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Section Six: Related Links (cont'd)
1. Journal of Lieut. Erkuries Beatty in the Expedition Against the Six Nations Under Gen. Sullivan, 1779. (Pennsylvania Archives, Second Series, Vol. 15, pp. 219-253.)
Illustration: Order of March, July 31, 1779.
Illustration: Order of Battle, Gen. Hand's Light Corp.2. Old St. Paul's Cemetery Listings.
* * * * * *Transcriber's note: Liberty was taken to correct spelling and grammar and
add a word in [ ] here and there to make this journal easier to read.Pennsylvania Archives, Second Series, Vol. 15, Pages 218 - 253
JOURNAL of LIEUT. ERKURIES BEATTY
in the Expedition Against the Six Nations UNDER GEN. SULLIVAN, 1779
This journal is in possession of the New York Historical Society, and was published in connection with the record of the centennial celebration of the expedition of Gen. Sullivan against the Six Nations Indians in 1779. Lt. Beatty belonged to the Fourth Regiment of the Pennsylvania Line, where a biographical reference is given. [See Illustration of Lt. Erkuries Beatty.]JOURNAL OF AN EXPEDITION TO ONONDAGA
April 6th, 1779. Marched out from the middle fort with a company from the 4th Pennsylvania Regiment and a company from the Rifle Corps about 9 o'clock, proceeded on to Cobus Kill 12 miles from Schohary; arrived there at 4 o'clock when we [were] joined by Capt. Johnston's Company of Col. Dubois's Regiment from the lower fort, Schohary, when he took the command. Stayed here all night. Next morning we proceeded on with the 3 companies to Mohawk river to Conogoharie 25 miles, where we stayed all night. Nothing material happened. On our march the next day, marched on to Fort Plank, 6 miles, where we got wagons sufficient to carry our mens' packs, then proceeded on within 4 miles of Fort Herkimer where we stayed all night.
Next morning started early, arrived at Fort Herkimer where we joined Capt. Bleeker's Company from Col. Gansevort's Regiment, Capt. Fowler's Company from Col. Livingston's Regiment and Capt. Lane's Company from Col. Alden's Regiment. Stayed here and got breakfast, then marched on 13 miles when we encamped all night in the woods. The next morning got off early, went on to old Fort Stanwix 6 miles, where we breakfasted, then proceeded on to Fort Schuyler, 16 miles, where we arrived about 5 o'clock and [were] saluted with three pieces of cannon from the fort, four companies encamped on the glacis and the other two quartered in houses that [were] there. The officers quartered in the garrison which consisted of Col. Vanschaik's Regiment and a company of artillery.
April 14th, 1779. Rested all this day, nothing material happening
April 15th. This day about 63 Oneida Indians came into the fort with their baggage & squaws. They all fired coming in and [were] saluted with 3 pieces of cannon from the fort. After some ceremony they went out and lay about 1/4 of a mile from the fort.
April 16th. This morning the Sachems applied to Col. Van Schaick to go on the expedition with us, but the Colonel told them that we [were] not going on any expedition, which almost satisfied them. This afternoon about 20 more came in [from] the Tuskeroras and Oneidas. April 17th. It snowed last night and partly all this day, nothing material happening. April 18th. Snowed by spells this day. The Indians applied to the colonel to go on an expedition by themselves which was granted them and they [drew] provisions, then they petitioned for two officers to go with them but no men, which was granted them. Lt. McClellan of Col. Gansevort's Regiment was ordered to go with each, to take a sergeant and 20 days' provisions with them, and they marched out about 1 o'clock, about 60 of them, leaving their Sachems and squaws behind them. This day 30 batteaus with stores from Schenectady [arrived at the Fort] . We received orders to draw 3 days' provisions and hold ourselves in readiness to march tomorrow morning at daybreak.
April 19th. - Last night the batteaus were carried into Wood Creek about 3/4th of a mile from the fort and this morning flights of snow fell, but we marched out about sunrise with 3 companies from Col. Van Schaicks Regiment. Col. Van Schaick took the command with his other field officers. Lt. Col. Willet and Major Cochran sent a proper guard with the batteaus and we proceeded down Wood Creek by land till we arrived within about 2 miles of Lake Oneida, 22 miles from the fort. Stayed here 3 or 4 hours for the boats, where they arrived about 3 o'clock, when we immediately embarked and proceeded into the Oneida Lake, the wind blowing very high all night. About daybreak we stopped and collected our boats, then proceeded on till about 1 o'clock, when we stopped about 2 hours and drew provision, then proceeded on to the Onandaga, landing at the farther end of the lake which is 33 miles across and 13 miles in breadth , where we arrived about 3 o'clock. [We] immediately disembarked, drew rum, turned out a sufficient guard to leave with the boats, then formed the line of march, viz: The men to march in two columns about the distance of 100 yards each, Captains Graham, Gray, Hicks and Renshaw with their companies to form the right and Captains Louies, Johnston, Fowler & Bleeker to form the left and the Rifle Company to divide upon each flank, the main body to march two deep, and in case of interruption to file out to right and left and join the line, and the Riflemen to keep on the flanks. In this manner we marched through the woods with the greatest silence about 14 miles, when we stopped about dark and laid down without any fires and the strictest orders to keep silence.
April 21st. -This morning set out about daybreak on the same line of march and went about 6 miles when we halted. Capt. Graham with his company was sent forward as an advance party, then proceeded on to the Onandaga Lake about 8 miles in length and 4 in breadth. Waded an arm of it about 4 foot deep and 200 yards wide and came to Onandaga Creek, small but deep, had to cross it on a log. Capt. Graham's company, just as he crossed the creek, caught an Indian who was shooting pigeons and made him prisoner, and we got some information from him, then proceeded on till we came within about one mile of the town, when we received word from Capt. Graham that he had caught one squaw and killed one and had taken two or three children and one white man, and one or two made their escape and alarmed the town. The colonel immediately sent me forward to order him on as quick as possible and take as many prisoners as he could and he would support him with the main body. I overtook him at the first town and delivered my orders and he immediately pushed on about two miles to the next town where he made a small halt and took a great many prisoners. Soon after Major Cochran with Capt. Gray's Company came up and ordered me to stay with the prisoners and their two companies to push on to the next town about one mile forward which they did and made more prisoners and killed some, particularly a Negro who was their doctor. They then plundered the houses of the most valuable things and set fire to them and returned to the middle town where I was. Capt. Bleeker's Company had come up by this time and left the main body at their first town. We then collected all our prisoners, plundered this town and set fire to it, then marched to the main body which lay at the first town. We stayed there about 8 hours and
killed some five horses and a number of hogs and plundered their houses and set fire to them and marched out about 4 o'clock in the same line of march as we came, only the front changed and a company to guard the prisoners who were to march between the two columns. Marched on about 2 miles from the town down the Onandaga Creek when about 20 Indians who lay concealed on the opposite side of the creek fired upon us, but the Riflemen soon dispersed them, killing one of them. We then marched on and crossed the Onandaga Creek in two places for fear the enemy should attack us, but we met with no interruption. Crossed the arm of the lake and encamped by the side of the lake about 8 miles from the town. We killed about 15, took 34 prisoners, burned about 30 or 40 houses, took 2 stand of colors, and we had not one man killed or wounded.April 22nd. Marched out early this morning and arrived at the boats about 4 o'clock, stopped about one hour to draw rum, them embarked and went 7 miles to a large island in the lake where we encamped and drew provision.
April 23d. The next morning, the wind blowing, we did not set out till about 9 o'clock, but the wind begun to lull and we arrived into Wood Creek about 4 o'clock when we disembarked, left 3 companies to guard the boats up the creek and we proceeded on to Fish Creek, about 7 miles, where we encamped.
April 24th. Rained a little last night. Set out early this morning. Small showers of rain fell today. We arrived at Fort Schuyler about 12 o'clock when we were saluted by 3 pieces of cannon from the fort and each company took their old quarters.
April 25th. This day we were busy in collecting the plunder and making an equal distribution of it to each company and received orders to hold ourselves to embark tomorrow morning early to go down the Mohawk River.
April 26th. This morning Capt. Louies and Capt. Fowler's company were ordered to march down to Fort Herkimer to guard some wagons and afterwards to join their regiment. The other 4 companies embarked with the prisoners about sunrise and proceeded down the river to Fort Herkimer, where we arrived about dark. Some of the boats were ordered to go forward 6 miles to the carrying place and wait there in the morning till the rest came up.
April 27th. Set out early this morning and went to the carrying place, some showers of rain falling, had our boats carried over as quick as possible and proceeded down the river as far as Major Funda's, within 24 miles of Schenectady, where we stayed all night.
April 28th. Set out early this morning and arrived at Schenectady about 12 o'clock, when each company received orders to join their regiments as soon as possible. Put the men in the barracks and stayed all night.
April 29th. This morning about daybreak set out with Capt. Gray's Company and the Rifle Company, leaving the prisoners with Capt. Bleeker to guard to Albany, proceeded on till we arrived at middle Fort Schohary, just being out 3 weeks. E. Beatty
JOURNAL OF AN EXPEDITION TO THE INDIAN TOWNS
Friday, June 11, 1779. Marched from Schohary with 4th Pennsylvania Regiment and Rifle Corps 8 o'clock, leaving 15 men from each corp with proper officers for the safety of the place. The rest arrived at Schenectady at sundown where we encamped.
Saturday, June 12th. Lay encamped all day.
Sunday, June 13th. Crossed over the river, encamped opposite Schenectady and was supplied with 36 batteaus to go up the Mohawk River with a quantity of provisions. Small showers of rain fell today.
Monday, June 14th. Showers of rain [fell] almost all day. Embarked in our boats at 2 o'clock, proceeded up the river, very strong water. Went 3 miles up when we encamped on the shore.
Tuesday, June 15th. Rained all last night which made it very disagreeable in our tents. Embarked this morning, 8 o'clock, proceeded on 10 miles, midling strong water, encamped on the shore.
Wednesday, June 16th. Embarked this morning at sunrise. Went on 13 miles to Major Funda's where we encamped.
Thursday, June 17th. Embarked this morning [at] sunrise. Went up very good water all day. Arrived at Conojoharie at sundown, 17 miles where we found Col. Gansevort's Regiment. Unloaded our boats and we encamped immediately on the left of Col. Gansevort's Regiment.
Friday, June 18th. Lay in camp very quiet all day. Nothing material happening.
Saturday, June 19th. Struck tents very early. Marched out for Springfield. Very bad road. Passed on the road a number of wagons with batteaus and provisions going on to the lake, likewise a New York regiment which was encamped on the roadside 6 miles from Conojohaira. Arrived at Springfield at 4 o'clock P.M., 17 miles, which had formerly been a pretty little settlement, but the Indians at the destruction of Cherry Valley had likewise destroyed it. It lies within 4 miles of Lake Otsego and about 6 or 8 from Cherry Valley. Here we encamped in a very pleasant place.
Sunday, June 20th Lay in camp all day. Nothing material happening. Great number of wagons pass[ed] all day to the lake with provisions and batteaus. Two companies of Col. Alden's Regiment, N. E., came here this evening and encamped. [They were] on their way to join their regiment laying at the lake.
Monday June 21st. This morning Major Parr with near 100 men, properly officered, went on a 3-day scout, likewise to clear out the branch of the Susquehanna which come out of the Lake Otsego, to make it passable for boats, likewise the two companies of Col. Alden's Regiment moved to their regiment. Nothing else material happening. A number of wagons passing to the lake with boats and provisions. We sent out parties every day to keep the roads in repair.
Tuesday, June 22d. This morning the Colonel and a number of officers besides myself went on a fishing party across Lake Otsego, caught a few fish and returned in the evening, but got very wet as there were showers of rain falling in the afternoon. On the lower end of the lake (which is about 8 miles in length and 2 in breadth), we found two companies of Col. Alden's Regiment who had made a dam across the neck that runs out of the lake so as to raise the water for carrying the boats down the creek.
Wednesday, June 23d. This day about 2 o'clock Major Parr arrived with his party, brought no news of any consequence but that the branch of the Susquehanna which he went down about 10 miles from Lake Otsego was passable for boats. Lay in camp all day. Nothing of consequence happening. Sending out fatigue parties on the roads as usual, likewise great numbers of wagons passing to the lake.
Thursday, June 24th. Lay in camp today. Nothing of consequence happening.
Friday, June 25th. This morning Capt. Simpson with 20 Riflemen went on a scout, likewise Lt. Bevins with 20 Musket men went on a scout. Showers of rain fell today and exceeding warm weather. Not many wagons passed today.
Saturday, June 26th. Rained almost all last night but very warm all day. About 9 o'clock Col. Dubois' Regiment arrived here with 2 pieces of artillery, likewise a quantity of ammunition for the expedition and some clothing. Stayed and ate breakfast and proceeded on to the lake, then to take part this afternoon. Capt. Simpson with his party, and Lt. Bevins with his, arrived at camp but brought no news of consequence. This evening a number of wagons arrived here on their way to the lake with ammunition, likewise our P: Mr.
Sunday, June 27th. This morning sent an escort with the ammunition to the lake. Today about 2 o'clock one of the Rifle officers sent his waiter about one mile from camp to get salad, but the waiter was unhappily made a prisoner by a few Indians after having fired three shots which we heard in camp. Immediately scouts went out but could see nothing.
Monday, June 28th. This day the Colonel and a number of officers with myself went to see Col. Dubois and his officers who were encamped at Lows Grove on the upper landing. Found them all very well and they provided a very good dinner for us, suitable to the place and time. There were about fifty officers that dined together. After dinner we had a song or two from different officers and returned home a little before sundown. We were all
very sociable at dinner and spent our time with the officers very agreeably. Little flights of rain fell today in the morning. Nothing material happening.Tuesday, June 29th. Lieut. Boyd went out today with a scout and Lieut. Cotin with another party. A number of Col. Dubois' officers came to see us today and dined with the Colonel. This evening the flying hospital arrived here with a number of hospital stores and all the surgeons that are going on the expedition, and here encamped.
Wednesday, June 30th. This morning Capt. Henderson, with a large escort, went to convey the hospital to the landing.
Thursday, July 1st. This day fell some rain about 2 o'clock. General Clinton arrived at our camp with the Adjutant General and a number more officers and encamped. About dark Col. Gansecort's Regiment arrived here and encamped in front of us. This evening we received orders to march tomorrow morning early.
Friday, July 2d. Accordingly this morning we struck our tents early, the regiment marched by Cherry Valley to the lower end of the lake. The baggage of the detachment went to Springfield landing with a proper guard with the Colonel and the Quartermasters and myself. The baggage was put on board boats and [we] proceeded to the lower end of the lake where we arrived about 3 o'clock and found the regiment there before us. We immediately took out our baggage and encamped on the right of Crohan's House, a very pleasant place. In the evening the General arrived with Col. Gansevort's Regiment and the hospital and a great deal of provisions. They encamped on the left of us.
Saturday, July 3d. This morning Major Church, with a number of boats, went to bring provisions from Springfield landing. About 10 o'clock Col. Dubois' Regiment came here with more provisions and encamped in the rear of Col. Gansevort's Regiment. Two hours after, Col. Wisenfill's Regiment arrived here with provisions and encamped in the rear of us, likewise the artillery and stores came with Col. Dubois' Regiment, and encamped between our regiment and Col. Gansevort's. Made a magazine of Crohan's house.
July 4th. This day is the third year since the day that independence was declared. It was celebrated by firing a fen de joy. All the troops drew up on the banks of the lake in one line with the two pieces of artillery on the right. There were 13 pieces of cannon fired and three volleys of musketry, one after another, and three cheers with every fire. It was done extraordinarily well and with great exactness. Afterwards the troops were drawn up in a circle by columns on a little hill when Parson Granoo preached us a sermon suitable to the occasion from the 4th chapter of Exodus, 12th verse. Afterwards the troops were dismissed. Col. Rignier, Adjutant General, gave an invitation to all the officers to come and drink grog with him in the evening. Accordingly a number of officers (almost all) assembled at a large bower which he had prepared on the bank of the lake, but however we sat on the ground in a large circle and closed the day with a number of toasts suitable and a great deal of mirth for two or three hours and then returned to our tents. The whole day was conducted extremely well considering the place. A great deal of provisions came over the lake here today. Weather [was] very warm. This afternoon Lieut. Evans' Rifle Regiment returned from a scout, being down the Susquehanna as far as Yaukams, but brought no news of consequence.
Monday, July 5th. Today Col. Alden's Regiment came over with the last of the provisions and stores of all sorts, and encamped in the center of the second line behind the artillery. Likewise a few of the Oneida Indians came over with the regiment and encamped on the banks of the lake. They all soon got drunk and made a terrible noise.
Tuesday, July 6th. This forenoon the Adjutant General reviewed the front line very particularly. This afternoon [there] was a high wind and some rain. Prayers now every evening from Parson Gano.
Wednesday, July 7th. This day the Adjutant General reviewed the second line. Took a party with some more of our officers and went fishing three or four miles from camp, caught a number of trout in one of the branches of the Susquehanna. All of the officers of the line met this evening at the large bower and took a sociable drink of grog given by Col. Gansevort's officers.
July 8th. Today, at one of the pickets, two of the out sentries fired at two men they saw creeping up to them. They did not return the fire but immediately ran away. T. D. D. W. The GL. Nothing of consequence happened today.
Friday, July 9th. A little rain fell last night but today was a warm day. Saturday, July 10th. [We] lay quiet in camp all day.
Sunday, July 11th. This day being a very rainy day [we] did not go out much, therefore heard no news. Monday, July 12th. [It] rained very hard most part of all last night but this morning cleared up, very cold considering the time of year, likewise a high whistling wind last night. All still today.
Tuesday, July 13th. Drew arms for the men in the regiment that were wanting and other necessary things for the good of the service which kept us busy almost all day.
Wednesday, July 14th. This day did not do anything.
Thursday, July 15th. Today three men deserted from our regiment, likewise some more from the other regiments.
Friday, July 16th. Nothing material happened today.
Saturday, July 17th. No news. Sunday, July 18th. Today some of our men found a very fine chest of carpenter's tools and some books, map and number of papers. The chest was concealed in a thicket of bushes, covered with bark, near one of our pickets. It is supposed it was the property of Crohan who formerly lived here but is now gone to the enemy. Therefore the chest is a lawful prize to the men that found it.
Monday, July 19th. This morning Capt. McGowan went to Schohary, there to stay till his side is cured. Likewise I felt very unwell this morning which caused me to take a vomit which worked me severely. In the afternoon I got a good deal better but still continued a swelling in my face which was occasioned by the toothache.
Tuesday, July 20th. This day we heard that Spain had acceded to our independence, and had reinforced Count De Estaing with seven or eight sail of ships of the line, likewise that Spain had laid siege to Gibralter and that the French had taken the Islands of Gurnsey and Jersey, furthermore heard that the enemy's light horse had made an excursion into Connecticut from Rhode Island, and had burnt 6 or 7 houses in New Haven, but was repulsed by our people, with loss unknown. It rained all last night very hard and steady and this morning till 10 o'clock, and it cleared up warm. Felt myself pretty well. Recovered today.
Wednesday, July 21st. This afternoon two of our men were brought in who deserted from this place, and one was immediately tied up and received 500 lashes and was again committed to the guard house. The other was ironed and closely confined there to remain to be tried for his life at the next General Court Marital that sits.
Thursday, July 22d. Today one other deserter came in of himself and had a very plausible story to tell but was committed to the guard house for trial.
Friday, July 23d. Nothing happened today.
Saturday, July 24th. Today we heard that 563 of the enemy were taken at Ver Planks Point on the North River, likewise one man was released from the guard house.
Sunday, July 25th. Today a small rain fell all day.
Monday, July 26th. Rained almost all last night and best part of this day.
Tuesday, July 27th. Some rain fell last night and a little today by showers. Today we had the agreeable news confirmed of the prisoners taken on the North River. General Wayne, with 1100 men, surprised the garrison at Stony Point, killed 100 and took upwards of 500 prisoners. He had killed and 21 wounded. There was not a gun fired on either side. General Wayne entered the fort at 3 o'clock in the morning. The garrison was commanded by Col. Johnston. Likewise we heard that the Indians had taken 36 men at Fort Schuyler who were making hay and afterwards were pushing down the Mohawk River, in consequence of which there was a detachment sent off commanded by Col. Gansevort to Conojoharie consisting of 265 men and 5 captains with 3 days provisions. Likewise we heard that there was a major, 2 captains, one subaltern and 15 men taken prisoner by 7 Indians and one white man at Sabbath Day Point, or near it, somewhere near Lake George, the officers and men went out to gather huckleberries and were taken asleep.
Wednesday, July 28th. This morning (agreeable to the sentence of a General Court Martial) at Troop Beating the three men were brought out to be shot, one belonging to our regiment, one to the 6th Massachusetts and the other to 3d New York, all found guilty of desertion. The troops were drawn up on the Grand Parade and the man belonging to the 3d. New York Regiment was shot. The other two were reprieved by the General. Very warm today.
Thursday, July 29th. Rained a little last night but none today. Today we had a newspaper which gave a particular account of General Wayne taking the fort at Stony Point. They killed 60 of the enemy and took 400 men besides 25 officers with Col. Johnston the Commander and one captain killed by the enemy. General Wayne got a slight wound in his temple besides 5 other of our officers and 50 men and 25 killed of our men. Likewise we took 14 pieces of ordnance, 700 stand of arms, tents, rum, cheese, wine, and a number of other articles of stores. Our troops took out the ordnance and stores and destroyed the fort and returned with the prisoners near our grand army. The enemy had 60 killed and about the same number wounded. Likewise we heard in the papers of 5 of the enemy's provision ships being taken with 20,000 barrels of different stores, safely arrived in eastern ports. We heard from Fort Schuyler that Lieut. Scudder was taken, with them 36 men. We had the good news in General Order today.
Friday, July 30th. Nothing of consequence happened today.
Saturday, July 31st. Today small showers of rain fell. This evening Col. Gansevort arrived with the command [which] had been as far as Fort Herkimer but brought no news of importance.
Sunday, August 1st, 1779. Rained almost all last night. Today at 11 o'clock the officers of the brigade met, agreeable to General Orders (as has been these few days past) to learn the salute with the sword, the General's. Curiosity led him out to see how they saluted. After they were dismissed they formed a circle round the General and requested of him to
give them a keg of rum to drink, a demand, at the same time we little expected to have the favor granted us, but we happened to take the General in one of his generous thoughts, which he is but seldom possessed of, and instead of one he gave us six, when we gratefully acknowledged the favor by thanks. [We] immediately repaired to the cool spring where we drank two of our kegs with a great deal of mirth and harmony, toasting the General frequently, and then returned to our dinners. In the afternoon Parson Gano gave us a sermon.Monday, August 2d, 1779. Today at 11 o'clock the officers again assembled at the spring to finish the remainder of our kegs, which we did with the sociability we had done the day before.
Tuesday, August 3d. (I had like to forget to mention that there was a command of 150 men under the command of Major Parr on Sunday morning went to Oaks Creek, about 3 miles from here, with the cattle to pasture. I am informed there is a house there and about 50 acres of clear land on which is excellent grass.) Nothing of consequence as I know of today. The Riflemen went down by the side of the lake to try their rifles, which they did by shooting at marks.
Wednesday, August 4th. This morning 150 men commanded by Major Church went to Oaks Creek
[One leaf of JOURNAL is missing]
Monday, August 9th. Agreeable to yesterday's order the General beat at 6 o'clock, the troops marched about 8, excepting 3 men which were to remain in each boat to take down the river. The infantry marched in front, which I now belong to, and the remainder of the battalions next, marched on 16 miles within 5 miles of Yorkams, where we encamped on a small improvement called Burrows farm, where there was a great many rattlesnakes and very large. There was one killed with 15 rattles on.
Tuesday, August 10th. Rained a little last night and this day till 1 o'clock. Marched off the ground at 3 o'clock and went 5 miles to Yorkams where we encamped. The men in the boats encamped on the farm which lies on the east side of the river and the remainder on the other side opposite. Went on guard tonight.
Wednesday, August 11th, Marched out this morning [at] sunrise and proceeded on 14 miles down the river where we encamped on a small farm, passed several small farms today with very poor houses on them and some none. The Riflemen in front saw fresh Indian tracks today on the path and found a knife at one of their fires. Today we crossed a large creek called Otego, and passed several old Indian encampments where they had encamped when they were going to destroy Cherry Valley or returning. Likewise we passed one of their encampments yesterday. We encamped tonight at Ogden's farm and very bad encamping ground.
Thursday, August 12th. Marched out this morning [at] 7 o'clock. Had the advanced guard today. Proceeded down the west side of the river as usual, [in] 12 miles came to a small Scotch settlement called Albout on the other side of the river 5 miles from Unindilla, which we burnt, but the people had gone to the enemy this last spring. Went on to Unindilla, crossed the river to the east side and encamped. The river was about middle deep when we waded it. This settlement was destroyed by our detachment last fall, excepting one house which belonged to one Glasford who went to the enemy this spring. His house was immediately burnt. When we came on the ground today we passed several old Indian encampments where they [had]encamped when they destroyed Cherry Valley. The road [was] midling hilly.
[See Illustration of Order of March]
Friday, August 13th. This morning [was] very foggy [with] a great deal of dew. Marched out [at] 6 o'clock, went 2 miles, waded the river about 8 feet deep, proceeded on to Conihunto, a small Indian town that was destroyed by our detachment last fall. It is 14 miles from Unindilla. A little below this town there is 3 or 4 islands in the river where the Indians raised their corn. On one of those islands our troops encamped with the boats and cattle. The light infantry went 2 miles from Conihunto where they encamped a little after 3 o'clock in the woods. Middle good road today.Saturday, August 14th. Marched this morning at 8 o'clock. Very hilly road for the right flank. Arrived at the fording 2 miles from Onoquaga about 2 o'clock which is 8 miles from where we started, the ford being too deep to wade. Crossed in our boats to the east side, went over a high hill and got to Onoquaga at 3 o'clock where we encamped on very pretty ground. This town was one of the neatest of the Indian towns on the Susquehanna. It was built on each side of the river with good log houses with stone chimneys and glass windows. It likewise had a church and burying ground and a great number of apple trees and we likewise saw the ruins of an old fort which formerly was here many years ago. The Indians abandoned this town last fall when they heard of our detachment coming to destroy it. They had but just left it when we came in it but we did not catch any of them, but burnt their town to ashes and the detachment returned. This evening we fired an evening gun.
Sunday, August 15th. Very heavy dew this morning. Went on guard. The army remained at Onoquaga today. Quiet, no news stirring as I hear of in particular.
Monday, August 16th. This morning [there was] a very heavy dew and fog which is very customary in this country. Was relieved of my guard and the day proved exceeding warm. A heavy shower of rain [fell] this afternoon. At 12 o'clock Major Church, with the 4th Pennsylvania Regiment, went out 5 or 6 miles to meet 4 or 500 militia who we expected to join us here but he returned in the evening and saw nothing of them.
Tuesday, August 17th. Marched out from Onoquago this morning [at] at 8 o'clock, proceeded down the river 3 miles to one of the Tuskurora towns which was burnt by our detachment last fall, here waded the river about 4 feet deep to the west side. Went on one mile when we came to another of the Tuskurora towns call[ed] Shawhianghto, consisting of 10 or 12 houses, which we burnt. Then [we] marched on over a very barren mountainous country 10 or 12 miles. Came to a Tuskurora settlement called Ingaren consisting of 5 or 6 houses, but a good deal scattered. Encamped at the lower end of the settlement after burning the houses. Here they had planted a good deal of corn, potatoes, etc., which we destroyed. A few yards in front of our company's encamping ground there was a tanfat farm with several hides in a tanning which the soldiers got. And close by it they discovered a little man in a hole which was laid there and a little dirt thrown over him just to cover him. We had his head uncovered but he was to putrefied. We could not discover whether he was a white man or Indian but supposed to be a white man as there was a Scotch bonnet found near him. Marched today 15 miles.
Wednesday, August 18th. Marched out from Ingaren [at] 7 o'clock through a very fine rich country very well timbered but poorly watered, scarce any. Arrived at Chinango River at 4 o'clock where we forded it, about 4 feet deep. As soon as we got over we halted and Major Parr with 100 men went up the river to destroy the Chinango town, which lay 4 miles up the river. But when we came there we found the town was burnt, which consisted of about 20 houses. It seems when the Indians evacuated it last winter the y destroyed it. Therefore we returned and found the army encamped 2 miles below the Chinango River. Marched today 22 miles and burnt several Indian houses on the road. This evening two runners came up the river who informed us that General Poor, with 100 men, was within 9 miles of us, coming to meet us, and that General Sullivan lay at the mouth of the Tyoga [Tioga River], and that he had sent part of his army up to Shamong, which they destroyed, and had returned to General Sullivan with the loss of 9 men killed and some more wounded, which was in small skirmishing. The Indians had taken all of their things from Shamong excepting a few cattle which our people got.
Thursday, August 19th. Marched this morning [at] 7 o'clock. Went 2 miles when we burnt 7 or 8 houses on the east side of the river. Four miles farther at the Chuggnuts we fell in with General Poor's army who were ready to march. They had burnt this settlement which lies on the east side of the river, about 20 houses. [We] made no halt here but went on 4 miles, General Clinton's Army in front and General Poor's in the rear. Came to a midling large creek where we made a halt for one hour, then marched on 12 miles without halting and arrived at Owego about sundown after a very fatiguing march of 22 miles. This afternoon fell a small shower of rain.
Friday, August 20th. Rained a little last night and successively all this day, therefore did not move. Went [to] a party down to Owego town which lies one mile lower down and burnt about 20 houses.
Saturday, August 21st. Clear weather this morning but a very heavy fog. Marched out a little after 7 o'clock. Forded Owego Creek which is reckoned one-third of the Susquehanna at this place. It was about 3 feet deep and about 50 yards wide. Went through the ruins of Owego town, crossed a pretty large brook, went 12 miles, halted at a small brook one hour for refreshment. Proceeded on 3 miles further when we encamped at 4 o'clock opposite Fitzgerald's farm in the woods. It [is] is very fine farm but no house on it nor anybody living on it. On this ground where we encamped Mr. Sawyer was made prisoner by Indians, along with his neighbor, Mr. Cowley. Both lived on the head of the Delaware. After the Indians having them so far on their journey, they rose in the night, killed the Indians which was 3 or 4 and made their escape. We saw the bones of the Indians. Since we came on the ground today we met with a bad accident. Two of our boats of ammunition overset in the river and damaged a good many boxes of cartridges and a few casks of powder. Tonight went on guard.
Sunday, August 22d. Marched out this morning [at] 7 o'clock, proceeded on, crossed midling large brooks. Arrived at Tyoga [Tioga] 11 o'clock where we found General Hand's Brigade encamped one mile above the mouth of the Tioga where they were building 4 block houses. Other troops were encamped on the point which was Generals Poor and Maxwell's Brigades. We encamped on the right of the whole. On our coming into camp we were saluted by 13 pieces of cannon which was returned by our two little pieces. On the river we found General Hand's Brigade under arms with a band of music which played beautiful[ly] as we passed by them. We encamped on a very pretty piece of ground and spent the remainder of the day in seeing our friends in the different regiments. Likewise when we arrived here our infantry was disbanded and ordered to join their respective regiments. Very heavy showers of rain this afternoon. Marched 7 miles today.
Monday, August 23d. Today we lay at Tioga Spint [for] the day in seeing our friends. Today a captain of General Hand's Brigade was shot dead by accident.
Tuesday, August 24th. Drew some clothing for the men. Went today to see an old Indian burying ground which lay just by our camp. There were about 100 graves, some of which our men had dug up. They bury their dead very curious[ly] after this manner. They dig a hole the length of the person they are to bury about 2 feet deep. They lay him on his back in the grave with an old blanket or blanket coat round him and lay bark over the grave, even with the surface of the earth so as to prevent the earth from touching the body. Then they heap up the dirt on top of the grave in a round heap, which is from 4 to 6 feet high. The graves are very old and [there are] a number of them, as this formerly was a very capital town, but a few years ago they moved up the Tyoga [Tioga] to Shamong, where they built that town and there are no houses here now, but very pretty land. This afternoon our regiment move[d] up the river and joined General Hand's Brigade with 4 companies from the other regiments and had orders to hold ourselves in readiness to march tomorrow.
Wednesday, August 25th, Tioga Branch. Rained almost all day. Had all our heavy baggage stored in the garrison. Received orders to march tomorrow morning at 8 o'clock. The rain raised the river very much. I heard that three Oneida Indians arrived at headquarters this evening from Oneida Castle, but what news they brought I don't know.
Friday, August 27th. Marched out this morning [at] 8 o'clock in the following line of march, viz: General Hand's Brigade of Light Infantry in front in 6 columns each, columns 2 deep and 2 or 300 yards distance from each [other]; General Poor's Brigade on the right in one column by platoons, following General Hand's right column; General Maxwell's Brigade on the left in one column by platoons, following General Hand's left column; General Clinton's Brigade fetching up the rear in the same line of march, and General Hand's Artillery and pack horses in the center; Col. Ogden on one flank and 200 men and Col. Dubois on the other with the same number in order to gain the enemy's rear in case of an attack; the Riflemen in front of the whole reconnoitering mountains, roads, defiles, etc. Marched this day 6 miles within 2 miles of Shamong where they had planted a great deal of corn, beans, etc., which we feasted on very heartily. There were several Indians seen on our march today, but they made their escape, likewise Major Parr who was advanced with the Riflemen saw a number of fires 5 or 6 miles ahead which he supposed the Indians were at. Went on guard tonight.
Saturday, August 28th. Very heavy dew this morning. Did not move today till 2 o'clock, occasioned by our ammunition wagons breaking yesterday and had to mend them before we started. Just as the General beat there were a few of our volunteers [that] went across the river to burn a house. They were fired on by 6 or 7 Indians. They immediately recrossed the river in a fright without even returning a shot. The Artillery pack horses and some troops crossed the river here to escape a very large hill which there was to cross, and crossed at Shamong where the army encamped, 2 miles from where we came from today. This town was very beautifully situated on the back of the Tioga but a good deal scattered, the land excellent. It lies near a west course from Fort Sullivan but a little to the north of west. It was burnt by General Sullivan's army just after their arrival at Tioga, which I mentioned before.
Sunday, August 29th. Marched this morning [at] 9 o'clock, went about 3 miles when we found the enemy strongly entrenched with logs, dirt, brush, etc. The firing immediately began in front with the Rifle Corp and the Indians made great halooing. Orders were given then for the troops to form in line of battle, which was done. General Hand's Brigade [was] in front but none of the troops advanced as we discovered the main body of the enemy was here and had their front secured by a large morass and brook, their right by the river and on their left partly in the rear was a very large hill. Their line extended upwards of a mile. The firing was kept up very briskly by the Riflemen and a company who was sent to reinforce them. Likewise the Indians returned the fire very brisk[ly] with many shouts for about 2 hours while a disposition was made to attack them. Generals Clinton and Poor's Brigades were sent round to their left flank to take possession of the hill in the enemy's rear and extend their line entirely round them, if possible. After they had gone about half an hour General Hand's Brigade advanced in a line of battle with all our artillery in the center within about 300 yards of the enemy's works, but in full view of them. A very heavy cannonade began and throwing of shells. The enemy returned the fire very brisk[ly] for about half an hour, then retreated up the hill in a great disorder. As they got near the top [they] received a very heavy fire from General Poor's Brigade. The enemy then took round General Poor's right flank by the river, which General Poor had not guarded as he had not time to, therefore they made their escape leaving a number of their dead behind them. As soon as the enemy left their works, General Hand's Brigade pursued them up the hill as far as where General Poor was, when we made a halt. The Riflemen pursued them about one mile farther and made a Negro prisoner, likewise saw some of their wounded going up the river in canoes. They fired on them but they all made their escaped, wounded and all. The Army then returned down the hill and encamped about 2 miles above the enemy's works. Our loss [was] about 40 killed and wounded, among which were three officers, one of which is since dead. Their loss cannot be ascertained as they all carry their dead and wounded, but there were 10 or 13 scalps taken which were killed by General Poor's Brigade on the hill. Likewise one white man was made prisoner and one Negro, who informed us that their force was about 400 Indians and 300 Tories, their chief commander Old Butler, other officers Young Butler, Brant and McDonald, the other Indian chiefs. Up the brook about one mile from where the Indians had their works was a new Indian town, midling large but poorly built, which was burnt by General Clinton's Brigade, mostly all huts. The enemy left very little plunder behind but had General Poor had a little more time to extend his army round their rear to the river, they would undoubtedly all been made prisoners, [and] our victory been a great deal more complete, but it is generally believed the enemy's loss was very considerable.
[See illustration of Order of Battle.]
Tuesday, August 31st. This morning all the boats were sent down the river, likewise in the boats the ammunition wagons and all the artillery excepting four three-pounders and a little cow horn. The wounded and sick went down, among which was Capt. Tuda who was very sick. The army moved this morning [at] 9 o'clock, fair weather proceeded, on to Newtown which consists of between 20 and 30 houses, very well built but very much scattered. [We] halted at the upper end of the town 6 miles from where we encamped for refreshment by a large creek which empties itself in the river here and runs about northwest. Here the Riflemen were detached, Col. Dayton's Regiment and a company from our regiment, up the river to take some boats that was reported seen in the river. We went up the river about 7 miles, saw no boats nor sign of any and, night coming on, we turned about, returned one mile down the river and lay in a cornfield all night. The army left the river and went about a northwest course up the creek, I mentioned about 5 miles, where we encamped. Midling good road for the artillery today and a very good path.Wednesday, September 1st. Lay very bad last night without any blanket or provision but roast corn. We arose about daybreak and destroyed the field of corn. Marched out about sunrise down the river one mile and a half where we destroyed another field of corn, then struck a north course through the woods till we came on the path of the army, proceeded on and came to where the army was encamped all night. After marching about 7 miles, [we] found the rear of the army just moving off the ground, kept on marching till we overtook the army about 11 o'clock, when each corps fell into their respective places in their line of march with the army and went round the head of the creek, proceeded on over mountains, crossed some small branches of the Seneca waters, then fell on pretty large creek which empties into Tioga Lake, runs north course; went down the creek and crossed it 9 times as the valley was very narrow; at dark we arrived within one half mile of Katarina town or Catharin's town where we made a halt, got our troops in good order, as we expected the enemy was yet in the town for we heard the dogs bark and saw fires, but we proceeded into the town without any interruption but [it was] very dark. Crossed the creek again to the east side and encamped, pulled down the houses for firewood. In what situation the town lay in we could not see. The soldiers caught 2 or 3 horses, a cow or two, some calves and hogs and some trifles of other plunder. The troops all encamped here excepting General Clinton's Brigade who lay about 3 miles from here in the rear of all the pack horses. The army marched 13 miles today.
Thursday, September 2d. This morning rose up and found our brigade lying in the lower part of the town which consisted of between 30 and 40 houses on each side of the river, very well built and on good land and midling compact. We burnt the chief of the houses last night for firewood. The pack horses began to come up and some of them had lost a great deal of provisions and some horses were killed on the road with fatigue of yesterday's march. This morning a very aged squaw was found in a cornfield who was not able to get off [or leave because of] age. She was brought in and she told us that the warriors had stayed in the town till near night before they went away. Likewise [she] told us that a great many squaws and children were over a hill somewhere near Seneca Lake 4 or 5 miles off. In consequence of which Col. Butler, with a detachment of 3 or 4oo men and
the Cohorn [cohort] went off about 12 o'clock in pursuit of them and returned in the evening without seeing anything of them. There was another squaw found in the woods who pretended she was lame and the soldier came home to get some others to help fetch her and when they returned the squaw had hid away and they could not find her. The old squaw, after she was examined at headquarters and they were going to send her to the Indians but she was so old she could not ride, from her looks and what we could learn must be, I think, over 120 years old. Our Indians built a house for her and we gave her provisions and left her. This day we spent here in refreshing our men and getting up our provisions but a great deal was lost. Likewise General Clinton's Brigade came in about 12 o'clock. This town lies on what they call Seneca Creek.Friday, September 3d. Marched this morning [at] 8 o'clock. Left the Seneca Creek a little on our left and about 30 miles long. We kept on the east side of the lake and great part of the time had a pretty view of it from the hills and kept near it all the way. Marched 12 miles and encamped about 4 o'clock. Passed over 3 brooks today, running into the lake, midling large. The first was a beautiful brook falling down the hill from rock to rock from great heights. The other two were near together. Most part of the land we passed over today was excellent. An Indian was seen by our advanced guard today but made his escape. About one mile in front of our camp was a house that the Indians had just left and had left their kettles on the fire boiling fine corn and beans, which we got, but what was most remarkable [was that] the corn was purple. Came north course today. Great many large rattlesnakes were killed today.
Saturday, September 4th. Received orders last night to march today at 5 o'clock without the usual signals of guns firing. But it rained last night and a little this morning which prevented our marching till 10 o'clock when we struck tents and marched, keeping the lake just on our left. Marched 13 miles and encamped on a small brook at dark within site of the lake. Came near a north course but [for the] most part to the east and the last 2 miles to the west. Destroyed several Indian houses and cornfields today on our march. Passed 4 brooks, 3 of which were within 3 miles of where we started. Fine land we came over today. Went on guard tonight.
Sunday, September 5th. Had a very disagreeable guard last night unloading packs will near 11 o'clock. Very fine day but did not march till 10 o'clock as we were 2 or 3 miles in front of the army and all our pack horses did not come till this morning. Marched to Kandaia 2 or 3 miles, destroying two houses and 2 cornfields on our march. The Riflemen on entering the town retook one of our prisoners who was taken at Wyoming last summer, who informed us that the Indians left this place Thursday and he thinks there was about 1000 and he heard them say they intended to fight us at the next town. Just after they had taken him they were fired on by an Indian who knocked a stick out of one [of] their hands with the bullet but he made his escape without receiving a shot. This town is very well built, chiefly square, [of] logs and midling compact. Got a great deal of corn and beans here for the army to eat. We encamped here about 1 o'clock and chief of the houses was pulled down for firewood. Came over very good land today, course northwest by north, near the lake all the way.
Monday, September 6th. Last night the whole army discharged their pieces. This morning very early [I] went round to see the situation of the place. The houses were chiefly all pulled down for firewood. The apple trees which are a good number and very old were either cut down or killed, likewise the peach trees, but there were not many of them. Among a number of other curiosities I went to see their burying ground [where] some of the graves are very curious, one in particular which I believe was some chief or great man and was buried in [following] manner: the body was laid on the surface of the earth in a shroud or garment, then a large casement made very neatly with boards, some[what] larger than the body and about 4 foot high, [was] put over the body as it lay on the earth and the outside and top was painted very curious[ly] with a great many colors. In each end of the casement was a small hole where the friends of the deceased or anybody might see the corpse when they pleased. Then over all was built a large shed of bark so as to prevent the rain from coming on the vault. The chiefs of the [mss.torn] in the manner I described before. The town doesn't lay quite on the banks of the lake but about one-half mile from it on a very pretty plain and about 20 houses named Kandaia and a small brook running through it. Orders came out for a regiment from every brigade to go 3 or4 miles in front of their brigades in search of pack horses and cattle, as there was a great number run off last night from the firing and got straggled away. But I believe the chief of them was found after a long hunt, which prevented the army from marching till between 2 and 3 o'clock when we marched 3 miles and encamped close along the edge of the lake in a beautiful situation. Opposite to us on the west side of the lake we could perceive a small Indian town, but the name I don't know. This evening there came up 4 or 5 packhorse men which lost themselves yesterday and told us that yesterday they took the wrong path and went on till near night when they came to a small Indian town on the Cauga Lake which the Indians had abandoned. There they found their mistake and came to us as soon as possible after burning the houses. They likewise got a very fine horse and a great number of peaches and apples which they brought to camp. There was an express arrived from Tioga before we left Kandaia and brought letters and news which informed us that Congress had passed a resolve to allow the officers 100 dollars for each retained ration in lieu of 10 which they formerly had, likewise that the soldiers pay was raised.
Tuesday, September 7th. March this morning at 7 o'clock through a very fine level country as usual and the same course as formerly, about north for near 9 miles when we came near the foot of the lake and outlet which I understand empties into Cauga Lake. Here we halted as we expected the enemy to attack us and reconnoitered the ground very well before we proceeded, but found no enemy there. We had to file off from our left and keep close on the banks of the lake, occasioned by a bad marsh which was on our right. Likewise [we had] to cross the fording of the outlet which is about 20 yards wide, but midling deep and rapid, after which we crossed keeping near the west corner along the beach of the lake for near a mile where we found our columns. But soon we found a marsh in our front [and] had again to file off from our left and march again along on the beach for about one-half mile when we again got into our former position in columns and then waited till the army had time to cross and came up. We marched on a little way and came to another marsh in front which preventing our marching any longer in columns. We again filed off to the left and marched along the beach till we [came] to Butlers building which is 2 or 3 houses on the banks of the lake in a very beautiful situation here. We again formed columns and marched through a cornfield near where the men had orders to pluck corn as they marched through, which they did. We then proceeded on towards the town near southwest course but our guides being very bad the whole army got into the town before we did and it was near dark before we got in and quite dark before we encamped. This is the chief town in the Seneca nation. It lies about 1-1/2 mile from the lake and about a west course. It lies on a pretty level spot but [has] no good stream of water near it, only one small brook running through it which affords but very little water. There were about 70 or 80 houses in it, built very compact[ly] and the chief of the houses very good. Likewise I heard there were 2 or 3 old block houses in it but I did not see them as it was dark when we came in and the men began immediately to pull down the houses for firewood. I believe the Indians had left it several days [ago] as there was not much appearance of their being there lately. On the first entrance of our brigade a young child, I believe about 3 years old, [was] found running about the houses which one of our officers picked up and found it to be a white child but it was so much tanned and smoked that we could hardly distinguish it from an Indian child and it was exceeding poor, scarcely able to walk. It could talk no English, nothing but Indian and I believe but little of that. The officer took great care of it and clothed it as it was naked when he found it and could give no account or itself only saying "his mamy was gone." The men got very little plunder or anything [in] the town as the Indians had taken almost everything with them. The chief [thing] they got, I believe, was 1 or 2 horses. The name of this town is Kanadasago. Marched 13 miles today.
Wednesday, September 8th, Kanadasago. This morning orders came out that the men were to remain here all day and for the men to clean their pieces, likewise for all the sick, lame, etc., to return to Tioga properly officered. After 10 o'clock Major Parr, with the Rifle Corps and the cohoun [cohort] were going up the lake to a little town called Kushay to destroy it. I, with a number of other volunteers went and got there about 12 o'clock, found it about 8 miles from camp and the town opposite to where we lay two might ago. The town consisted of about 15 houses, tolerably well built and altogether we got here 5 horses and a great number of potatoes, apples, peaches, cucumbers, watermelons, fowls, etc., and found a great quantity of corn, which we went about to destroy after burning the houses. Our party being too small, Major Parr sent to camp for a reinforcement. We all lay under a bark hut or shed tonight. I believe the Indians had left it the same time they left Kanadasago. It lies on the banks of the lake, very prettily situated, which is 4 miles wide here. Thursday, September 9th. Kushay. Last night [there was] very hard thunder and lightning and rain but [it] cleared up towards morning. About 6 o'clock the reinforcements arrived consisting of 200 men and [they] informed us the army was going to march this morning. The volunteers immediately set for camp, leaving Major Parr and the rest to cut the corn. Just as we got to Kanadasago about 11 o'clock the army was just a marching off after destroying all the houses and corn which remained. We marched a west course from Kanadasago through most part [of] a low swamp, encamped about 5 o'clock on a very pretty brook after marching 7 miles. In the evening Major Parr joined us from Kushay.
Friday, September 10th. Marched this morning [at] 6 o'clock. Each brigade was ordered to leave a small detachment behind to bring our straggled horses and cattle. We marched through a very low swamp, chiefly timbered with maple and beach, about 5 miles, when we came to pretty good upland, a great part of it [had] no trees but great quantities of wild grapes growing. Three miles further we came to a small lake called Kanandaqua, which is, I believe, about 5 miles long and 1 wide, runs north and south. We crossed over the outlet which was about 3 foot deep and about 20 yards wide. Soon after we came to Kanandaqua town, which I believe the enemy had just left as the fire was yet burning. We halted here about an hour and burned the houses, about 25 and very compactly and neatly built, but no good water near it than the lake. We went about one mile farther to a number of cornfields and encamped about 4 o'clock. [We] came 10 miles today and about a northwest course. Went on guard tonight. Hungry bellies and hard duty now, which I think we may call hard times. The Seneca lake I was told by the surveyor is just 36 miles long and 4 miles wide.
Saturday, September 11th. Had the provision guard [duty] last night which was very disagreeable. This morning the troops marched at 7 o'clock. Went back to the town and took another road. I remained [at] the grounds with my guard to further on the stores till 11 o'clock when I had [to] leave several boxes of ammunition behind, which I hid. Did not overtake the army till they were encamped at Hanyaye about 5 o'clock, after marching 14 miles near west course. Some part of the land today [was] good and some but midling. Hanyaye is a pretty little compact town of 6 or 10 houses lying near the end of a small lake running near north and south and about as big as the other lake at Kanandaqua and [there was] plenty of corn and beans. When the Riflemen entered the town there were a few Indians that just made their escape. They left their packs and blankets and potatoes roasting in the fire.
Sunday, September 12th. Thunder last night and rain this morning till 10 o'clock when it cleared up, and the army marched at 11 leaving all the heavy baggage and pack horses, excepting a few of the strongest which were taken to carry spare ammunition and some provisions and tents. What was left was stored in the Indian houses and a captain and 50 men left with it. The army, on leaving the town, crossed the outlet of the lake which was not very large and then formed their line of march and proceeded on very good land in general and the courses northwest by west [for] 5 or 6 miles, then to south of west towards evening and encamped at dark after marching 11 miles. Today I heard there was another town and corn destroyed on Kanandaqua lake nearly as big as Kandaqua and 2 or 3 miles from it. On this day's march a party of the enemy kept just ahead of us, as we discovered their very fresh tracks and muddy water where they had crossed.
Monday, September 13th. Marched this morning [at] 6 o'clock and [there was] a very heavy dew on the grass and the morning very cold. In about one mile's marching [we] came to Adjuste town lying near a small lake a little to the northward, consisting of 10 or 15 houses. Here we halted, made fires and drew 3 day's beef. After a little time fatigue parties were sent out to collect the corn in houses to burn. About 10 o'clock we heard a few guns firing in front. The troops were immediately formed and marched over the inlet of the lake, a very bad morass and creek and a large hill on the opposite side where we found the Indians who were formed on this hill had fired on the surveyor and his party and had mortally wounded one of his men. The Riflemen rushed up the hill and the enemy made their escape soon as possible, leaving behind their packs, hats, etc., which the Riflemen got. Our brigade marched up to the top of the hill and formed the line of battle, where we halted till the army would get over. Here one of our men came in wounded and informed us that Lieut. Boyd with his party of 18 Riflemen and 8 musket men of our regiment who were sent last night to reconnoiter the next town, were entirely cut to pieces. A little time after Murphy came in and told us a very straight story about it in this manner: Lieut. Boyd with his party went on without any interruption till he got to the town about daybreak when he found it evacuated. He then sent 2 runners back to inform the General and he retired a little in the woods in sight of the town, concealed, to try if he could not catch a prisoner. He soon after saw 4 Indians come into the town on horseback. He sent 5 or 6 men to take them or kill them. The men fired on the Indians, killed and scalped one and wounded another and took a horse, saddle and bridle. He then sent off two more runners to the army but they soon returned to him and informed him they had seen 5 Indians on the road. He then thought proper to return with his party to the army which he expected to meet very soon. He had not gone far before he fell in with the same Indians which he fired on. They ran on before him and he pursued them slowly and every once in a while he would come in sight of them and fire on them. And so they kept on till he came to this hill in front of a camp about three-quarters of a mile, where the Indians fired on the surveyor, when he heard our drums and thought himself entirely safe. But to his great disappointment, [he] found a large party of Indians behind trees. He immediately formed his men for action and began a very heavy fire which lasted some time but the Indians, whose number was so far superior to his, surrounded him and made prisoners or killed the whole excepting a few which came in. We found 4 or 5 of our men on the ground dead and scalped and it was supposed that Lieut. Boyd was made prisoner. The enemy had a number killed, as the men that were hidden in the bushes saw the Indians carry a number off in blankets. After the army had gotten over the creek, we marched on to Cossawauloughly town, 7 miles. Our advance guard, just after they entered the town, saw some 5 Indians. We all halted, had our pieces of artillery drawn in front, then advanced, but found nobody in the town. When it was about dark the 3 pieces of artillery were drawn up and fired altogether with round shot to scour the woods. This town lies on a branch of the Chenesee/Jinasee River and consists of about 25 houses, very well built but almost new. The houses were chiefly pulled down for firewood. Course northwest. One or two men of Lieut. Boyd's party came in tonight.
Tuesday, September 14th. The whole army was under arms this morning an hour before day and remained so till sunrise. About 7 o'clock fatigue parties were sent out to destroy corn which was there in great abundance, and beans. About 12 o'clock we marched, crossed over the branch of the Chenesee/Jinasee River and came upon a very beautiful flat of great extent with wild grass growing higher than our heads in some places. We marched on this flat 2 miles and crossed the Chenesee/Jinasee River which is about as big as the Tioga, but very crooked. [We] left the flats and marched through the woods 3 miles and arrived at Chenesee Town, which is the largest we have yet seen. It lies in a crook of the river on extraordinary good land [with] about 70 houses, very compact and very well built, and about the same number of out houses in cornfields, etc. On entering the town we found the body of Lieut. Boyd and another Rifleman in a most terrible mangled condition. They were both stripped naked and their heads cut off and the flesh of Lieut. Boyd's head was entirely taken off and his eyes punched out. The other man's head was not there. They were stabbed, I suppose, in 40 different places in the body with a spear and great gashes cut in their flesh with knives and Lieut. Boyd's privates were nearly cut off and hanging down. His finger and toenails were bruised off and the dogs had eaten part of their shoulders away, likewise a knife was sticking in Lieut. Boyd's body. They were immediately buried with the honor or war.
Wednesday, September 15th. The whole army went out this morning [at] 6 o'clock to destroy corn and were out till 12 o'clock. There was here the greatest quantity of corn and beans of any of the towns. Some of it we husked and threw in the river. The rest we carried to the houses and burned, the whole totally destroyed. About 10 o'clock we received orders to begin our march home, which we did, leaving the towns in flames. Today there was a white woman and child [that] came to us but, I believe, brought no intelligence of consequence. Marched over the Chenesee/Jinasee River and encamped after dark on the edge of the flats, nigh to Cossawauloughly town.
Thursday, September 16th. The whole army was out this morning cutting corn, which we left as we were going. Our brigade crossed the river to cut, which we did and, I believe, there was a great quantity destroyed and some houses burnt. Marched off about 10 o'clock in the following line of march: An advance guard of 100 men in front, General Clinton's Brigade following in 4 columns, the other troops marching as usual. General Hand's Brigade fetching the rear, 2 pieces of artillery in the rear of him and the Riflemen in the rear of the whole, the cohoun [cohort] with the advance guard - Capt. Henderson with 60 men went in front of the army to bury the dead. And just as we came up he was about to bury 14 bodies in a most terrible mangled condition. They were buried with the honor of war. Encamped tonight at Adjutse.
Friday, September 17th. Marched this morning [at] sunrise, a very cold morning with hard frost. Arrived at Hanyaye [at] 1 o'clock where we encamped and found our garrison all in good order, consisting of 300 men instead [of] 50 which I mentioned, commanded by Capt. Cummings. They were encamped round the house where we had left our stores in, and the camp was abated, and round the house they had made a small fort of kegs and bags of flour and had three pieces of artillery in it and the house they had made full of loop holes so as to fight out of it in case of necessity and upon the whole, I think, they were very safe. Today we passed a small lake 6 miles from here lying on a parallel with the rest called Conyradice and about as big. I forgot to mention this lake on our going. We crossed the outlet of it but it was not very large. This evening each man in the army drew 6 pounds of flour which [was] very welcome as we can now sit down and eat a hearty meal's victuals with a clear conscience, and before on our half allowance we dared not.
Saturday, September 18th. This morning had to kill a great number of our horses which were not able to carry packs nor even be driven on with the army. Very cold. Marched [at] 7 o'clock from Hanyaye, passed Kanandaqua and waded the outlet of the lake and encamped a little before sundown close on the end of the lake. On our march today 2 or 3 Oneida Indians came to us from Fort Schuyler and brought us the very agreeable news of New York being in our possession, which is generally believed through the army. A number of our pack horses which were not able to go any farther were shot on the road today.
Sunday, September 19th. Marched this morning [at] 8 o'clock, [had] very much trouble with pack horses [and] had to kill a number on the road. About dark arrived at Kanadasago where we encamped. Today express arrived from Tioga which contradicted our late agreeable news but brought papers which informed us that Spain had declared war with England. Went on guard tonight.
Monday, September 20th. This morning I saw the ruins of an old stockade fort, very large, which the Indians had here last war, likewise I am informed that there was one at Kanandaqua and one between this and that on a brook. This morning a detachment under the command of Col. Smith went up the Kushe and a little above to destroy some corn that was left there. A detachment of York troops and an officer from each of the York regiments under the command of Col. Gansevort was sent out to Albany by the way of Fort Schuyler, I believe, to bring on the officers baggage to the main army, likewise a large detachment of 5 or 600 men under the command of Col. Butler set out about 1 o'clock, I believe, to Cauga Lake to destroy their country.
Tuesday, September 21st. A detachment this morning under the command of Col. Deerborn went to Cauga Lake to destroy some small settlements there and corn. The army marched this morning [at] 7 o'clock 2 miles beyond Kandaie where we encamped about 4 o'clock.
Wednesday, September 22d. Marched this morning [at] 7 o'clock, had to pass a very bad defile in front , which detained us a good while. Encamped a little before sundown within 9 miles of Catharines town. Very cloudy all day.
Thursday, September 23d. Very cold last night but a fine clear day. Marched about 7 o'clock. Arrived at Catharine's town where we stopped about one hour to refresh, then proceeded on 3 miles up the narrows where we encamped about sunset. While we stayed in the town we buried the lame squaw which I mentioned on our going. It is supposed she was shot by some of our men, likewise the old squaw that we left here [and] had built or got built a neat little bark hut where she lived. The General ordered that almost a keg of flour and some meat be left for her, which was done, and I supposed she would live in splendor.
Friday, September 24th. Cloudy, like for rain this morning. Marched about 7 o'clock up the Seneca Creek, very swampy bad road, crossed over the dividing ridge and came on the waters of the Susquehanna that is Spring Creek which empties itself into Tioga a little above Newtown at the mouth of this creek. We arrived about 4 o'clock where there was a small garrison established of about 200 men who had come up from Tioga with six days' provisions for us. They had erected a small battery or fort just on the point where they lay with 2 field pieces of cannon which was returned with the same number from us and we encamped here, and drew each officer and soldier one jill of whiskey after a fatigue of one month without a drop, likewise we drew full allowance of beef for the first time.
Saturday, September 25th. In consequence of Spain declaring war against Great Britain and of the late generous resolution of Congress of raising the subsistence of officers and soldiers of the army, the General ordered a feu de joy [bonfire] to be fired by the army this afternoon at 5 o'clock and likewise he ordered to be delivered to the officers of each brigade one of the best oxen there was and 5 gallons of spirits. Accordingly at 5 o'clock the troops were drawn up in a single line with the field pieces on the right. The feu de joy began with 13 discharges of cannon and then a running fire of the musketry from the right to the left of the line, intermixed with field pieces, but it did not please the General and he
made the musketry fire again. Afterwards the officers of each brigade assembled and supped together (excepting Gen. Poors) on their ox and five gallons of spirits and spent the evening very agreeably. The officers of our brigade assembled at a large bower made for that purpose, illuminated with 13 pine knot fires round and each officer attended with his bread, knife and plate and sat on the ground, General Hand at the head and Col. Proctor at the foot as his officers supped with us. In this manner we supped very heartily and then went to drinking our spirits, and the following toasts were given by General Hand: The 13 Sisters and their sponsors, the honorable American Congress, General Washington and the American Army, the commander-in-chief of the western expedition, the allies of America and the United House of Bourbon, the memory of Lieut. Boyd and the brave soldiers under his command who were unhumanly massacred on the 13th instant, may the American Congress and the Legislatures of America be endowed with wisdom and be as firm as the pillars of time, may the citizens and soldiers of America be unanimous in support of American liberty, may discord and fraud be banished from the shores of America, may the kingdom of Ireland merit a stripe in our standard, an honorable peace or persistent war to the enemies of America, may the enemies of American be metamorphosed in pack horses and sent on a western expedition. Afterwards there were two or three Indian dances led down by General Hand and performed by the rest midling well, then each officer returned to their quarters after kicking up a small dust of striking tents, etc.Sunday, September 26th. Did not feet very well this morning after my frolic but was ordered on detachment, but it rained a little which prevented our going. Col. Dearborn's command came in today and brought in two squaws, prisoners, and left one Indian and one very sick squaw on the Cauga Lake, which they could not fetch along. They destroyed five Indian towns on the Cauga Lake, midling large and very well built in general, and destroyed a great quantity of corn.
Monday, September 27th. The detachment that was going yesterday paraded this morning [at] 7 o'clock under the command of Col. Cortland and went up the Tioga 8 miles and took some boats with them and loaded them with corn and pumpkins and sent down to the army and destroyed a great quantity more and then returned a little after dark. This evening Mr. Lodge, the Surveyor, came in and told us Col. Butler lay all night within 5 miles of here and would be in tomorrow. Likewise the boats arrived here from Tioga to transport the sick and baggage down.
Tuesday, September 28th. This morning all the sick were ordered to go down in boats to Tioga, and the lame to ride down the worst horses. The same detachment that was up the Tioga yesterday was ordered up again today and a very large command was ordered to go down the Tioga to destroy corn. Just as our detachment paraded, Col. Butler's command came in and informed us that they had destroyed on the east side of the Cauga Lake, three capital towns and a great number of scattering houses and destroyed a very great quantity of corn. The houses, I am informed, were much larger and better built than any we have yet seen, and it was a very old settled country as they had great numbers of apple and peach trees, which they likewise cut down. Our detachment marched up the Tioga 5 miles above where we were yesterday and burnt 2 or 3 houses and destroyed a little corn on each side of the river. A little before night I went up the river about 5 miles farther but found no corn and returned where we found them encamped in one of the corn fields but had no tents.
Wednesday, September 29th. Slept tolerably well. Rose early, loaded two boats with corn which we had with us and set off down the river about 7 o'clock. Arrived where the camp was about 2 o'clock where we found the army had left in the morning. Here we halted about 2 hours, collected some horses and killed a number more, likewise sent down a boat which the army had left. Marched off from there with a determination to join the army tonight. [By] the time we arrived at Shamung it was dark. However we march ed on through the narrows, a very difficult road to pass, and arrived at the main army about 12 o'clock at night which was encamped 3 miles below Shamong.
Thursday, September 30th. Marched this morning [at] 9 o'clock. Halted within one mile of Fort Sullivan on the mouth of Tioga and sent for our music and colors, likewise found the men in a proper line of march, then marched on with music playing and colors flying and encamped on the same ground we did before. When our troops passed the fort the garrison was paraded and saluted us with 13 pieces of cannon, regularly fired. Afterward the same number was returned by us, then three cheers from the garrison. The officers of each regiment had a dinner [prepared] for them in the garrison where they immediately repaired and dined and took a hearty drink of grog and went to sleep. Since we left, this Col. Shreve who commanded had a very strong picket fort made here surrounded with very good abattees and the 4 block houses for the four bestions which commanded each river and all the men were encamped in the garrison. Just been from Tioga 35 days and 136 miles.
Friday, October 1st. Lay in camp all day resting and cleaning ourselves.
Saturday, October 2d. This day a number of officers were sent to Wyoming to prepare for the reception of the army and a number others went on other business.
Sunday, October 3d. Orders came out today for all to have all the stores loaded in boats and ready to march tomorrow morning with the army at 6 o'clock. The hospital and sick to go down to the river this afternoon. This day a large fatigue party was turned out to destroy the fort, which they did effectually by pulling up the pickets and casting them in the river and burning the abattees.
Monday, October 4th. This day [there was] a little rain. [The] chief part of the army marched, only a sufficient quantity [was left] to man the boats. Marched about 8 o'clock. Crossed over the Tioga and a little while after crossed the river to the east side and proceeded on midling good road to Wysaukin when they encamped. I went in the boats and got to Wysaukin two hours before the army and all encamped together. This place was formerly a small settlement but destroyed by the enemy.
Tuesday, October 5th. The whole of the army was ordered to go in boats this morning and we set off about 9 o'clock down the river, our regiment bringing up the rear of the army. A little after dark [we] encamped on the shore, our regiment by themselves, the army chiefly in front, where we lay all night.
Wednesday, October 6th. Started midling early this morning but did not overtake the army or at least headquarters, but passed a number of boats. Encamped just at dark on a small improvement where we stayed all night, 24 miles from Wyoming.
Thursday, October 7th. Embarked tolerably early this morning, passed several small improvements on the river which had been, but now destroyed by the enemy. Arrived at Wyoming about 5 o'clock where we found the chief of the army encamped. We immediately disembarked and encamped in our proper place. Wyoming before it was destroyed by the enemy was a very pretty settlement and very large, excellent land. It lies on each side of the river and is very long. Chief of the inhabitants have left the settlement. What few there is here erected small huts where they live very uncomfortably, I think. The inhabitants had a very severe battle with the enemy before they destroyed, but were defeated, by which means the enemy got possession of the settlement and destroyed it. The inhabitants had a number killed which left a great many widows in the place. Since the battle they have erected a very good fort and Continental troops have been stationed at it, which has kept it [have been there] since.
Friday, October 8th. A large party was sent on to Easton today to repair the roads. I went up to see some of the inhabitants today which appeared very strange to me, being so long from seeing any of them.
Saturday, October 9th. This day we received orders to hold ourselves in readiness to march tomorrow morning early, likewise General Sullivan set off to Easton, leaving the command of the army to General Clinton. This being my birthday, I with a few of our officers had a sociable drink of grog this evening.
Sunday, October 10th. The General beat this morning [at] 8 o'clock. [We] could get no wagons to carry our baggage, therefore had to break up our chests and carry our baggage on pack horses. The army did not march till 3 o'clock in the afternoon when they set off for Easton. The army was very much detained on account of getting on the ammunition wagons and some [of] the general and field officers had to carry their baggage as the horses were very weak and the road exceeding bad, up a very long hill. [A] good many wagons [were] left behind and the baggage taken out and put on pack horses. A little after dark [we] got on the top of the hill about 4 miles from Wyoming, where we encamped on very stony ground and the army very much scattered.
Monday, October 11th. Marched this morning early came to Bullocks which is a house 7 miles from Wyoming, formerly a tavern but the inhabitants had fled here. We found the front of the army, who lay here all night, just preparing to march. We halted and drew a gill [4 oz] of rum each, then marched on to the edge of the great swamp 17 miles from Wyoming, where we encamped on tolerably good ground.
Tuesday, October 12th. Marched this morning [at] 8 o'clock. Entered the great swamp which was a very bad road. The wagons were sent on at daybreak this morning and halt[ed] at Locust hill about the middle of the swamp till the army came up. We arrived at Locust hill about 1 o'clock where we found the wagons. Here we halted and ate dinner, passed the wagons which came on in the rear. Just as the army got through the swamp, which is 12 miles through, a very heavy shower of rain came on, which wet us very much, marched 3 miles through the swamp and encamped a little before dark on a pretty little brook 32 miles from Easton. A great many horses died in the swamp today and a great many wagons [were] broken to pieces, and the baggage of the army did not come up. Today we met about 50 wagons in the swamp going to Wyoming for the baggage of the army that was left there, about one-half was turned to fetch on our baggage, the other went on to Wyoming.
Wednesday, October 13th. Marched this morning [at] 9 o'clock. Those fresh wagons helped on the baggage midling well. In marching about 5 miles [we] came to Larnard's tavern, it being the beginning of the settlement of a Christian country, which appeared to me very strange here. We halted in a field 1-1/2 hours to refresh, then marched on very good roads 9 miles through a thin settled country and about 5 o'clock arrived at Brinker's Mills where we had a large store of provisions for this army, and here they had a small picketed fort where they had store houses to keep their provisions and a small garrison of militia. As soon as we were encamped I went out to a country house and got an elegant dinner which I was very well pleased with, likewise we drew provision this evening.
Thursday, October 14th. Here we got a few more wagons, almost sufficient to carry all the baggage. Marched today [at] 11 o'clock through a midling good settled country, crossed the Blue Mountains, encamped at Allen's tavern, 7 miles from Brinker's Mills, about 3 o'clock. Here an officer from each regiment was ordered to attend at headquarters [about] taking the minds of the officers off their regiments concerning the high prices of articles, whether they would give it or not. After a consultation of an hour or two they came to this resolution, that they would not purchase of any tavern keeper any liquor or provision while on the march to headquarters, sickness excepted. Orders came out for the
soldiers and officers to be as clean as possible to march into Easton.Friday, October 15th. Marched this morning [at] 8 o'clock, baggage all in the center, through a very good road, arrived at Easton about 3 o'clock. They army marched through the town in ample order and encamped in different places, our brigade encamped up the Lehigh about a mile on very good ground. I was very much pleased to see the resolution of the officers so strictly adhered to, as I did not see a single soul enter a tavern, which was a great disappointment to the inhabitants, as they had laid in great stores and thought they would have a very fine market for it by this army. General Sullivan again took command of the army.
Saturday, October 16th. Lay in camp all day. Nothing material happening. Sunday, October 17th. Lost all my clothes last night, stolen from the wash woman and left me in a deplorable condition, not a second shirt to my back. The whole of the army went to church today and heard a very elegant oration from the Rev. Dr. Evans, suitable for the occasion. Likewise General Sullivan and the western army had the thanks of Congress. Went out in the country today and got buckwheat cakes, butter, milk and honey, which was a very great rarity indeed.
Monday, October 18th. Today the regiment was mustered for 4 months and the day was taken up chiefly in making muster rolls, etc. Part of my clothes was found today, hid in the mountain, but two of my best shirts are yet missing.
Tuesday, October 19th.
Wednesday, the 20th.
Thursday, the 21st.
Friday, October 22d. Went this day to Bethlehem and saw the curiosities of that place and drank some excellent wine and returned home a little after dark. And so I believe I may here end my Journal with a belly full of good wine.
Given under my hand this 22nd day of October in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and seventy-nine. E. BEATTY.
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