and infantry.
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The New England Restraining Act is endorsed
by King George III, requiring New England colonies to trade exclusively
with England and denying them fisheries in the North Atlantic.
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April of 1775
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The New York Assembly passes its final militia
act as a colony, requiring all males 16 to 50 years of age to enlist
under penalty of a fine.
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The Colonial Assembly of New York holds its
last session and adjourns.
The last of David Leonard's weekly letters "To the Inhabitants of
the Province of Massachusetts" is published.
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Governor Josiah Martin orders dissolution of
the North Carolina Assembly.
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The first society advocating the abolition
of slavery is organized in Philadelphia with Benjamin Franklin and
Dr. Benjamin Rush as presidents.
Massachusetts Governor Gage is secretly ordered by the British to
enforce the Coercive Acts and suppress "open rebellion"
among colonists by using all necessary force.
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Some British troops in Boston are relieved
of normal duties in preparation for action.
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Last "Novanglus" letter by John Adams
appears in the Boston Gazette.
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General Gage orders 700 British soldiers to
Concord to destroy the colonists' weapons depot. That night, Paul
Revere and William Dawes leave Boston to warn colonists. Before being
captured by a British patrol, Revere reaches Lexington about midnight
and warns Sam Adams and John Hancock.
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Dr. Samuel Prescott reaches Concord with a
message that the British are coming, which allows the militia to remove
or destroy supplies and prepare to fight.
An unordered "shot heard around the world" begins the American
Revolution. British forces retreat from Lexington back to Boston and
are harassed and shot at all along the way by farmers and rebels.
News of the events at Lexington and Concord spreads like wildfire
throughout the colonies.
Postrider Israel Bissel begins his ride through the colonies to deliver
the news of Lexington.
British troops retreat into Boston under fire, and the patriot siege
of the city begins.
Patriots in Charleston, South Carolina, seize arriving British mail.
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Israel Putman (later an American brigadier
general) arrives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, from Connecticut.
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Royal Marines, acting under Governor Lord Dunmore's
orders, take 15 half barrels of gunpowder from the magazine in Williamsburg,
Virginia.
New Hampshire militiamen march to Cambridge after learning about Lexington
and Concord. Patriots seize all the gunpowder supplies in Charleston,
South Carolina.
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Rhode Island militia prepares to march to Boston.
Virginia Governor Dunmore threatens to free enslaved Africans if British
officials come to harm.
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Baltimore patriots seize military supplies.
About 8,000 persons at a town meeting in Philadelphia resolve to defend
"with arms their property, liberty, and lives."
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The New York Committee of 60 urges a more permanent,
revolutionary body to replace the ineffective Provincial Congress.
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Benedict Arnold arrives in Cambridge with New
Haven (Connecticut) Militia Company.
The General Association of Orange County is organized to assure the
execution of measures advocated by the Continental and New York Provincial
Congresses.
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| May of 1775 |
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New York's Committee of 100 recommends that
every man procure weapons and train himself in military discipline.
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The Committee of Public Safety in Cambridge,
Massachusetts, appoints Benedict Arnold "to a secret mission" (the
capture of Ticonderoga).
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The Earl of Dartmouth instructs colonial Governor
Martin of North Carolina to organize an association of loyalists and
raise militias.
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The Pennsylvania Assembly rejects Lord North's
proposal for conciliation.
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The British Naval ship Falcon captures two
American ships at Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts.
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In a candid report to the Earl of Dartmouth,
New Jersey Governor Franklin writes that the Lexington skirmish greatly
diminished chances of reconciliation
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Benjamin Franklin writes to his son, the governor
of New Jersey, encouraging him to support American independence.
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The County Committee of Bucks County, Virginia,
urges the townships to form military associations.
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Benedict Arnold challenges Ethan Allen's authority
to lead the expedition against Fort Ticonderoga. However, since Arnold
has no soldiers, Allen retains control.
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American forces led by Ethan Allen and Benedict
Arnold capture Fort Ticonderoga in New York, with its military supplies.
The Second Continental Congress convenes in Philadelphia.
The loyalist president of King's College (later Columbia University),
Dr. Myles Cooper, is threatened by a New York City mob, but escapes
with the help of lawyer Alexander Hamilton.
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Patriots seize gunpowder in royal magazines
in Savannah, Georgia.
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Patriot commander Seth Warner captures the
disabled British fort at Crown Point, NY, without resistance.
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The Provincial Congress of Massachusetts appoints
a committee to establish a postal system.
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The Committee of 100 orders Staten Island and
New Jersey to halt the illicit sale of provisions to British warships.
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Congress resolves to put the colonies in a
state of military readiness.
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Hannastown, Pennsylvania, Resolutions declare
that it is the duty of Americans to resist British oppression and
form a defense association.
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New York Provincial Congress assumes functions
of government.
Troops under Benedict Arnold take St. John's, Canada.
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Governor Martin of North Carolina reports that
he is powerless to prevent the people of North Carolina from forming
an army and a government.
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Six transports of British Marines arrive in
Boston.
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The Safety Committee of Cambridge, Massachusetts,
votes to refuse to admit slaves into the army.
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Ethan Allen returns to Ticonderoga, New York,
after being repulsed by a superior British force at St. John's.
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Henry Laurens of Charleston, South Carolina,
writes that the events at Lexington created in South Carolina "an
amazing readiness to contribute to the common cause."
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The Second Provincial Congress of New Jersey
confirms allegiance to Continental Congress.
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John Hancock is elected president of the Second
Continental Congress, replacing Peyton Randolph.
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The Continental Congress orders defensive posts
to be established in New York.
British Generals Burgoyne, Clinton, and Howe arrive in Boston with
reinforcements.
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A British Navel surgeon visits an American
encampment and notes that the Americans are "a drunken, canting, lying,
praying, hypocritical rabble without order."
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Action at Hogg Island in Boston Harbor takes
place when a British schooner runs aground. Americans board and loot
her.
Patriot forces skirmish with British foragers at Noodle's Island in
Boston Harbor.
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Military spirit is high in Philadelphia as
more than 2,000 men turn out for daily military exercises.
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Congress adopts an address urging Canadians
to join in the revolution.
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Deputy Quarter Master General William Sherreff
complains of the serious shortages of food and fuel in Boston.
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A committee in Charlotte, North Carolina,
adopts the Mecklenburg Resolutions, challenging royal authority in
the colonies.
Governor Josiah Martin of North Carolina flees New Bern to take refuge
on the British ship HMS Cruzier in Cape Fear River.
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| June of 1775 |
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The Continental Congress resolves that "no
further expedition or incursion ought to be made… against or into
Canada."
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Massachusetts requests that the Continental
Army assume responsibility for the New England Army at Boston.
Congress creates Army Pay Department.
The Provincial Congress of South Carolina asserts solidarity with
the other colonies.
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Three young men from Williamsburg, Virginia,
are injured by surprise gunfire, while attempting to arm themselves
from the public magazine.
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Ethan Allen expresses surprise that a reconnoitering
party was fired on and pursued by Canadians.
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A Williamsburg, Virginia, mob breaks into the
town magazine and carries off 400 guns.
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Lt. Colonel Marius Willet and a small group
of Sons of Liberty seize five wagonloads of weapons after confronting
British soldiers evacuating the arms from New York City.
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The Provincial Congress of New York expresses
approval of Albany's troop raising efforts, but requests that no more
troops be raised until further orders.
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Lord Dunmore, governor of Virginia, flees to
the British warship HMS Fowey at Yorktown.
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The Provisional Congress of South Carolina
prohibits exports of rice and corn and begins stockpiling supplies.
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John Adams proposes a Continental Army.
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A band of men from General Wooster's Connecticut
troops raid the Turtle Bay warehouses and magazine, making off with
shot, cannon balls, horse harnesses, and other needed supplies.
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In Machias, Maine, a group of patriots captures
the British armed cutter HMS Margaretta, after a brief fight.
British General Gage proclaims martial law in Massachusetts.
Rhode Island establishes a naval force.
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Patriots learn of General Gage's decision to
occupy Dorchester Heights.
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Congress establishes the Continental Army.
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The Congress unanimously votes to appoint George
Washington general and commander-in-chief of the new Continental Army.
Naval Commander Abraham Whipple captures two British ships in Providence
River, Rhode Island.
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The Massachusetts Provincial Congress appoints
Colonel Richard Gridley as chief engineer officer to design a defense
for Bunker Hill.
Under the leadership of Colonels Putnam and Prescott, patriot troops
occupy the Charleston Peninsula with instructions to establish defensive
positions on Breed's Hill near Bunker Hill.
Congress appoints generals in the Continental Army and creates supporting
military services.
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George Washington accepts his commission as
commander-in-chief of the Continental Army.
The first major fight between British and American troops occurs at
Boston in the Battle of Bunker Hill (fought at reed's Hill). The British
succeed in taking the hill, but at a loss of half their force.
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Boston shipbuilders refuse to continue working
on a brig for the Crown.
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Boston residents are ordered to surrender their
firearms or be deemed enemies of His Majesty's Government.
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Thomas Jefferson takes a seat in the Continental
Congress.
General Washington reviews the Philadelphia militia.
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Nathanael Greene is chosen brigadier general
of the Rhode Island forces.
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Congress votes to raise money to support the
Continental Army.
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George Washington leaves Philadelphia for Boston.
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New York Provincial Congress assumes power
of taxation.
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General Washington arrives in New York City.
The Pennsylvania Rifle Battalion is organized.
General Philip John Schuyler is named to command "New York department"
by Congress.
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General George Washington states that after
the "establishment of American liberty" he will return to
his role as a private citizen.
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Congress authorizes invasion of Canada.
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The Massachusetts Congress provides for the
raising of soldiers to protect the Massachusetts coast.
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Governor Dunmore sails from York, Virginia.
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Congress adopts the Continental Articles of
War.
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| July of 1775 |
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The Continental Congress resolves to counter
the British employment of Indians by entering into an alliance "with
such Indian Nations, as will enter into same. . . "
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Virginia planter Robert Beverly, writes a business
contact in London that "Our publick Affairs are so far from being
carried on with Certainty in these Times of Anarchy, that the wisest
heads amongst us know not in what Train Things are to remain for even
a July at a Time, & therefore Prudence must be our only Guide . .
. "
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At Cambridge, Massachusetts, George Washington
takes command of the Continental Army and 17,000 troops in the Boston
area.
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The Continental Congress approves a resolution
denouncing the trade restraining acts as "unconstitutional, oppressive
and cruel."
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The Continental Congress adopts the Olive Branch
Petition which expresses hope for a reconciliation with Britain, appealing
directly to the king for help.
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The Continental Congress issues a "Declaration
on the Causes and Necessity of Taking Up Arms" detailing the colonists'
reasons for fighting the British and states the Americans are "resolved
to die free men rather than live as slaves."
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In Savannah, Georgia, Governor Wright calls
for a day of fasting and prayer based on a request of the Provincial
Congress.
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A skirmish between Americans and British troops
takes place in Roxbury, Massachusetts.
Congress adopts a petition to King George III offering reconciliation.
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In London, King George calls a petition of
the London Common Council "most decent and moderate in words" but
subversive in its denial of Parliament's authority to tax the colonies.
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Georgia sends out one of the first patriot
vessels commissioned for naval service.
Captain Bowen accomplishes the first seizure of a British ship at
sea.
Georgia sends 5,000 pounds of gunpowder to the Continental Army.
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Georgia's Provincial Congress assures Governor
Wright that although Georgia had aligned itself with the other American
colonies it still retained great regard for England; it pledged to
work towards reconciliation to "preserve the peace and good order
of this Province."
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Americans capture Fort Charlotte. Governor
Dunmore of Virginia reports to London that rebels had occupied his
residence, converted the capital into a barracks, mobilized a force
in York, and intercepted official mail: "the People of Virginia manifest
open Rebellion by every means in their power, and declare at the Same
time that they are his Majesty's Most dutyfull subjects. . . "
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The Continental Congress approves a speech
to the Six Nations, urging the Indians "to remain at home, and not
join either side, but keep the hatchet buried deep." Similar speeches
are ordered for other tribes.
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John Wilkes, the Lord Mayor of London, and
members of the Common Council offer a petition to King George calling
for reconciliation with the colonies and an end to all military operations
in America. The King later states that he "owed it to the rest of
the law-abiding people to oppose the petition."
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In Wilmington, North Carolina, the Committee
of Safety passes a resolution calling for as many men as possible
to join Colonel Howe in his attempt to overthrow the British detachment
occupying Fort Johnston.
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Upon meeting George Washington in Braintree,
Massachusetts, Abigail Adams writes: "Dignity with ease, and complacency,
the Gentleman and Soldier look agreeably blended in him."
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The third Virginia Convention meets in Richmond,
ordering the formation of two regiments as well as minutemen and militia.
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Congress requests that all of the colonies
establish minuteman units.
Royal Governor Josiah Martin of North Carolina seeks refuge on a British
warship when patriots occupy Fort Johnston.
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Congress appoints commissioners to seek peace
with Indian tribes.
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New York observes a Day of Fasting and Devotion,
in accordance with the recommendation by Congress.
American patriots raid royal stores at Turtle Bay, New York.
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Americans raid Natasket Point (Brewster Island),
Massachusetts. The raiders confiscate lamps, oil, gunpowder, and boats
and burn the wooden parts of the lighthouse. .
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Washington organizes his army into three divisions
under Generals Charles Lee, Artemus Ward, and Israel Putnam.
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Noting the lack of uniforms for the Continental
Army, Washington orders commissioned officers to wear cockades in
their hats: pink or red for field rank, yellow or buff for captains,
and green for subalterns. Sergeants are identified by a strip of red
cloth on their right shoulder.
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The Virginia Convention passes a resolution
to cease the export of flour, wheat, and other provisions from the
colony to any country.
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Commanded by Captain Michael Doudel, the First
Continental Unit reaches Boston.
Dr. Benjamin Church becomes the first Surgeon General of the Continental
Army.
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An American Post Office is established with
Benjamin Franklin as Postmaster General.
The Maryland Convention meets in Annapolis where it votes to support
the Continental Congress and resolves to organize 40 companies of
minutemen.
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Congress establishes The Army Medical Department.
Henry Laurens, President of the Council of Safety of South Carolina,
urges Captain Clement Lempriere to purchase gunpowder, lead, and muskets
for the colony, relying on force only as a last resort.
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The Pennsylvania Committee of Safety orders
Robert Morris to import from Holland and Spain the medicines required
by the harbor defense force.
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Congress establishes the Army Chaplain Department
and Judge Advocate General Department.
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Samuel Adams writes his wife that the Continental
Congress will adjourn soon, the delegates having decided "to make
a Recess during the sultry August of August."
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A second raid on Brewster Island occurs. The
patriots are successful in killing or capturing the entire enemy force.
Congress rejects the plan of reconciliation advanced by British Prime
Minister, Lord North.
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| August of 1775 |
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The Continental Congress adjourns.
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In South Carolina, William Drayton and William
Tennet leave Charleston to secure the loyalty of settlers in the interior
parts of the province to the patriot cause.
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Washington requests Governor Cooke of Rhode
Island to send a vessel to remove the Provincial supply of powder
from the magazine in Bermuda.
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In London, King George congratulates himself
on securing a German corps "much Cheaper than if raised at home,
and when no farther wanted Saves the expence of half pay."
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A native of Charleston, South Carolina, writes
to London: "Be assured peace will never be firmly established
between Great Britain and America, until the latter receives an ample
recognition of her rights, and a full satisfaction for the blood that
has or may be shed."
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The Virginia Convention appoints Patrick Henry
to the post of Commander of the First Regiment of the colony's militia.
He is later named Commander-in-Chief of the Regular Forces.
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In Paris, France, King Louis XVI agrees to
send Julien Achard de Bonvouloir to America on a fact-finding mission.
He is also instructed to assure the Americans that France has no aspirations
for the reconquest of Canada.
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Captain Daniel Morgan and his Virginia riflemen
arrive in Cambridge.
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British Captain John Linzee is forced to release
two captured patriot sloops and retreat from Gloucester Harbor, Massachusetts.
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Washington warns British General Gage about
the treatment of prisoners: " . . . I shall regulate all my conduct
towards those gentlemen who are or may be in our possession, exactly
by the rule you shall observe towards those of ours now in your custody:
if severity and hardship mark the line of your conduct, painful as
it may be to me, your prisoners will feel its effects."
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The Massachusetts House of Representatives
instructs inhabitants of the colony "not to fire a gun at beast,
bird, or mark, without real necessity therefor." The recommendation
is made to encourage the conservation of gunpowder.
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In London, Lord Sandwich announces that the
British Navy has engaged the 6,000 tons of shipping needed to transport
regiments from Ireland to America.
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Americans raid storage magazines in Bermuda,
carrying off at least 100 barrels of gunpowder.
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Governor Campbell of South Carolina appeals
to the House of Assembly for aid, admitting that "the powers
of Government are wrested out of my hands. I can neither protect,
nor punish; therefore with the Advice of His Majys Council I apply
to You & desire that in this dreadful emergency You will aid me
with all the assistance in Your power, in enforcing the Laws, &
protecting His Majys Servants . . . "
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In New Jersey, the Provincial Congress resolves
to organize a military force consisting of 48 battalions, one ranger
company, and 63 companies of minutemen.
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British military officials in Cork, Ireland,
recruit men for military service in America.
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The Dutch renew their embargo on the export
of military stores to America.
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King George III issues a proclamation declaring
the Americans to be in a state of open rebellion.
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The colonial governments of Virginia and Massachusetts
discuss the manufacture of saltpeter and are actively encouraged to
increase the production of gunpowder.
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A brief artillery exchange in New York sparks
an exodus by New York City civilians to New Jersey.
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British Prime Minister Lord North advises the
King that "The cause of Great Britain is not yet sufficiently
popular," predicting difficulty in reaching military enlistment
goals.
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The Rhode Island Assembly resolves to have
their delegates to the next Continental Congress ask if they may build
a fleet of ships at Continental expense "for the protection of
these colonies."
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Benjamin Franklin writes to Silas Deane agreeing
with his opinion that the colonies need a navy: "I hope the next
Winter will be employed in forming one. When we are no longer fascinated
with the Idea of a speedy Reconciliation, we shall exert ourselves
to some purpose. Till then Things will be done by Halves."
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Apparently unaware of loyalist sympathies in
the interior of the colony, a native of Charleston, South Carolina,
observes that "Every thing here is suspended but warlike preparations
. . . The country is unanimous."
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George Washington expresses a suspicion that
false shortages of wood, hay, and oats had inflated their costs for
the military and asks the legislature to fix prices on these items.
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Washington writes to the President of the New
York Provincial Congress attacking ship owners who secretly deliver
provisions to Boston. He also emphasizes his need for gunpowder, noting
that although his troops had seized a hill advancing them towards
the enemy, their "poverty prevents our availing ourselves of
the Advantage of [the] Situation."
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In New York, the Provincial Congress enters
into a contract with Joseph Hallett for importing 15 tons of gunpowder
and 1,400 muskets.
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| September of 1775 |
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Richard Penn and Arthur Lee, representing the
Continental Congress, present the Olive Branch Petition to the Earl
of Dartmouth. King George III refuses to receive the petition.
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Washington appoints Captain Nicholas Broughton
to take command of the armed schooner Hannah for the purpose of seizing
vessels carrying soldiers, ammunition, weapons, and supplies to and
from Boston.
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The Grand Union Flag is adopted.
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A resident of Rhode Island presents to the
Committee of Safety a proposal to build a submersible vessel for the
purpose of destroying British warships.
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In Charleston, South Carolina, the Council
of Safety adopts a more proactive program for the defense of the province,
calling on the militia to stand "in readiness as in time of Alarm."
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Washington writes to the residents of Bermuda
defending the American struggle to secure its rights and urging them
to deliver to him the contents of their powder magazines. In return
he promises to ask the Continental Congress to release the provisions
needed by the inhabitants of the islands.
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In New York, New York, the Provincial Congress
orders the Quakers to submit a list of all male members of their society
aged 16 to 60 years living in the city and county. The Quakers refuse
on the grounds that the request violates their religious beliefs.
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American forces unsuccessfully assault a British
garrison at Saint Johns, Canada.
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A group of conscientious objectors sends the
Committee of Safety £152 in support of the American cause.
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The Second Continental Congress reconvenes
in Philadelphia. Three new Georgia delegates join the deliberations.
In London, Lord Dartmouth announces that 10,000 stand of arms and
6 light artillery pieces would be sent to North Carolina where Governor
Martin claims a large body of loyalists would oppose the rebels
with force.
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In Boston, Admiral Graves orders Captain Vandeput
of the Asia to seize and keep in safe custody any delegates to the
Continental Congress and any "Rebel General Officers, or the
chief radical leaders in New York."
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Rebels capture strategically important Fort
Johnson, on James Island, South Carolina.
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The British charge d'affairs in Paris is ordered
to protest the shipment of 30 tons of powder to Philadelphia by the
Governor of St. Domingo, a French possession.
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In South Carolina, William Drayton and loyalist
leader Colonel Thomas Fletchall sign a treaty of neutrality in the
interior community of Ninety-Six.
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Patriot siege of Chambly (part of Canadian
invasion) begins.
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The Continental Congress resolves to appoint
a Secret Committee to import up to 500 tons of gunpowder, 20,000 musket
locks, 10,000 stand of arms, and 40 brass six-pounders.
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The British government halts the practice of
using flintstones as ballast in ships sailing to America. Admiral
Graves is ordered to search all incoming ships, dump all flintstone
ballast in deep water, and confiscate all flints suitable for use
in firearms.
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In Canada, Ethan Allen informs General Montgomery
that he has 250 Canadians under arms and more volunteers coming in.
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Washington writes to Continental Congress president
John Hancock describing the problems facing the army including the
need for winter quarters and clothing, the expiration of soldiers'
enlistments, and the lack of funding.
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Admiral Graves advises the British Admiralty
against relying on America for supplies and provisions for the fleet
during the coming winter. All necessary items would have to be shipped
from England.
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American forces depart on the long march to
Quebec.
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The British Cabinet gives notice that it is
their intention to "carry on the war against America with the
utmost vigour; and to begin the next campaign as early as possible
in the spring. The outlines of the plan to be pursued, are, an army
of eighteen thousand men to be employed in New-England, and another
army of twelve thousand men are to act in Virginia and the middle
Provinces."
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Ethan Allen aborts a poorly timed attack on
Montreal and is captured by the British.
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In Philadelphia, John Hancock writes to Washington
on behalf of the Continental Congress asking him to prepare winter
quarters for his men. Edward Rutledge of South Carolina makes a motion
to have Washington discharge "all the Negroes as well Slaves
as Freemen in his Army." The motion fails.
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| October of 1775 |
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General Gage orders two detachments from St.
Augustine, Florida, to Boston, leaving only about half a regiment
in all of east Florida. Ninety soldiers are left in St. Augustine;
the rest are stationed in New Smyrna, Matanzas, the Cowford, Lookout
Tower, and St. John's River.
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In Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the supply ship
Prince George, transporting flour from Bristol, England, to Boston,
is taken by force as it enters the Portsmouth harbor by mistake.
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The Committee of Safety orders the repair of
the barracks and hospital at Albany, New York, "with all possible
dispatch in the cheapest . . . manner, so as to make them fit for
the reception of the Troops of the Continental Army."
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The Massachusetts House of Representatives
orders the overseers of Harvard College "to inquire into the
principles" of its staff and to "dismiss those who, by their
past or present conduct, appear to be unfriendly to the liberties
and privileges of the Colonies."
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A committee to prepare a plan for fitting out
two armed vessels to intercept enemy transport ships is appointed
by the Continental Congress.
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The Continental Congress passes a resolution
calling for the arrest of all loyalists who are dangerous to "the
liberties of America."
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After refusing to provision a British ship,
Bristol, Rhode Island, is bombarded and burned. Townspeople eventually
surrender 40 sheep.
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In Cambridge, Washington's General Officers
meet at a Council of War, and agree that the new army consist of at
least 20,372 men enlisted for one-year terms.
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British General Sir William Howe writes to
Lord Dartmouth his belief that the British army should be evacuated
from Boston and moved to Rhode Island where it "would be better
connected, and the corps would act with greater effect."
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General Gage departs Boston for England.
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John Hancock writes to General Philip Schuyler
expressing Congress's hope that his endeavors in Canada result in
convincing the Canadians to join in the union with the Colonies, form
a Provincial Convention, and send delegates to the Continental Congress.
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The Irish Parliament finalizes an address to
King George III, pledging their "unfeigned zeal and unshaken
loyalty" for the King and the British government.
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Congress authorizes the creation of a navy.
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In London, Secretary of State Lord Suffolk
receives intelligence that the colony of Pennsylvania is preparing
an armed fleet and floating batteries to prevent the passage of the
King's ships through the Delaware River. He recommends that the Admiralty
dispatch vessels to destroy the floating batteries.
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The maritime minister of France sends orders
to officials in port towns urging them to prevent American ships from
loading war munitions.
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In Wilmington, North Carolina, the colony's
Committee of Safety orders the creation and sale of certificates proving
one's loyalty to the American cause. To encourage their sale, the
committee orders that no business be conducted with any citizen of
the county unless they produce one of the certificates.
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As a punitive measure, British ships bombard
and set fire to Falmouth, Maine, destroying the majority of the town.
Three committeemen from the Continental Congress meet with Washington
and representatives of the colonies of Connecticut, Rhode Island,
and Massachusetts Bay. The conference is called to draw up a plan
for reorganizing, supplying, and continuing the Continental Army.
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The British surrender their fort at Chambly,
Canada.
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The committee meeting with Washington about
the Army agrees that the forces should be supplied with provisions
by the New England colonies. Washington is given the authority to
impress wagons, vessels, horses, and other necessary items.
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On the recommendation of the Continental Congress
and news of an imminent attack, the Provincial Congress of New York
orders all sulphur and brimstone supplies in New York City shipped
to a safe place on the Hudson River.
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Former president of the Continental Congress,
Peyton Randolph of Virginia, dies in Philadelphia.
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The Congressional Committee meeting with Washington
agrees to accept the Penobscot, Stockbridge, and St. John's Indian
tribes offers of assistance, allowing them to be employed in the Army
if necessary. The committee decides, however, to exclude African Americans.
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Patriots successfully defend Hampton, Virginia,
from a British naval attack.
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The Continental Congress passes a resolution
recommending that all colonies export goods to the West Indies in
exchange for the import of arms, ammunition, sulphur, and saltpeter.
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In Philadelphia, the Society of Friends, or
Quakers, asks the Pennsylvania Assembly "to guard against any
proposal or attempt to deprive us and others of the full enjoyment
of liberty of conscience." Quaker religious beliefs prohibited
members from bearing arms or supporting armed conflict through personal
service or financial obligation.
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General Sir William Howe, new Commander-in-Chief
of the British army, issues a proclamation to the American residents
of Boston forbidding any person from leaving the city on pain of death.
He also orders citizens to organize into military companies in order
to aid in the "defense" of their city.
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Four armed American vessels sail from Cambridge
as part of a fleet created to cruise the coast in search of enemy
transports carrying arms and provisions.
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Congress establishes the Naval Committee, the
first real administrative committee on standing naval affairs for
the colonies.
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Washington tries to encourage re-enlistment
in the Army by reserving new supplies for those who agree to commit
to another year of service. He also promises each man time to visit
his family during the winter.
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| November of 1775 |
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The Continental Congress resolves to ban the
export of produce and livestock, except horses, from the colonies
unless the proceeds of the shipments are used to purchase military
stores.
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American troops, under the command of Montgomery,
end a siege with the capture of St. Johns, Canada, a costly victory
that delays the fight for Quebec.
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In Cambridge, Washington mourns the destruction
of "so many Valuable Plantations of Trees" by soldiers to
be used for firewood. He writes that "from Fences to Forrest
Trees, and from Forrest Trees to fruit Trees, is a Natural advance
to houses, which must next follow. . . "
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The Continental Congress agrees to underwrite
the cost of raising three battalions for the defense of South Carolina
and one for the colony of Georgia. The body also recommends that South
Carolina create a new form of government, if necessary.
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King George receives numerous expressions of
support for his policies towards the American colonies from communities
in England and Scotland. Lord North organized the endorsement campaign.
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The Governor of Jamaica reports to London that
"the North Americans are amply supplied with Gun powder and other
Military Stores by the French in Hispanola; which is sold at an advanc'd
price by the Inhabitants who I find import great quantitys from Old
France, finding it such an advantageous article of Commerce; But I
do not learn that they get any out of the Royal Stores or Magazines."
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Congress amends the Continental Articles of
War.
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Washington seeks to resolve several problems
facing the army: how to encourage experienced troops to enlist; how
to assemble a capable officer corps; and how to overcome provinical
differences and rivalries. He writes, "Connecticut wants no Massachusetts
man in her corps. Massachusetts thinks there is no necessity for a
Rhode Islander. . . "
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At Phipp's Farm, Massachusetts (also know as
Lechmere Point) Americans successfully drive off British soldiers
seeking cattle to supply the Boston garrison.
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Congress adopts resolutions to encourage the
domestic production of saltpetre, raise two battalions of marines,
and dispatch two agents to Nova Scotia to secure information on the
sentiments of that populace and their state of military readiness.
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The Continental Congress engages the missionary
Samuel Kirkland to spread the "Gospel amongst the Indians,"
and confirm "their affections to the United Colonies . . . thereby
preserving their friendship and neutrality."
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Upon hearing of England's rejection of the
Olive Branch petition, Abigail Adams writes: "Let us separate,
they are unworthy to be our Brethren. Let us renounce them and instead
of suplications as formorly for their prosperity and happiness, Let
beseach the almighty to blast their councils and bring to Nought all
their devices."
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After an easy battle, American troops capture
and occupy Montreal.
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The King informs Lord North that he has contracted
for raising 4,000 German recruits for Great Britain.
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Virginia Governor Dunmore issues a proclamation
offering freedom to "all indented Servants, Negroes, or others,
(appertaining to rebels,) . . . that are able and willing to bear
Arms, they joining His Majesty's Troops."
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In Quebec, a Council of War decides to defend
the city by securing troops from naval vessels.
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The Virginia Gazette carries a letter from
a reader advising planters to warn their slaves that the British government
are worse enemies than their masters; that if the Americans are defeated,
the slaves would be sold in the West Indies; and to advise the slaves
to look for an improved status in the next world.
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The new Secretary of State for America, Lord
Germain, informs General Howe that 20,000 soldiers were to be supplied
for the spring campaign and five regiments were to be dispatched to
the Carolinas by the end of November.
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A truce ends two days of fighting between loyalists
and patriots at the fortified settlement of Ninety-six, South Carolina.
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Congress resolves to permit the colonies to
export a fixed amount of provisions to Bermuda, where inhabitants
faced starvation, in return for salt which was badly needed in the
colonies. Unlimited quantities of food could be exported if the return
cargoes contained military supplies.
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General Montgomery writes, "till Quebeck
is taken, Canada is unconquered." He concludes that an invasion
of the city would be inevitable.
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The Pennsylvania Assembly brands as public
enemies all individuals who refuse to accept provincial bills of credit.
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The South Carolina Congress resolves that "the
colony is in a state of actual alarm" and sends additional militia
into the interior to reinforce those fighting against the loyalists.
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In his absence, Washington instructs the manager
of his Mt. Vernon plantation to "Let the Hospitality of the House,
with respect to the poor, be kept up; Let no one go hungry away."
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General Montgomery begins his move on Quebec.
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Congress establishes the American Navy.
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Congress establishes a Committee of Secret
Correspondence to seek assistance from European nations.
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| December of 1775 |
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General Montgomery joins General Arnold's patriot
forces outside Quebec.
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Thomas Jefferson proposes a resolution in Congress
calling for the exchange of Ethan Allan, captured by the British at
Montreal.
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At the American camp in Cambridge, the captain
of an American schooner brings in a captured enemy vessel carrying
5000 pounds of dry goods; the British revive a fear of smallpox by
sending victims of the disease from Boston to the patriot lines.
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In an effort to prevent Connecticut troops
from leaving the service, General Lee threatens to cut off provisions
to those who do not reenlist for three weeks, and posts a notice to
innkeepers between Cambridge and Hartford asking them to refuse service
to deserters. Soldiers react to the notice by posting one of their
own stating, "General Lee is a fool and if he had not come here
we should not know it."
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Recruitment and retention woes continue for
Washington as Massachusetts sets a monthly pay schedule of twenty-eight
days, adding another month of pay per year to each soldier's salary.
He writes the Massachusetts Council, ". . . it aims the most
fatal stab to the peace of this army that ever was given, and that
Lord North himself could not have devised a more effective blow to
the recruiting service."
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West India sugar planters and London merchants
draft a petition to present to the House of Commons asking for concessions
for rum trade in the forthcoming Parliamentary bill stopping all trade
with America.
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Dr. Benjamin Gale writes to Connecticut delegate
to the Continental Congress Silas Deane regarding the progress of
construction on a submarine invented by David Bushnell.
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Siege of Quebec by American force.
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The French Foreign Minister, Count de Vergennes,
announces that King Louis XVI will renew his order to French ports
forbidding the loading of munitions on American ships. Despite issuing
the original order in October, commerce in war goods had not diminished.
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British troops under Governor Dunmore are defeated
at Great Bridge, Virginia.
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A group of British marines, sailors, and women
under the command of Captain James Wallace of the HMS Rose raid the
town of Jamestown, Rhode Island.
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Congress approves a $3000 appropriation to
support American diplomats in Europe.
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To provide much-needed fuel for the colony,
the Massachusetts Council allows decayed barns, stores, and houses
to be torn down, as well as any public buildings if needed.
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Congress authorizes the Naval Construction
Act of 1775.
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With reinforcements from Williamsburg and North
Carolina, American forces occupy Norfolk.
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Following the patriot capture of Norfolk from
the British, the Virginia Gazette reports that Lord Dunmore will bombard
the city if frontier riflemen enter the fight.
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A representative of the Delaware tribe visits
the Continental Congress where he is thanked by John Hancock for keeping
the Delwares neutral in the conflict between Britain and America.
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Patriot forces in Montreal build ramparts of
snow and ice. An American describes the event in a letter stating,
"Who but Yankees would have thought of such a contrivance or
who but enthusiastics for liberty would carry on a siege at such a
season of the year."
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A company of foot rangers raids Sullivan's
Island, South Carolina, where Governor Campbell has retained slaves
and loyalists.
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The New York Provinical Congress orders the
purchase of 1,000 copies of the proceedings of the Continental Congress
in Low Dutch and German to be distributed to residents of the colony.
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The Continental Congress orders a temporary
cease-fire between the colonies of Connecticut and Pennsylvania in
their dispute over conflicting land claims in the Wyoming Valley.
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In London, the British Parliament passes a
bill calling for the confiscation of all American vessels and the
impressement of their crews into service in the English Navy.
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British Parliament passes the American Prohibitory
Act.
Esek Hopkins is commissioned Commodore in the Continental Navy.
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King George III issues a royal proclamation
closing the American colonies to all commerce and trade, to take effect
in March of 1776. Also in December, Congress is informed that France
may offer support in the war against Britain.
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The Georgia Council of Safety attempts to stop
several vessels from loading lumber on the Sapelo River for export
to the West Indies.
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Christmas Day
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The Continental Congress calls for another
three million dollars in bills of credit to be issued to help defray
the costs of building a navy and supplying the army. The thirteen
colonies pledge for the redemption of the bills of credit by levying
taxes in each colony.
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A group of thirty-four prisoners taken by the
British near Montreal are moved to the HMS Soleboy to be transported
to Boston. Colonel Ethan Allen is the only officer in the group.
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The Continental Congress resolves that troops
raised in Virginia be enlisted on the same terms and pay as the forces
at Cambridge.
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In Schenectady, New York, the local Committee
of Correspondence asks local magistrates to prevent the firing of
guns on New Year's Day in order to conserve gun powder.
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General Washington's recruitment officers are
allowed to discuss enlistment in the American army with free African
Americans that want to join the force.
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Richard Montgomery and Benedict Arnold lead
an unsuccessful American assault on Quebec in which Montgomery is
killed and Arnold wounded.
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