Fort Stanwix Salleyport

The salleyport lead to the east side of the fort and into a swampy marsh.

M. Hutchko/National Park Service

SALLYPORT, 1: a gate or passage in a fortified place for use by troops making a sortie; 2: a secure entryway that consists of a series of doors or gates.

At the historic fort, the garrison's water supply and a swampy area was located just beyond the sallyport door. The watery landscape allowed for natural protection on that side of the fort.

On August 6, 1777, Colonel Marinus Willett took approximately 200 soldiers through the sally and raided enemy camps. Their goal was to find General Herkimer, unaware that Herkimer and his forces were under attack at Oriskany.

The day's events and raid are described as follows:
"According to General Harkeman's request, the colonel detached 200 men and one field piece under command of Lieutant Colonel Willett with orders to proceed down the road to meet the generl's party; having marched a mile, they came upon an encampment of the enemy which they totally routed and plundered them of as much baggage as the soldiers could carry. Their loss is supposed to be between fifteen and twenty killed. The number of wounded who got off is unknown. They took four prisoners, three of whom were wounded, and Mr Singleton of Montreal, who says he is a lieutenant, without the loss of one man killed or wounded.

"Our party returned immediately and brought in a number of blankets, brass kettles, powder and ball, a variety of cloths and Indian Trinkets and hard cash, together with four scalps the Indians had lately taken, being entirely fresh and left in their camp. Two of the scalps taken are supposed to be those of the girls, being neatly dressed and the hair plaited. A bundle of letters was found in the enemy's camp, which had been sent by a Luke Cassidy for this garrison, who is supposed is either killed or taken; the letters were not broke open. Four colors were also taken, and immediately hoist."
Account taken from the Journal of William Colbrath.