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JOURNALS OF THE MILITARY EXPEDITION OF MAJOR GENERAL JOHN SULLIVAN AGAINST THE SIX NATIONS OF INDIANS IN 1779 WITH RECORDS OF CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONS
Prepared Pursuant to Chapter 361, Laws of the State of New York, of 1885.
by Frederick Cook, Secretary of State
Auburn, N. Y. Knapp, Peck & Thompson Printers
1887.
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Miscellaneous Pages:
Journal of Thomas Grant,
pp 137-144
Journal of Lieut. John Jenkins, pp 168-177.
Journal of Captain Daniel Livermore, pp. 178-191.
NEXT PAGE:
Journal of Captain Thomas Machin, pp 192-197
Col. Goose Van Schaick, biographical sketch,
p 196
Marinus Willet, biographical sketch, p 196
Major Gen. Sullivan's Official Report, pp 298-305
List of Journals and Narratives not Published, pp 310-312
General Sherman's Speeches, pp
439-442.
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Thomas Grant, appears from the Journal, to have been one of the surveying party under Lieut. Benjamin Lodge, who accompanied the army from Easton, Pa., and with chain and compass, surveyed the entire route to the Genesee river. Published in the Historical Magazine for AUGUST and SEPTEMBER, 1862, Vol. VI., p. 233 and p. 273.JOURNAL.
GEN. SULLIVAN'S EXPEDITION TO THE GENESEE COUNTRY, 1779—A JOURNAL OF JANARAL SULLIVAN'S ARMY, AFTER THEY LEFT WYOMING.
By Thomas Grant.
JULY 31ST, 1779. The whole Army under the command of Major Janaral Sullivan marched from Wyoming about one o'clock P. M. The fleet under the command of Col. Thos. Proctor saluted the fort, which was Returned to the mutual satisfaction of all present. We marched this afternoon to Lackawana, neer 10 mils from Wyoming, where the army Encamped in Regular order. Gen. Hand's Light Troops in front, Gen. Maxwell's Brigade on the Right, Gen Poor's on the left, Col. Ogden's Regt the Rear guard. A chain of Centinels a Round the camp; the Boats som mils in our Rear, owing to their Loading being Eregular.
AUGUST 1ST. Rainy weather this morning & Great part of last night. This day we marched from I.ackawana at 3 o'clock P. M. and arrived at Qualutimunk 7 miles from Lackawana about dark. Encamped as before in a fertile plain, the road we came this day exceeding rough, and Great quantity of Baggage lost from the pack horses, which occasioned the army to lay by.
AUGUST 2d. Nothing Material this day, but prepairing for marching to-morrow.
AUGUST 3d. This morning the Gen'. Beat at 5. The infintry marched at 6, the main Body at 7. Marched this day 12 miles to tunkhannunk, and Encamped as before mentioned in a very fine Bottom a Bounding with Fine English Grass, Wild Frute, &c in our march crossed Several Pleasant Streams of water, viz Butter milk Crick noted for a Great Fall where it emtys itself in the Susquehanna Called the Buttermilk Falls and the Tunkhaununk, a large Crick about Eight Pole wide. The Gen, Cource this day N. N. W. Saw no enemy But plenty of Beef, Deer, Turkis but it was against orders to fire.
AUGUST 4th. The Gen' Beat this morning at day lite. The infintry Marched at 5, the Main boady at six. Marched this day 13 miles to a line bottom, by the name of Vanderlip's Plantation, abounding with Excellent English Grass. On our march we Crossed [138] several fine streams of water, viz. Meshapon Crick & Eight Miles from our last Encampment oather small streams, Not knowing by any pirticular Name; Likewise crossed som very high hils the first three Mils from our Encampment, at the foot which Run a pleasant stream of water. The asent of this hill amazing Steep and danjerous for Pack horses. Crossed som Bade Swamps and Defils. The Genl Course this day N. W. The fleet 3 mils in the rere this eavening. Saw no Enemy this day.
AUGUST 5th. This Morning the Genl Beat at 5. We did not March till Eight o'clock owing to the boats being in the rere. Marched this day 9-1/2 miles to Wialusing, a Noated Indian Town formaly sitled by Moravian Indians who professed Christianity. This town consisted of between 80 or 90 Neat Log Houses Regularly built, likewise a Large Church. This Town and the land ajacent formerly Belonged to an Indian Chief by the name of Joab Chillanay, which in this present Contest & before has Behaved frendly. This place is at present Laid waste partly by our own people and the Indiens; not the aperence of a horse To be seen, but the Soyl exceeding fine, abounding with the finest Grass I Ever saw in a Wild Contry, Chiefly blue Grass & Clover, on our March We Crossed two pleasant Streams of water. The first two Miles From our last Encampment by the Name of Tuscarogue, the oather not noing by any Pirticuler name; Likewise passd. the place where Col. Hartly defeted the Indiens in 78. We then asended a hill knowing by the Name of Wealusing Hill, the asent Very Gradual, the desent Very steep; this Hill from the acent to the Bottom near two mils. From the Top of Sd Hill we had a very fine Prospect of the River, which apered Very Beautiful winding round the Point of a hill. On ye South West side, in the form of a horse shew, fresh Tracks of Indiens ware Discovered, but saw none, tho very Contrary to our Expectasion. The Infintry Troops I continue with, under the Command of Ganl Hand. Encamped at Wealusing Creek 1-1/4 miles from the place Where Wealusing old Town stood. We lost three men this day, two by fatigue & one drounded, the Last a Fifer Belonging to Coin Prockter 's Train of Artilary. The Genl Corse this Day W be N.
AUGUST 6th. Lay By this Day for the men to refresh them Selves and draw provisions, and expects to March to Morrow Morning.
AUGUST 7th Rainy Weather Great Part of Last Night & this Morning, which prevented our marching this Day.
AUGUST 8. This morning the Genl Beat at day brake, the Infintry marched at 5, the main boady March'd at 6. March'd this day to Wissahin creek, oatherwise Rush Meadow Creek, distant 13-1/2 Miles from our last Encampment. Encamped this Eavening in a bottom abounding with High Grass and Grate Quantitis of heasil Bustles very Full of Nuts, Though two Green for use. The main Boady Encamped three Miles in our Rear, at a place calld. the standing stone flatts. On our March this day we crossed Repeated hills and some small Runs. Not any pirticuler name. The Genl Course this day N. W. Saw no Enemy.
AUGUST 9th. Lay by this day till 10 o'clock A. M. waiting for the Main body to Com up. Marchd half past 10. Encamped this Eavening at 5 o'clock P. M. in the upper Shekenunk Flatts, a Delightful even Bottom Containing about one Hundred Acres of very fine meadow land, abounding with fine Grass. The Road we passed this day much the same as Yesterday, except crossing one very High Mountain known by the name of Breakneck Hill. The desent very Steep & Dangerous. Crossing this hill we had three Bullocks Killd. at the foot of which we crossd. a small run. Shortly after passed a large Indien Camp. The Distence the Infintry This day 11 Miles, the Genl Course this day N. N. W. Saw no Enemy, but Fresh Tracks.
AUGUST 10th, 1779. Reany Weather ys morning and Great part of last night. The Army Lay by this day in order to draw provisions. A fire was seen last Night on a Mountain on the opposid side of the River by our weators supposed to be maid by Indiens. This day a party of 500 Men, with a sufficiency of Offasirs Reconitered the country as far as oppasite the Mouth of Tioga. Major Hoops with fore Men swam over the River and found a Milks Cow on the flats, supposed to be lost by Indiens who had fled at our aproach.
[139] AUGUST 11th. This Morning the Genl Beat at 6 o'clock. The hole army marched Near Sevin. Marched this day to Tioga, an Indien Town, or Rather the place where an Indien Town formerly stood, In the forks of the River Susquehanah and Cayuga, where the main army Encamped in a Deliteful Extensive Bottom, abounding with Excellent Grass. The Infintry Encamped 1-1/4 Miles in frunt in a narrow Neck of Land in winth (width) about 20 pole, a place where the Savages used to Carry their Canews From one River to the oather, known by the name of the Carrying place about two miles blow The forks. The whole Army forded the River Susquahanna', the manner in which it was performed was by forming Plotoons, and Each Man Grasping his fellow supported Each Oather. Genl Hand who commanded the Infintry quit his horse and waded with cheerfullness. The Watter was Rappid and Took them to the middle, not with standing The whole army Crossed in the space of half an hour without the Loss of Either Man or horse, or any Baggage. The Sight was Beautiful and pleasing, but must have been very Tarifying to the Enemy who, its very probible saw us from the Neighburing hills which overlook the water. We likewise crosssed Tioga or Cayuga much in the same manner as before, but much Shallower and not more than half as wide. On the south side Cayuga River, near the mouth, in the place where Queen Esther's Castle stood. Rany Weather Great part of this afternoon. Saw no Enemy; the Genl Course this day due North; the Distint from Wyoming to Tioga old Town 80 mils, actual measure.
AUGUST 12th. Fair weather but very warm. Last Eavening a small scout was sent to Chimung to reconiter The Enimy. They Returned this afternoon with Infirmation that the Enemy wase in Possession of that place. In Consequence of which Genl Sullivan ordered the trupes surved with a gill of Liquor pr man, at about eight o'clock this Evening The Trupers Mooved of in a very Silent manner. Genl Hand's Light Infintry In front as usual, all except the Gard That was left for the safety of the Camp. We Marched all this Night past through very Difficult Narrow Defiles.
AUGUST 13th. This Morning about 6 o'clock A. M. we Entered Chemung Town, which the Enemy has Just left with Precipitation leaving behind them a Quantity of striped Linning deer Skins, Bear Skins, Kettles, plates, Knives, Ladles, and a number of articles of Varyous kinds, which the Soldiours soon maid themselves masters of, and Fire sit to the town, which Consisted of neer 100 Houses, Great and small. Genl Hand was ordered with the light Infintry to pursue the Enemy and ware one miles above the town, his Advanced Guard was fired on by the indians Who in Ambush, and at the first fire Killd 3 privets and wonded two offasers, viz Captn Carbury & Adjutant Huston, one Guide and 3 privets; the Fire was Returned by our people which obliged them to Quit the Ground. The Kild and wounded ware braught of the field, we pursued the Indians neer a mile, then orders came to Genl Hand to return to the Town, which by that time was consumed; then orders was Given to Genl Maxwell and Genl Poor to send Partis from their Reispective Brigades to cut down the Corn on the opposite side of the river, which they did to the amount of 15 or 20 acres, amongst which was Cucombers, Water Millions, pumpkins, Squashes and Beans, during the time they ware destroying the corn, they ware fird on by two Indians, who kild one & wounded two. Our people Returned the fire & soon Repulsed the Enemy, though uncertin whather they kild any or no. About two o'clock P. M. the trups Marched for Tioga where they arived at 6 o'clock in the Evening without any molestation on our Return.
AUGUST 14th. Noathing Material this day. Fair weather and warm.
AUGUST 15th. Fair weather and warm. This day about 4 o'clock P. M. a fue men who ware looking Horses on the opposid side of the Cayuga River, was fired on by the Indiens who kild one, a pack horse driver From Wyoming, and wounded one oather who maid his askape; the slain they sculped and Gave the war whoop; they likewise shott a Bullock which our people applyd to there own use, as the Beef was Good.
AUGUST 16th. This day a Detachment of 900 men with a sufficiency of offasirs under the command of Genl Poor and Hand were sent up the River Susquehanna in order to form a Junction with Genl Clinton who is on his march Towards this place—fair weather this day.
[140] AUGUST 17th. Fair weather this day and Great preparations for Securing our stores and Gitting in Readiness for marching as soon as Possable. Genl Clintons Army arrives. This afternoon about five o'clock a fue men who ware Hunting their offasirs Horses about one mile in frunt of the advanced picquet, was fird on by Indians who shott one man through the Boady with three Balls, afterwards speered, tommyhowkd and sculpd him, Likewise shot an oather through the Arm, the Man Returned the fire and maid his escape.
AUGUST 18th. Noathing meterial this Day. But the usual preporations for marching, fair weather and warm. N. B. The mornings is Genl foggy till between seven and eight o'clock in the morning.
AUGUST 19. Very foggy this Morning. The Remaining part of this day cloudy and cool.
AUGUST 20th. Rainy weather this day and Great part of Last Night, This morning an Express boat arived informing the Junction of Genl Clinton and the troops Sent from this post; they are Expected here to morrow if the weather pirmits.
AUGUST 21st. Fine Agreeable Weather this Day.
AUGUST 26th. This Day at twelve o'clock P. M. the Army marched from Tioga, Encamped three miles up the Cayuga Branch. AUGUST 27. March'd this day 7 miles, on our march passed one very bade defile which much damaged our Ammunition wagons.
April (AUGUST) 28th. March'd this day two miles to Chemung, a noted Indian Town which we Destroyed the 13th Instant. In this days march we passed one very bade Defile which occasioned the Army to forde the Cayuga branch two different Times.
AUGUST 29th 1779. Marched this day 4-1/2 miles to lower Newton. On our march passed the Hill where Genl Hand was fired on by the Indians the 13th Instant. Three miles from Chemung, our Advanced party discovered the Enemy, who had Erected a Brest work on a steep Bank on the West side of a Large Run or Defile which we ware obliged to pass. The Genl offisers ware Emediately informed of the Disposition. Genl Sullivin Gave Genl Poor orders to march Round a very High hill in order to gain the Enemys Rear, at which time Major Pave to keep up a slow fire on there front, in order to amuse them with his Core of Rifil men, who did Considarable Execution. Genl Hand was ordered to be in Readiness with his Brigade of Light Troopers to force there Lines as soon as Janaral poor should begin The fire, seconded by Genl Maxwill & Clinton; the way Genl Poor had to pass in order to Gain there Road being very Difficult, occasioned the time to elaps Before he coud Compleat his Entention; Genl Sullivin at the Experation Time Limited for Gen Poor to Gain there Rear, ordered the cannon to be braught up and open upon The Enemys Works which occasioned them to leave Those Works and Retire towards the hill where Genl Poor began the attact which for som minuts was very hot, But soon maid the Enemy Retire, leaving A nomber of there Dead on the field, twelve of which was sculped. Genl Hand at the Junction the fire began on the Right. Advanced in front, but could not overtake There Rear. Encamp'd this Eavening on these ground, two prisners were taken this day, one a white man, the other a Neagro, who Informed that Butler there commander in Chief, Brant, McDonald & Butler's Son, with thire hole force, to the amount of Eight Hundred, ware this day Engagd. our Loss this Day was very Inconsiderable; We had but two men killed, 3 offasirs and about 15 men slitely wounded, som of which are since Dead.
AUGUST 30th. Lay by this Day in order to unload our boats and send the wounded to our Garason at Tioga.
AUGUST 31st. Marched this Day 10 miles; Encamped this Evaning on the side of a large Crick not known by any pirticular Name; passd. this day Newtovvn, after Passing it we Steered Due North.
SEPTEMBER 1st 1779. Marched this day 12-1/2 miles to French Catheronies Towns, 3 miles from our Last Encampment, We came on the Head waters of the Sinica Creek which Emties itself into the River St Laurance 3-1/3 miles, entered a Great Swamp, The Timber chiefly white Pine and Hemlock, which was 4 miles in Length; We then Entred a fine Bottom, the Timber chiefly Sugar Tree & Walnu ; We entred this town about Eight o'clock at Night, which from apperence was Lately Evacuated. [141] In this Town we found considerable plunder, amongst oather commodates one old Indian Squaw Supposed to be above one Hundred years of age.
SEPTEMBER 2, 1779. Lay by this day in order to colect the Baggag Lost Last Night from The pack horses, and git in Readyness For marching To Morrow Morning early.
SEPT. 3d 1779, Marched this day 11-1/2 miles and Encamped about 4 o'clock, P. M. about 1/2 mile from the side of a large Lake known By the Name of The Senica Lake; The Land we passd This day Exceeding fine, The Timber Chiefly White oke, hickory, and walnut.
SEPTEMBER 4th. 1779. Marched This day 13 miles Through a Contry which Exceeds any Land I ever saw, abonding with Locust, Walnut, hickry, and oather Timber. The Good Land appears to be Extincive. Encamped this Eavining about sun set near the Sinika Lake as aforementioned.
SEPTEMBER 5, 1779. Marched this day 3 Miles to Conday alice Appletown, a large Indian Town abounding with a quantity of Frute Trees where we Ray took a prisoner which the Indians had Captured at Wyoming in August '78, who informed that The indians war making all Speed for niagara.
SEPTEMBER 6, 1779. Marched this day and Encamped on the Banks of the Senica Lake; the Good Land Continues.
SEPT 7th. Marched this day 11-1/2 Miles To A Very Large Indian Town by the Name of Cannadisago, or the Sinica Castle, which appeared to be Evacuated but a fue Hours; in said Town was found a Child of about 3 years of age partly Indian and partly white, likewise a Great Quantity of plunder which was Collected by the Soldiers from the different Houses, such as Deer Skins, Bear Skins &c. Crossed in this days march the outlet of Sinica Lake, the lenth of the Lake 36 miles Actual Measure. The Course in Genl. from Newtown to the outlet nearly North, but now Westwardly.
SEPTEMBER 8. 1779. This Day the Army Lay by at Connadesago, partes ware Detached to burn the Neighbouring Townes and Destroy the Corn, and Expect to march tomorrow Morning for the Genesees River, orders ware Issued this Evening by The Commander in Chief, for a Captain, Subaltern, & 50 to Return to Tioga in order to convoy the sick, likewise to take with them the Diseabled horses.
SEPTEMBER 9th. Rainy Weather Last night and this Morning, which prevented our marching so Early this morning as we intended. Marched this day 7-1/2 miles chiefly thro Swampy Ground, but Very little watter.
SEPTEMBER 10th. This morning the Genl bate 1/2 Past Six. The Army marched at seven. Marched This Day 9-1/2 miles thro a very fine level Contry; at seven miles came to a fine Lake about 3-1/2 Miles in Lenth and one mile Broad. The outlet of said Lake Eaqual as large as the Sinica Lake; the direction of this Lake much the same As the Sinica Lake, but cannot larn the name: Eight miles and 53 chane came to Anandague, a large Indian Town, the Buildings superior to any We have yet seen. This town was soon laid In ashes. We Encamped this Eavening 1-1/2 Miles North of Sd Town, neer several Large cleer Cornfields which sarved for forrage for our Horses And Cattle; the corn was likewise of Grate Sarvis To the Soldiers who are on half allowance.
SEPTMBER 11th. This morning the Genl bate at Day lite. The Army Marched at Sun Rise. Marched this Day 13-1/2 Miles to Haunyauya an Indian Town situated in a fine Bottom Near a lake of the same name which to apperence had been left But a fue Hours. The Town Consisted of Eight Houses, The Land we passed this days march Inferior to any we have seen since we came to the Sinaca Lake; But the Bottoms some miles Round The town Eaqual to any in the Senaca Contry. This lake Runs neer a due North Corce; the three Lakes, viz the Sinaca, Kanandague and Haunyauye Run Parallel to Each Oathre, in Lenth about Six miles and in Wenth 1 mile, abonding with Great plenty of fish of Different Kinds.
SEPTEMBER 12th. Reany Weathey last nite and this morning. Marched this day 11 Miles and Encamped About Sun Set 1/2 miles From Ajulsa Town: the Land we passed This Day Eaqual to any we have yet seen: the Timber Walnut, Hickry, Locust, White-oak, &c. Six miles from Haunyauya Town we Passed a long lake which Runs paralell [142] To the Oather by the name of Aionyedice, otherwise Longnarrow Lake: the genl Corse this Day S. W.
SEPTEMBER 13, 1779. This Morning the Genl Beat at day lite; the army marched 1-1/2 miles to Agusta Town, where the army lay by To kill provisions, viz Cattle, and Issue to the Troops. Last Eavening a party of men Commanded by Lieut Boyd, in number 25, were sent To Reconniter the Jenessee Town, who did not Return till the next day; on there Return were met by 150 or two Hundred Indians; After a Considerable Action the offasir and 2/3 of his Party ware Either Killed or maid prisoners; the men who Escaped informs that the party ware sarounded, but fought and Retreted & Killed several, they think as many as ware Lost on our side. About half an hour afterwards Myself and fore Chane Caryers who ware about one and a half Miles Advanced of the troops ware fired on by Several Indians who Lay in Ambush: a Corporal of the name of Calhoun, who came Vollenteerly with me, was mortally wounded and Died the next day; the Indians pirsued us 1/4 of a Mile, but without success; we being Unarmed was obleeged to Run; marched this Day 8 Miles To an Indian Town by the Name Gessauraloughin, half a mile from the chief Indian Tow; an Indian was scalped by a Rifleman; the Genl Corse this day West.
SEPTEMBER 14. This day the troops Did not March till 12 o'clock, on account of there Being imployed in destroying Corn; Marched this day 5-1/2 Miles to the Chief Chenasee Town Calld. the Chenassee Castle 2-1/4 Miles; Crossed the chenassee River Likewise, the most Delitefull Bottom I ever saw, supposed to contain 10.000 acres, chiefly cleared fit for excellent Meadow., these flats and the land Adjacent is allowed to exceed any thing in America.
The Chenassee Castle, or the town of that name, contained about 125 Note Indians Housis which ware burnd. the next Day; Likewise about 150 or 200 acres of fine Corn was pulled of the stalks and Burnt; at this Town we found the dead Boadis of two of our men who ware takin the day Before and Inhumanly Murdred by the Savages; one supposed to be the Boady of Lt. Boyd, and the oather a sajt. there heads were Cut off and skinned, there Toe Nails pulled off, in short it was the most shocking site my Eys Ever saw.
SEPTEMBER 15th 1779. This day, after destroying the Town and Corn, we Returned a Bout 5 miles and Encamped in the Chenessee flatts.
SEPT 16th. This Morning the troops ware imployed till 10 oclock Destroying Corn we then Marched 7 Miles to Ajutsa where the Army Encamped for the Night. Parties ware sent in sarch of the Dead Boadis who ware with Lt. Boyd: 16 of them were found, being all that ware missing except two; from Circumstance it appeared they had Defended Themselves very Bravely till they ware all Kild. and it is thought Kild a nomber of the Enemy, as many fresh Indians Graves were found at Chenassee, which I omitted Entring in my Remarks of the 14; some ware opanid by the soldiers Contrary to orders, and the Boadies of Indians found that ware shot; we Destroyed the Remainder of the Corn at this town this eavenning.
SEPT 17th. This morning the Army marched at sunrise; marched this day 12-1/2 miles to Haunyauya were we had left a Garason which I omitted mentioning in my Remarks of the 12th, where we found all safe.
SEPTEMBER 18th. 1779. Marched this day from Haunyauya to Kanandague, Being 13-1/2 Miles, the Ground not being Convenient for Incamping, the Army marched across the outlet of Kenindugui Lake, about one mile further, and Incamped for the Night.
SEPT 20. This day a Detachment of six Hundred men, with a sufficiancy of offasirs Under the Command of Col Wm. Butler, ware sent into the Cayuga Country, with which Detachment I was ordred; they marchd from Connadesago 3 o'clock, P. M. Marched this day Eight Miles to an Indian Town by the name of Sauyou, * where about Eight Acres of Corn was Destroyed.
The following notes by General John S. Clark are taken from No. 1 of the Publications of the Cayuga County Historical Society, Auburn, N. Y., 1879:
* SCAWYACE or Long Falls, an important Indian town of eighteen houses, located on the north bank of Seneca river at present site of Waterloo, in Seneca County. It was partially destroyed on September 8, during the advance of the army by a party of volanteers under Col. Harper. George Grant mentions the fact of "several fish ponds abounding opposite the town." These were circular enclosures of stone from thirty to forty feet in diameter, built up on the rocky bed of the stream, where the water was neither very deep or rapid, so constructed as to permit the water to pass through, but to retain the fish. (Continued on p. 143)
[143] SEPTEMBER 20th 1779. The Detachment marchd this Morning at 7 o'clock A. M. 16-1/2 mliles to a smawl Indian Settlement * 1-1/2 Miles short of Cayuga Castle, where we Incamped for the Night, at 8-1/2 miles Crossed the outlet of the Cayuga Lake, which in Brenth was a Bout 70 Perches, and more than middle Deep to the Men. Neer the outlet we Destroyed two Indian Housis. The Name of The Place Choharo †, and Destroyed on the Lak in Different plasis Houses and Acros of Corn, but saw no Enemy. The Genl Corse since we crossed the out let neerly South, the Road not more than 1/2 A mile from the Lake at furthest: The Land midling.
SEPTEMBER 22d, 1779. Marched this Day at 6 o'Clock, A. M. 2 Miles to the Cayuga Castle,‡ an Indian Town of that name Containing in Number About 15 very Large Square Logg Housis. I think the Building Superior to any yet hive seen. Cattle were Killed and three Days Beef Issued to the troops; then Fetague partes were sent to destroy the Corn, to the amount of about 110 Acres, tho not all Distroyed this Day; two oather Towns were Discovered, one 23-1/2 miles from the Senica Lake, which we called upper Cayuga, § containing 14 Large Hpusis; the oather About two Miles East of the Castle, which we called Cayuga ¡¡ Containing 13 Houses; the trupes wer all imployed this day in Destroying Corn till after darke. We found at this Town apples, peaches, Potatos. Turnops, Onions, Pumpkins, Squashes, and Vegatabils of Various kinds in Great Plenty.
SEPTEMBER 23d 1779. This Day the trups ware imployed till 3 o'clock P. M. in Finishing the Destruction of the Corn, and Burning the aforementiond. Towns within. Marched 5 Miles to an Indian town By the name of Chandot ¶ or Peach Town, Remarkable for a Large Peach—orchard Containing Hundred fine Thriving Peach Trees, likewise Acres of Corn. This town contained about 12 or 14 Houses, chiefly old Buildings; part of the Corn was Destroyed This Eavening.
SEPTEMBER 24th 1779. This morning the trups ware imployed in finishing the Distruction of the Corn and peach Trees; at 10 o'clock A. M. fire was set to the Town, And the Detachment went of the Ground. Marchd this Day 16-1/2 Miles and Incamped on a Pleasant Hill ** neer a fine Creek, About one hour after Dark: the Land we passed This Day well Timbered, and the Soyl very good, But very scarce of water; 9 miles from Chorndete we Crossed a streem of water which Fell over Rocks 80 feet Parpendiculor; 3 miles From we crossed a second streem †† which fell About 50 feet parpendicular, which
* GEWAUGA, a small hamlet on the present site of Union Springs in the town of Springport, on the east Bide of Cayuga lake.† CHOHARO.—This was the Tichero or St. Stephen of the Jesuit Relations, said to signify the place of rushes located at the foot of Cayuga lake on the east side at the exact point where the bridge of the Middle Turnpike left the east shore. The trail across the marsh followed the north bank of an ancient channel of the Seneca river, which at an early day took that course. The turnpike afterwards followed substantially the line of the trai[l] and crossed the present line of the Cayuga and Seneca canal three Times between Mud Lock and the old Dumont tavern on the opposite side of the marsh. The salt springs mentioned by Father Raffeix in 1672, were on the west side of the marsh about half a mile north of the N Y. C. Rail Road bridge, and on the bank of the ancient river channel.
‡ CAYUGA CASTLE, an Indian town containing fifteen very large houses of squared logs, located on the south line of the town of Springport in Cayuga County, on the north bank of Great Gully brook, and from one to two miles from the lake.
§ UPPER CAYUGA, an Indian town of fourteen very large houses located near the north line of the town of Ledyard in Cayuga County, on the south bank of Great Gully brook, and as appears on the map, between one and two miles from the lake.
¡¡ EAST CAYUGA, or Old Town, contained thirteen houses located in the south-east corner of the town of Springport, as indicated on the map, from three to four miles from the lake. A site in the south-west corner of Fleming was a site of this town at about this date.
¶ CHONODOTE, so named on Capt. Lodge's map, an Indian town of fourteen houses, on the site of present Aurora in Cayuga County; according to George Grant's journal it contained fifteen hundred peach trees.
** On the hill north of Ludlowville.
†† The first of theee falls was probably on Mill Creek, two and a half miles south-west of Northville ; the second near Lake Ridge in the town of Lansing.
[144] partly after Emptyed Them Selves into the Cayuga Lake. Saw no Enemy this day; the Genl Course S. 30. E.
SEPTEMBER 25th 1779. Marched this morning at 6 o'clock, and Incamped at an Indian Town 3-1/2 miles above the Cyuga Lake; the Town appeared to be Just Consumed, supposed to be Burnt by a Detachment from Genl Sullavin's Army.* The Town was situated on a Rising Ground, in a large beutifull Vally; The Soyl Eaqual to or Rather Superior To any in the Contary. Through which Runs Sevaral fine Streams of water: the first a Creek about 4 poles wide, which falls from the Mountain the East side of the Valley about 120 feet parpendicular, into which Crick three oather fine streams Empis. The second Crick is the prinsable Supply of the Cayuga Lake, navigable for Large Canews or Boats To the Town.
(The journal here ends abruptly)
*Coreorgonel was burned by the detachment under Colonel Dearborn. See his account September 24.
* * * * * *
[168] JOURNAL OF LIEUT. JOHN JENKINS.
LIEUT. JENKINS was born in New London, Conn., at Gardner's Lake, 27th November, 1751, O. S. He was a surveyor and conveyancer, schoolteacher, constable, agent for the Susquehanna Company at Wyoming, farmer, merchant and iron-monger. He came to Wyoming Valley, with his father Judge John Jenkins a native of East Greenwich, R. I., in 1769, and at once took an active part in the Pennamite and subsequently in the Revolutionary wars. He entered into the service of the United States, 26th Aug., 1776, was taken prisoner by the Indians and Tories in the latter part of November, 1777, carried to Niagara where he remained during the winter and in the spring was taken to Montreal and Albany, whence they proposed taking him to Kanadaseago, to a grand Indian Council for final disposition. On the way he escaped and after great fatigue and suffering from hunger, reached home on the 2d of June, 1778, previous to the advent of the forces under Butler and Brant, of whose coming he brought intelligence. He was in command of Forty Fort when the settlers marched out to meet and turn back the invaders. He subsequently joined (6th July, 1778), Captain Spalding's Company as Lieutenant; went with Col. Hartley to Tioga Point in the latter part of September, 1778.
The next year, in April, he waited on General Washington at his request giving him important information relating to the Indian country. He served throughout the Sullivan campaign as a guide to the army, and received the thanks of Gen'l Sullivan in general orders, for "the services rendered the same by his vigilance and exertion," in the Battle of Newtown, 29th Aug., 1779. On his return from that campaign he remained on duty at Wyoming until 25th February, 1781, where he set out with his company to join General Washington at Headquarters on the Hudson, and arrived on the 10th of March. He was engaged in the [169] battle of King's Bridge 3d July, 1781, and when the army marched for Yorktown accompanied them; was at the surrender of Cornwallis, 17th Oct., 1781, serving under Baron Steuben. Returning with the army to the Hudson that same fall, and the war being virtually at an end, he on the 1st of March, 1782, resigned his commission and returned home to the defense of his family and friends.
He was an active, leading man in all the struggles of the settlers, firm and unyielding in his adherence to their rights, never compromising, never surrendering.
After the Revolutionary war, he settled in Exeter, on the battle field of Wyoming, where he died 19th March, 1827. He married Bethiah, daughter of Jonathan Harris of Colchester, Conn., on the 23d June, 1778, and by her had eight children. She survived him and died 12th August, 1842, aged 90 years.
From the 5th of June, 1778, up to the time of his joining Washington on the Hudson, he kept a journal of events, with which he was connected. So much of it, is here given, as relates to the Sullivan Campaign.
The original manuscript, is in the hands of his grandson, Hon. Steuben Jenkins, Wyoming, Pa., to whom we are indebted for the following copy and the foregoing biographical sketch. It has never before been published.
JOURNAL OF LIEUT. JOHN JENKINS, CONNECTED WITH THE CAMPAIGN OF GEN. SULLIVAN, AGAINST THE SIX NATIONS.—1779.
April 1st. I set off for head-quarters, by order of Gen. Hand. Met Capt. Spalding in the swamp.
April 6. Waited on (Gen. Washington and had a long interview with him in relation to the Indian Country, on the head waters of the Susquehanna, and around the Lakes, and the facilities for an expedition into that country.
April 8th. Set out for Wyoming.
April 11th. Arrived at Wyoming with Major Birchard who commanded 400 men.
April 23d. This day Major Powell with a party of men coming in were waylaid by the Indians near Laurel run. Capt. Davis, Lieut. Jones and three men were killed and two others were missing. About the same time the Indians drove off six cows from Shawnee.
May 8th. General Hand came to Wyoming.
June 23d. General Sullivan came to Wyoming.
June 30th. Two Tories condemned. One of them was Executed, the other was reprieved and sent to his family near Easton.
[170] Saturday, July 31st.
The army under command of Major Gen. Sullivan consisting of three brigades, commanded by Gens. Hand, Poor and Maxwell, left Wyoming and marched as far as Lackawanna, and encamped on the north side of the creek. The light corps, to which I was attached, taking the advance about a mile in front of the main body. We encamped at about 4-1/2 o'clock, P. M. The boats did not come up by reason of the sinkings of one of them loaded with ammunition, and damaging another.August 1st. Continued at Lackawanna, waiting for the boats until afternoon. The army marched about 3 o'clock and encamped about seven in the evening at Wyolutimunk. I left a horse at Lackawanna, by reason of his lameness.
August 2d. The army lay still in the encampment. David Brown was wounded in the side by accident, with a tomahawk. The rear guard lost seven tents, by reason of being detained in the night.
August 3d. The army marched as far as Tunkhannock, and encamped near Wortman's. Two Indians discovered on the west side of the river.
Aug't 4th. The army marched at 5 o'clock in the morning, and encamped at night at Van der Lypp's. The boats did not come up which detained our march until late the next day.
Aug't 5th. The army marched about 10 o'clock and encamped at night at Wyalusing. I left a bay mare at Van der Lypp's, on account of her being lame and not able to go further. One of the men belonging to Stewart's bullock-guard, was unwell, and was left in the encampment. One of the boat men fell out of the boat and was unfortunately drowned. After we encamped at night a Sergeant, belonging to the New Jersey troops, died very suddenly. To-day we passed over the ground where the battle was fought between Col. Hartley and the Indians last fall, from DePui's farm on up some distance.
Aug't 6.—The army remained at Wyalusing to refresh themselves. A party was sent back to Van der Lypp's. They found the man dead that was left there the day before, and brought him up and buried him near Kingsley's house. Orders given to march at five o'clock to-morrow morning.
Aug't. 7th. The weather was stormy last night, and this morning, which detained our march, and we lay in camp all day.
Aug't 8th. The army marched at 5 in the morning and encamped at night at Wysox. General Sullivan came on in the boats, being unwell, which detained him so that he did not come up to the light troops, but he encamped at the Standing Stone, about three miles in the rear.
Aug't 9th. The main body of the army came up to Gen. Hand about 10 o'clock when the whole army advanced and encamped at night on the upper Sheshequin flats. This day in passing a narrow defile in break-neck hill, three of our oxen fell off and were killed. At night one of the small boats loaded with flour was stove, and the lading lost.
Aug't 10th. The weather was stormy and in consequence of this and the boats not coming up in season, we remained in camp.
Aug't 11th. The army marched at 5 o'clock in the morning, passing near Queen Esther's palace, which we destroyed last fall at the time of our expedition under Col. Hartley. After crossing the river we encamped on Tioga plains.
At night, I was sent with Capt Cummings to reconnoiter Chemung.
Aug't 12th. Returned from Chemung, in the afternoon. We discovered an Indian village at that place, about 12 miles from camp. About 8 o'clock in the evening a large party marched in order to destroy that settlement.
Aug't 13th. The party arrived at Chemung about 5 o'clock, in the morning, but found that the enemy had left the town. We followed them about one mile, and as our advance party, under command of Gen. Hand was ascending a small hill, the enemy fired upon them from the top. After a spirited contest, the enemy fled taking with them their dead and wounded. We had three brave officers,—Capt. Henry Carberry, Capt. John Franklin and Lieut. William Huston wounded, together with a number of men—and six men killed. After gaining the summit of the hill, we halted for some time and then returned to the town, and set it on fire, and destroyed about fifteen acres of corn.
[171] As Gen. Poor was going into a piece of corn with his brigade, the Indians fired on them from across the river, killing one of his men and wounding three others, who are likely to recover. The army then returned to Tioga, to our encampment.
Aug't 14th. The army lay in the encampment until night, and buried the dead, that had been killed yesterday, with military honors.
Aug't 15. A detachment of nine hundred men, with ammunition and provisions for eight days, was made, to be commanded by Gens. Hand and Poor, with orders to march at six o'clock on the morning of the 16th, to go up the Susquehanna to meet Gen. Clinton, who is marching to join us. A small party of Indians came near the camp on the west side of the Tioga creek and killed three men, scalped young Elliot and wounded another, and another that was in company with Elliot was missing. They also killed an ox and drove off several horses.
Aug't 16th. The party marched about 11 o'clock in order to meet General Clinton, and encamped at night about ten miles from Tioga, at a place called Mauckatawangum, or Red Bank. Sergeant [Asa] Chapman and [Justus] Gaylord were sent to meet Gen. Clinton and inform him of our advance to meet him.
Aug't 17th. The party marched at six o'clock in the morning and encamped at night on Owego flats near the river, where there was an Indian town. The Indians had left the town however, some time before our arrival.
Aug't 18th. The party marched at 7 o'clock and encamped at night at Choconut flats. On the opposite side of the river, was a beautiful piece of land which the Indians had desolated and left the day before. In the evening we heard the Indians prowling about our camp.
Aug't 19th. The party marched early in the morning in hopes of meeting the army under Gen. Clinton. After we had marched about one mile we received orders to return to our camp. Soon after Gen. Clinton and our party joined and returned as far as Owego.
Aug't 20th. The army lay still by reason of a very heavy rain.
Aug't 21st. Marched at 7 in the morning and encamped about 3 in the afternoon, at Mauckatawangum.
Aug't 22d. The army marched at 6 in the morning and returned to the encampment at Tioga, at about twelve o'clock, at which time General Sullivan honored us with the discharge of thirteen pieces of cannon.
Aug't 23d. Lay in camp all day. Capt. Kimball of Col. Cilley's command, was killed by the accidental discharge of a gun, and a Lieut, wounded.
I drew 21 pairs of shoes and delivered them to the following soldiers:—
John Swift, Harvey Harding, Thomas Baldwin, William Kellogg, Daniel Denton, Elisha Garrett, Palmer Ransom, William Conover, Isaac Benjamin, Asa Smith, Nathan Stark, Frederick Eveland, Richard Halstead, Justus Gaylord, Thomas Parks, Elijah Walker, Lawrence Keeney, Stephen Skiff, Timothy Hopkins, William Smith, James Welles.Aug't 24th. The army was engaged in preparing to march from Tioga into the Indian country. A man was wounded by the accidental discharge of a gun. At 4 o'clock in the afternoon, the light troops marched off of the old encampment and encamped about 100 rods in advance, at which time Col. [William] Butler joined our corps, and encamped at 7 o'clock, P. M.
Aug't 25th. The army lay still in camp, preparing for a march. About 11 o'clock it began to rain very hard, which continued till late in the afternoon. Three Indians came to our encampment, supposed to be friendly Indians from Oneida. Ordered to march at 8 o'clock to-morrow morning. An express from Fort Pitt came in this evening.
[172] Aug't 26th. The army marched about 11 o'clock and halted near a fording place in Tioga creek, waiting for the creek to fall as it was very high on account of the recent heavy rains.
Aug. 27th. The army marched about 6 o'clock and encamped on a beautiful flat about 6-1/2 miles from Chemung. This day in passing a narrow defile, one of our wagons loaded with ammunition broke down and fell from the top of a high hill. I, with Lieut. Stevens, destroyed the enemy's encampment. Clinton did not march which delayed our further progress till late on Saturday the 28th instant.
Aug't 28th. The army was busy preparing for a further advance, reconnoitering the country and selecting the route for the march. Repaired Col. Proctor's carriages for the artillery, which were taken yesterday and destroyed by the enemy. We cut down about 30 acres of corn, which was supposed to have been planted by the Tories, and left some time before.
We destroyed Chemung.
The army marched about 12 o'clock. As the advance guard of riflemen was crossing the river a small party of Indians fired on our boatmen, but did no damage. A small party, with two of our Indians were sent out, who discovered small parties of Indians, and heard them at work on their encampment. This day the army marched about two miles and encamped at Chemung, on the bank of the Tioga creek.
BATTLE OF NFWTOWN.
Sunday, August 29th, 1779. The army marched at 8 o'clock in the morning. After our advance parties had marched about two miles they frequently discovered Indian spies, about 200 yards distant in front of them, and a small party, of the enemy on the west side of the river. The further we advanced the bolder these hardy fellows became, one of whom fired on our advance party but did no damage, and then ran off at great speed.
We continued our advance and discovered several more Indians, who fled before us. At the distance of about four miles from Chemung we discovered a very extensive and formidable breast-work, advantageously situated on a rising piece of ground. The rifle corps drew up and formed at the distance of about 300 yards from the enemy's works, and then, advancing to within 120 yards, kept up a brisk and scattering fire on the enemy for two hours, while Gens. Poor and Clinton endeavored to gain their rear, and our artillery could be properly placed for an engagement. In the meantime about 400 of the enemy sallied out on our advanced parties, but finding our troops determined to maintain their ground, thought best to return to their works. Soon after our cannon began to play upon them, they ran off and left their breastworks, in the most precipitous manner, leaving their packs, blankets, tomahawks, spears, &c, behind them. At the same time we took possession of the enemy's ground and fortifications. As the enemy were retreating their left flank fell in with Gen. Poor. A sharp fight ensued from both parties but the enemy were obliged to give way. In this engagement we lost in killed five men, and thirty-four were wounded. Among the wounded were Major Titcomb, Capt. Clayes, and Lieut. McColley. Poor's party took a Tory prisoner, and 12 Indian scalps. The riflemen took a negro, prisoner, in the evening about two miles from the enemy's works, and then returned and encamped near a very beautiful flat where the enemy had planted and tilled about 120 acres of corn.
Aug't 30th. The army lay still and sent out reconnoitering parties, and buried the dead. Having destroyed about 120 acres of excellent corn, beans, &c, prepared to proceed after the enemy. Our wounded, heavy artillery and wagons were sent back to Tioga in boats. This day in examining the prisoners they said that Butler and Brant commanded, and that the enemy consisted of 700 men,—500 Indians and 200 Tories, and they had lived for two weeks on green corn, without bread or salt. The General asked the negro what their officers said when our cannon began to play upon our works. He answered, "As the Indians ran away, so did the white people run too. The rangers run, and the officers hollered, 'top rangers!' 'top rangers!' but rangers not top."
[173] This day the Lieutenant wounded yesterday, died of his wounds. Our soldiers found a large number of the enemy's packs, blankets, and some young horses, and brought them in.
This day the whole army agreed to live on half rations to subdue their cruel and implacable enemies the Indians and Tories.
None of the Indians were seen to-day.
Aug't 31st. The army marched at 10 o'clock past Newtown, where our soldiers found a large quantity of pewter, iron kettles, &c, then crossing a branch of Tioga creek, traveled over a fine beautiful tract of land and encamped near the Tioga branch on a level, open piece of ground. This day we discovered the enemy going up the main branch of Tioga with boats and canoes. Major Parr with the riflemen and a company of infantry, were sent after them. This party did not return to-day.
An Indian was found dead near our encampment, supposed to be one of those wounded at the breastworks and brought on until he died, and was then abandoned. The two prisoners taken on the 29th inst., informed us that we had killed three Indians, and wounded a number near Chemung when that town was destroyed.
Wednesday, Sept. 1st. The army marched at 8 o'clock in the morning, and with considerable difficulty reached Catharines town, or Cheoquock, at 7 in the evening, and found it had been evacuated by the enemy a few hours before. The pack horses and baggage did not reach here until Thursday morning.
Major Parr returned to the army about 10 o'clock to-day, and informed us that he could not come up with the Indians with their canoes, but that he burned a number of buildings and destroyed 30 acres of corn, and that the enemy had made a quantity of hay.
Thursday, Sept. 2d. This morning some of our soldiers found an old squaw, that had not been able to travel, so as to make her escape. She said that Butler and the Indians held a great council of war, and the old Indian chiefs had a mind to make peace, but Butler told them that the rebels would kill them all, and they had better run off in the woods. Upon the whole they concluded to leave this town before we could reach it. The army lay still. Col. Butler went out with a party but made no discovery. Our soldiers found considerable plunder, horses, cows, hogs, &c. We lived very plentifully for a few days. This town is situated on a very fine and beautiful bottom of land about 3 miles south of Seneca lake.
Sept. 3d. The army marched at 8 o'clock in the morning. This day we passed over a fine beautiful country of land adjoining Seneca lake on the west, and the Cayuga lake on the east. The army encamped about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, near a small Indian settlement, where we found plenty of Indian corn, beans, squashes, &c, which the army made use of for themselves and horses. This day our right flank discovered our Indian spy, who ran off as soon as discovered. This settlement the Indians left with the fires burning in their houses.
Sept. 4th. The army marched about 10 o'clock in the morning, passed several houses and cornfields which we destroyed. To-day we marched over a fine, beautiful, level country of land, pleasantly situated on the east side of Seneca lake. The light troops encamped about 3 miles from Kindauga, and about two miles in front of the main army. This day our soldiers caught a number of fine horses.
Sunday, Sept. 5th. The main army came up to the light troops about 10 o'clock, and the whole moved about 11 o'clock, passing one house, and several cornfields, and arrived at Candaia at 2 o'clock, which place the enemy had left some days before. In one of the out houses, about one mile from the town, a party of our riflemen found Luke Swetland, who was taken by the Indians near Nanticoke in August, 1778, and brought to their town and given to an old squaw who kept him as her son, and he fared as well as the rest of the family. He informed us that Butler left this place the Thursday before, with the whole of his army of 700 or 800 men,—about 300 Tories and 500 Indians, and that he understood by some of the Tories that the rebels had defeated Butler and Brant, and they had lost some men killed, and a large number wounded, and that a number of our old neighbors were down to fight against us, who looked very much ashamed when they returned [174]
from Newtown, where we defeated them. This day we destroyed the cornfields, pulled down and burnt the houses, &c.Sept. 6th, Monday. This day the army was detained until late by reason of their losing some of the horses and cattle, which were not found until late, but the army marched about 2 miles and encamped on the bank of Seneca lake, in a very beautiful country well timbered with oak. This day an express arrived from Wyoming.
Sept. 7th.—The army marched at 7 in the morning passing a defile near the lake without much difficulty, and arrived at 6 o'clock in the evening at Canadasago, the capitol of the Seneca country, which we found evacuated and left by the enemy. This is a very beautiful town, situate on a rising piece of ground about one mile from the mouth of the lake. It contained about sixty houses and was surrounded with apple and peach trees. Our soldiers lived very bountifully on vegetables, &c, while here, as the enemy had plenty of such things for their own support, but being hurried off they left them behind.
In this town we found a white child about 3 years old, which we supposed to have been taken by the Indians from some of the back settlements.
Sept. 8th. The army lay in camp, washed their clothes and collected vegetables, &c, &c, preparing to march to-morrow. This day Major Parr, with his rifle corps, and a number of volunteers, went to destroy a small town 7 miles from this place, on the west side of the lake, called Shenawaga, where he found a large quantity of corn, and sent back for assistance to destroy it. A large fatigue party destroyed the corn here, and cut down the fruit trees. Orders were given to march for the Genessee at 6 o'clock, to-morrow, except a Captain's command, which was detached to return to Tioga with the invalids.
Sept. 9th. The army marched at 12 o'clock over a very level country, 7 miles, without crossing any running water, and encamped at night on the west side of Flint creek. Major Parr, returned to the army this evening, and reported that he had destroyed a large quantity of corn and other vegetables, and burned 20 houses, at Shenanwaga, where the enemy had hogs, fowls, apples, peaches, &c. Yesterday Col. Harper, with a number of volunteers, destroyed a small town called Scauwaga, about ten miles from Canadaseago. This town was left by the Indians some time before.
Sept. 10th. The army marched at 8 o'clock in the morning and in seven miles came to a very beautiful small lake, where the Indians had a few houses on the north side, and about a half mile from it, a town of 23 houses, called Canadaigua. This town was set on fire at two o'clock, and then we marched one and a half miles further to a convenient place to encamp, where the Indians had about 50 acres of corn and a great quantity of beans and other vegetables, all of which were destroyed soon after our arrival by our soldiers. Orders were given to march at 5 o'clock to-morrow.
Sept. 11. The army marched at 5, in the morning. After marching 13 miles over a very pleasant level country, came to a town called Anayayea. Pleasantly situated near a small lake, where the enemy had plenty of corn, beans, &c. The army lived in great plenty off of these vegetables, and we thought ourselves happy to find so much good living in a savage country, and the enemy fleeing before us. Order to march at 5 o'clock in the morning. At this town the Indians had about 12 houses and 20 acres of good corn, which the soldiers were ordered to destroy. We here left a part of our stores, with a detachment under command of Capt. Cummings. Our sick also remained here in one of the block houses.
Sept. 12th. Last evening about 8 o'clock began a very heavy rain, which continued till late in the forenoon, and detained our marching agreeably to the order of yesterday. Marched about 11 o'clock, and after marching about 12 miles passed a lake called Canadagua and encamped near an Indian town called Canaghsoos. This evening Lieut. Boyd, with a party of 23 men went to a town on the Genessee, and found it evacuated.
Sept. 13th. The army marched at 5 o'clock, went into the town where they halted and cooked breakfast, while the pioneers were building bridges and cutting a road through the swamp. Mr. Lodge, a surveyor, with his assistants, without the sentry's rising, advanced [175] up a hill, were fired upon by a party of Indians who lay concealed on the hill for that purpose. One of his men was wounded, the rest made their escape. As Lieut. Boyd was returning to camp this morning he was attacked by a large party of Indians, himself and 16 of his men were killed or taken. One of his party, who made his escape, informed us that this morning in the Genessee town they killed and scalped an Indian who rode a good horse, and had three guns, supposed to be going to join their main party.
After the army was alarmed, by the firing on Mr. Lodge, the riflemen and light troops immediately took possession of the height, where the enemy were posted. On the approach of our advance party the enemy left the ground, and about 150 of their packs, hats, blankets, tomahawks, &c, and fled before us without giving us one shot. We took possession of one of their towns on the Genessee, about 6 o'clock this evening without any opposition where we found a great plenty of corn and other vegetables.
Sept. 14th. This morning the man wounded yesterday died. A fatigue party of 2000 men was ordered out at 6 o'clock to destroy the corn which they completed at 12 o'clock. The army then marched about 5 miles to the capital town on the Genessee. This town is situated on the west side of the river, on the most beautiful flat I ever saw, which town we entered without opposition and found two of our men, taken by the enemy yesterday, dead. They were brought to this place, killed and cut to pieces in the most barbarous and cruel manner that savages were master of. One of these men supposed to be Lieut. Boyd, the other a soldier of his party. These men were buried immediately, with the honors of war in as decent a manner as our situation would admit of.
Sept. 15th. This morning the whole of the army was ordered to parade at 6 o'clock in order to destroy the corn of this place, which was judged to be upwards of 200 acres, and a vast quantity of beans, squashes, &c. This we completed by about 2 o'clock, by throwing it into the houses, which were set on fire. Some threw it into the river, and others built fires in the fields and burned it there. This forenoon Mrs. Lester, who was taken last November, by the Indians, came to our camp and brought with her one of her children.
RETURN OF THE ARMY.
Sept. 16th. Large fatigue parties were sent out this morning to destroy the corn, which they accomplished at 10 o'clock. The whole of the army marched at 11 o'clock. When we came near the ground where Lieut. Boyd was attacked by the Indians, on the 13th inst., several reconnoitering parties were sent out and found 14 of his men dead, and scalped and cut in a most savage manner. An Indian that went out as a guide to Lieut. Boyd was found cut to pieces;—all of whom we buried as decently as we could in our situation, and then the army proceeded as far as Canaghsoos, where the whole encamped at night.
Sept. 17th. The army marched at 6 o'clock in the morning, and marched 12 miles to Hanayayea, where we left our stores and the sick, which we find all well. We arrived at the town at 1 o'clock when the army encamped and drew provisions.
Sept. 18th. Marched at 6-1/2 in the morning and after a march of 13 miles came to a small lake near Canandaigua. This day we met on the road two Indians from Oneida, with dispatches for Gen. Sullivan. In the town we left this morning, and on the road, we killed about 20 pack horses that were not able to travel.
Sept. 19th.—The army marched at 7 o'clock and with some difficulty reached Canadasago at 6 in the evening, where we encamped. This day an express met the army with letters from Gen. Washington. Information was brought that Col. Shreve had forwarded a great plenty of provisions and liquor to Newtown for the use of the army.
Sept. 20th. The army lay in camp until 4 in the afternoon, and then the whole marched four miles, crossed the outlet of the lake, and encamped about 7 in the evening. This day several large parties were sent off to the different places. Lieut. Gore went on a command with Col. Butler, to the Cayuga lake, to destroy several towns and the corn belonging to the Cayuga nation, who a few days ago sent a request to the General, to have their crops saved.
[176] Sept. 21st. The army marched at 7 in the morning, and encamped at night near Kendawa, a distance of 18 miles.
Sept. 22d. We marched at 8 in the morning and advanced 14 miles. This morning Nathaniel Church sent to Wyoming.
Sept. 23d. The army marched at 8 in the morning, and came to Shequaga (Catharines town,) at 2 in the afternoon, where we found a squaw dead, and the old squaw that we left on our way up, alive in her hut. This night the army encamped on the flats about two miles from the town.
Sept. 24th. The army marched at 6, and arrived at the Tioga Broom, where we found plenty of provision and liquor, under the care of Capt. Reed.
Sept. 25th. The army lay in camp at Fort Reed, where we had the news confirmed in general orders concerning Spain declaring war against England. This day was spent very joyfully, and at 5 o'clock a few de joie was fired by 13 rounds of cannon. Three cheers were then given. One for the Continental Congress, one for the King of Spain, and one for the King of France, after which there was a good supper provided for the troops of 5 oxen barbecued, and a great plenty of liquor to drink. The officers of Gen. Hand's brigade had 13 fires and 13 candles burning, and drank the following 13 toasts given by Gen. Hand, to wit:
1. The 13 Sister States and their Sponsors.
2. The Honorable Continental Congress
3. Gen. Washington and the American Army.
4. The Commander-in-Chief of the Western Expedition.
5. The American Navy.
6. Our faithful allies the House of Bourbon.
7. May the American Congress and all her legislature representatives be endued with virtue and wisdom, and may our Independence be as firmly established as the pillars of time.
8. May the citizens of America and her soldiers be ever unanimous in the reciprocal support of each other.
9. May altercations, discord, and every kind of fraud be totally banished the peaceful shores of America.
10. May the memory of the brave Lieut. Boyd, and the soldiers under his command, who were horribly massacred by the inhuman savages, or by their more barbarous and detestable allies, the British and Tories, on the 13th inst., be ever dear to their country.
11. An honorable peace with America or perpetual war with her enemies.
12. May the Kingdom of Ireland merit a stripe in the American Standard.
13. May the enemies of America be metamorphosed into pack horses and sent on a western expedition against the Indians.Sept. 26th. This day the army lay in camp at Fort Reed. At 12 o'clock, Col. Dearborn returned to camp from the Cayuga Lake, with 2 squaws he had taken prisoners. He reported that he had destroyed five towns on the west side of the lake, and a large quantity of corn and other vegetables. These towns were situated near the lake, in a fine fruitful country. He also destroyed a fine plantation belonging to Hendrick Markle, a Tory, who fled from the frontier town and settled among the Indians rather than live an honest life among a people he called rebels.
Sept. 27th. This day the army lay in camp. A large fatigue party was sent up the river 9 miles, where they loaded nine boats with corn and other vegetables, and brought them down. This evening Mr. Lodge and five men from Col. Butler's party, came in and informed us that the Colonel was about 10 miles from camp. A soldier belonging to the New Hampshire troops died to-day.
Sept. 28th. The army lay in camp. Several large parties sent out this morning to destroy corn and other vegetables. Col. Butler returned to camp from the Cayuga country, and informed us that he had destroyed five towns, and about 150 acres of most excellent corn, and a large quantity of beans, potatoes, and other vegetables. One of his party died very suddenly this morning, before he reached camp.
[177] Sept. 29th. The army left Fort Reed and marched 10 miles toward Fort Sullivan passing Butler's breastworks. We encamped at night on a flat 2 miles below Chemung. This evening Capt. Spalding returned from a command up the Tioga branch where he destroyed a small town and about 10 acres of corn, the fences, &c. This town appeared to have been built by white people.
Sept. 30th. This morning the army marched at 7 o'clock and arrived at Tioga about 2 o'clock in the afternoon, and each brigade encamped on the old ground.
Oct. 1st. The army lay in camp. One or two small parties sent to Wyoming. I have been very unwell for some days.
Oct. 2nd, Sunday. Continued in Fort Sullivan. Order to march Monday at 6 o'clock for Wyoming.
Oct. 3rd. Continued at Tioga.
Oct. 4th. Marched for Wyoming. Encamped at night at Wysox.
Oct. 5th. The army went on board the boats, and came down as far as DePews.
Oct. 6th. Came to Lackawanna.
Oct. 7th. The army came to Wyoming.
Oct. 10th. The army left this place and marched for Easton.
Oct. 29th. The German regiments marched for Sunbury.
Dec'r 19th. Capt. Selin set out for Philadelphia.
* * * * * *
[178] JOURNAL OF CAPTAIN DANIEL LIVERMORE.
DANIEL LIVERMORE, Captain in the Third New Hampshire Regiment. He was born in Watertown, Mass., in 1749. After serving an apprenticeship to a house carpenter at Concord, N. H., he continued there working at his trade until the commencement of the revolution, when, in June, 177o, he was commissioned as Ensign in Third New Hampshire Reg't and in January, 1776, was appointed as First Lieutenant, and not long after was appointed Captain, and commanded a company of foot in the Sullivan expedition, during which time the following journal was written. Oct. 10th, 1783, Captain Livermore was promoted by Congress to rank of Major by brevet and Dec. 10, 1783, he retired from the army and returned to Concord where he continued to reside until his death, June 22, 17998.
His journal was published in the New Hampshire Historical Collections, Vol. VI, page 308, having been furnished by Joseph B. Walker, Esq., of Concord. The following is taken therefrom:A JOURNAL OF THE MARCH OF GEN. POOR'S BRIGADE, FROM
SOLDIER'S FORTUNE, ON THE WESTERN
EXPEDITION, MAY 7, 1779.BY DANIEL LIVERMORE, CAPTAIN IN THE THIRD NEW HAMPSHIRE REGIMENT.
JOURNAL.
MONDAY, MAY 17, 1779. This day at eight o'clock the remaining part of Gen. Poor's brigade leave Soldier's Fortune and march on the Western Expedition. At three o'clock, P. M., halt at Fishkill, where we dine, twelve miles from our old quarters. At five P. M., march for the Ferry, which we make about sunset; five miles from town. Col. Read's regiment cross the North River this evening, Col. Dearborn's take quarters for the night on the east side. Nothing remarkable happens during the day, 17 miles.
TUESDAY, MAY 18th. This morning the weather being fair we proceed to conveying our baggage and stores over the river, to Newburg Landing, which was completed at about twelve o'clock. Here the troops refresh. At two o'clock, P. M., are ready to [179] march, near which time Gen. Poor arrives from New Hampshire. The troops now proceed on their march by the way of New-Windsor, three miles; thence to Bethlehem, nine miles. Put up at Maj. Deboyse's. This place is in the State of New York, and county of Orange. The country is not very good in general, although some of the farms are very fine. Nothing material has happened this day. 12 miles.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 19. This morning the troops march, at seven o'clock, through a very fertile part of the country, and make a short halt at Bloomsgrove Church, five miles. From thence proceed on our march five miles, to a small village called Chester. Here we halt an hour. The weather proves rainy, but we proceed on the march three miles, and are then obliged to put up for the night, by reason of the bad weather, in very disagreeable quarters. The country during this day's march is exceedingly good, but the inhabitants are not friendly. Nothing remarkable happens this day. 13 miles.
THURSDAY, MAY 20. This morning the weather still continues rainy; necessity obliges us to continue the march. The traveling is exceedingly bad. At nine o'clock make a halt at a small village called Warwick, six miles. Here we take breakfast at Beard's tavern, from whence we proceed on the march to Hardiston, seven miles. During this days march we went past but few farms of any consequence. The land is not fertile, but on both sides of the valley very mountainous and broken. At about four P. M., we arrived at the afore mentioned place. The weather continues rainy. Put up at Hinksman's formerly a tavern, but now a torified house. Nothing remarkable happens during this day. 13 miles.
FRIDAY, MAY 21. The weather continues rainy. The troops lie by in their disagreeable quarters. Nothing remarkable happens during this day.
SATURDAY, MAY 22. This day the troops lie by for want of provisions, and are employed in washing and drying their clothes. Nothing remarkable happens this day except a dispute which arose between the landlord and some of the officers, on account of the uncivil treatment they received from him, which was carried to no small height. N. B.—A Tory.
SUNDAY, MAY 23. This morning the troops march at five o'clock. Proceed on their march seven miles, to the sign of the Ball. Here make a short halt. This is about two miles from New York line, in the State of New Jersey. We soon march on a few miles farther, and halt four hours in the heat of the day. At two o'clock proceed on the march through a mountainous, poor country, having but few inhabitants. At six o'clock arrive at Sussex State House, where we put up for the night. This is a small village consisting of about ten decent houses, with a large State House, built of Stone. In the north-east part of the town the people are chiefly of the English descent, but the greater part are not friendly to our cause. We put up at Prentice's tavern, and had very good treatment. I passed the evening very agreeably with our own corps of officers, and Mr. Abial Frye. Nothing remarkable happens during this day. So ends the twenty-four hours. 22 miles.
MONDAY, MAY 24. This morning, at about seven o'clock, the troops proceed on their march for Easton. We make but very few halts during this day's march. At about five, P. M., we arrive at a small village called Moravian Mills or Oxford. This place is pleasantly situated, lying on a small river, on which stands the most curious corn mill I ever saw. The inhabitants are of that denomination of people, called Moravians. They are of a kind and benevolent disposition. The curiosities of this place are worthy of notice , their water-works in particular form a large fountain opposite the town, on a hill. The water is carried under ground down the hill and through the bottom of the river, to a considerable of an eminence on the opposite side. During the preceding day's march we traveled through an indifferent country. The people were chiefly of the Dutch descent. Nothing remarkable happens during this day's march. 16 miles.
TUESDAY, MAY 25. This morning the troops march early. Make a short halt at Carr's Tavern, five miles; from whence we proceed on the march and make but few stops till we halt for the night. The troops encamp on the edge of a wood, on the left hand, near Col. Bond's. This night we lie on the ground in the open air. Sometime in the night it rains and makes it very uncomfortable. During the preceding day's march the weather was [180] very hot. The country on the right hand is fertile. Some exceeding fine farms between the road and the river Delaware, which is from five to two miles distant. During the day's march nothing remarkable happens, 17 miles.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 26. This morning the troops march early. At eight o'clock arrive at Easton, Ferry, five miles. We then proceed to conveying the troops and baggage over the Delaware, which is completed at about ten o'clock. This day the troops are supplied with tents, and encamp on the south-east side of the town on the banks of the River Lehigh, which empties itself at this place into the Delaware. The town of Easton is pleasantly situated, on a level flat of ground, on a point made by the Delaware and Lehigh. The buildings in this place are plain, and built of stone. Their State House is built in the centre of the town, where four roads meet. It is built of stone and lime, and makes an elegant appearance. They have one house of worship, near the State House. It is built of hewn stone; large and elegant, with a large organ. The inhabitants are chiefly Low Dutch, and they worship wholly in that way. There are some few Jews living here, who are the principal merchants of the place.
THURSDAY, MAY 27; FRIDAY, 28; SATURDAY, 20, and SUNDAY, 30. Nothing material happens. We lie by having little to do. Spend our time in fishing and other sort of diversions.
MONDAY, MAY 31. This day I set out on a party of pleasure, to Bethlehem, in company with a number of gentlemen, officers of the brigade. Had an elegant dinner, after which we walked out and took a survey of the town and its curiosities. The town of Bethlehem is a small, compact town, lying on the river Lehigh, about twelve miles from Easton. It lies on a small descent towards the south-east, and is pleasantly situated. The inhabitants are all Low Dutch, and of that denomination called Moravians. They are much bigoted in their ways of worship, as also in their method of living. Their buildings are not elegant though decent, and built wholly of stone and lime. They have but one place of public worship, and perform in the Dutch language and one house of entertainment, which is supplied out of the public fund. Nothing extraordinary happens this day.
TUESDAY, JUNE 1. Nothing remarkable happens this day. We lay in camp having little exercise.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2; THURSDAY, 3; FRIDAY, 4; SATURDAY, 5; SUNDAY, 6, and MONDAY, 7. Nothing remarkable happens.
TUESDAY, JUNE 8. This day the troops are reviewed by Gen. Sullivan. They parade on the banks of the river Lehigh, about one mile from the town, on very disagreeable ground. Nothing remarkable happens during the day.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 9. This day the two remaining regiments of Gen. Poor's brigade decamp and move up the river about one mile. There encamp on the banks, on good ground. Nothing remarkable happens during this day.
THURSDAY, JUNE 10. This day the troops parade at four. P. M., for exercise; march to town and go through various maneuvers, in forming and displaying columns, crossing defiles, &c. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
FRIDAY, JUNE 11. This day, at four o'clock, the troops march to town for exercise, and perform several manœuvres of displaying columns and reducing platoons to rank-entire, and forming the same. Nothing remarkable happens this day. So ends the twenty-four hours.
SATURDAY, JUNE 12. This day, at four, P. M., the troops parade to attend the execution of three criminals, inhabitants of this State, convicted of murder and highway robbery. They were tried before the civil authority, and have been under sentence eleven months. Nothing more worthy of notice this day.
SUNDAY, JUNE 13. This day, one of the criminals executed yesterday was dug up and dissected of which I was a spectator. Nothing further worthy of notice this day.
MONDAY, JUNE 14; TUESDAY, 15; WEDNESDAY, 16, and THURSDAY 17. Nothing worthy of notice happens. We follow our diversions while we stay at this place.
FRIDAY, JUNE 18. This morning, at four o'clock, the troops strike their tents and load [181] their baggage, in order for marching at seven o'clock. With much regret we take our leave of that pleasant town, and pursue our intended expedition. We march on seven miles, through an indifferent part of the country. Here the troops halt and take breakfast. We then pursue our march, and travel through the poorest country I ever saw—so bad that even bushes can't grow thereon. About five, P. M., we encamp near Hill's tavern, in Hillstown. Nothing remarkable during this day's march. 12 miles.
SATURDAY, JUNE 19. This morning the troops march early, and pass the wind-gap, so called, for its being the only pass for a number of miles through the long chain of mountains that extend to the southernmost part of the continent, called the ____ mountains. We continue our march through a very barren and mountainous part of the country, and make a halt at Brinker's Mills, seven miles. Here we breakfast, from whence we proceed on the march and make a few halts till we halt for the night at Leonard's tavern, in Poconogo, nine miles, and the last house on that road till we came within seven miles of Susquehanna. Nothing remarkable happens during this day's march. 16 miles.
SUNDAY, JUNE 20. This morning the troops march at eight o'clock; leave Poconogo, and proceed to chowder Camp, where we encamp for the night, five miles. This day we march through a barren, mountainous, country, and uninhabited. Nothing remarkable during this day's march. 5 miles.
MONDAY, JUNE 21. This morning I mount guard. The troops march at sunrise, and soon enter the great swamp. Proceed seven miles and take breakfast. Here we cross the small river called Tunhannunk, which empties itself into the Delaware at Easton. We now proceed on our march through the swamp, which is a dark and dismal place, being covered with a growth of large pines and hemlock, and small brush so thick that a man can't be seen a rod from the road. This swamp is not level, but has some considerable hills and ledgy mountains in it; and by accounts it extends between forty and fifty miles, north and south, and from twelve to twenty in width. In about seven miles we cross another small river, called the Tobahanna, much smaller than the former. We still proceed on the march, making few halts. About two come to Locust Hill, but, there being no water, obliged us to continue the march; the traveling very bad and the troops much fatigued. At about four, P. M., we cross considerable of a river, which is the principal branch of the river Lehigh. At about six, i>. M., arrived at Barren Hill, alias Burnt Plain, much fatigued with our day's march. Here we encamp for the night. Nothing remarkable happens during this day's march. 19 miles.
TUESDAY, JUNE 22. This day the troops lie by till twelve o'clock, at which time we move off the ground, myself in the rear guard. The troops were scarcely gone when two savages were seen by our friendly Indians, and the first that had been discovered by our party during the march. At about five we arrive at Bullock House, where we encamp for the night. Nothing extraordinary this day. 5 miles.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23. This morning the troops march at seven o'clock, and pass the Bear Swamp and a place called the Shades of Death, by its being a dark, lonesome place. The sun is scarcely to be seen for the trees and bushes. Not far from this place is where Capt. Davis and Lieut. Jones from Pennsylvania, were inhumanly murdered April 18th, 1779, by the savages. During the whole of our march from Easton we traveled through the most barren part of the country I ever saw for so far together. Rocky mountains, sunken swamps and burning plains the whole of the way. At about two, P. M., we arrived at Wyoming, which lies on the east branch of the Susquehanna river. Here is a fertile country, but the town wholly destroyed by the savages; and, if I mistake not, about this time, twelve months ago, their settlements were very extensive both up and down the river. There are two hundred and fifty widows in the place, whose husbands were slain in Col. Butler's battle, about the time the town was destroyed. The principal town was on the east side of the river. This was a county town, in the County of Westmoreland. The inhabitants are wholly from the State of Connecticut, and hold their land by its grant. The troops march about half a mile down the river and encamp. Nothing remarkable happened this day. 7 miles.
THURSDAY, JUNE 24. Nothing remarkable happens this day. We lie by in our tents, having little or no duty to do. So ends the twenty-four hours.
[181] FRIDAY, JUNE 25, and Saturday, 26. Nothing worthy of notice happens. All peace and quietness. So ends the forty-eight hours.SUNDAY, JUNE 27. This day the two regiments of Gen. Pool's brigade, 2nd and 3rd, cross the river, and move about three miles up stream and encamp on its banks, near a large picket fort, known by the name of Forty Fort. This fort derives its name from its being built by forty persons, original proprietors of the tract of land lying on that side the Susquehanna, and containing forty rights. The land here is very fertile, and the intervale or meadow extends near four miles from the bank of the river. Nothing extraordinary happens during this day. 3 miles.
MONDAY, JUNE 28; TUESDAY, 29; WEDNESDAY, 30; THURSDAY, JULY 1; FRIDAY, 2, and SATURDAY, 3. Nothing remarkable happens. Scarcity of provisions, which makes uneasiness among the troops.
SUNDAY, JULY 4. This day being the anniversary of the Independence of America and being Sunday, the celebration was put off till tomorrow. This day we are joined by the other—2nd regiment—belonging to the brigade. Col. Cilley New-Hampshire troops; Col. Courtland, New York troops. Nothing remarkable happens during this day.
MONDAY, JULY 5. This day General Poor makes an elegant entertainment for all the officers of his brigade, with a number of gentlemen from other brigades, and from the town. Gen. Hand and his retinue were present. The dining room was a large booth, about eighty feet in length, with a marquee pitched at each end. The day was spent in civil mirth and jollity. The company consisted of upwards of one hundred who graced the feast with a number of good songs. After dinner the following toasts were drank, to-wit:
1st. The United States.
2nd. The Fourth of July, '76: The memorable era of American Independence.
3rd. The Grand Council of America.
4th. Gen. Washington and the army.
5th. The King and Queen of France.
6th. Genl. Sullivan and the Western Expedition.
7th. May the Counsellors of America be wise, and her Soldiers invincible.
8th. A successful and decisive campaign.
9th. Civilization, or death to all Savages.
10th. To the immortal memory of those heroes who have fallen in defence of American Liberty.
11th. May the husbandman's cottage be blessed with peace, and his fields with plenty.
12th Vigor and virtue to the sons and daughters of America.
13th. May the new world be the last asylum of freedom and the arts.TUESDAY, JULY 6. This day nothing of notice happens.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 7.—This day I sat on a court martial. Nothing remarkable happens this day. So ends the twenty-four hours.
THURSDAY, JULY 8, and Friday, 9. Nothing worthy of notice happens.
SATURDAY, JULY 10. This day I ride to town for recreation. Towards evening ride down the river four miles to a place called Shawney. The land is exceedingly good and pleasant. I return home late. Visit the guards at twelve o'clock at night. This day Capt. Frye and Capt. Ellis set out on their command to Brinker's Mills.
SUNDAY, JULY 11, and Monday, 12. Nothing happens worthy of notice.
TUESDAY JULY 13. This day a number of gentlemen and ladies from town ride up to take a survey of our encampment; Col. Butler, Capt. Spalding and others, with their ladies.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, and Thursday, 15. Nothing worthy of note happens.
FRIDAY, JULY 16. This day I dine with Gen. Poor, in company with the Hon. Major General Sullivan and his Suite. The day was spent very agreeably. Nothing remarkable happens during the day.
SATURDAY, JULY 17. Nothing worthy of notice happens this day.
SUNDAY, JULY 18. This day, at ten, A. M., the brigade attend divine service. This [183] afternoon considerable of a cannonade is heard down the river, the reason of which is not known. Nothing extraordinary.
MONDAY, JULY 19. Nothing happens worthy of notice this day. So ends the twenty-four hours.
TUESDAY, JULY 20. Nothing this day to be mentioned.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 21. This evening, by order of Gen. Poor, I sat out from Camp for Easton, in Company with Lieut. Hoite. At ten, P. M., leave Col. Butler's and enter the Shady Grove. At day break we arrive at Locust Hill, from whence we proceed, and at eleven o'clock join Col. Read at Drinker's Mills; halt two hours, and then proceed to Easton. Nothing remarkable happens during Wednesday night and Thursday. So ends the thirty-six hours.
FRIDAY, JULY 23. This morning I feel the effects of my late journey; am employed in preparing for returning to camp. Nothing material during this day.
SATURDAY, JULY 24. This day I set out for Easton. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
SUNDAY, JULY 25. This day, after sending the party on I stop in company with Dr. Barnet and other gentlemen, and take breakfast; from whence we proceed on the journey and make a halt at Hiller's tavern, Plainfield, twelve miles from Easton. Here we halt for the night. Nothing remarkable happens this twenty-four hours.
MONDAY, JULY 26. This morning the weather still proves rainy, but we proceed on the journey to Brinker's mill; there dine; move on to Leonard's tavern and put up for the night. A dispute arises between Capt. Peatt and myself. So ends the twenty-four hours.
TUESDAY, JULY 27. This day we move on the march through the woods and swamp. This evening, at seven o'clock, come up with Colt. Read's party at Bullock's house, and there stay during the night with Capt. Frye. No more this day.
WEDNESDAY, JULY 28. This morning I march early in, and leave Col. Read on the ground. At nine I arrive at Wyoming, and find the brigade have moved on to the east side of the river.
THURSDAY, JULY 29. Nothing remarkable during this day.
FRIDAY, JULY 30. This day I am busy in preparing for the march.
SATURDAY, JULY 31. This day the troops march from Wyoming. They march on the east side of the river. At about sunset arrive at Lakawaonunk, ten miles. This was a new settlement, but destroyed by the savages. The land is very fertile, and bids fair to have made a very fine town. The river here takes a turn to about a west point. Nothing remarkable happens during this day's march. 10 miles.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 1. This day the troops march at twelve o'clock. The road here soon leaves the upland and takes the beach; the mountains here shutting close down on the river till we come to Quilutimunk, seven miles. Here encamp for the night on the intervale, the finest I ever saw. Nothing remarkable this day. 7 miles.
MONDAY, AUGUST 2. This day I improve in fishing with the seine, and catch some bass and other fine fish. So ends the 24 hours.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 3. This morning, at 7 o'clock, the troops leave Quilutimunk; proceed on the march, up the river, which we soon leave and take the upland. The country is very mountainous for near 10 miles. Here we encamp for the night at a small settlement called the Tunkhannunk. 10 miles.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4. This morning the troops march early through a barren country. March 10 miles to a small river called ____; make a short halt and refresh, and then proceed 5 miles to Vanderlap's Ford. Here encamp for the night. The finest black walnut timber grown on the intervale that I ever saw. This place is desolated, and the owner gone to the enemy. Nothing remarkable this day 15 miles.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 5. This day the troops leave Vanderlap's desolated farms. I march on the flank guard, over the most mountainous country I ever traveled. Here the mountains shut down close on the river for 7 or 8 miles. At 6 o'clock we arrive at Wyeluting. Nothing remarkable happens this day. 10 miles.
[184] FRIDAY, AUGUST 6. This day the troops lie by for washing their clothes. Nothing remarkable happens during this day. This place is remarkable for its fertility. It is a considerable spot of intervale, extending up the river about 2 miles, but not exceeding half a mile back from the river. This place was settled by a denomination of people called Moravian Indians, by the Moravians having missionaries among them. They are all gone back at present, and are with the enemy.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 7. This day the weather proves rainy. The troops lie by.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 8. This morning the troops proceed on their march up the river; the country not extraordinary, and the mountains shutting in on the river on both sides most of this day's march. At 1 o'clock halt at the Standing Stone, so called by their being a large rock on the side of the river standing on end. Here we encamp for the night on the intervale, there being considerable of a tract of good land at this place. Nothing remarkable during this day. 11 miles
MONDAY, AUGUST 9. This morning the troops proceed on the march and make a short halt at 4 miles. Here is a considerable of a body of intervale, the finest I ever saw; the wild grass and wild beans higher than a man's head. Here are the finest button wood trees I have seen in my travels, growing as tall and straight as any pine trees that I ever saw, and equally as large. We now proceed on the march, leaving the river and taking the upland, and travel through a very indifferent country. At 6 o'clock arrive at Sullivan's Farms, formerly Shegekanunk Flats, Here encamp on the flats, twelve miles. Nothing remarkable during this day. 16 miles.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10. This day the troops lie by on the flats. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 11. This morning the troops march up the river 1 mile, and there ford the ____ branch, and march up on the south side of the river; and in marching about 2 miles come to where Queenchester palace was destroyed. It is a line, open, level country. Here we cross the south branch of the river, into the old Indian town called Tiega, which lies in the arms of the two rivers. Their wigwams were all destroyed by themselves about a year ago, when they left the place.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 12. The troops lie by this day. At 6, P. M., orders come for marching to Chemung. At 9, this evening, set out on the expedition. The night is very dark and the road very indifferent; nothing more than a foot path, and in many places none at all. At daybreak we come to the town of Chemung, which consists of about seventeen Indian houses, or wigwams, deserted by the enemy. The land on the east side is but indifferent. On the west the intervale appears to be considerably extensive. At this place are some fine fields of Indian corn, which we destroyed by fire. Gen. Hand, who marched in front, lost 6 men on the field, and Col. Cilley 1. Major Franklin, from Wyoming, is badly wounded.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 13. We still lie on the ground until twelve o'clock, when we begin to move for our old quarters, Tiego. Col. Shrewler's regiment of Jersey, and Col. Dearborn's of New-Hampshire form the left flank on our march back. At 9 o'clock in the evening we arrive at Tiego, where our tents and baggage were left, much fatigued with our march. So ends the 24 hours.
SATURDAY, August 14. This morning I feel much fatigued with my late command, but, nothing of notice turning up, we lie by and rest.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 15. Nothing remarkable happens during this day.
MONDAY, AUGUST 16. This day a detachment of 900 men is sent up the east branch to join Gen. Clinton, who is expected to be on his march from lake ____, the head of this river. The country during this day's march is poor, being chiefly pine plain with some considerable hills. At sunset we encamp on the banks of the river, on the west side. Nothing remarkable this day. 13 miles.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 17. This day the troops march early. I march on the flank guard. The country is very mountainous, with some fertile valleys. At 4, P. M., we arrive at a considerable Indian town, called Owago, 14 miles. Here is a very good tract of land on both sides of the river. The town consisted of about twenty houses, which we destroyed, [185] together with considerable Indian corn, which is in the milk just fit to roast. The town appears to have been evacuated but a little time. 14 miles.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 18. This morning we march early. During this day's march we travel through a broken, barren country, having no path of consequence, but picking our way over mountains and through sunken swamps, the most disagreeable traveling I have seen. At 4, P. M. arrive at Churamuk, a considerable Indian town on the east side of the river, consisting of about __ houses, which we destroyed. Here we found corn and cucumbers in abundance. The land here is exceeding fine; a large flat of 400 or 500 acres clear run over to English grass, so thick and high it was with difficulty a man could travel through. Here we encamp for the night. At sunset we hear a cannon up the river, which we supposed to be at Gen. Clinton's encampment. Two men are sent off this evening as spies. 18 miles.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 19. This morning we hear another gun up the river, but, no intelligence arriving, the troops are ordered to march, and proceed about one mile, when our spies, sent off last evening, meet us with intelligence of Gen. Clinton's being near.
We then return to the place of our last encampment. At 10, A. M., Gen. Clinton arrives with about __ boats and 1500 men. We immediately proceed on the march for Tiego. At sunset arrive at the old encampment at Owago, and encamp. Nothing material happens this day. 14 miles.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 20. This day it proves rainy. We suffer much by reason of the weather and want of tents.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21. This morning the troops march early. Make but few halts during the day. At 5, P. M., encamp on the banks of the river opposite ____ Farm, about 17 miles from Owago. Nothing remarkable this day. 19 miles.
SUNDAY, AUGUST 22. This morning the troops march early for the old encampment at Tiego, which we make at about 11, A. M. Nothing remarkable during this day. 8 miles.
MONDAY, AUGUST 23. This day a very melancholy accident happened. A soldier in snapping his gun, insensible of its being loaded, it went off and shot Capt. Benjamin Kimball through the heart. The same shot went through two more tents, where were a number of soldiers, with no further hurt than slightly wounding a man in the leg.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 24. This morning the remains of Capt. Kimball were interred with the honors of war. The troops are paraded and all the baggage loaded. Every thing is made ready for the excursion into the Indian country. At sunset all unloaded, and tents pitched on the old ground. The morning gun to be the signal for marching tomorrow morning.
TIEGO, WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 25. The day is very rainy, which prevents the troops marching. They lie by on the ground. Nothing remarkable this day.
TIEGO, THURSDAY, AUGUST 26. This morning at 11, A. M., the troops march from Tiego, making our course about northwest, over a thick pine plain, clearing the road before us, and following the Allegana branch. Encamp at 3, P. M., near the river, by a large plat of intervale. Nothing remarkable this day. 4 miles.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 27. This morning at 8 o'clock the army proceed on the march in two columns, about half a mile in distance and about a west course. The Artillery deters our march this day, having the road to clear before us through an uncultivated wilderness. The difficulties of this day prevent the troops from encamping till 12 o'clock at night, at which time we encamp on a large flat of intervale, called Old Chemung. Here is a vast quantity of corn and vegetables which we destroy. There are no buildings at this place, the town being built about 3 miles up the river. 6 miles.
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28. Having dispatched the business here, at 11, A. M,, march forward, and at sunset encamp at Chemung town, near the banks of the river. This evening several smokes and fires are discovered at some distance before us, supposed to be the enemy. 6 miles.
CHEMUNG, SUNDAY, AUGUST 29. At 10 o'clock this morning the troops proceed on the march in the usual order. At about 12 o'clk. our vanguard come in sight of the 24 [186] enemy's lines, thrown up by our left from the river, half a mile in extent, on a very advantageous piece of ground; the infantry beginning a slow attack on their flanks and advance parties, while Gen. Poor's brigade is sent round their left flank, to gain the enemy's rear, which he nearly completed, falling in with their flank, or rather their main body, lying off in the woods in order to cut off our rear. A very warm action ensued between about 600 chosen savages, commanded by Brant and Capt. Butler, of the Queen's rangers, and Poor's brigade, commanded by himself in person. The brigade marched on with coolness, with charged bayonets, not a gun being fired till within a short distance, when the enemy were obliged to give back, leaving their dead on the ground, amounting to about twenty. We took three prisoners. At sunset, after a complete victory, encamp near the field of action, carrying off our dead and wounded. Among the latter was Major Titcomb, Capt. Cloyes, and Lt. McCawley, and about thirty others. The killed amounted to but four or five. During the whole of the action Col. Reed's and Col. Dearborn's regiments fared the hardest. 6 miles.
NEAR NEWTON, MONDAY, AUGUST 30. This day Lieut. McCawley dies of his wounds. The whole of the army lie by and are employed in destroying the corn and vegetables at this place, which are very plenty. The wounded are sent down the river this evening to Chemung, and the remains of the dead buried. This evening the whole of the army by their voluntary consent are reduced to half allowance; half a pound of beef and flour.
NEWTON, TUESDAY, AUGUST 31. This day the army proceed on the march in the usual manner. At 2, P. M., arrive at the forks of the river; the Allegana branch keeping its former course, and the Tiego branch twining near a north-west course. Here are the principal improvements in Newton, and some good buildings of the English construction, some very large flats of intervale, and great quantities of corn, which were destroyed yesterday. Here the troops take dinner and burn the town. At 4, P. M., proceed on the march. At sunset encamp on a beautiful plain. We keep about a north-west course, following the Tiego branch. 12 miles.
PLEASANT PLAIN, WEDNESDAY, SEP 1. This morning at 9, A. M., the troops proceed on the march, the traveling continuing good, about 4 miles; then, crossing a mountain; from thence into a swamp, about 8 miles through, very thick with bushes, and exceedingly bad traveling. Not finding an agreeable spot to encamp on, traveled till 12 o'clock at night, over the most disagreeable road I ever traveled. At 12 o'clock we arrived at an Indian Town called French Catherines, deriving its name from from a French lady debauched by an Indian chief; afterwards marrying him, and made queen of the place. It is a small town, consisting of thirty houses and large fields of corn—The inhabitants leaving the town at our approach, in the greatest confusion. We take two squaws at this place, who inform us that the Indians are in the greatest confusion, not knowing what to do; that the old Indians and squaws are for making peace on any terms, but that Butler and Brandt would not let them, telling them that they would all be scalped if they attempted any thing of that nature. Here is a small river that runs due north and empties itself into Seneca Lake, the head of which comes within 4 miles of Tiego branch, which empties itself into the Susquehanna. 14 miles.
FRENCH CATHARINES, THURSDAY, SEPT. 2. This morning a small scout is sent out to reconnoitre the woods. They discover Butler and his party about eight miles off, on the opposite Side of the Lake of Seneca. The troops lie by on the ground, and are employed in destroying the crops. We leave the squaws taken prisoners yesterday, they being old and unable to do us any harm—leaving with them a sufficiency of food till we should return
FRENCH CATHARINES, FRIDAY, SEPT. 3. This morning the troops march early. In marching about 3 miles we come to the Seneca Lake, which we follow on the east side. This lake is very pleasant, being from 3 to 5 miles in width. The land ascends gradually and appears to be of the best quality. At night the troops encamp in the woods near the lake, having traveled about 12 miles. Nothing remarkable during this day.
SATURDAY, SEP. 4 This day we proceed on the march down the lake, passing by small Indian town called Appletown. During the day's march we travel over a fine level [187] tract of land, and at night encamp near the lake. Nothing remarkable this day, having traveled about 12 miles.
SUNDAY, SEP. 5. This day we continue the march as usual, the country continuing very good. At 3,P. M., come to an Indian town called Conday. Here the troops encamp for the night. This is considerable of a village, consisting of about twenty houses, which were burnt, and appears to be an ancient settlement by the number and bigness of the fruit trees. Nothing remarkable during our stay here, except taking a soldier that had left the enemy. 4 miles.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 7. This morning the troops march early, following the lake 11 miles, where we come to the outlet, which empties itself into Cayuga Lake. We cross this outlet and march along on the beach on the lower end of the lake which is very pleasant, having a prospect of the whole length, which is 42 miles. Near the end of this lake is the famous town of Kanadagago, the metropolis of the Seneca Nations. It is an old Settlement, Consisting of about 90 houses, very irregularly built, the land being much run over, to bushes. Their corn fields are planted in bye places in the woods, at considerable distance from town, and very extensive. At this place we found in one of their houses an image which I think might be worshipped without any breach of the second commandment—not having its likeness in the heavens above or in the earth beneath, &c. Here we find a young boy the savages had left, and in the evening his mother comes in, having deserted the enemy this day. She was an inhabitant of Wyoming, taken about a year ago at the capitulation of the fort at that place—her husband being killed at the battle of Wyoming. Here is a large burying place, with several large monuments raised over some of their chiefs. The enemy left this place the morning of our arrival. This town lies near 3 miles from the lake. 14 miles.
KANADAGAGO, WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 8. This day the army lie by, and a detachment is sent up the lake 7 miles on the west side, to a large town cal led ____, where they find vast quantities of corn, beans, peas, and other vegetables, the town consisting of about 20 houses, which were destroyed together with the crops.
KANADAGAGO, THURSDAY, SEPT. 9. At 10 o'clock the army decamp and pursue the march for Genesee river. Steering our course about south-west through an open country, hundreds of acres together with scarcely a tree on it, and the grass as high as a man's head. We march 9 miles and encamp. Nothing remarkable this day.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 10. At 10 o'clock the troops march. We travel over a fine tract of land, supposed to be an old Indian town, the grass being higher than our heads and but few trees to be seen. At 4, P. M., come on a large pond or lake, having but one outlet, which empties into Lake Ontario. We cross the outlet, near which is a fine Indian town called Canandaigua. Their improvements are two miles from the town. The town consists of between thirty and forty buildings, some of them the best I have seen on the march, which were destroyed by fire, together with the crops. Nothing remarkable during the stay here. 8 miles.
CANANDAIGUA, SATURDAY, SEPT. 11. This morning the troops march early about a south-west point, over a country as heretofore, except being badly watered. At 4, P. M., encamp at an Indian town called Anagangoan. It is an old settlement, almost evacuated, having but about 20 houses left in the place, and the appearance but indifferent. 14 miles.
CANANDAIGUA, SUNDAY, SEPT. 12. The preceding night the weather proves rainy; and there is very severe thunder and lightning. At 1 P. M., the troops march, leaving a small garrison of 100 men and 2 pieces of small artillery, the chief of the ordnance stores, with the whole of our flour for the army, except four days' half rations, which we take on with us. We travel over a fine tract of land this afternoon. At sunset encamp near a small town called Yorkjough. 11 miles.
MONDAY, SEPT. 13. This morning the army march early and soon pass by Yorkjough, a small Indian town, consisting of about 30 buildings, evacuated this morning by the enemy. Considerable crops are growing at this place. The troops halt and refresh; likewise to repair a bridge the enemy had destroyed at their going off. Last evening Lt. [188] Boyd of the Pennsylvania line was ordered forward to make discoveries. This morning, in attempting to return to the main body, he is attacked by the savages and a severe engagement ensues. The savage party being much superior, surrounded Boyd and his party. Three only of 27 escaped. Boyd and the rest of the party were either killed or made prisoners—The latter of whom were afterwards barbarously murdered, two of whom I saw myself—Boyd, and one Parker, a sergeant in the rifle corps. Boyd's head was cut off, his ears cut off, his tongue plucked out, his right eye likewise put out, and himself stabbed in twenty places, and Parker used in the same manner. The next day 13 more were found mangled in the same manner—the most horrid sight I ever saw. At 12 o'clock the troops get under way and march over a fine tract of land, and at sunset arrive at New Genesee, a small town pleasantly situated on the north branch of the Genesee River. Here the enemy stay until our coming in sight gives us reason to expect a battle, but on our near approach they disperse without making any resistance. Here we encamp for the night. 8 miles.
TUESDAY, SEP'T. 14. This morning the troops cross the east branch, coming on to the flats called Genesee Flats,—the most beautiful flats I ever saw, being not less than 4 miles in width, and extending from right to left as far as can be seen; supposed to be 15,000 acres in one clear body. On the opposite side of this flat is the main branch of the Genesee. The two make a junction about 4 miles down the river, near which is the old town of Genesee, which is the best town I have seen. It consists of upwards of 100 houses The fields of corn are beyond account, there being not less than 700 acres in the place. The river that runs here empties into Lake Ontario, and good bottoming almost any time of year, and does not exceed 25 miles to the lake 6 miles.
GENESEE, SEPT. 15. This day the troops are employed in destroying the crops and buildings at this place. At 2, P. M., orders are issued for the march back to Tiego, and to our great joy at 3 get under way—returning by the same route we came - having fully accomplished the end of the expedition, and encamp at New Genesee.
NEW GENESEE, SEPT. 16. This morning the troops get under way, after destroying 100 acres of corn, not found on the march up. March about 5 miles and encamp at Yorkjough.
YORKJOUGH, SEP'T, 17. This day the troops make a rapid march. At 2, P. M., encamp at Annagaugaw.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 18. This day, at 11 A. M. the troops march, and at sunset encamp near New Canandaigua. Nothing remarkable this day.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 19. this morning at 9 the troops march. At sunset encamp on the old ground at Canandaigua.
MONDAY, SEPT. 20. This day a detachment is sent up to Fort Stanwix, under the command of Col. Van Chort. Another detachment is sent off this day to Tiego Lake, commanded by Col. Butler, to make excursions in to that part of the country. The troops march late in the day, cross the outlet of Seneca Lake, and encamp near its banks.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 21. This day Col. Dearborn takes the command of a detachment sent to Tiego Lake, to follow the west side, while Col. Butler and the party scour the east side. The troops proceed on their march as usual, travel about 12 miles, and encamp. Nothing remarkable this day.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 22. This day the troops march about 14 miles and encamp. Nothing remarkable this day.
THURSDAY, SEPT 23. This day the troops march early, nothing remarkable happening during the day. At 12 make a short halt at French Catherines, then move on about 4 miles, and encamp in the edge of the swamp.
FRIDAY, SEPT. 24. This day the troops make a rapid march through the swamp. At 4, P. M., arrive at Fort Reed.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 25. This day the troops lie by on the ground, and a feu de joie is fired on the news of the declaration of war by His Catholic Majesty the King of Spain Thirteen pieces of artillery are fired, with a running fire from right to left of the line. [189] Each brigade has a present of a fat ox. The day is closed with civil mirth. So ends the 24 hours.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 26. The troops continue on the ground this day. Nothing remarkable happens.
MONDAY, SEPT. 27. This morning a detachment of 500 men is sent up the Allegana Branch, and thirty boats, myself commanding the latter. The difficulty of getting the boats up so rapid and shoal a river prevented the party by land proceeding more than 5 miles. Where the boats landed we find some large fields of corn, with a few houses—The mountains closing nearly to the river on both sides. Here the boats are loaded with corn, beans, pumpkins, and other vegetables. At sunset I set out with my whole fleet, and at 9 arrive at Fort Reed, fatigued with my days march.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 28. The troops continue on the ground, and at 11 o'clock the detachment under Col. Butler, sent out the 20th. inst., arrives. Orders are issued for marching tomorrow morning.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT, 29. This morning at 12 o'clock the troops march from Fort Reed passing over the field of action, and at 12 arrive at Cheming, and make a short halt; from whence we march to old Chemung, about 3 miles below, and encamp, having marched about 11 miles. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
THURSDAY, SEPT. 30. This morning at 8 o'clock the troops march. At 12 arrive at Tiego, in sight of Fort Sullivan. After making a short halt, the troops march in, displaying all the honors of war and glories of victory. The fort saluted us with 13 pieces of cannon, and the compliment was returned by our corps of artillery. An elegant dinner is cooked by those left in the fort for our reception. All marks of joy appeared in the face of every soldier, having his brother messmate by the hand, appearing as happy as a prince. The day is closed with civil mirth.
TIEGO, FRIDAY, OCT. 1, and SATURDAY, Oct. 2. The troops lie by and nothing remarkable happens.
SUNDAY, OCT. 3. This day a fatigue party is employed in destroying Fort Sullivan and other fortifications at this place, and preparing the boats. A sermon is preached this day by the Rev. Dr. Evans, chaplain to the brigade, and suitable to the time.
MONDAY, OCT. 4. This day at 9 the troops leave Tiego, having demolished all the fortifications at that place, and cross the river, marching about 15 miles, and encamp. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
TUESDAY, OCT. 5. This morning the troops chiefly go on board the boats, myself going by land. I keep in front of the boats the whole of the day. At night encamp near Vandalap's desolated farms in front of the boats.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 6. This morning at day break I move on my journey, keeping in sight of the boats the chief of the day. I travel about 30 miles and encamp near Lackawannuk.
THURSDAY, OCT. 7. This day I pursue my journey. At 8 A. M., I arrive at Lackawannuk where the boats lie by for the rear to come up. Myself and company go on to Wyoming, where we arrive at 12 o'clock. The boats soon heave in sight and are saluted from the fort with 13 pieces of cannon, and the compliment returned by our fleet.
FRIDAY, OCT. 8. and Saturday, Oct. 9. The troops lie by at this place, cleaning their arms, washing their clothes, and preparing for marching tomorrow.
SUNDAY, ()CT. 10. This day at 12 o'clock the troops get under way for Easton. Late in the evening we arrive at Bullocks desolated farm, where we encamp for the night.
MONDAY, OCT. 11. This day the troops march early, and move but slow, by reason of the bad roads. At 4, P. M., incamp near Locust Hill, having marched about 11 miles.
TUESDAY, OCT. 12. This morning the troops proceed on the march through the swamp. The latter part of the day proves rainy, and make the traveling exceedingly bad. At night encamp at Chowder Camp.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 13. This morning the troops pursue their march. At 4, P. M., encamp at Brin coup's mills.
THURSDAY. OCT. 14. This morning the troops march at about 11, A. M., and encamp at 3, P. M., at Hiller's Tavern.
[190] FRIDAY, OCT. 15. This morning the troops march early from Hiller's Tavern at 1 P. M., arrive at Easton. From this day to the 23rd, the troops lie by at this place, where nothing remarkable happens.
SATURDAY, OCT. 23. This day the troops cross the ferry in Jersey, march about 4 miles, and encamp near Col. Bond's.
SUNDAY, OCT. 24. The troops lie by on the ground. Nothing remarkable.
MONDAY, Oct. 25. This day the troops lie by.
TUESDAY, OCT. 26. This day the troops lie by, and a brigade court martial is called, of which Maj. Titcomb is President, for the trial of Capt. Isaac Frye, of the third battalion of New Hampshire forces, of which I was a member. The charge brought against Capt. Frye was ungentlemanlike behaviour, and defrauding the officers of the regiment of public stores. The charge was not supported, and Capt. Frye is acquitted.
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 27. This day the troops march towards Sussex. We proceed about 8 miles and encamp. Nothing remarkable happens during this day.
THURSDAY, OCT. 28. This day the troops pursue the march, mostly through Moravian-town, where we make a short halt and refresh; from whence we proceed to a place called Log Goal, and here encamp for the night.
FRIDAY, OCT. 29. This day the troops pursue the march for Sussex, where we arrive at 2, P. M., and encamp for the night.
SATURDAY, OCT. 30. This morning the troops leave Sussex about 9 o'clock and march on towards Warwick, about 14 miles, and encamp at Flagsborough. Nothing remarkable this day.
SUNDAY, OCT. 31. This day the troops proceed on the march, and at night encamp near Warwick church. Nothing remarkable this day.
MONDAY, NOV. 1. This day for want of wagons the march is deferred till 12, o'clock, when we proceed on the march. Being ordered to alter the route for Pumpton, we proceed over the mountains towards that place—the traveling very bad. At night encamp at Stirling, a place noted for making the best pig iron on the continent. Here is a fine furnace for casting cannon balls, &c.
TUESDAY, NOV. 2. This day we get through the mountains, and at 3, P. M., arrive at ____, where we encamp for the night. Nothing remarkable happens this day.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 3. This day the troops lie by on the ground. Nothing remarkable this day.
THURSDAY, NOV. 4. This day the troops lie by. Myself, in company with Maj. Whiting, Capts. Reed, Ellis and Dennet, ride out to Smith's Tavern, and stay over night. Nothing remarkable during the twenty-four hours.
FRIDAY, NOV. 5. This day in the afternoon we return to camp. Receive orders for marching tomorrow morning at 9 o'clock. Nothing remarkable this day.
SATURDAY, NOV. 6. This day Gen. Hand's brigade and the artillery march off the ground. The other two—Poor's and Clinton's—stay for want of wagons. Gen. Sullivan likewise sets out for Pumpton this afternoon.
SUNDAY NOV. 7. This day Gen. Clinton's brigade march for Pumpton. Gen Poor's lie by for want of wagons
MONDAY, NOV. 8. This day Gen Poor's brigade march for Pumpton, where we arrive at 4, P. M., and encamp near the fort.
TUESDAY, NOV. 9. This day the troops lie by. His Excellency pays us a visit from head quarters—this day being the first since our arrival from the Indian country. The weather is exceedingly uncomfortable and cold about this time.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 10, and Thursday, Nov, 11. The troops lie by. Nothing worthy of notice.
FRIDAY, NOV. 12. This day the troops shift their quarters. March about two miles south-east in a thick wood, on the east side of the river.
SATURDAY, NOV. 13. This day we lie by. Nothing remarkable.
SUNDAY, NOV. 14. This day the officers of Gen'ls Clinton's and Poor's brigades meet at Gen. Poor's quarters on business of a public nature.
[191] MONDAY, NOV. 15. From this time to the 24th. the troops lie by, and nothing remarkable happens.WEDNESDAY, NOV. 24. This morning the troops march from Pumpton on the way to Kings ferry. At night encamp at ____, near Smith's tavern traveling about 16 miles.
THURSDAY, NOV. 25 This morning the troops march early. At 2, P. M., arrive at King's ferry, and immediately proceed to conveying the men and baggage of the regiment over the ferry, which is accomplished about sunset. The troops march about 2 miles, and encamp in the woods.
FRIDAY, NOV. 26. The preceding night proves stormy, and the first snow that has fallen this winter prevents the troops from marching this day.
SATURDAY, NOV. 27. This day at 4, P. M., the troops get under way, and march about six miles towards Danbury and encamp in the woods. The snow is about eight inches in depth.
SUNDAY, NOV. 28. This day we proceed on the march, the traveling being very bad. At night encamp near Salem, traveling about 12 miles.
MONDAY, NOV. 29. This morning we proceed on the march. At 4, P. M., take quarters in houses three miles from Danbury, by reason of Gen. Stark's brigade lying in the town of Danbury.
TUESDAY, NOV. 30. The troops lie by at Muddy Brook, by reason of the weather.
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 1. This day the troops lie by and nothing remarkable happens.
THURSDAY, DEC. 2. This day the troops proceed on the march, and go on to the ground laid out for hutting, which is in the vicinity of Danbury towards Newton.
FRIDAY, DEC. 3; Saturday, 4, and Sunday, 5. These three days the troops are busy in clearing and fixing for laying the foundations of the huts.
MONDAY, DEC. 6. This day the huts go on rapidly, and in the evening the officers of the brigade attend at the Hon. Gen. Poor's quarters, to wait on the committee from New Hampshire and choose a committee to send to New-Hampshire, to settle the depreciation of the continental currency.
TUESDAY, DEC. 7. This day I lay the foundation of my hut, twenty-two feet in length and twelve in width.
The journal ends here and is re-opened April 6, 1780.
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Journal of Captain Thomas Machin, pp 192-197
Col. Goose Van Schaick, biographical sketch, p 196
Marinus Willet, biographical sketch, p 196
Major Gen. Sullivan's Official Report, pp 298-305
List of Journals and Narratives not Published, pp 310-312
General Sherman's Speeches, pp 439-442.Return to Site Table of Contents.
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