Brookhaven Town (Suffolk County, Long Island, 350 Years Part IX: Revolutionary Brookhaven 1775-1783 comp. & ed. by Mark H. Rothenberg © 2003-2004.

Brookhaven Town (Suffolk County, Long Island, N.Y.) @ 350 Years Part IX: Revolutionary Brookhaven 1775-1783 comp. & ed. by Mark H. Rothenberg © 2003-2004 Mark H. Rothenberg The Patchogue-Medford Library Salutes the Town on its Anniversary

1775 “… And Wishing Them in Hell” – Thomas Helme, Brookhaven Committee of Safety Military Front – Organizing & Counter-Organizing Raising Local Patriot Forces in Rebellion, in Depth: Rebellion’s Reinforcements & Enforcers—Keeping Loyalists at Bay; Varieties of Brookhaven military units, contributions to an American army Mostly Clandestine Loyalist Resistance & Rallying to the Crown: Supporting, informing, victualling, supplying the British fleet; Transporting Loyalists to safety beyond American clutches; and drumming up local support for the king Political Front – Keeping Patriotism Imposing & Dominant William Floyd is appointed to the U.S. Committee on Militia Preparedness; Brookhaven Committee of Observation; The Brookhaven Resolves

A Report from the Manor of St. George Growing Tory Activity in Southern Brookhaven May 25, 1775 “Wm. Smith writes to Congress from the Manor of St. George, that there is a communication from Winthrop’s Patent, and the [British] Ships of War at the [Sandy] Hook; that one Gyer, a skipper, had carried off a no. of disaffected persons, mostly from Conn., who had been skulking in the woods, particularly one Fountain, a gunsmith. It is suspected the British also get the water, clams, and oysters. 15 minute men have been stationed there since last Monday, but as they are farmers, they cannot leave home without ruining their families; the matter is referred to Congress.” “Wm. Smith writes to Congress from the Manor of St. George, that there is a communication from Winthrop’s Patent, and the [British] Ships of War at the [Sandy] Hook; that one Gyer, a skipper, had carried off a no. of disaffected persons, mostly from Conn., who had been skulking in the woods, particularly one Fountain, a gunsmith. It is suspected the British also get the water, clams, and oysters. 15 minute men have been stationed there since last Monday, but as they are farmers, they cannot leave home without ruining their families; the matter is referred to Congress.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 27. Note:Winthrop’s Patent is the Bayport-Patchogue area, & just north of it. Note: Winthrop’s Patent is the Bayport-Patchogue area, & just north of it.

Organizing the Provincial Armed Forces, Pt. 1 June 20, 1775 INSTRUCTIONS for the inlisting of MEN. “FIRST. You are not to inlist any man who is not able-bodied, healthy, and a good marcher; but as men of a good appearance may have ruptures, and venerial complaints, which render them incapable of a Soldier’s duty ; you must give attention, that you not be imposed upon, and take the Opinion of a Surgeon, where there is room for suspicion. [Early version of “Don’t ask, Don’t Tell”?] “FIRST. You are not to inlist any man who is not able-bodied, healthy, and a good marcher; but as men of a good appearance may have ruptures, and venerial complaints, which render them incapable of a Soldier’s duty ; you must give attention, that you not be imposed upon, and take the Opinion of a Surgeon, where there is room for suspicion. [Early version of “Don’t ask, Don’t Tell”?] II. You will have great regard to moral character, sobriety in particular, - let our manners distinguish us from our enemies, as much as the cause we are engaged in. II. You will have great regard to moral character, sobriety in particular, - let our manners distinguish us from our enemies, as much as the cause we are engaged in. III. Those who ingage in defence of their Country’s Liberty, shall be inlisted till the last day of December, of the present year, unless sooner discharged by the Continental Congress. III. Those who ingage in defence of their Country’s Liberty, shall be inlisted till the last day of December, of the present year, unless sooner discharged by the Continental Congress. IV. You shall appoint such men Sergeants and Corporals, as recommend themselves by their ability, activity and diligence. IV. You shall appoint such men Sergeants and Corporals, as recommend themselves by their ability, activity and diligence. V. You will use all diligence in completing your company, and report to the President of the Provincial Congress, to the end that you may receive orders to join your regiment. V. You will use all diligence in completing your company, and report to the President of the Provincial Congress, to the end that you may receive orders to join your regiment.

Organizing the Provincial Armed Forces, Pt. 2 June 20, 1775 VI. During the time you are filling up your company, you will engage at the cheapest rate, for the provisions of such men as are already inlisted, if there be no public magazine of provisions, from whence you may be supplied, [not Exceeding Eight Shill’g per week]. VI. During the time you are filling up your company, you will engage at the cheapest rate, for the provisions of such men as are already inlisted, if there be no public magazine of provisions, from whence you may be supplied, [not Exceeding Eight Shill’g per week]. VII. You will lose no time in disciplining your men, so far as your situation will admit. VII. You will lose no time in disciplining your men, so far as your situation will admit. VIII. You will take notice, that proper persons will be appointed to inspect your men, and reject such as do not answer to your instructions. VIII. You will take notice, that proper persons will be appointed to inspect your men, and reject such as do not answer to your instructions. IX. You will furnish the Subalterns appointed to your company, with a copy of those instructions, who are hereby ordered to put themselves under your command. IX. You will furnish the Subalterns appointed to your company, with a copy of those instructions, who are hereby ordered to put themselves under your command. X. You will observe that the troops raised by this Colony, will be placed precisely upon the same footing as to pay, clothing, &c. with the other Continental Troops now raised, or hereafter to be raised for the general defence. X. You will observe that the troops raised by this Colony, will be placed precisely upon the same footing as to pay, clothing, &c. with the other Continental Troops now raised, or hereafter to be raised for the general defence. [XI. No Apprentice or Servant without their Master’s Consent to be inlisted.] [XI. No Apprentice or Servant without their Master’s Consent to be inlisted.]

Organizing the Provincial Armed Forces, Pt. 3 June 20, 1775 IN PROVINCIAL CONGRESS at New-York, June 20 th, 1775 IN PROVINCIAL CONGRESS at New-York, June 20 th, 1775 ToGentleman, GREETING ToGentleman, GREETING KNOW Ye That the grand Continental Congress of the associated Colonies, have Resolved and Ordered, that a Certain Number of Troops should be embodied in this Colony, to give Protection to the Inhabitants, and to be employed as Part of the American, Continental Army. WE THEREFORE, reposing special Confidence in your Prudence, Courage, and Affection to the Liberties of this Country, DO request and authorize you, to inlist and raise a Company of seventy-two able-bodied sober Men, of good Reputations (including three Sergeants, three Corporals, one Drummer, and one Fifer) to serve as Part of the said Troops ; and that from Time to Time, you report your Progress in the Premises, to this Congress. And we hereby give you Assurance, that you will be appointed a in the field Troops, when raised and embodied, if the number of men inlisted by you (and intended to be the other Officers of one Company,) and received into the said Troops, by such proper Officer or Muster-Master, as shall be appointed for that Purpose, shall amount to the Number above-mentioned. KNOW Ye That the grand Continental Congress of the associated Colonies, have Resolved and Ordered, that a Certain Number of Troops should be embodied in this Colony, to give Protection to the Inhabitants, and to be employed as Part of the American, Continental Army. WE THEREFORE, reposing special Confidence in your Prudence, Courage, and Affection to the Liberties of this Country, DO request and authorize you, to inlist and raise a Company of seventy-two able-bodied sober Men, of good Reputations (including three Sergeants, three Corporals, one Drummer, and one Fifer) to serve as Part of the said Troops ; and that from Time to Time, you report your Progress in the Premises, to this Congress. And we hereby give you Assurance, that you will be appointed a in the field Troops, when raised and embodied, if the number of men inlisted by you (and intended to be the other Officers of one Company,) and received into the said Troops, by such proper Officer or Muster-Master, as shall be appointed for that Purpose, shall amount to the Number above-mentioned. R. Livingston, President” R. Livingston, President” Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. ed. by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons, and Co., 1887: pp. 11-12.

Original Source Document, Courtesy Library of Congress American Memory Project Website [a colorized version]

Known by the Company He Kept A Committee on American Militia Preparedness Continental Congress – June 24, 1775 “The Congress met according to adjournment. Upon motion, Ordereded, that the first and second resolved passed 26 May be published. Upon motion, Resolved, That a Committee of seven be appointed to devise ways and means to put the Militia of America in a proper state for the defense of America. Mr. [William] Floyd, The members chosen Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, Mr. [Benjamin] Harrison, Mr. [Roger] Sherman, Mr. [Stephen] Hopkins, Mr. [William] Floyd, Mr. [Christopher] Gadsen, and Mr. [John] Dickinson.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. “Saturday June 24, 1775,” Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789 Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. “Saturday June 24, 1775,” Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789

A Quick-Step Closer to Rebellion, Pt. 1 The Brookhaven Resolves, June 27, 1775 June 8, 1775 – Town elects a 16-member Committee of Observation June 8, 1775 – Town elects a 16-member Committee of Observation June 27, 1775 – Committee of Observation meets at Coram, appoints John Woodhull chairman, Samuel Thompson, Clerk, and passes the following resolutions: June 27, 1775 – Committee of Observation meets at Coram, appoints John Woodhull chairman, Samuel Thompson, Clerk, and passes the following resolutions: “That we express our loyalty to His Majesty King George III, and acknowledge him as our rightful lord and Sovereign. “That we express our loyalty to His Majesty King George III, and acknowledge him as our rightful lord and Sovereign. That it is the opinion of this committee that the several acts passed in the British Parliament for the purpose of raising a revenue in America, also the acts for stopping the port of Boston, for altering their charter and government, for establishing the Roman Catholic religion, and abolishing the equitable system of English laws and erecting in their stead French despotic government in Canada, as also the act for restraining the New England fishery, and further, declaring they have the power to make laws binding on us in all cases whatever, are contrary to the constitution and subversive of our legal rights as English freemen and British subjects. That we will use our utmost endeavor strictly to adhere to the resolutions of the honorable Continental That it is the opinion of this committee that the several acts passed in the British Parliament for the purpose of raising a revenue in America, also the acts for stopping the port of Boston, for altering their charter and government, for establishing the Roman Catholic religion, and abolishing the equitable system of English laws and erecting in their stead French despotic government in Canada, as also the act for restraining the New England fishery, and further, declaring they have the power to make laws binding on us in all cases whatever, are contrary to the constitution and subversive of our legal rights as English freemen and British subjects. That we will use our utmost endeavor strictly to adhere to the resolutions of the honorable Continental

A Quick-Step Closer to Rebellion, Pt. 2 The Brookhaven Resolves, June 27, 1775 Congress, and to comply with the injunctions of our Provincial Convention, which (under God) we hope is the most effectual means to obtain redress of our present grievances and save us from impending ruin. Congress, and to comply with the injunctions of our Provincial Convention, which (under God) we hope is the most effectual means to obtain redress of our present grievances and save us from impending ruin. We do unanimously make this our apology to the respectable public and to our several Congresses that we have come so late into the Congressional measures, and hope a veil may be cast over our past conduct; for our remissness was not for our want of patriotic spirit, but because opposition ran so high in some parts of this town, which arose, we verily believe, from want of better information. We do unanimously make this our apology to the respectable public and to our several Congresses that we have come so late into the Congressional measures, and hope a veil may be cast over our past conduct; for our remissness was not for our want of patriotic spirit, but because opposition ran so high in some parts of this town, which arose, we verily believe, from want of better information. It is unanimously resolved that we will keep a strict watch that no provisions be transported from within the bounds of our constituents so as to fall into the hands of our enemies.” It is unanimously resolved that we will keep a strict watch that no provisions be transported from within the bounds of our constituents so as to fall into the hands of our enemies.” Source: Source:

N-Y Provincial Congress Appointments Masters of Mustery -- Saturday, July 8, 1775 “Ordered and agreed, that Col. Phineas Fanning, David Mulford Esquire of East Hampton and Capt. Timothy Earle be and are appointed by this Congress Muster Masters of the Troops, that shall be raised in Suffolk County in defence of American Liberty.” Source: Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. ed. by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons, and Co., 1887: p. 18..

Brookhaven Committee of Safety Reports to Congress A Revolutionary Side of the Revolution August 3 rd, 1775 Brookhaven Committee of Safety Reports to Congress A Revolutionary Side of the Revolution “And wishing them in hell”…August 3 rd, 1775 “August 11 th, 1775 – Congress are informed by letter dated the 3d, from Thomas Helme of Brookhaven, chairman of the committee of safety of that town, that Parson James Lyon, Benjamin Floyd, Doctor Gilbert Smith, Joseph Denton, Richard Floyd, and John Bayliss, Inn-keeper, had, from the beginning, taken every method in their power to seduce the ignorant, and counteract every measure recommended for the redress of grievances; damning all congresses and committees, and wishing them in hell. They had also been suspected of furnishing the vessels of the enemy with provisions.” Source: Thompson, Benjamin F. History of Long Island. New York: Robert H. Dodd, 1839, repr., 1918: p. 292-293.

More Appointments, September 5, 1775 “Eben’r Miller was chosen Capt.; Caleb Woodhull, 1 st Lt.; Jas. Dais, 2d Lt.; and David davis, Ensign, of 2d Company in Brookhaven, in presence of Tho’s Helme, John Woodhull and Noah Hallock, Committeemen.” “Eben’r Miller was chosen Capt.; Caleb Woodhull, 1 st Lt.; Jas. Dais, 2d Lt.; and David davis, Ensign, of 2d Company in Brookhaven, in presence of Tho’s Helme, John Woodhull and Noah Hallock, Committeemen.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 21-22.

N-Y Provincial Legislation Setting the Pay Standard for the Troops Arma Virumque Cano – Saturday, August 5, 1775 “Resolved, that the Troops enlisted by this Colony shall be allowed fifty three shillings and four pence per month in such manner as the Troops of Connecticut and Massachusetts Bay receive their pay. That they be allowed one Blanket and one Regimental Coat. That they be allowed ten shillings for the use of their arms and that those, who have no arms, shall have arms purchased for them by the Colony and that such arms shall be returned at the end of the Campaign in good order, and if not returned, shall be paid for by such soldiers as shall be in default on that account.” Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. ed. by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons, and Co., 1887: p. 24.

N-Y Province Orders Suffolk Co. Troops Northward Saturday, August 15, 1775 N-Y Province Orders Suffolk Co. Troops Northward Off to Saratoga -- 2 Years Before the Battle Saturday, August 15, 1775 “Ordered, that the several Companies of the Troops of this Colony raised in Suffolk County proceed to Saratoga with all possible dispatch to join the Continental Army under command of Major General Schuyler.” Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. ed. by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons, and Co., 1887: p. 28.

First or West Regiment, Suffolk County Militia Officers of the Brookhaven Infantry Companies October 24, 1775 “1 st Brookhaven Co. “1 st Brookhaven Co. Captain: Samuel Thompson; 1 st Lieutenant: Abraham Woodhull [Future first leader of the Setauket Spy Ring]; 2 nd Lieutenant: Isaac Davis; Ensign: Daniel Satterly; Commissioned September 13, 1775. Captain: Samuel Thompson; 1 st Lieutenant: Abraham Woodhull [Future first leader of the Setauket Spy Ring]; 2 nd Lieutenant: Isaac Davis; Ensign: Daniel Satterly; Commissioned September 13, 1775. 2 d Brookhaven Co. 2 d Brookhaven Co. Captain: Ebenezer Miller; 1 st Lieutenant: Caleb Woodhull; 2 nd Lieutenant: James Davis; Ensign: Davis Davis; Commissioned September 13, 1775. Captain: Ebenezer Miller; 1 st Lieutenant: Caleb Woodhull; 2 nd Lieutenant: James Davis; Ensign: Davis Davis; Commissioned September 13, 1775. 3 d Brookhaven Co. 3 d Brookhaven Co. Captain: William Brewster; 1 st Lieutenant: Isaac Davis; 2 nd Lieutenant: Uriah Smith; Ensign: Benjamin Woodhull; Commissioned September 13, 177[5].” Captain: William Brewster; 1 st Lieutenant: Isaac Davis; 2 nd Lieutenant: Uriah Smith; Ensign: Benjamin Woodhull; Commissioned September 13, 177[5].” Source: Source:

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Part 1 Basic Governmental Military Responsibilities I” “As Reported by Anthony Hoffman, Chairman of the Committee on the Arrangement of the Militia and Adopted by the Provincial Congress, August 22d 1775 I” In Provincial Congress, New York, Aug. 22d 1775 “Whereas the well ordering and regulating the Militia of this Colony is become an object of the greatest importance to the preservation of the lives and Liberties of its Inhabitants. And Whereas, The Continental Congress held at Philadelphia on the 10 th day of May last taking into consideration the necessity of such a regulation have recommended the same to the Inhabitants of the Associated Colonies and Whereas this Congress on the ninth day of this instant August by several resolutions recommended to their constituents the expediency of forming themselves into Companies and chusing their Officers in the manner following, vizt. Town, Resolved, that every County, City, Manor, Town, Precinct and District within this Colony, (where the same is not already done) be divided into districts or beats by their respective Committees in such manner, that out of each may be formed one military Company, ordinarily to consist of about eighty-three able bodied and effective men, Officers included, between 16 and 60 years of age. (The Battalion commanded by Col. Lasher, the Companies of Artillery, Light horse and Hussars in the City and County of New York and the Troops of Horse, Companies of Grenadiers and associated Companies already formed within this Colony excepted.)

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 2-4 Unit Organization, Elections & Appointments secondly,in each Company one Captain, two Lieutenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Clerk, one Drummer & one Fifer. Resolved secondly, That in each Company so to be formed there be chosen (in the manner hereafter mentioned) one Captain, two Lieutenants, one Ensign, four Sergeants, four Corporals, one Clerk, one Drummer & one Fifer. thirdly,two Committeemenattend in each district or beaton a day to be appointed for the purpose of chusing the above mentioned Officers, signed the General Association Resolved thirdly, That two Committeemen at the least attend in each district or beat on a day to be appointed for the purpose of chusing the above mentioned Officers, who shall be persons within such a district or beat, have signed the General Association recommended by this Congress. Election names of the Captains, Lieutenants and Ensignsto be returned to Provincial Congressor Committee of Safety That such choice or Election be made in the manner following, vizt – After the Company is drawn up the Committee men, who preside at the Election, may repair to a station at some convenient distance from the Company, -- then let the men pass in a single file between them, each man giving the name of the person he chooses to fill the office in question, the majority of such votes to determine the Election. But in case the votes shall be so divided that no one has the majority, then the presiding Committeemen are to acquaint the Company therewith and call them to a new Election – the same to be repeated. Till such majority be obtained or the Company agree upon some other mode of choosing the Officers. The names of the Captains, Lieutenants and Ensigns so chosen to be returned with all convenient speed to this or some future Provincial Congress of this Colony or during their recess to the Committee of Safety, to be commissioned by them. fourthly vacancy Resolved fourthly, That whenever a vacancy shall happen in any Company by the promotion, death or resignation of an Officer, such vacancy to be filled up in the before mentioned manner.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 5-7 Captains & Their Election, Minute Men, &Nonconformity fifthly,Companies inBattalion, commanded by Col. Lasher, commanded by Captains Resolved fifthly, That those Companies in the above excepted Battalion, commanded by Col. Lasher, which are now under the direction of Field Officers shall for the future be commanded by Captains, who are to be chosen in the manner aforesaid. sixthly, Minute Men, Resolved sixthly, That for the purpose of completely carrying into execution the recommendation of the Continental Congress; after the whole Militia is formed as above every fourth man of each company be selected for Minute Men, of such persons, as are willing to enter into this necessary service. That the Officers of the Militia make with all convenient speed a return of the names of those persons to the Committee of their respective Counties, who shall thereupon arrange those men into companies and who are to recommend to such new arranged Companies the choice of their Officers in the manner above mentioned, provided that where whole Companies offer their services as Minute Men, they shall be commanded by the Officers already chosen and the remaining number of Minute Men shall be completed out of the other Companies as above. seventhly,return to the Secretary of the Provincial Congress of this Colonynames of such persons, as do refuse to conform Resolved seventhly, That the several Committees do return to the Secretary of the Provincial Congress of this Colony the names of such persons, as do refuse to conform to the above resolves.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.1-7.4 Regimental & Brigade Organizations 1 st.Regiments not less than five or more than ten Companies 1 st. That the several Companies so formed be joined unto Regiments, each Regiment to consist of not less than five or more than ten Companies, (the Battalion commanded by Col. Lasher excepted). 2d.Major General to command the Militia 2d. That a Major General be appointed and commissioned by this Congress to command the Militia of the Colony of New York. [3]d.Colonel,Lieutenant Colonel,two Majors Adjutant & Quarter Masterfor each Regiment. [3]d. That one Colonel, one Lieutenant Colonel, and two Majors, and Adjutant & Quarter Master be commissioned by this Congress for each Regiment. 4 th.Brigades 4 th. That the Militia of this Colony be formed into Brigades in the following manner, to wit: The Militia of the City and County of new York and Counties of Kings and Richmond [i.e., Staten Island] } One Brigade The Militia of the City and County of Albany and County of Tryon } One other Brigade The Militia of the Counties of Dutchess, and Westchester } One other Brigade The Militia of the Counties of Ulster and Orange} One other Brigade Suffolk The Militia of the Counties of Queens and Suffolk } One other Brigade The Militia of the Counties of Charlotte, Cumberland and Gloucester } One other Brigade

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.5-7.7 Infantry Arms, Equipment, Kit, & Drilling 5th.Brigadier GeneralMajor of Brigade 5th. That a Brigadier General with a Major of Brigade be commissioned to the command of each Brigade. 6 th.every man between the ages of 16 and 50 6 th. That every man between the ages of 16 and 50 do with all convenient speed furnish himself with a good Musket or firelock & Bayonet Sword or Tomahawk, a Steel Ramrod, Worm, Priming Wire and Brush fitted thereto, a Cartouch[e] [i.e., ammunition] Box to contain 23 rounds of cartridges, 12 flints and a knapsack agreeable to the directions of the Continental Congress under forfeiture of five shillings for the want of a musket or firelock, and of one shilling for the want of a bayonet, sword or tomahawk, cartridgebox, cartridge or bullet, the whole to be judged by the Captain or next commanding officer. That every man shall at his place of abode be also provided with one pound of powder and three pounds of bullets of proper size to his musket or firelock. 7 th.Companymeet the first Monday in every month 7 th. That each Company (not Minute Men) do meet the first Monday in every month and spend at least four hours in each of the said days to perfect themselves in military discipline. Provided that if the commissioned Officers of any Company shall judge it inexpedient to meet on that day, they have power to put off the meeting to some other day, notifying the Company thereof.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.8-7.9 Cavalry Arms, Equipment, & Kit 8th.Colonels and commanding Officers exercise their respective Regimentstwo days in every year 8th. That the Colonels and commanding Officers of each Regiment do assemble and exercise their respective Regiments at least two days in every year at some convenient place to be fixed Upon by the Field Officers. 9 th.Companies of Horse Colonel of the Regiment assemble as often 9 th. That the several Companies of Horse already formed or to be formed in this Colony shall be under the direction of the Colonel of the Regiment, where their respective Captains do reside and be considered part of the Regiment, – that the Officers and Privates shall assemble as often, as by these regulations is required of the Companies of Foot (not Minute Men) and be subject to the same penalties and forfeitures for non-attendance, – That every man belonging to the Horse shall, with all convenient speed, provide himself with a good serviceable horse, not less than 14 hands high with a good saddle, bridle, holsters, housings, breast plat and crupper, a case of pistols, a sword or hanger, one pound of gunpowder and 3 lbs. Of sizeable bullets, a pair of boots with suitable spurs and a carabine, well fixed with a good belt, swivel & buckle under the penalty of 10s[hillings]. For the want of a sizeable horse & 5s. For the want of each or either of the articles of the Troopers furniture [i.e., furnishings]. And also that every Trooper be provided at their respective places of abode with 1 lb. of power [i.e., powder] and 3 lbs. of bullets.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.10-7.11 Of Officers & Oaths 10th.in any case any person shall refuse or neglect to serve as Sergeant, Corporal or Drummerin any Company or commanding Officer or shall refuse when required 10th. That in any case any person shall refuse or neglect to serve as Sergeant, Corporal or Drummer in any Company being thereto requested by the Captain or commanding Officer or shall refuse or neglect to warn the men to appear under arms, when required by the Captain or commanding Officer, shall for every such neglect forfeit the sum of 40 shill. 11 th.all Officers commissioned by this Congress Do subscribe the following declaration: 11 th. That all Officers commissioned by this Congress Do subscribe the following declaration: We, the subscribers, the Officers of the ______ Battalion or Regiment in the County of _________ and Colony of New York do hereby promise and engage under all the ties of religion, honour and regard to our country, that we will respectively duly observe and carry into execution to the utmost of our power, all and every the orders, rules and recommendations made or to be made by the Continental Congress and the Congress or Convention of this Colony. That we’ll also give in our respective ranks due obedience to the regulations by them established for the forming of the Militia of this Colony, as also due obedience to such Officers, who either by rank or superiority are placed above us in such order, as is directed by the said Continental or Provincial Congress.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Part 7.12 Penalties & Fines, by Gradation 12th. 12th. That the following penalties be inflicted on those, who do not attend and obey orders on the days appointed for exercise, not having a reasonable excuse to be allowed of by the Officer comanding, to wit: A Colonel, £ 5, a Lieutenant Colonel £ 4, a Major £ 3, Captains, Lieutenants, and Adjutants 30s. Each, Ensigns and Quartermaster 20s. Each, Sergeants, Corporals, Drummers, Fifers and Privates 10s. Each for the first default and double for the second. – And in case any person make default three times successively or refuse to enlist and do duty, such person shall be advertised and held up as an enemy to his country. – All fines under the degree of a Captain to be levied on the goods and chattels of the offender by warrant from the Captain directed to a Sergeant of the Company and those of a Captain and all Field Officers under the degree of a Colonel to be levied on the goods and chattels of the offender by a warrant from the Colonel of the Regiment directed to the Adjutant, and those of a Colonel by warrant of a Brigadier General directed to the Major of the Brigade, and for want of the goods and chattels to take the body of the offender and keep him in safe custody, until such fine together with the charges be paid. The monies arising by the fines in any Company be applied by the Captain, (after paying for Drum and Fife for the Company) towards purchasing Arms, Ammunition and Accoutrements for such persons in such Company, as are unable to

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.12-7.13 Exemptions & Impressments Furnish themselves. – The monies arising by the fines of the Field Officers (after paying for a set of colours for each Battalion) be equally divided between the several Companies for the above mentioned use. 13 th. [Exemptions from military duty:] 13 th. [Exemptions from military duty:] That the members of his Majesty’s Council, Justices of the Supreme Court, of the Vice Admiralty Court, of the Mayors Courts and Inferior Courts of Common Pleas, – his majesty’s Attorney General, – Secretary of the Province or his Deputy – Clerks of the Courts – Collector, Comptroller, Naval Officer and Searcher and Surveyor of his Majesty’s Customs, – Ministers of the Gospel, Physicians and Surgeons – Members of the Continental Congress and of the Provincial Congress and the several Committees, while immediately engaged in the public service – Sheriffs, Gaolers and Ferrymen – one Miller to each mill – and the people, called Quakers, be excused from military duty, except in cases of invasion and that in case of an invasion in any part of this Colony, the Physicians and Surgeons there or such of them as shall be directed by the Officers commanding the Militia (that shall march to oppose the Enemy) shall attend with proper medicines, instruments and other necessaries to take care of the sick and wounded.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.14-7.16 Organization & Duties of the Minute Men 14 th.each Company of Minute Men four subdivisions formed into Regimentsof about seven Companies each. one Colonel, one Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, an Adjutant and Quarter Master. 14 th. That the commissioned Officers of each Company of Minute Men form their Companies into four subdivisions in such manner, as they shall think most convenient for their frequent meetings. The subdivision under their respective Officers to meet once in every week and to employ half a day or at least four hours each time in perfecting themselves in military discipline, the whole Companies to meet once every fortnight, to spend the same time for the same purpose. That the several Companies of Minute Men be formed into Regiments, to consist of about seven Companies each. That there be commissioned by the Congress to each Regiment, one Colonel, one Lieutenant Colonel, two Majors, an Adjutant and Quarter Master. 15 th.Regiments be formed into Brigades to each Brigade one Brigadier General and a Major of Brigade. 15 th. That That those Regiments be formed into Brigades, each Brigade to consist of about [number unspecified] Regiments. That there be commissioned by this Congress to each Brigade one Brigadier General and a Major of Brigade. 16 th.whole body of Minute Menunder Major General appointed by this Congress 16 th. That the whole body of Minute Men shall be under the direction of the Major General appointed by this Congress, while within the Colony, unless a Continental of superior or equal rank be present.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.17-7.19 What to Do in Case of Invasion or Tory Revolt Articles of War 17 th. That the Minute Men, when called out in defence of their country shall be subject to the Articles of War established by the Continental Congress and be entitled to the same allowance as to pay and provisions with the Continental Forces – To be under the direction of the Commander in Chief of those Forces. 18 th. That they be subject to the like penalties and forfeitures for not attending on the days appointed for exercise as above mentioned. The said fines to be levied and applied as above directed. in case of any alarm, invasion or insurrection every non-commissioned Officer and Private, who shall neglect or refuse Court-Martial 19 th. That in case of any alarm, invasion or insurrection every subaltern and soldier is immediately to repair properly armed and accoutred to his colours or Parade (which Parade shall be understood to be the habitation of his Captain unless otherwise ordered) and the Captain or commanding Officer nearest to the place, where such invasion or insurrection shall be, shall immediately march his Company to oppose the Enemy, at the same time send off an express to the commanding Officer of the Regiment or Brigade, to which he belongs, who is to march with the whole or part of the Militia under his command, as he shall judge necessary, and shall use all possible diligence to prevent the Enemy from landing or penetrating into any part of the country and to quell every insurrection. That every non-commissioned Officer and Private, who shall neglect or refuse to perform his duty in this case, shall be subject to such pains, penalties and forfeitures, as shall be adjudged by a general Court-Martial.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.20-7.22 Of Muster Rolls, Slave Revolts, Impressment, & Desertion 20 th.Captains to the Colonel Roll Colonels to theBrigadier General to the Major General 20 th. That at least twice in every year the Captains or in their absence the next commanding Officer of every Company of Militia, as well as of the Minute Men as others, shall deliver to the Colonel of the Regiment a true and compleat Roll containing the names of all the men belonging to his Company, under the penalty of £ 2 to be recovered and applied as herein before directed And the Colonels of the Regiment shall within one month after the receipt of every such roll deliver or send a copy of every such roll to the Brigadier General of the Brigade, to which he belongs, who is directed to send the same or a copy to the Major General of the Colony. 21 st. [Slaves:]in case of an alarm or invasionOfficer commanding each districtshall leave a proper detachment of his Company, to guard against the insurrection of slaves, or if judged more expedient and safe, may take the slaves or part of them with him and employ them in carrying baggage, dragging cannon or the like. 21 st. [Slaves:] That in case of an alarm or invasion the Officer commanding in each district shall leave a proper detachment of his Company, to guard against the insurrection of slaves, or if judged more expedient and safe, may take the slaves or part of them with him and employ them in carrying baggage, dragging cannon or the like. 22 nd.all personswho shall leave or attempt to leave a place actually invaded without leave of the Officer commandingor who shall refuse to obey [an] order in time of actual invasion or insurrectionliable to Court-Martial 22 nd. That all persons, as well Minute Men as others, able to bear arms, who shall leave or attempt to leave a place actually invaded without leave of the Officer commanding such place, or who shall refuse to obey [an] order in time of actual invasion or insurrection shall be liable to such punishment, as shall be inflicted by a Court-Martial.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 1775, Parts 7.23-7.25 Of Alertness, Watches, Punishments & Artillery Pay 23 rd. military watch 23 rd. That in case it shall be adjudged necessary at any time and place by this Congress, by the Committee of Safety or by the several Committees of the respective Counties or Districts, that a military watch be established, -- All persons able to bear arms, where such watch is judged to be necessary, shall upon due warning be obliged to serve on such watch under the penalty of 12 s. for every neglect, A commissioned Officer in turn to mount said guard in person under the penalty of 40s. 24 th.Centinel, 24 th. That every Centinel, who shall leave his post – be found asleep, when he is posted, shall be liable to punishment, as shall be inflicted by a Court-Martial. 25 th.Militia called out subject toRules and Ordersordered by the Continental Congress 25 th. That when the Militia, as well Minute Men as others, in case of Invasion or Insurrection shall be called out on actual service, They shall be subject to the same Rules and Orders, as directed and ordered by the Continental Congress of the associated Colonies held at Philadelphia on the 10 th day of May last for better government of the Continental Troops. pay of the Artillery Company A letter from Capt. John Lamb, dated this day, soliciting this Congress to ascertain the pay of the Artillery Company under his command was read and filed.

The Militia Bill, August 22, 17, Part 7.25 Baa Baa Black Sheep, Wooly Problem Solved Artillery Company shall have the like pay, as the Rhode Island Company of Artillery Agreed and ordered, That the Artillery Company raised in this Colony as part of the Continental Army and enlisted under Capt. John Lamb shall have such pay, as the Continental Congress shall agree to and order, snf that in the meantime Capt. Lamb’s Company shall have the like pay, as the Rhode Island Company of Artillery are allowed, until the Continental Congress shall have fixed and ascertained the pay of Capt. Lamb’s Company. And ordered, that Capt. John Lamb and his Company be considered as an additional Company to, and a part of Colo[nel]. McDougall’s Regiment and subject to his commands.” Source: Documents Relating to the Colonial History of the State of New York, v. 15. ed. by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons, and Co., 1887: pp. 30-34.

Report on Organization of & Need to Equip Brookhaven Companies of Minutemen Manor of St. George -- December 15, 1775 “Gentlemen: There have enlisted as minute men 70 able- bodied men, within the bounds of Brook Haven, Smithtown Manor St. George and the Patentship of Moriches, who have chosen Dan’l Roe, Capt.; Hugh Smith, 1 st Lt.; Caleb Brewster, 2d Lt.; Eben’r Philips, Ensign. And as Hugh Smith and David Fanning, 1 st and 2d Lts. of the 3d Company in Brookhaven, (whereof Nath’l Roe is Capt.), have enlisted in the minute service, the company have chosen John Smith, 1 st Lt.; Wm. Baker, 2d Lt.; Doxey Lane, Ensign. “Gentlemen: There have enlisted as minute men 70 able- bodied men, within the bounds of Brook Haven, Smithtown Manor St. George and the Patentship of Moriches, who have chosen Dan’l Roe, Capt.; Hugh Smith, 1 st Lt.; Caleb Brewster, 2d Lt.; Eben’r Philips, Ensign. And as Hugh Smith and David Fanning, 1 st and 2d Lts. of the 3d Company in Brookhaven, (whereof Nath’l Roe is Capt.), have enlisted in the minute service, the company have chosen John Smith, 1 st Lt.; Wm. Baker, 2d Lt.; Doxey Lane, Ensign. The choice of the above was made in presence of us, who are of the committee. The minute men (who are much needed to still intestine disaffection) want powder, ball, guns, drum, colors, &c., which are not to be had here; and if to be bought, a great part of the company not able to purchase. The choice of the above was made in presence of us, who are of the committee. The minute men (who are much needed to still intestine disaffection) want powder, ball, guns, drum, colors, &c., which are not to be had here; and if to be bought, a great part of the company not able to purchase. Your humble servants, WM. SMITH JOSIAH SMITH” Your humble servants, WM. SMITH JOSIAH SMITH” Source: ___________________________--- Source: ___________________________---

1776 “Assist any of the friends of the United Colonies...” Squaring Off Northern Brookhaven harbors surveyed Invasion Fears & Preparations American Fort is Proposed for Mt. Misery Point Local Minutemen are Organized & Ordered to be Ready to March Two Active Southern Brookhaven Tories (Baker & Fountain) convicted, hauled before Congress American Sloops Montgomery & Schuyler Patrol Fire Island Inlet Toward “a new form of government”; U.S. Declaration of Independence Militia Ordered to the West, Cattle & Other Provisions to the East Decision: Advance, Battle of Long Island, Retreat & Exodus British Landings & The Battle of Long Island American Retreat & Abandonment of L.I. Exodus: The Lost Fleet British Occupation & Extortion Begins Tory Perspectives; Mobilization; Confiscations Revenge: The Shoe on the Other Foot Raids Commence

Capt. (Dr.) Samuel Thompson, 1 st Brookhaven Co.’s Survey North Brookhaven Ports, Soundings, Beaches & Proposed Fort February 15, 1776 “Letter, Feb. 15 th, 1776, from Doctor Samuel Thompson, of Brookhaven, [Capt. of the 1 st Brookhaven Co. of Infantry] by order of the committee of Suffolk county, inclosing drafts of Setauket and Stony Brook harbors, made by himself, including also a description of the beaches and lands between them, with their length and distances. He then proceeds to recommend the erection of a small fort, on the beach, running off from Mount Misery Point, with six or eight guns, some of which should be nine or twelve pounders, placed on the high bank, overlooking the harbor. He concludes by expressing a wish that a capable gunsmith should be sent to them.” “Letter, Feb. 15 th, 1776, from Doctor Samuel Thompson, of Brookhaven, [Capt. of the 1 st Brookhaven Co. of Infantry] by order of the committee of Suffolk county, inclosing drafts of [maps of] Setauket and Stony Brook harbors, made by himself, including also a description of the beaches and lands between them, with their length and distances. He then proceeds to recommend the erection of a small fort, on the beach, running off from Mount Misery Point, with six or eight guns, some of which should be nine or twelve pounders, placed on the high bank, overlooking the harbor. He concludes by expressing a wish that a capable gunsmith should be sent to them.” Note: In so writing, Benjamin Thompson was immortalizing his own father’s recommendations. History of Long Island. Source: Thompson, Benjamin F. History of Long Island. New York: Robert H. Dodd, 1839, repr., 1918: p. 298. Question for historians, genealogists, archeologists: Is there any evidence that this suggestion was ever acted upon in any manner? Have archeologists probed or explored the bluffs for evidence of a battery?

Orders from the New-York Provincial Congress March 4 th, 1776 “SIR, / THIS accompanies the Resolve of Congress, requesting you to hold your Regiment in Readiness to march at a Moment’s Warning. We are apprehensive that the Ministerial [I.e., British] Army in Boston, may attempt to land in this Colony in a short Time: Your Zeal for the public Cause, we trust, will stimulate you and the Officers under your Command to use all possible Diligence to comply with this Resolution. We have only to add, that no Time should be lost in executing this Order, and that you forth-with return to the Congress or the Committee of Safety, the present State of your Regiment, as to the Number of Men, Arms, Accoutrements, and Ammunition ; and if the Minute Regiments do not compose one fourth Part of the Militia of your County, you are hereby ORDERED to cause the Minute Regiments to be completed, agreeable to the Rules and Orders of this Congress of the 20 th of December last. We are, Sir, With esteem, Your Very Humble Servants. RESOLVED, That Circular Letters be wrote to the several Colonels of the Minute Men and Militia in this Colony, from the County of Albany to the Southward ; ORDERING them to hold their respective Regiments in readiness to march with their Arms, Accoutrements, Blankets, and five Days Provisions, ; on the first Notice of an Invasion….” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. “Time Capsule: Three Centuries of Broadsides and Other Printed Emphmera.” American Memory Project http://memory.loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/D?rbpebib:1:./temp/~ammem_paab::http://memory.loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/D?rbpebib:1:./temp/~ammem_paab

Brookhaven Minutemen Officered -- March 27, 1776 Nath’l RoeSam’l Thompson Selah Strong, Capt.; Wm. Clark, 1 st Lt.; Caleb Brewster, 2 nd Lt. ; and Nath’l Brewster, En[sign]., minute companyin Brookhaven “Nath’l Roe and Sam’l Thompson, certify the election of Selah Strong, Capt.; Wm. Clark, 1 st Lt.; Caleb Brewster, 2 nd Lt. ; and Nath’l Brewster, En[sign]., of a minute company in Brookhaven.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 25.

Suffolk County Minuteman Regiment -- April 4, 1776 Brookhaven (& c.) Minuteman Regt’l. (& Co.) Officers Regimental Commanders: Regimental Commanders: Colonel: Josiah SmithMorichesLieutenant Colonel: John Hulbert 1 st Major: Isaac Reeve, 2 nd Major: John Baker Adjutant: Ephraim MarvinVice Adjutant: Isaac OvertonQuarter Master: Ebenezer Dayton Colonel: Josiah Smith [of Moriches]; Lieutenant Colonel: John Hulbert [of East Hampton, esp., noted for early Revolutionary War U.S. flag;] 1 st Major: Isaac Reeve, [of Southold]; 2 nd Major: John Baker [of East Hampton]; Adjutant: Ephraim Marvin, April 4, 1776; Vice Adjutant: Isaac Overton, declined; Quarter Master: Ebenezer Dayton [of East Hampton] Brookhaven, Smithtown, Manor of St. George and Moriches Co. Brookhaven, Smithtown, Manor of St. George and Moriches Co. Captain: Selah Strong1 st Lieutenant: William Clark; 2 nd Lieutenant: Caleb Brewster, Nathaniel Brewster Captain: Selah Strong; 1 st Lieutenant: William Clark; 2 nd Lieutenant: Caleb Brewster, Later courier & spy, Setauket Spy Ring; Ensign: Nathaniel Brewster; Commissioned April 4, 1776. Source: _______________________

Representatives to the New-York Provincial Congress Representatives to the New-York Provincial Congress April 18, 1776 “Nath’l Woodhull, Thos. Tredwell, Selah Strong, John Sloss Hobart, Thos. Wickham, David Gelston, Dan’l Brown, and Ezra L’Hommedieu, “Nath’l Woodhull, Thos. Tredwell, Selah Strong, John Sloss Hobart, Thos. Wickham, David Gelston, Dan’l Brown, and Ezra L’Hommedieu, were elected to represent Suffolk Co. in the Provincial Congress, as appears by the certificate of Wm. Smith, Chairman, and Ezra L’Hommedieu, Clk. of the Committee.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 25-26.

Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War, Pt. 1 The Montgomerie, Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War, Pt. 1 The War Sloop Montgomerie, of the New-York Provincial Navy in Rebellion, enters U.S. Service - - April 17, 1776 “The Delegates of the United Colonies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts- Bay, Rhode-Island, Connecticut, New-York, New-Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the counties of New-Castle, Kent and Sussex on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, To All whom these Presents shall come, send Greeting: Know Ye, That we have granted, and by these Presents do grant Licence and Authority to William Rogers, Mariner, Commander of the Sloop called Mongomerie of the burthen of Sixty Tons, or there abouts, belonging to and fitted out by the Provincial Congress of New York in the Colony of New York mounting Six Carriage Guns, and navigated by Sixty Men, to fit out and set forth the said Sloop in a warlike manner, and by and with the said Sloop and the Crew therof, by force of Arms, to attack, seize and take Ships and other Vessels belonging to the Inhabitants of Great Britain, or any of them, with their Tackle, Apparel Furniture and Ladings, on the High Seas, or between high water and low water Marks, and to bring the same to some convenient Ports

Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War, Pt. 2 Montgomerie, Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War, Pt. 2 The War Sloop Montgomerie, of the New-York Provincial Navy in Rebellion, enters U.S. Service -- April 17, 1776 in the said Colonies, in Order that the Courts, which are or shall be there appointed to hear and determine Causes civil and maritime, may proceed in due Form to condemn the said Captures, if they be adjudged lawful Prizes; the said William Rogers having given Bond, with sufficient Sureties, that nothing be done by the said William Rogers or any of the Officers, Mariners or Company thereof contrary to, or inconsistent with the Usages and Customs of Nations, and the Instructions, a Copy of which is herewith delivered to him. And we will and require all our Officers whatsoever to give Succour and Assistance to the said William Rogers in the Premises. This commission shall continue in Force until the Congress shall issue Orders to the Contrary. Dated at New York By Order of the Congress JOHN HANCOCK this 17 th Day of April, 1776JOHN HANCOCK, President” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: pp. 529-30.

Outfitting -- Arms of the Sloop -- April 17, 1776 Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War Outfitting -- Arms of the Sloop -- April 17, 1776 “Mr. William Mercier (who is appointed to superintend the fitting out [of] the armed Sloop Montgomerie whereof Mr. Rogers is Commander) applied for an Order on the Storekeeper for 6 Pr. Pistols, 200 lbs Musquet Ball 20 Cartridge Boxes 600 lbs. Gun Powder.” “Mr. William Mercier (who is appointed to superintend the fitting out [of] the armed Sloop Montgomerie whereof Mr. Rogers is Commander) applied for an Order on the Storekeeper for 6 Pr. Pistols, 200 lbs Musquet Ball 20 Cartridge Boxes 600 lbs. Gun Powder.” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 94.

Mr. Rogers Ordered to Raid the Neighborhood, Pt. 1 On Instructions from the Provincial Committee of Safety Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War Mr. Rogers Ordered to Raid the Neighborhood, Pt. 1 On Instructions from the Provincial Committee of Safety “IN COMMITTEE OF SAFETY, NEW YORK, April 19, 1776 Sir. As the armed Sloop Montgomerie whereof you are now Commander, is now completely fitted out in a warlike manner – Our Orders are: That you repair on board with your Officers and Men and proceed to Sea and act against the enemies of the United Colonies agreeable to your Instructions from the Congress. You are to cruise along shore on the on our Coast anywhere between Sandy Hook and Cape May or from Sandy Hook [N.J.} to the east End of Long Island. You are always to keep some Inlet under your Lee, so that you may secure a retreat from a superior force. Be Careful to send such Prizes as you may take into some place of safety in the United Colonies. It is very necessary to have a good pilot on board & also to make yourself well acquainted on the Coast.

Mr. Rogers Ordered to Raid the Neighborhood, Pt. 2 On Instructions from the Provincial Committee of Safety Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War Mr. Rogers Ordered to Raid the Neighborhood, Pt. 2 On Instructions from the Provincial Committee of Safety You are to assist any of the friends of the United Colonies by every means in your Power and assist to carry them into some Place of Safety & where different objects for assistance offer at the same time you are to give the preference to the Vessels a and Inhabitants of this Colony. You are always & by every Opportunity to advise the provincial Congress or Committee of Safety of this Colony of your Proceedings. We wish you Success and remain To William Rogers Esq.Your friends & humble servants Commander of the By Order of the Committee armed Sloop PIERRE VAN CORTLANDT, Chairman Montgomerie” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 530.

Washington & Randall Haggle Over the Price of Ships Financial Machinations to Man a Provincial (or Continental), Navy, Pt. 1 Looking for a Few Good Men - in the East River, April 24, 1776 “…Mr. Randall of the Marine Committee [William Floyd’s] informed that he had at different times waited on the General [Washington] and spoken to him about the Armed Vessels fitted out by this Colony, of which the General had requested the Loan – That agreeable to the sentiments of the Committee of Safety on a former day he had offered one or both of the Sloops to the General on the Continental Account; that the General appeared disinclined to take them or either of them on these Conditions; that the Marine Committee had agreed to lend him two of the Vessels for Service in the [Great South] Bay and to send the third to Sea. Mr. Randall farther reported. that Captain Smith has only Twelve Men and wants [I.e., needs or lacks] eighteen more to man the Sloop Schuyler and that the General intimates, that if he supplies the other men wanting in the said Sloop he would expect to appoint the Master and Officers on board. Captain James Smith was called in; he says that he does not expect, that he can enlist the Men wanting in the said Sloop in this City [New York], but imagines, that he could get them in the neighborhood in the East River.

Washington & Randall Haggle Over the Price of Ships Financial Machinations to Man a Provincial (or Continental), Navy, Pt. 2 Looking for a Few Good Men -- in the East River, April 24, 1776 Ordered, that Mr. Randall wait on the General and inform him, that the [Marine] Committee are ready to lend the Sloop Schuyler to the General agreeable to former promise as soon as a sufficient number of Men can be obtained for her. And that if the General chooses to take the said Sloop on Continental Account at the Expense of her purchase and outfit she shall be delivered to his Order….” Ed. Note: A Little Yankee Bargaining is Taking Place: Only if Washington first agreed to pay NY the price of the sloop & everything provided for its mission, would he be given the right to appoint its officers. (Ye can have it. But it’ll cost ye.) Poor George. Was that any way to run a Revolution? Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: pp. 95-96. Emphasis added.

Of Arms Deliveries & Accountabilities In Provincial Congress -- May 4, 1776 ordered Committees in Suffolk Countydeliver arms the three Companies ofsecond Regiment, raised in that County each Soldier accountable for the arms delivered to him or the value thereof, “…And ordered farther, that the Committees in Suffolk County do in like manner provide and deliver arms to the Captains of the three Companies of the second Regiment, which were raised in that County and that those Captains keep and return the like Rolls of the Value of the Arms they may so receive & of the names of their respective Soldiers to whom delivered in such Manner that each Soldier may be accountable for the arms delivered to him or the value thereof, that the same may be accounted for to the public and Captains or Officers accountable for the value Resolved, that any Captains or Officers, by whose neglect or default the value of any one or more such arms shall be lost to the public, shall be accountable for the value thereof.” [If you lose your musket, you pay for it.] Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 99.

Treason & Exile Tory Intrigues & 5 th Column Activities in Brookhaven June 8, 1776 “Jona[than]. Baker and Steph. Fountain, convicted by the joint committees of Brookhaven, Manor of St. George, and Patentship of Moriches, of taking up arms and corresponding with the British ships, and promoting discord among the inhabitants and seducing many to forsake the cause of their country, were brought to Congress by Lt. Wm. Clarke, and committed to safe custody.” “Jona[than]. Baker and Steph. Fountain, convicted by the joint committees of Brookhaven, Manor of St. George, and Patentship of Moriches, of taking up arms and corresponding with the British ships, and promoting discord among the inhabitants and seducing many to forsake the cause of their country, were brought to Congress by Lt. Wm. Clarke, and committed to safe custody.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 27.

Cat & Mouse Sealing Off Local Tory Sea Communications & Aid Astride a Main Entrance & Exit to [Great] South Bay June 19, 1776 Mariner & Commander: Saga of a 6-Gun Sloop of War Cat & Mouse Sealing Off Local Tory Sea Communications & Aid Astride a Main Entrance & Exit to [Great] South Bay June 19, 1776 “Armed patrol boats Montgomerie and Schuyler lay at Fire Island Inlet.” “Armed patrol boats Montgomerie and Schuyler lay at Fire Island Inlet.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 27.

A Highly Risky Undertaking Moving from Colony to Independent Statehood Elected Representatives, June 27, 1776 Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull, Ezra L’Hommedieu, John Sloss Hobart, Burnet Miller, Thos. Dearing, David Gelston, Wm. Smith, and Thos. Tredwell, Esqs.,elected to the 4 th Provincial Congress,with powers to establish a new form of government,as appears by a certificate of the committee, signed by Wm. Smith, Chairman “Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull, Ezra L’Hommedieu, John Sloss Hobart, Burnet Miller, Thos. Dearing, David Gelston, Wm. Smith, and Thos. Tredwell, Esqs., elected to the 4 th Provincial Congress, with powers to establish a new form of government, as appears by a certificate of the committee, signed by Wm. Smith, Chairman.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennikat Press, 1849, repr. 1970: p. 27-28.

The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Strange Time for a Headcount, Pt. 1 The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Brookhaven Town & Manor of St. George Selected Summaries Northern & Southern Brookhaven Town (N.&S. of The [Middle] Country Road, today’s Route 25) were separately surveyed by Justus Roe (completed July 1, 1776) and Ephraim Marvin (completed July 3, 1776), respectively The combined Brookhaven Census was chaired by William Smith The Manor of St. George and Patentship of the Moriches were surveyed together, by Benj[amin] Havens, but separately from the other town surveys Below (N) = Northern & (S) = Southern Brookhaven & (M) = Manor & Patentship White Men were divided into 3 age categories Over 50 19 (M)72 (N)51 (S)Total:142} 16-5043 (M) 216 (N) 175 (S)Total:434} 1,147 Under 1673 (M) 260 (N) 238 (S)Total: 571} White Women Over 1676 (M) 312 (N) 234 (S)Total:622} 1,176 Under 1681 (M) 245 (N) 228 (S)Total:554} Black Men and Women were lumped together in the same 2 age groups Over 1650 (M) 55 (N)13 (S)Total:118} 226 Under 1634 (M)51 (N)23 (S)Total:108} Overall Total: 2,549 The designated head of household is the only person named in a family

The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Strange Time for a Headcount, Pt. 2 The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Brookhaven Town & Manor of St. George: Slavery Summaries When “Negroes: Males & Fem.” are listed, the probability is that they were slaves, if not, likely indentured servants (essentially slaves, for a limited span of time) In the Manor of St. George and Patentship of Moriches area, 34 families held no slaves and 14 families held 84 slaves. Among the latter, the number of people in bondage ranged from 1-15, and included prominent or soon to be prominent names: Wm. Smith8Josiah Smith 7Mathew Smith 7David Howell 5 Hugh Smith 6Benj Havens 3Hanery Havens 1Joseph Conklan 5 William Smith 1David Hallock 1John Havens, Junr 1William Floyd 12 Nathaniel Woodhul[l] 15 Richard Floyd 12 There were 40 slaveholding families in Northern Brookhaven, with the range from held between 1-7 people (with the norm at the low end). In Southern (actually central) Brookhaven, 22 slaveholding families held between 1-4 people (usually 1). In both cases (N. & S.), the majority of families were not slaveholders. Still the institution was legal & prevailed locally, in the Province, and throughout the colonies. Emancipation was decades away, as the cry for freedom from England grew louder.

The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Strange Time for a Headcount, Pt. 3 The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Brookhaven Town & Manor of St. George: Name Droppings In the, the following surnames appear: In the Manor of St. George & Moriches Patentship, the following surnames appear: Bower, Brown, Conklan, Dayton, Downs, Floyd, Gilburd, Hallock, Huls[e], Havens, Hawkings, Howell, King, Mapes, Mogar, Rayner, Rayour, Reeve, Revs, Robsun, Robun, Smith, Teale, Thompson, Woodhul[l] In, these surnames appear: In North Brookhaven, these surnames appear: Akerly, Bales, Bayles, Belos, Bennet, Biggs, Binner, Bostin, Brewster, Brown, Buchanan, Cary, Davis, Denton, Dickson, Duvrek, Eaton, Edwards, Floyd, French, Garrard, Garrot, Hackstaf, Hallock, Hallok, Hallot, Hamon, Hawkins, Hawkkins, Helme, Hokkins, Hoopkins, Howel, Hubburt, Huls[e], Iayne, Jayne, Jones, Lions, Longbottom, Miller, More, Mulford, Mungumery, Murison, Norton, Osband, Overton, Philips, Punderson, Randol, Redman, Reves, Robboson, Robbins, Robins, Robinson, Roe, Rudyard, Satterly, Seaton, Skidmore, Sell, Smith, Still, Strong, Swezey, Taler, Talmadge, Tery, Terry, Tiler, Tokker, Took, Tooker, Tuttle, Vanbrunt, Wells, Witman, Woley, Woodhull, Worth, Yarington Source: Census of Suffolk County, New York, 1776. Lambertville, NJ: Hunterdon House, 1984: pp. 5-14.

The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Strange Time for a Headcount, Pt. 4 The Last Provincial Census, of Mid-1776 Brookhaven Town & Manor of St. George: Name Droppings In South Brookhaven, these surnames appear: In South Brookhaven, these surnames appear: Acker, Ackley, Acley, Adams, Alban, Andres, Avery, Baker, Barran, Bates, Batrlee, Bartlee, Beal, Bellows, Benjamans, Biges, Bishop, Brichet, Brown, Bruster, Burto, Clark, Cole, Conkling, Davis, Dayton, Degroat, Faning, Fanning, Ferrey, Finch, Frinch, Founten, Garard, Gean, Gerard, Gilbert, Gorden, Gould, Gyer, Hallack, Hands, Havens, Hegges, Hockens, Hockins, Hockoens, Hoel, Homan, Huburt, Hutts, Jain, Jones, Kulen, Lane, Leak, Longbotom, Manroe, Marvin, Moger, Nash, Newton, Oberton, Osban, Osmer, Overton, Pachen, Pettie, Rider, Robens, Robeson, Robson, Rose, Runnals, Sacston, Sactson, Scofel, Scribner, Serwood, Smith, Souard, Sumers, Swesey, Terrey, Terry, Tobe, Tucker, Turner, Whedton, Wickes, Weed, Wood, Woodhool, Woodroof, Worth, Yarranton

Cavalry Snobs & Preferment Demands Cavalry Snobs & Preferment Demands in Tory Queens (Toying with Rebellion) & the Brigadier’s Choice -- July 31, 1776 “Application was made to the Convention on behalf of the Troop of Horse in Queens County, – That they conceive it hard to be drafted with the Common Militia of Foot on the late Resolution of this Convention for drafting one fourth part of the Militia into actual Service; as they have been at the Expense to equip themselves as Troopers under the authority of this State. Ordered, that Brigadier General Woodhull determine as he shall think proper on this Application and give his directions accordingly.” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 120

Answering (or Bending to) the Queens Cavalry (Tory) Remonstrance Foot & Horse Militia Declared Separate, but under Unified Command The N.Y. Provincial Legislature’s Diplomatic Solution of August 7, 1776 “The Committee to whom was referred the Consideration of the State of the Troopers in the Militia reported the following Resolutions, which were unanimously resolved on and agreed to: Whereas, the Service of Troopers does materially differ from that of others in the Militia, whereby it may frequently happen, that Horse may not be necessary for the Defence of the State at the same Time with the Foot and on the Contrary Foot may not be necessary at the same Time with Horse or when both are necessary yet not in equal Proportions Therefore Resolved unanimously, that the Establishment of the Troopers shall be considered as totally different from that of the other Militia in this State, so that any general Orders for the Troops of Horse shall apply only to them. Whereas, the Defence of this State may require the immediate Service of the several Troops of Horse in the Counties of Orange, Ulster, Dutchess & Westchester, Therefore Resolved, unanimously, that Genl. Clinton, be and he is hereby empowered to order out the whole or any Part or Detachment of the said Troops or either of them for such Time or Times, as he may think necessary until the l;ast day of December next, unless unless otherwise ordered by this Convention or a future executive Power of this State & that provision shall be made for their Pay & Subsistence.” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 121.

Urgent Dispatch to Colonel Josiah Smith -- Aug. 10, 1776 Biographical Note: Born to a prominent L.I. family, in East Moriches, November 28, 1723, he served as Suffolk County Treasurer, 1764-1786, with the exception of the British Occupation (late 1776-1783). In 1775 he was appointed commander of the Suffolk County Minutemen Regiment which grew to about 250 men, including one company drawn largely from the area of today’s Brookhaven Town. On August 10, 1776, he received the following letter: “Dear Sir, Enclosed is a resolution of the Provincial Congress ordering you to join my Brigade immediately on receipt of this. You will march the troops under your command immediately to this camp. You will make all possible expedition as the enemy have embarked part, if not all, troops on Staten Island and are making disposition as if they intend to land there. You will send out scouts and parties to get intelligence. If the enemy should make their landing good on any part of the island and hear of you coming, they may send out a party to intercept your march. Keep good front flank and rear guards to prevent being surprised. I am your most obedient and humble servant Nathaniel Greene” Gen. Nathaniel Greene, then commanded American troops on L.I.. Josiah Smith’s Suffolk County Minutemen fought at the Battle of Long Island, and then dispersed. Source: Reeve, Llewellyn. Early History of East Moriches [Lecture]: p. 5

Continentalizing L.I. Militia Finance August 24, 1776 5 th. “5 th. Resolved unanimously that such of the Militia if Genl. Woodhull’s Brigade as are or shall be in actual service, shall be entitled to Continental pay & rations agreeable to their respective Ranks. 6 th. 6 th. Resolved unanimously that Robert Townsend [later chief American spy in British NYC] be a Commissary to supply the Brigade with provisions till such time as Genl. Washington shall give further Orders for that purpose.... Ordered, that the Committee submit to his Excellency’s Consideration the propriety of Ordering Co[l]. Smith’s and Col. Remsen’s Regts. of Militia to join the said Brigade.” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 126.

Re-Provincializing L.I. Militia Finance & Reinforcing Gen. Woodhull August 24, 1776 “The Committee appointed to wait on Genl. Washington with the Resolutions for carrying out the Western Suffolk Regt. And Queens County Militia to prevent the stock falling in the Enemies hands do Report, that according to orders, they waited on his Excellency…that he would immediately give Orders that Col. Smith’s and Remsen’s Regts. Should march into Queens County to join Genl.Woodhull and as to calling out any more of the Militia, he asked what time we thought it would take to have the Militia ofWestchester County Imbodyed, we told him we thought at least 4 or 5 days, upon which he made no reply. Your Committee further report, it was the General’s opinion, that our Commissary should continue to supply the Troops under Brigadier General Woodhull and that he Consult the Commissary General, that they might not interfere with one another in purchasing provisions. Saml. Townsend William Smith.” Source: New York (State). Archives. New York in the Revolution, v. 1, by Berthold Fernow. Albany, NY: Weed, Parsons and Co., Printers, For the State Archives, under direction of the State Regents, 1887: p. 126.

Battle of Long Island (or Brooklyn) -- Battle of Long Island (or Brooklyn) British Seize the Initiative -- 1 st Major Battle of the New Republic General Sir William HoweStaten Island, main British battle fleetAdmiral Richard (“Black Dick”) Howe.Veteran German regiments& British reinforcements swelledhis army, outnumbered Washington. Bunker (Breed’s) Hill, General Sir William Howe knew his trade. His forces had seized a basically Tory Staten Island, joined by the main British battle fleet under his brother Admiral Richard (“Black Dick”) Howe. Veteran German regiments & British reinforcements swelled his army, which outnumbered Washington. A unified command, a concentrated, seasoned force, a fleet that only required a favorable wind & tide to divide and isolate the main elements of the enemy Army, stood ready against an enemy in apparent disarray. How could Howe lose? Yet, stinging British memories lingered, of crippling losses at Bunker (Breed’s) Hill, of being forced from Boston, by Washington’s wily artillery emplacement on Dorcester Hill. Congress had declared independence, Landing near Gravesend low, heavily wooded hills,Heights of Guan, the indirect approach. Generals Grant Baron Knuyphausen Earl Cornwallis and his own command. overwhelm the American left wing, roll it up by the exposed flank.,Grant & Knuyphausenkeeping the American right & center under pressure until joined by Howe, forcing the passes, to complete the American rout, Congress had declared independence, raising the stakes, & on that rock (Olive Branch), peace negotiations failed. War plans resumed. Landing near Gravesend on Western L.I., light American screening forces retreated before Howe, to a formidable line of low, heavily wooded hills, then called the Heights of Guan, cut at several channeling passes, guarded by fine American troops, shielded & backed by fortifications at Brooklyn. Fresh memories of Bunker Hill suggested caution and maneuver. Howe was not about to wittingly commit his army to headlong decimation like that again. Instead he elected the indirect approach. He sent forces under Generals Grant and Baron Knuyphausen forward to divert American attention at the heavily guarded passes, screening his main eastward movement through the lightly guarded Jamaica Pass, under Earl Cornwallis and his own command. He would overwhelm the American left wing, roll it up by the exposed flank., joined by Grant & Knuyphausen, keeping the American right & center under pressure until joined by Howe, forcing the passes, to complete the American rout, to perhaps finish the rebellion that day.

Battle of Long Island (or Brooklyn) American Nightmare – Defense of A Land of Peninsulas Thrust into the Sea Against the World’s Greatest Naval Power – A Near-Run Disaster Boston,eye on New York cut by its numerous navigable waterways,one of the world’s great natural ports & harbors,center of British operations in the French & Indian War. thekey to an estuarine river that could be used to divide the continental states, & a great base for any fleet. Defensive problemswere legion Mostly green troops faced European regulars.Manpower was needed to fortify the region. Even as Washington invested Gage in Boston, he kept a nervous eye on New York, to his rear, cut by its numerous navigable waterways, with one of the world’s great natural ports & harbors, former center of British operations in the French & Indian War. It was the key to an estuarine river that could be used to divide the continental states, & a great base for any fleet. New York, & Long Island inched their way toward invasion preparations, feeling, as islands, vulnerable to the world’s most formidable fleet, compounded by a large 5 th column of Tories. Defensive problems were legion -- internal security; who to send,; what & where to best defend, where to fortify, to maximum effect; what line of retreat to adopt, if it became necessary; how to maximize infantry defensive effectiveness. How to keep lines of communication & supply open and from the clutches of British sea power. Mostly green troops faced European regulars. Manpower was needed to fortify the region. A succession of commanding generals passed through the city, A succession of commanding generals passed through the city, yet a formidable line of fortifications redoubts, forts, and batteries were erected & improved, in front of Brooklyn Heights, on islands guarding city’s southerly sea approaches., around Manhattan, coastal New Jersey, Westchester, Staten Is.land, Long.Island, and in the Hudson Highlands. In short, the American position was badly overextended with entirely too much to defend, with too small a force (even after Washington’s army arrived fresh from victory at Boston), still vulnerable to a concentrated enemy strike. Just before the battle the gifted commander on L.I., Nathaniel Greene, took ill, & replaced by Israel Putnam. G. Washington was in Manhattan. Somebody forgot to defend Jamaica Pass in force.

By Order of the New York Provincial Convention American Preparations: Province & Region, Pt. 1 Priorities: Imperiled Stock & Provisions, August 24-26, 1776 “August 24, 1776.Brig. Gen. Woodhull Lieut. Col. [Gilbert] Potter,march without delay, one half the Western Regiment of Suffolk Co., with five days provision, into the western parts of Queens Co prevent the stock and other provisions, falling into the hands of the enemy, by removing or killing them. “August 24, 1776. Ordered, that Brig. Gen. Woodhull, or in his absence Lieut. Col. [Gilbert] Potter, march without delay, one half the Western Regiment of Suffolk Co., with five days provision, into the western parts of Queens Co.; that the officers of Queens order out their whole Militia, with their Troop of Horse, and use all possible diligence to prevent the stock and other provisions, falling into the hands of the enemy, by removing or killing them. August 25, 1776. ordering all the stock to the east end of Hempstead Plain, and placing Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull in charge. August 25, 1776. In anticipation of a victory by the enemy, a Committee, consisting of the Deputies from Suffolk an Queens,, brought in a report, which was adopted, ordering all the stock to the east end of Hempstead Plain, and placing Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull in charge. August 26, 1776. Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull prevent depredations by the enemy; and that he August 26, 1776. Ordered, that Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull take possession at any point on the Island where he can best prevent depredations by the enemy; and that he

By Order of the New York Provincial Convention American Preparations: Province & Region, Pt. 2 Battle of Disintegration on L.I. -- August 26-28, 1776 call out the whole of the Militia, if necessary, to protect the inhabitants in removing.” call out the whole of the Militia, if necessary, to protect the inhabitants in removing.” “... Lt. Col. Gilbert Potter, enemy had landed between Old Mans [Mt. Sinai] and Wading River, and were shooting cattle “... Lt. Col. Gilbert Potter, informed that the enemy had landed between Old Mans [Mt. Sinai] and Wading River, and were shooting cattle. Col. Potter expected the enemy to be in Huntington before morning; and he asked for help. August 27, 1776.Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull reported driven all the cattle to the Eastward of the boundary between Kings and Queens August 27, 1776. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull reported that he had driven all the cattle to the Eastward of the boundary between Kings and Queens; and that the enemy’s camp was but six miles from him. “ “August 28, 1776. Col. Josiah Smith and Col. Jeromus Remsen ordered to join Gen. Nathaniel WoodhullGen. Woodhull ordered to destroy all stock and grain in Queens and Western Suffolk that could not be removed to a place of safety. “August 28, 1776. Col. Josiah Smith and Col. Jeromus Remsen ordered to join Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull; and Gen. Woodhull ordered to destroy all stock and grain in Queens and Western Suffolk that could not be removed to a place of safety. [Note: Gen. Woodhull never received these orders. Smith’s and Remsen’s orders seem to have been superceded by those of the Continental Army.]

1 st Major Battle of the New Republic, August 27, 1776 Battle of Long Island (or Brooklyn) Defeat: An Army Salvaged, An Island Lost 1 st Major Battle of the New Republic, August 27, 1776 The Battle of Long Island The Battle of Long Island initially unfolded much as the British commanders had desired. Following a grueling British night march to Jamaica, the tiny American force guarding the Pass was swept away, and British divisions poured through the pass and pressed on the exposed American flank, hitting it in great force before they knew what had happened. At the sound of the guns, and on cue, Grant’s and Knuyphausen’s forces pressed forward hitting the Americans from a second side. Extraordinary stands were made by troops under the greatly outnumbered Stirling & Alexander, but British experience, numbers, position, & skill eventually overwhelmed most of them, though many escaped to the final American defensive line., due to their stands. There British fortune changed. There British fortune changed. The main column by now, though victorious, was exhausted. Before it lay, in Howe’s estimation formidably laid out American lines, with dangerously planned out interlocking fields of fire. Some generals urged him to push on and complete the victory. Perhaps Bunker Hill again loomed. His troops instead rested, licked their wounds, and started the first parallel in their siege lines. Washington, in command, pulled an 18 th century Dunkirk, losing some heavy guns but safely ferrying his Army, as silently as feasible, to Manhattan, in a protecting night fog. The Continental Army was saved, to fight another day. But, the fields & farms, granaries, stores, & shores of L.I. Were lost. Flying columns of British and Loyalist troops soon headed east to claim their prize, and a chain of forts, signal stations, and raiding bases followed.

By Order of the New York Provincial Convention American Preparations: Province & Region, Pt. 3 Stemming Desertion in a Cast Die -- Aug. 29 & Sept. 3, 1776 August 29, 1776. Resolved, that it be recommended to the inhabitants of Long Island to remove as many of their women, children and slaves, and as much of their livestock and grain, to the main[land], as they can; and that this Convention will pay the expense of removing the same.” August 29, 1776. Resolved, that it be recommended to the inhabitants of Long Island to remove as many of their women, children and slaves, and as much of their livestock and grain, to the main[land], as they can; and that this Convention will pay the expense of removing the same.” “Sept. 3, 1776. A letter was received from Gen. Washington stating that he could not spare troops to protect cattle on Long Island.It having been represented that the soldiers belonging to the regiments of Col. Smith and Col. Remsen had disbanded, it was recommended to the Committees of Westchester, Horseneck [Greenwich], Stamford and Norwalk to watch all boats crossing to Long Island and to allow no armed soldier, belonging to any Regiment in the service of the State, to pass over to the Island.” “Sept. 3, 1776. A letter was received from Gen. Washington stating that he could not spare troops to protect cattle on Long Island. It having been represented that the soldiers belonging to the regiments of Col. Smith and Col. Remsen had disbanded, it was recommended to the Committees of Westchester, Horseneck [Greenwich], Stamford and Norwalk to watch all boats crossing to Long Island and to allow no armed soldier, belonging to any Regiment in the service of the State, to pass over to the Island.” Source:Refugees of 1776 from Long Island to Connecticut.. Source: Mather, Frederic Gregory. Refugees of 1776 from Long Island to Connecticut.. Albany, NY: J.B. Lyon Co., Printers, 1913: pp. 694-695.

Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull, 1722-1776 A Leader in New York’s Secession from Empire, Pt. 1 From New York State Assembly President to Brig. General Nathaniel Woodhull, scion of St. George’s Manor, Mastic, elected a military career. As a major in 1758, in the French and Indian War, he served in Abercrombie’s Ft. Ticonderoga-Crown Point campaign (along New York’s “historic invasion corridor”) and in Bradstreet’s Ft. Frontenac (Kingston, Ont., Canada) campaign. As Colonel, 3 d N.Y. Provincial Infantry Regiment, he participated in Amherst’s Invasion of Canada. He married Ruth Floyd, becoming William Floyd’s brother-in-law, in 1761. Later, he was elected to the New-York Provincial Assembly, 1769- 1775, for his objections to Crown & Parliamentary interference in Provincial affairs. He was a Suffolk County representative to the convention that selected delegates to the First Continental Congress and was elected to the New York Provincial Congress, which (May 1775) assumed (or usurped) government control of the colony. Woodhull was assigned command of the Suffolk and Queens colonial militias (inheriting the contest with the Loyalist counter-militia in Queens), and in October 1775, Woodhull was given the rank of Brigadier General.

Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull, Cowboy General? A Leader in New York’s Secession from the Empire, Pt. 2 Gen. Woodhull’s Cattle Drive, Battle of Long Island, & Jamaica He was elected to the first New-York State Assembly, becoming its 1 st President. Cowboy General?: In August 1776, with the British landing on L.I., and a major battle obviously looming in Western Long Island looming, Gen. Woodhull, then on leave from the Assembly at his Mastic estate, was ordered to take his Suffolk troops (under 100 men) to Jamaica, gather and drive a large herd of cattle (& remove other supplies) from the clutches of the Howe’s Army, into Eastern L.I. It was unfortunate for him that Greene’s order hadn’t been given earlier, for while his cattle drive was temporarily successful, amid the Battle of Long Island (August 27, 1776), he returned to his former headquarters at Jamaica, requesting further orders on August 28 th,, which were not answered. As the Jamaica Pass had earlier been used by the main British striking force, he was effectively cut off, and was compelled to surrender to a detachment of British dragoons. Legends: One local legend has it that he was wounded with his own sword, in the act of surrender to his captor. Another that he was saved from Simcoe’s troops by DeLancey, after having said “God save us all” on being commanded to say, “God save the king”.

Brig. Gen. Nathaniel Woodhull, Cowboy General? A Leader in New York’s Secession from the Empire, Pt. 3 Capture & Death Another account maintains that he fought, prior to surrendering. In any event, the one consistent agreement is that he was severely wounded, compounded by subsequent ill-treatment, eventually resulting in his death. From the perspective of official Britain, here was an example plainly made of the price and foolishness of rebellion, the rebel’s just reward. To Americans, he became an early model of sacrifice for liberty, and as martyr to the cause of freedom and American Independence. He was buried on his estate in Mastic. Source: “Woodhull, Nathaniel (Dec. 30, 1722-Sept. 20, 1776)”, In Dictionary of American Biography, v. 20, Werden – Zunser. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1943: 492-93.

Aftermath of the Battle of Long Island: Civil War The British Occupation of Brookhaven Town, Part 1 for 7 years Once Washington’s Army retreated, Long Island lay prostrate before the British, as the spoils of war – for 7 years. Eastward-spreading British occupation was preceded by a stampede of American refugees to the relative safety of New England, esp. Connecticut. Along with them sailed a fleet of small craft, many of which would later engage in the incessant lucrative wartime raiding of L.I., usually as licensed privateers (acting under state or U.S. letters of marque), sometimes as pirates (raiding even their own). Smuggling out the owners’ goods, with the owner’s blessing was soon represented as theft in the Tory press, as daring acts in the American press. Ethical distinctions & qualms became increasingly finer as time wore on and restraints on the profit motive wore thin. Kidnapping, esp. for exchange of prisoners, was not uncommon Court cases abounded over property theft, confiscation, & vandalism; but also over assault, battery, & even murder Central and Eastern L.I.’s maritime industry and seaborne communications suffered a severe, staggering blow).

Aftermath of the Battle of Long Island: Civil War The British Occupation of Brookhaven Town, Part 2 What was true of the Rebels was True of the British & Tories, in reverse, & British Admiralty, martial, & civil courts were kept busy throughout the war, sometimes with petitioners from across the lines, usually proclaiming their loyalty to the Crown. Tory forces raided across L.I. (repeatedly including Brookhaven), New England, and elsewhere. Their portion of the remaining fleet may have dominated the fisheries, carrying trade, and communications of L.I. (and Brookhaven Town). Historians might be rewarded in pursuing that thread further. Raids discovering Tory vessels in Brookhaven ports or waters were not uncommon, as were naval and amphibious actions involving them. loyalty oaths British & Tory forces from the start, demanded loyalty oaths be taken by all, particularly by rebels who had earlier taken up arms. Those refusing risked losing everything they owned, their safety, lives, homes, and their family’s safety & security at risk. Those who acceded, but remained suspect, were kept under a watchful eye.

Aftermath of the Battle of Long Island: Civil War The British Occupation of Brookhaven Town, Part 3 An era of requisitioning, corvees, taxes, goading, calculated humiliations, insults, & arbitrary arrests had begun. Homes became barracks, dissenter (non-Anglican) churches were often deliberately desecrated, being used as stables, their pews and siding becoming sources of kindling. Labor or tribute might be demanded at any time of day or night at any officer’s demand. People could be seized, suspected spies hauled before officials or military tribunals. Horses, livestock, crops, wood, specie, furniture, virginity, silver, were all fair game. A chain of British forts & signal stations spread across the North Shore, to control the Island: The harbors & ports, ships, the land behind them, the waters before them, serving as bases for control, forage, for raids. British & Tory forces, often based at the forts, erratically scoured and swept the Island for suspected opposition, seized homes, and their contents, banished their residents. Cordwood (firewood), salt hay, food stuffs, were repeatedly requisitioned Forced labor was repeatedly imposed on male residents A high price was deliberately repeatedly, exacted for rebellion

His Majesty’s Loyalist Opposition Moving to Preserve a British Province Disarming & Opposing Rebellion In Consideration of Punishment: In Consideration of Punishment: Colonists were well aware of the price of rebellion exacted by Britain, elsewhere, and were not too keen on risking the noose, a firing squad, confiscation of their property, or violation of their persons In Consideration of the Font of Good Fortune: In Consideration of the Font of Good Fortune: Many in Brookhaven felt their good fortunes derived from long-standing ties with Britain, and their allegiance belonged with the tradition that sustained them in wealth, authority, and or power Patriotism in Reverse: Patriotism in Reverse: Many still believed in Britain & being good and loyal British subjects, esp. when that loyalty was being put to the test Of Sensibility: Of Sensibility: Some were keen for return to “sensible old ways” Of Uncertainty in the Fatal Dice Roll: Of Uncertainty in the Fatal Dice Roll: Some clung to the past because they felt the future to contained too many unknowns on which to to hazard their lives and livelihoods; although some chose the American cause and fate for the same reason Slaves: Slaves: were being offered their freedom if they fought for Britain. Many decided to await the outcome, neutrally. Others elected Britain. The amazing thing is that many remained loyal to their masters, in a sort of reverse revolution or reverse loyalism.

William Floyd, Brookhaven Town’s Signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Pt. 1 The American Revolution Comes to Town Mastic [Beach] resident,William FloydMastic [Beach] resident, William Floyd (1734-1821) Signed the U.S. Declaration of Independence.(1734-1821) – right -- Signed the U.S. Declaration of Independence. He was Maj. Gen., Suffolk County MilitiaHe was Maj. Gen., Suffolk County Militia Notably silent in the deliberations on the floor of Congress (1774-77 & 1778-83), he was known nonetheless, as a steady head, hospitable eagerly sought after host, and appears to have done his main work behind the scenes, largely & on U.S. Congressional committees:Notably silent in the deliberations on the floor of Congress (1774-77 & 1778-83), he was known nonetheless, as a steady head, hospitable eagerly sought after host, and appears to have done his main work behind the scenes, largely & on U.S. Congressional committees: Committee on Clothing, 1776Committee on Clothing, 1776 Board of Admiralty, 1779Board of Admiralty, 1779 Treasury Board, 1779Treasury Board, 1779 Portrait courtesy : © Eastern National Park & Mon. Assoc. & © Coastal Photo Scenics from print at Patchogue- Medford Library Local History Room

William Floyd, Brookhaven Town’s Signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Pt. 2 The American Revolution Comes to Town Edward Rutledge impatiently writing to John Jay “... tho’ good men, never quit their chairs.” Edward Rutledge impatiently writing to John Jay characterized Floyd, along with several other Congressmen as, “... tho’ good men, never quit their chairs.” After the Battle of Long Island, Floyd and his family had had to abandon their home and flee for safety (to Connecticut) With his life on the line, and a British price on his head as a Signer, his home & landed estate soon in enemy hands, he remained devoted to Congress. He may not have been keen or personally inclined to maintain a higher public profile. But, again, he is said to have rendered excellent service behind the scenes, on committees. Perhaps his hesitancy to jump deeper into the fire deserves some historical reevaluation. Perhaps his voting record might, wherever discernable, might well reward the historian’s scrutiny, speaking louder than his voice carried in the cause of American Freedom. Source: Dictioanry of American Biography:, v. 6, Echols-Fraser. Source: “Floyd, William.” Dictioanry of American Biography:, v. 6, Echols-Fraser. New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1943: p. 484.

William Floyd, Brookhaven Town’s Signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Pt. 3 The American Revolution Comes to Town Ft. St. George William Floyd’s property, as a” traitorous” member of a “false” government in rebellion against Royal & Parliamentary authority, was considered forfeit to the Crown during most of the Revolutionary War (from late 1776-late 1783), and was thoroughly picked over, burned, and devastated by war’s end. Ft. St. George, occupied by vindictive Tories, was right nearby. Floyd should be counted one of those who had sacrificed most heavily after he pledged his “life, property, and sacred honor”, to sign the Declaration of Independence. After the war, he served as a state senator, U.S. Congressman (1789- 91), ran unsuccessfully for NYS Lt. Governor (1795), was a delegate to the 1801 state constitutional convention, was again state senator in 1808, and a U.S. Presidential elector as late as 1820. died in Westernville, N.Y. in 1821. He moved upstate in 1803 & died in Westernville, N.Y. in 1821.

William Floyd, Brookhaven Town’s Signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Pt. 4 The American Revolution Comes to Town Floyd’s home still standsnow open to the public part of Fire Island National Seashore. Floyd’s home, visible in the background of his portrait (2 slides back), still stands, and is now open to the public (along with outlying buildings), as part of Fire Island National Seashore. It is partly interpreted to the era in which he and his family lived there. William Floyd’s home played host to a number of familiar luminaries of the Revolution and Early Republic Incidentally, after the war, William Floyd’s home was rebuilt and played host to a number of familiar luminaries of the Revolution and Early Republic. His daughter,Kitty Floyd James Madison & Thomas Jefferson. His daughter, Kitty Floyd, would be courted by no fewer than 2 notable colleagues from Virginia, both future U.S. Presidents: James Madison & Thomas Jefferson. She declined Madison’s hand in marriage.

A Shoe on the Other Foot: Brookhaven Under British Occupation Into the Cauldron of Despair – August – October, 1776 The Battle of Long Island (August 27, 1776), was a grand British victory, setting the stage for a long pursuit of Washington’s Army, across three provinces, ending only at the Delaware River, with startling small reversals of fortune at Trenton & Princeton (in December 1776 & January 1777). In Brookhaven Town (as across Long Island), what ensued was a harsh British military occupation, & “The World Turned Upside Down”. All the threats, humiliations, confiscations, & worse, were now a shoe on the other foot. Many local “patriotic” families fled, abandoning homes and possessions to the enemy. Others split, some staying and submitting to British rule. New York City resumed its French & Indian War role, as British Headquarters, North America. In New York City and on L.I., Tories freely recruited troops. The triumphant British would soon spread a string of forts and signal stations across the island coast (esp. in the North), facing the hostile coasts of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and unoccupied New York. Commanding heights gave clear views of New England and broad sweeps of the Sound, on a clear day. Thus the British could keep the hostile coast under observation, threaten it with raids, better protect their own movements of troops across the Island, sometimes have advance warning of American raids, and defend their gains. Forts became bases for enforcement of often unpopular & extortionate British policies (e.g., for “requisitions”, forced labor, & worse, exacting a 7-year vengeance; rendering them American targets. Indiscriminate depredations against Americans, even Loyalists, and British official mishandling of Tory relations gradually eroded local British support, & built it for the Americans.

Brookhaven Tory Recruitment Looking for a Few Bad Men? -- September 22, 1776 “This is to certify that Ensign Sam’l Glover is authorized to enlist men to join my company to complete a Bat[talion]. in his Majesty’s service, for the defence of the liberty of America. “This is to certify that Ensign Sam’l Glover is authorized to enlist men to join my company to complete a Bat[talion]. in his Majesty’s service, for the defence of the liberty of America. Given under my hand, Brookhaven, Sep. 22d, 1776. Given under my hand, Brookhaven, Sep. 22d, 1776. JACOB SMITH” JACOB SMITH” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 611) p. 55. Questions for Students & Teachers: for the defense of the liberty of America? Questions for Students & Teachers: How, as a Tory, can Jacob Smith possibly believe that he was raising troops for the defense of the liberty of America? What do you think is his idea of “liberty”? How does his view differ from ours? If both sides thought they defended American “liberty”, who really defended it? Was one side right & the other wrong? Can you think of any modern parallels between these two ideas of liberty, inside or outside the U.S.?

Returning for Family & Belongings, Re-escape, Pt. 1 Capt. Daniel Roe: Setauket Raid, Resistance, Removal September 24, 1776 “Saybrook….Last Friday a party from Lt. Col. Livingston’s detachment was put under command of Capt. Dan’l Roe, to go from Saybrook to B. Haven [Setauket], for the purpose of bringing off Roe’s family, and a no. of others. On Friday night 12 o’clock, the Capt. Left the sloop at Brook H., taking 14 men with him to assist in bringing down the family, leaving 14 under Lt. Geo. Smith on board, to guard the vessel. He pressed teams as he went to bring down the goods, not being able to procure them by other means. At 9 A.M., just as he was ready to return, he was informed by one of the guards that Richard Miller of B. Haven, a young gentleman of family and fortune, but a notorious enemy to his country (who had arms concealed in his house), was passing his house; upon which R. ordered his men to hail him, and if he refused to stop, to fire on him. He was hailed 3 times, upon which he stopped and 5 men with their pieces presented told him they would instantly kill him if he attempted to stir. He stood and viewed them half a minute, then discharged a pistol at them, and rode off with the utmost expedition, on which he was ordered several times to stop, but he refusing, five guns were

Return for Family & Belongings, Re-escape, Pt. 2 Capt. Daniel Roe: American Raid & Tory Resistance Upping the Local Stakes & Suffering, September 24, 1776 separately fired at him, the last of which a ball was shot through his body, upon which he dismounted and was carried into Capt. Roe’s house, and left in care of a no. of the inhabitants. Capt. R. being informed that one Jacob Smith, who was in conjunction with Miller, and not far distant when he was taken, had collected a party of several, and were endeavoring to surround and take him, thought it prudent to retreat on board his vessel, where he had but just time to arrive with his wife and family, being obliged to leave all his effects behind. Miller and Smith had received commissions under the King of G. Britain, and had been raising men, pressing horses and wagons, together with persons to drive them, to assist Howe in removing his baggage. They had likewise taken fat cattle from the inhabitants, and obliged them to drive them to the Ministerial Army” – Connecticut Courant, Sept. 30, 1776. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 610) p. 54.

1 st “Battle” of Setauket First Whaleboat Raid on L.I. - Fleeting Success October or November 1776 According to Frederick G. Mather, the Journal of the Provincial Congress [of New-York] mentions that George Washington issued organizational orders creating a force to raid British-held L.I. as early as September 30, 1776, and by October 10, 1776, an expedition under Col. Henry B. Livingston was outfitted and prepared to sail against Huntington, L.I. The raid was cancelled one day prior to its scheduled execution, and its troops were ordered elsewhere. Mather, citing the Journal of Congress, also says (somewhat vaguely) that a much smaller expedition was later outfitted, and executed a raid on Brookhaven (I.e., Setauket) in October or November, in which Capt. Caleb Brewster and Lt. George Smith distinguished themselves in the skirmish. Source: Frederic Gregory Mather’s The Refugees of 1776 from Long Island to Connecticut

Congressional Affairs of War, October 5, 1776 “Sundry letters were laid before Congress and read... Resolved, That the letters from General Washington and General Schuyler, with the papers enclosed, which were read yesterday, be referred to the Board of War: That the letter from Mr. Bowdoin be referred to the Marine Committee: That the letter from Governor Livingston be referred to a Committee of three, and that the said committee be directed to take into consideration the case of the prisoners in the gaol [I.e., jail] of Philadelphia. Mr. [William] Floyd. The members chosen, Mr. [Thomas] Lynch, Mr. [George] Ross, and Mr. [William] Floyd. …That the Board of War, be directed to bring and lay before Congress, the papers relative to the dispute between the court martial and General Arnold. This is while Arnold was still a patriot. Resolved, That the continental agents be directed to deliver to the commissary general, for the use of the army, all the salt in their hands belonging to the Continent....” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. “Saturday June 24, 1775,” Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789 Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. “Saturday June 24, 1775,” Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789

Risky Business Just Ahead, October 15, 1776 William Floyd to New York Committee of Safety Risky Business Just Ahead, October 15, 1776 “Gentlemen [Washington’s] Head Quarters at Harlem. October 15, 1776 Inclosed I Send you Some Resolves of Congress, with a news paper agreeable to your Desire. I yesterday sent you by Mr. Wisner ten thousand Dollars for the purpose of paying for Blankets and Cloathing to be purchased in this State; all which I hope will come safe to hand. I am now going to try to get off Some of my Effects from the Island if it is possible and Shall be absent from Congress a few Days. I beg you would Excuse me as it is the first time I have absented my Self; But it happens at a time when no Important matter was like to come before US. I am Gentlemen with the greatest Esteem, Your most Obedt. Servt. Wm Floyd” Note: Floyd, as a Signer, was literally risking his life to help his family flee, with some of their goods, to Connecticut, as the British hold on L.I. swept eastward. He would have made a fine example for the British, had he been caught. He was certainly not wanting for sheer courage. Sources: “William Floyd to the New York Committee of Safety,” U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress; and Maxwell, William Q. Portrait of William Floyd, Long Islander. Setauket, NY: Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities, 1956: pp. 20-21.

Tory Supply Requisitions & Mobilization Capt. Jacob Smith 1 st Co.mpany, 1 st Battalion, DeLancey’s Brigade October 18, 1776 instructions from head-quartersyou are forthwith to impress wagons and horses for his Majesty’s serviceThe number is unlimited; therefore do not stint the cause. “Brookhaven… Sir: -- In consequence of instructions I have just received from head-quarters, you are forthwith to impress wagons and horses for his Majesty’s service. The number is unlimited; therefore do not stint the cause. If you can’t get a sufficient number of wagons, teams will answer – a driver for every team, which you’ll send without loss of time to White Stone, near Flushing. I beg, Sir, you’ll exert yourself on this occasion. Don’t omit one moment, as it seems to be critical. Sam’l Glover” …To Sam’l Glover” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 616) p. 56.

Submission: Swallowing a Very Bitter Pill Brookhaven Officially Goes Tory -- Oct, 24, 1776 “We the Committee of the County of Suffolk being assembled by permission of His Ex. The Hon. Wm. Tryon, Esq., Gov. of N.Y. and the Territories depending thereon in America, do hereby dissolve ourselves, and do disclaim and reject the orders of Congress and Com[ittee]’s; and totally refusing obedience to them; revoking all our proceedings under the Congress; and being desirous to obey the legal authority of Gov’t, rely upon your Excellency’s clemency, hoping that you will pass by our former conduct, and be graciously pleased to protect us, agreeably to the laws of the Province. Signed by order of the Committee. John Brush, Ch’n.” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 620) p. 60.

A Raid Redirected, from Mastic to Setauket - October 28, 1776 Connecticut Gov. Jonathan Trumbull (the only royal governor to switch sides in the Revolution) ordered a raid to rescue Wm. Floyd’s effects from his Mastic Beach estate. Led by Lt. Cols. Livingston & Richmond, 36 men in 6 whaleboats, with 3 transports in tow to accommodate the goods, were to proceed across L.I. Sound, portage at the North Fork, then sail to & portage at Canoe Place (traditional L.I. Indian South Fork crossing), pass into the Great South Bay, sail to William Floyd’s Mastic estate, seize the goods, & return by that route in reverse. However, the mission became sidetracked. Capts. Caleb Brewster & Daniel Roe, & Lt. George Smith apparently swayed the decision toward diverting the raid to Setauket harbor (which they knew intimately), where, as it happened, the sloops Princess Mary and Lily, lay at dock, proving easy captures, & bearing cargoes of cordwood “requisitioned” through enforced local labor, for the Autumnal comfort of Sir William Howe’s Army, in N.Y.C. The raid next went amphibious. Livingston’s troops landed, attacked & surprised Capt. Jacob Smith’s local under-strength company of Tory infantry. 5-6 of the latter were killed and 23 captured about half, it was noted in derisive language, being L.I. Indians and African-Americans, along with “75 excellent muskets”. Total American casualties were recorded as one wounded. The sounds of fighting having given away their presence, Tory reinforcements could be reasonably expected to soon be on the road eastward from their base in Smithtown. So, the invasion force wisely, discreetly withdrew, &return to Connecticut, in triumph, though not having performed their intended mission. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY : Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 621) p. 62.

Of Loyalist Long Island Indians &African-Americans Captured in the Setauket Raid -- October 28, 1776 Motives for Enlistment?, Part 1 300-400 American troops from R.I Jacob Smith’s company,23 prisoners about half were Indians or Negroes Another account says that 300-400 American troops from R.I. landed near Setauket, attacking Jacob Smith’s company, taking its haul of 23 prisoners, noting that about half were Indians or Negroes.. What were the attractions of Loyalist service for L.I. Indians and L.I. African- Americans? Considering their lot in & treatment by colonial society, military pay scale,possible offer s of freedom improved social status, securing a better life for themselves & their families, a chance to pay back the abuse and incivilities (both real and perceived) of their erstwhile masters, Yet, then, why did so few enlist? What were the attractions of Loyalist service for L.I. Indians and L.I. African- Americans? Considering their lot in & treatment by colonial society, the attactions of the military pay scale, perhaps possible offer s of freedom or prospect of improved social status, securing a better life for themselves & their families, and a chance to pay back the abuse and incivilities (both real and perceived) of their erstwhile masters, all likely played into the decision of those cast as society’s underdogs, to enlist. Yet, then, why did so few enlist? Tories owned & some mistreated slaves, and had had their share of indentured servants, often L.I. IndiansThe keenly hierarchically-minded British& Tories were not about to overthrow the extant order, which they were defending.British officers treated auxiliaries, esp., non-European, non- white auxiliaries, with what they undoubtedly felt was the proper degree of contempt, and provided them with the more unpleasant of duties. In counterbalancing the view of Rebels as vile, it should be remembered that many Tories owned & some mistreated slaves, and had had their share of indentured servants, often L.I. Indians. The keenly hierarchically-minded British& Tories were not about to overthrow the extant order, which they were defending. British officers treated auxiliaries, esp., non-European, non- white auxiliaries, with what they undoubtedly felt was the proper degree of contempt, and provided them with the more unpleasant of duties. The usual rule of thumb for the Revolution probably held sway among L.I. Indians and African-Americans: That 1/3 were Patriots, 1/3 Tory, & 1/3 Neutral The usual rule of thumb for the Revolution probably held sway among L.I. Indians and African-Americans: That 1/3 were Patriots, 1/3 Tory, & 1/3 Neutral (adapting to the demands of the current victor).

Of Loyalist Long Island Indians &African-Americans Captured in the Setauket Raid -- October 28, 1776 Motives for Enlistment?, Part 2 proving one’s loyalty commanding some degree of grudging respect and honor The tough question was whom to serve. For Indians, and esp., African-American freedmen, proving one’s loyalty could be a matter of commanding some degree of grudging respect and honor from those generally unwilling to give it. The tough question was whom to serve. Neither the Americans nor the British wanted added enlistments swelling the ranks of the other, creating a little bargaining latitude, not ordinarily available. For slaves,keeping a low profile and awaiting events, was probably safest course, it also offered the bleakest prospect of delivery from bondage, hence enlistments.Slaves accompanied masters to war & as refugees. For slaves, keeping a low profile and awaiting events, was probably safest course, provided you had a decent master. Why not let the “masters” kill themselves. But, if it offered the fewest risks, it also offered the bleakest prospect of delivery from bondage, hence enlistments. Slaves accompanied masters to war & as refugees. Talk of liberty sounded promising, swaying some to the American cause. While there had been a long tradition of enforced submission on L.I., as elsewhere in the colonies, the place was still home, American enlistments based onpatriotism. Talk of liberty sounded promising, swaying some to the American cause. We know that Indians and African Americans fought on both sides in the American Revolution. While there had been a long tradition of enforced submission on L.I., as elsewhere in the colonies, the place was still home, esp. to those born here, or who had little hope of escape, regardless of just what home meant. So there were American enlistments based on patriotism. Rampant pillaging on L.I., by both sides, may have swayed others to choose sides. Rampant pillaging on L.I., by both sides, may have swayed others to choose sides. There’s grist here for further historical research. There’s grist here for further historical research. Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 621) p. 62.

New-York Gov. William Tryon to Lord George Germain, Pt. 1 Loyalty Oaths “24 December [1776], New York “24 December [1776], New York militia of Queens County Suffolk militia at Brookhaven My Lord, on the 10 th inst. I reviewed the militia of Queens County at Hampstead when eight hundred and twenty men were mustered, and on Thursday following I saw the Suffolk militia at Brookhaven [i.e., Setauket] where near eight hundred men appeared, to all of whom, as well as to the militia of Queens County, I had in my presence an oath of allegiance and fidelity administered, the form of which is herewith transmitted. I took much pains in explaining to the people (having formed them into circles) the iniquitous arts etc. that had been practiced on their credulity to seduce and mislead them, and I had the satisfaction to observe among them a general return of confidence in government. A very large majority of the inhabitants of Queens County have indeed steadfastly maintained their loyal principles., as have small districts in Suffolk County. Some men from South and Easthampton townships, who attended the review, assured me rebel parties from Connecticut were then on the easternmost part of the island and which prevented in general the settlers in that quarter from attending my summons, but that they are very desirous to live under a peaceable obedience to His Majesty’s authority. The enclosed letter from their Presbyterian minister will more fully explain their sentiments. Three companies I learnt had been raised out of Suffolk County for the rebel army, most of whom I was made to understand would quit that service if they could get home.

New-York Gov. William Tryon to Lord George Germain, Pt. 2 New-York Gov. William Tryon to Lord George Germain, Pt. 2 Of Rose-Colored Spectacles: “Not…the least murmur of discontent” I have the pleasure to assure your lordship through the whole of this tour I did not hear the least murmur of discontent, but a general satisfaction expressed at my coming among them; and to judge from the temper and disposition I perceived in them there is not the least apprehension of any farther commotions from the inhabitants on Long Island. All are industrious in bringing to market what provisions the island affords. The late successes of His Majesty’s arms in the Jerseys and Rhode Island will assuredly open considerable resources of provisions and forage for the army, which with the plentiful and abundant supplies from the mother county will enable this high-spirited and victorious army to take the field early next spring. The General [Sir William Howe] has been pleased to give my secretary, Colonel Fanning, a warrant to raise a battalion of provincials of five hundred men. They are to be listed for the American service and for the term of two years or during the war at the General’s option. This corps I expect will be completed so as to be ready to take the field with the army. While on Long Island I gave certificates to near three hundred men who signed the declaration prescribed by the King’s commissioners’ proclamation of the 30 th November last. Large Bodies of the people have already taken the benefit of the grace therein offered them.” Source: Documents of the American Revolution, 1770-1783, v. 12: Transcripts, 1776 (Colonial Office Series), ed. by K.G. Davies. [Dublin:] Irish University Press, 1976: p. 275.

1777 “I am fully sensible of your condition...” -- Brig. Gen. Samuel Parsons Samuel Glover, Slippery Character William the Silent Hewlett the Agitator Niceties & The Short, Hot Siege of Fort Setauket – August 22, 1777 Caught in the Act -- December 9-11, 1777 [need to expand on 1777 activities & personalities]

Disputed Territory -- A Tory on the Lam Samuel Glover, Slippery Character Captured Nov. 1, 1776 - Escaped Feb. 1, 1777 “About Nov. 1, ’77, Sam’l Glover, a notorious offender [i.e.,Tory], was, on whom were found papers…. taken at Mastic He broke jail at N[ew]. London on the night of Feb. 1, ’77, and escaped. $8 reward offered. -- Conn[ecticut]. Gaz[ette], Feb. 14, ’77” “About Nov. 1, ’77, Sam’l Glover, a notorious offender [i.e.,Tory], was, on whom were found papers…. taken at Mastic He broke jail at N[ew]. London on the night of Feb. 1, ’77, and escaped. $8 reward offered. -- Conn[ecticut]. Gaz[ette], Feb. 14, ’77” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 617) p. 56.

William the Silent William Smith, of the Manor of St. George, Silenced May 4, 1777 “Wm. Smith, member of the Council of Safety, was excused, May 4, 1777, from acting, as he has a family and estate on L.I. In the power of the enemy.” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 630) p. 64.

The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Tory Commandant The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Samuel Parsons’ Raid & Richard Hewlett’s Defense, I Tory Commandant Colonel Richard Hewlett: By 1777, which the British gleefully referred to as the “year of the hangman” (for its gibbet-like 7’s), Richard Hewlett was already a renowned, or notorious, Tory. In 1776, he had denied & then defied the new American authorities, who were attempting to disarm Tories, contacted the frigate HMS Asia, fortified his home, received British naval artillery for its defense, raised & mobilized Queens County Tory militia, threatened the dominant rebels against hostile moves, then won the Battle of Hempstead Swamp (a glorified, but important skirmish), repulsing a larger American punitive force sent to defeat him, all this prior to the British landing at Gravesend and subsequent Battle of Long Island, when it was dangerous for Tories to take a stand. Now a in charge of a reinforced regiment guarding Setauket, Hewlett’s command consisted of some 260 infantrymen, in 3 companies, under Capts. Lister, Hewlett, & Allison. He commanded an isolated outpost and had improved on a fort there.

The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Fort Setauket The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Samuel Parsons’ Raid & Richard Hewlett’s Defense, II Fort Setauket Col. Hewlett completed conversion of the local Presbyterian Church (currently also serving as a stable) into the elevated, stockaded Fort Setauket, its windows serving as artillery embrasures. Breastworks containing several artillery field pieces and a line of defensible barracks completed the works. The walls of the square fort were 6 feet high by 5 feet wide, built at a distance of roughly 30 feet from its citadel, the desecrated Presbyterian Church, with a heavy double-gate on its south face. 4 swivel cannon (a popular type of naval artillery) were mounted in the Church’s gallery windows. By comparison, the Anglican Caroline Church, next to it, being the established Church of England (named after King George II’s consort, favored by her with a dedicatory silver tea service), was scrupulously respected, spared, & attended by officers & troops. Its outspoken minister, having proven not entirely to their liking, had been removed.

The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 American Arrival, Artillery Duel, & Retreat The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Samuel Parsons’ Raid & Richard Hewlett’s Defense, III American Arrival, Artillery Duel, & Retreat Gen. Samuel Parsons, key planner of many raids from Ct. & R.I., on L.I. British outposts, launched one of his own on the morning of August 22, 1777, landing about 500 infantry & 3 brass cannon, from 3 sloops, at Mt. Misery peninsula, proceeding quickly to Fort Setauket. A picket sounded the warning, and Tory infantry hurriedly left their billets in private American homes, their colonel barely escaping capture. Hewlett immediately sent for reinforcements, which eventually began to converge, by land and sea, but not before Parsons escaped with his force. After the 18 th century niceties of siege warfare parleys, a prolonged (2-3 hour), hotly contested artillery duel ensued, musketry & small arms generally proving ineffective at the long ranges involved. The British, behind elevated fortified positions, enjoyed sweeping views of the the field below, esp. from their artillery positions in upper Church windows, & were at a distinct advantage over the more exposed, though more numerous Americans, and are said to have taken fewer losses, which seems likely. The American artillery position was reputedly at what is today called “Patriot Rock,” (a glacial erratic, which some accounts say has since been relocated, in a wooded area near Setauket Green). Most likely, American fire was directed at attempting to silence, thus gain control over, a section of the wall of the British fort, so that the wall might be charged, breached, & the fort be taken. When British ships were sighted, on the horizon, Parsons withdrew in good order,

The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 The 2 nd Battle of Setauket (Green), Aug. 22, 1777 Samuel Parsons’ Raid & Richard Hewlett’s Defense, IV: The Aftermath relatively unscathed, taking booty & quickly re-crossing the Sound. Col. Hewlett, having held his ground, retained the fort, and upheld his reputation, claimed a victory. In truth, it was a tactical draw. Later abandonment of the post rendered it more a “sleeper” American victory The parley civilities, if typical of sieges, should be noted for that reason. Today, a commemorative plaque (on another large glacial erratic), set on Setauket Green, provides an account of the “battle” (really more of a skirmish), as having taken place in two opposing lines on the green itself, more akin to the Battle of Lexington, than assault on a fort, which would have been more of a battle of position and advantage. Setauket green has contracted & changed direction slightly since 1777, according to sources. Both churches proudly display their war damage, including musket & cannonball holes. Yet, don’t some sources say they have sustained fires since the Revolution, at least one having been rebuilt? The Rhodes Collection of the Three Village Historical Society in the Emma S. Clark Memorial Library adjacent to the Green, and Library itself, are probably the best places for initial research of the engagement. This military engagement could use closer study by professional historians. Archeological testing could provide interesting clues, on the progress of the battle, though it is sacred ground, on more than one count. Results might prove fascinating, enlarging our understanding of the dimensions of the American Revolution as civil war, in our own backyard.

Parley Civilities, I Parsons to Hewlett: Playing Bluff & PsyOp: Surrender Demand August 22, 1777 I am fully sensible of your condition,my whole strength and artillery will soon be here charge it to your own obstinacy.” “Brig. Gen. Parsons, the Commanding officer of the troops of the United American Army, now investing the enemy’s post at Setauket, to prevent the effusion of human blood, requires the immediate surrender of the post; the officers and soldiers, and those who are under their protection, shall be entitled to their baggage, and treated with that humanity which prisoners are entitled to. Your answer is desired in 10 minutes. I am fully sensible of your condition, and as my whole strength and artillery will soon be here, if your refusal should oblige the effusion of blood; you must charge it to your own obstinacy.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 634) p. 66.

Parley Civilities, II Hewlett to Parsons: Delaying Tactics August 22, 1777 “Col. Hewlett’s compliments to Gen. Parsons, and requests half an hour to consult his officers on the subject of his summons.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 634) p. 66.

Parley Civilities, III Parsons to Hewlett: I Know Your Game -- Surrender with Minimal Delay August 22, 1777 “Gen. Parsons’ compliments to Col Hewlett, and grants 10 minutes only for consideration – longer time will not be granted.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 634) p. 66.

Parley Civilities, IV Hewlett to Parsons: Cards on the Table The Battle Now Commences August 22, 1777 “Col. Hewlett presents his compliments to Gen. Parsons, and is determined to defend the Fort while he has a man left.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 634) p. 66.

Parley Civilities, V Parsons to Hewlett Parting, Humorous Shot (Very 18 th Century) August 22, 1777 “Gen. Parsons’ compliments to Col. Hewlett, and should have been happy to have done himself the pleasure of paying him a longer visit, but the extreme heat of the weather prevents him.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 634) p. 66. Side note: The “extreme heat” was probably owing less to the weather than from the looming prospect of being caught in a vice of converging British forces, en route by land and sea. However, the phrasing is very much in keeping with 18 th century style wry humor.

A Disastrous American Raid -- December 9-10, 1777 A Disastrous American Raid -- December 9-10, 1777 A Naval Interception & Battle – Beached & Gone Awry – Patriot View Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties “N. London, Dec. 19. A plan having been formed to bring off or destroy a magazine of military stores which the enemy had at Setauket, on L.I., and to destroy some shipping loaded with timber at Southold, on Tuesday night of last week [December 9 th ], part of 2 Battalions of troops embarked from this State, under convoy of the sloop Schuyler, and Spy and Mifflin, schooners. Unfortunately next morning [December 10 th ], just before light, the Falkland, a British Frigate, in her passage from N.Y. to Newport, came across the Schuyler and 2 smaller vessels, when the latter run ashore on the Island, but the former in attempting to get in with the land, run on a spit of sand (called Old Man’s [off Mt. Sinai]) and was taken with about 60 troops on board, among them Cols. Ely and Sam’l B. Webb, & c. On Thursday, a party of men under Capt. Hart, marched to Southold and were very near making prisoners of Capt. Ayscough and upwards of 20 men belonging to the ship Swan, but they getting intelligence of Capt. Hart’s approach hastened to their boats. They were closely pursued, and as they were getting on board, were fired upon, when most of them were killed or wounded: 7 marines and seamen were made prisoners. Our [remaining] troops after tarrying several days on L.I., returned to the Main, without opportunity to effect any thing considerable – the shipping having left Southold, and we learn the magazine at Setauket has been removed. Connecticut Gazette, Dec. 24, 1777” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 638) p. 68-69.

Same Events, Tory Version, December 10-11, 1777 “Riv[ington’s Gazette] Dec. 13 ’77. Last Wed. morning [December 10, 1777] a party of rebels landed at Setauket and proceeded to plunder the well-affected inhabitants [I.e. Tories], and in the afternoon a reinforcement of troops was sent to Col. Hewlett in Suffolk Co. Dec. 20, we are informed that the party of 200 rebels which were lately driven ashore in Suffolk Co., had not been able to get away, as, it is said, through the vigilance of the Commanders of His Majesty’s Ships, all the boats have been secured, and the invaders betaken themselves to the woods. Dec. 15 ’77. Gaine. Three Rebel sloops (one a Privateer) made their appearance off Setauket last Wed. [Dec. 10 th ]. The Privateer was soon driven ashore and taken by one of His Majesty’s Ships at Old Man’s (7 miles east) and the crew with all the rebels on board made prisoners of war, consisting of 64 privates and some officers, among them Cols. Webb and Ely. The same say the other two sloops run into Stony Brook (4 miles west of Setauket) and being unacquainted got on a bank. They then landed two hundred men, who immediately marched to Setauket and returned the same evening to get off their sloop, but their utmost efforts were ineffectual. The next day [Dec. 11 th ] the whole body went down the Island, and about 12 o’clock passed Wading River (18 miles from where they first landed). Major Greene marched on Thursday [Dec. 11 th ] with a reinforcement of 100 men; and 200 of the Hempstead militia are likewise gone down to augment the advance body of horse and foot under Col. Hewlett at Huntington.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 638) p. 69.

1778 “The rebels have constant information by signals...” -- Rivington’s Gazette Yo Ho!: Pirate or Privateer? An Act for Regulating the Militia of the State of New York American Naval Raids & Psychological Warfare Raiders of the Lost Blue Point Oysterers Benj. Havens, “A Most Pernicious Caitiff,” Spreads Out a Table Amidst… Tryon & The March of the Twelve Hundred Submission& Extortion Shore-Side Spectacle Dayton: A Prisoner of New York Setauket-Smithtown Raid Carrot & Stick: Politely Ruthless British Economic Blackmail

Breaching the Line Between Privateering & Piracy Questions – Pillage or Salvage?, Rebel or Tory Marauders? February 12, 1778 12 rebels seized at Coram, 2 wagons loaded with dry goods, “Feb 16, 1778. Gaine. About two o’clock last Thursday morning [February 12 th ], a party of 12 rebels seized at Coram, 2 wagons loaded with dry goods, the property of Oba. Wright of South Hampton. These marauders had been several days on the Island, visited most parts of the County, and committed many robberies, esp. at the house of Col. Floyd, which they robbed of goods and cash, to a considerable amount, and took thence some property of Mr. Dunbar, who rides down the Island occasionally and happened to lodge in the house that night.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 643) p. 71.

An Act for Regulating the Militia of the State of New York Passed the 3d of April, 1778 “WHEREAS the Wisdom and Experience of Ages, point out a well regulated Militia, as the only secure Means for defending a State, against external Invasions, and internal Commotions and Insurrections; And whereas this and the other United States of America, are now invaded by foreign Enemies, and the Safety of this State may be endangered by intestine [internecine?] Commotions and Insurrections; And whereas it is therefore become the Duty of the Legislature of this State, to put the Militia thereof, on such an Establishment, as will most effectually [Transcription needs to be completed with addition of source]

Successful American Raid on Stony Brook Harbor 2 Prize Ships Taken -- Caught Napping Successful American Raid on Stony Brook Harbor 2 Prize Ships Taken -- Caught Napping April 11, 1778 “Ap. 11, was taken from Stonybrook Harbor by 2 whaleboats, manned with 13 Continental troops, a sloop and schooner, loaded chiefly with wood. The schooner is of 60 tons, and armed with 4 swivels [I.e., swivel guns]; the sloop of 40; both arrived in safe ports with 4 prisoners. N. Haven, Ap. 21 ’78.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 649) p. 72. Note: Prizes (captured ships) could be sold for a profit, shared out among officers and crew, whether seized by a privateer or a navy warship, even a whaleboat. Prizes were one of the chief motivators for men to go to sea & take risks in wartime, during this era. A prize might be incorporated into either the Continental, State, Provincial or British navies, or be granted permission to act, in turn, as a privateer.

Sound Passage, Portage, Gt. S. Bay Raid & Safe Return May 9, 1778 “New London, May 15, 1778 Sunday night last [May 9 th ], 2 boats under the command of Cap. Dayton and Chester, with 14 men in both, went to L.I., and carrying one of the boats across a narrow part of the Island at S. Hampton [probably Canoe Place], they went about 60 miles [west] up the S. side of the island to Fire I. Inlet, and took possession of 5 sail of coasting vessels which lay there, laden with lumber, oysters, household furniture, some dry goods, provisions, &c. The prizes are all safe arrived. More might have been brought off, could they have manned them. Among the prisoners is a British Sergeant.” -- Gaine, June 1, ’78. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 657) p. 74-75.

Tories Acknowledge British Intelligence Gap on L.I. American Psychological Warfare Gaining Rivington’s Gazette, May 16, 1778 “The rebels have constant information by signals from many disloyal Islanders [I.e., Patriots] residing between Huntington and Setauket of every vessel passing up the Sound, as well as of the situation of persons and things in severall parts of L.I.; and they also convey all the information their emissaries daily procure of the several occurrences in N.Y. City.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 651) p. 73.

American Whaleboat Raid on Blue Point Bay May 25, 1778 “4 more whale-boats have again made their appearance in Blue Pt. Bay, and intend to prevent any boats resorting thither; they lay on the beach and get necessaries from the inhabitants in that neighborhood. – May 25, Gaine.” “4 more whale-boats have again made their appearance in Blue Pt. Bay, and intend to prevent any boats resorting thither; they lay on the beach and get necessaries from the inhabitants in that neighborhood. – May 25, Gaine.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 655) p. 74.

The Blue Point Oyster Raid May 10, 1778 commanded by oneDayton from Corum “Sunday night, 10 th inst., 2 whale boats, 7 men in each, came to Blue Point, and took thence 5 boats lying there with oysters, owned by Tho’s Myng, Amos Underhill, John Rapalje, Sam’l Toby, and Mr. Cameron. This party was commanded by one [Ebenezer] Dayton from Corum, and were all well armed. Next in command was Wm. Clark, formerly a rebel Lt, who had the benefit of Howe’s Proclamation; and after taking the oaths to Government, he kept a shop near B. Haven, where by making private lotteries, & c., he converted his effects into cash, and about 4 or 5 weeks ago eloped to Conn. This party (14 in number) are a species of plunderers distinct from the rebel troops.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 654) pp. 73-74.

2 nd Blue Point Raid 2 nd Blue Point Raid May 25, 1778 “4 more whale-boats have again made their appearance in Blue Pt. Bay, and intend to prevent any boats resorting thither; they lay on the beach and get necessaries from the inhabitants in that neighborhood.” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 655) p. 74.

Brookhaven Town Shores Raided, North & South June 5-6, 1778 Blue Pt., June 6 th Brook Haven Harbor Drowned MeadowsPort Jefferson “Friday 5 th inst., Eben[ezar]. Dayton, with 6 others, by stratagem, took Mr. McIntire’s sloop whilst they lay near Blue Pt., and stripped a sloop of Lindley Murray. Next day [June 6 th ] another party composed of Rogers, Halsey, Sayer, and White, collected at S. Hampton with a no. of others, to prevent provisions being sent to N.Y.; and that night a party from the Main in a whaleboat seized a sloop at the entrance of Brook Haven [i.e., Setauket] Harbor, with a quantity of goods from N.Y. for the use of the inhabitants of that neighborhood; and the same night they plundered the house of Philip Roe, at Drowned Meadows [today’s Port Jefferson], 3 miles east, of a considerable quantity of goods and cash…..” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 656) p. 74.

“A Most Pernicious Caitiff”: Or, Ho-Down at the Place of Havens Laying Out a Table Amidst the Host of Mine Enemies Benjamin Havens Hosts a Rebel Feast, in Moriches British-Occupied Brookhaven Town, Mid-June 1778 Rivington’s Gazette, July 3, 1779: Several of our inhabitants entertain and join with the plundering parties. party of Rebels had a feast at the house ofBenj. Havens at Moriches Wm. Philips, Benajah Strong “Suffolk Co., Ju. 21. The most notorious rebels boast they can have goods from N.Y. as usual. Several of our inhabitants entertain and join with the plundering parties. Last week a party of Rebels had a feast at the house of Benj. Havens at Moriches (a most pernicious caitiff), and several of the inhabitants attended this frolic. Wm. Philips, Benajah Strong (who was privy to the murder of Maurice Seaman, at Islip) and Caleb Brewster, gave this entertainment.” Thumbing one’s nose at the invader was an esp. dangerous game in occupied territory.But then their game was already quite dangerous, and if even some British attention could be diverted from Washington, it served the cause. Note: Thumbing one’s nose at the invader was an esp. dangerous game in occupied territory. But then their game was already quite dangerous, and if even some British attention could be diverted from Washington, it served the cause. Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 675) p. 78.

March of the Twelve Hundred August 8, 1778 “Gov. Tryon has marched down the Island, and is now at Setauket with 1200 men. He orders the farmers to thresh out the grain immediately. The stock on L.I., it is expected, will be taken for the King’s use.” Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 663) pp. 75-76.

Nominal Submission & The Power of Self-Delusion Gov. Tryon Reports, September 5, 1778 “I arrived just last evening from the East end of L.I., with a detachment of near 1000 Provincials, where I had marched to secure the peaceable behavior of the disaffected inhabitants in that quarter, and assist the Commissary in obtaining about 1000 fat cattle for the army. Inclosed is the oath I administered to all the inhabitants on the north side of the Island, giving them the alternative, either to take the oath, or remove with their families and furniture to Conn. Not one of the whole chose the latter; even the hottest rebels said my proposal was generous, which convinces me that the acrimony of opposition is much softened by the late concessions of the Government. [Royal Gov. of N.-Y.] Tryon” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 664) p. 76. Note: This applied to Brookhaven villages along Tryon’s route of march.

British Winter Emergency Straw Requisition Everyone Invited to Endure a Good Threshing September 10, 1778 “ Forage Office, New-York, Sept. 10, 1778. The Farmers on New-York Island, Long- and Staten Island, hereby required immediately to thrash out their grain, as the STRAW is wanted for the use of his Majesty’s troops, for which they will be paid at the usual rate, on producing certificates of the delivery from the Deputy Commissaries at the different posts of Brooklyn and Flushing, on Long-Island, at Coles-Ferry on Staten Island; and at Kingsbridge, Mardton’s Wharf, and Bear-Market, on the New-York Island; with the same allowance for transportation as they received last year. GEORGE BRINLEY, Commissary of Forage” Source: [Rivington’s] Royal Gazette, Sat., January 16, 1779: p. 1.

The Fire Place Raid: A Shore-Side Spectacle Naval Battle in the Bay – October 27, 1778 “Nov. 2, 1778, GaineOct. 27 th “Nov. 2, 1778, Gaine. Last Tuesday afternoon [Oct. 27 th ] 3 men in a small schooner, with 4 swivels [I.e., swivel guns] and a cohorn, was attacked by 2 whale-boats with about 10 men in each at Fire Place [Brookhaven village]. The boats went up with full resolution, to board the schooner, and when within about 20 yards, they received such a dose of from the cohorn, as obliged them to sheer off, when most of their oars were seen to drop by the people on shore who were spectators of the action, which was well fought on both sides; but the boats, after having 9 of their men killed and several wounded, were obliged to return to the shore.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 670) p. 77.

Moriches Bay Area Briefly Contested November 16-21, 1778 Nov. 16 th a prize brig came ashore oppositeSt. George’s Manor, loaded with tobacco.Nov. 20 th privateer sloop and 4 whale-boatsfrom N. London appeared in the Bay,seen to ply between the prize and privateer,carried off part of the cargo. Nov. 21 st ]boats made an attack onschooner and a slooparrived from N. Yorkwere repulsed by bothMr. [Ebenezar] Dayton, who, ‘tis said, commanded the boats, carried his wounded men ashore to the house ofCapt. Josiah SmithMoriches,the privateer sloop driving ashore,was taken by the people belonging to the 2 small vessels from N.Y.Gaine, Nov. 30, ’78.” “14 days since [Nov. 16 th ] a prize brig came ashore opposite St. George’s Manor, loaded with tobacco. Friday following [Nov. 20 th ] a privateer sloop and 4 whale-boats from N. London appeared in the Bay, and were seen to ply between the prize and privateer, and ‘tis supposed, carried off part of the cargo. Next day [Nov. 21 st ] the boats made an attack on a schooner and a sloop that had arrived from N. York, but were repulsed by both; when Mr. [Ebenezar] Dayton, who, ‘tis said, commanded the boats, carried his wounded men ashore to the house of Capt. Josiah Smith, of Moriches, and the privateer sloop driving ashore, was taken by the people belonging to the 2 small vessels from N.Y. Gaine, Nov. 30, ’78.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 673) p. 78.

Dayton: A Prisoner in New York Scourge of the Bay at Bay, November 25, 1778 “Capt. Eben. Daytonin the sloopRanger 45 men,6 carriage guns, and 12 swivels, blunderbusses, muskets, hand grenadoes was taken in [Great] South BayNov 20, ’78by Capt. Stout of a N.Y. Privateer brought to N.Y. Weds. LastNov. 25 th “Capt. Eben. Dayton in the sloop Ranger [earlier referred to as “the privateer sloop”] of 45 men, 6 carriage guns, and 12 swivels, blunderbusses, muskets, hand grenadoes (to throw on the deck of the vessel attacked as they run her aboard with whale-boats), was taken in [Great] South Bay [Nov 20, ’78] by Capt. Stout of a N.Y. Privateer, and brought to N.Y. Weds. Last [Nov. 25 th ].” Rivington’ s Gazette, Dec. 5, ’78 Rivington’ s Gazette, Dec. 5, ’78 Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 675) p. 78.

Loyalist Officers Not Even Safe in Their Beds A Colonel is Caught Napping, November 27, 1778 “December 2, 1778, Rivington’s Gazette “December 2, 1778, Rivington’s Gazette Nov. 27 th Col. Benj. Floyd, of Setauket,George, son of Job Smith, of Smithtown, and Isaac, son of Epenetus Smith, with 12 others beset the houseGeorge obliged a domestic to show him where the Col. Slept,whom he surprised and led to the thieves waiting at the door. They then triumphantly hurried him over to Norwalk Last Friday night [Nov. 27 th ], a few minutes after Col. Benj. Floyd, of Setauket, had gone to bed, George, son of Job Smith, of Smithtown, and Isaac, son of Epenetus Smith, with 12 others beset the house, and George obliged a domestic to show him where the Col. Slept, whom he surprised and led to the thieves waiting at the door. They then triumphantly hurried him over to Norwalk [Connecticut].” Source:. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 674) p. 78. Raids on L.I. seeking suitable captures for high ranking prisoner exchanges happened more than a few times, during the Revolution. Raids on L.I. seeking suitable captures for high ranking prisoner exchanges happened more than a few times, during the Revolution.

War Price Inflation & Courting the Colonials, with Carrot & Stick By the Grace of His Excellency, the C-in-C, December 9, 1778 “Forage-Office, New York, Dec. 9, 1778. The Commander in Chief [Sir Henry Clinton] having taken into consideration the price of Forage, does not think it adequate to other articles, and is pleased to order, that from and after the above date, the following prices should be paid until further orders. Currency For good Upland Hay, 8s[hillings]. per cwt. [quart?] Salt Hay4s. per ditto. Straw3s. per ditto. Indian Corn 10s. per bushel. Oats 7s. Per ditto. And Two Shillings and Six Pence a Ton for every miles carting or water-carriage ; he has allowed these ample prices, that no further delay may be made by the Farmers in bringing in all the Hay, both Fresh and Salt to the most contiguous Magazines, where they will receive certificates for the quantity delivered, which will be paid at the Forage-Office, New-York, and has directed me to acquaint them, that any person that is found delinquent after this notice, will have their Forage taken, and no receipts given. GEORGE BRINLEY, Commissary Forage.” Source: [Rivington’s] Royal Gazette, Sat., February 10, 1779: p. 1.

1779 “Their Approach was Like Death to Us.” -- Abraham Woodhull, Setauket Spy Vermont on Their Minds (Wm. Floyd & Geo. Clinton) British Extortion of Supplies (Imposing Privations) English Mist, Santa Lucia! Relief of NYS Commissary, but not of VT Headaches Brookhaven Rebel Estates De-fenced & Defoliated Provisioners – The Infernal Crew! Of Phantom Military Campaigns & State Session Laws Financial Straits of a Congressional Delegate (Wm. Floyd) Something Fishy: Admiralty & Arnold’s Accounts The Very Personal Risks & Hazards of Espionage Accounting for a Revolution

Wm. Floyd to NYS Gov. Geo. Clinton: VT on Their Minds Congressional Diversionary Tactics -- January 5, 1779 “Sir, Philadelphia, Jan. 5 th. 1779. I do myself the pleasure to enclose this day’s paper to you, containing the ultimatum of Congress on the affair of Finance, and a publication from Common Sense with what other little news we have here. The publications of Mr. [Silas] Dean[e], and Mr. [Thomas]Paine, makes a great talk in this place, and I am afraid will throw Congress and the people at large into violent parties. I am told that the late President declined his seat as president because Congress would not take up Mr. Dean’s publication in a way which he thought proper. In ballotting for a new President, they came in favor of Mr. [John] Jay, who is now our President. I mentioned the affair to Mr. Drayton who fully agreed with me that the consequences of their holding their independence would be a means of producing fifty new States, therefore must by no means be allowed. There is nothing yet done with respect to Vermont, business, not owing to any neglect of our members [I.e., by NYS delegates], but that it was not possible to bring on that, or any other matter of importance, while the grand business of Finance was under consideration. Now that is over, I expect we Shall Soon take it up, and I obtain Something decisive from Congress on the Subject. In conversation yesterday, I mentioned the affair to Mr. Drayton who fully agreed with me that the consequences of their holding their independence would be a means of producing fifty new States, therefore must by no means be allowed. From, Sr., your most obedt. Servt. Wm. Floyd” Source:: Letters of Delegates to Congress, v. 11 (Oc 1, 1778-Ja 31, 1779), American Memory Project, http://memory.loc…

Supply Extortion (Imposing Privations) An Army Living Off the Land: A Reminder, Pt. 1 January 22, 1779 “By MAJOR GENERAL JONES, Commandant of New-York, PROCLAMATION PROCLAMATION By aProclamation of His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton December 20, 1777 The Commander in Chief has been pleased to order that Proclamation remain in force, and be strictly, observed, By a Proclamation of His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, dated New York, December 20, 1777, the farmers of Long-Island and Staten Island, were ordered to thrash and bring to market, by stated periods such proportions of Wheat, Rye, and Indian Corn, in their possession, as they did not stand in need of for the support of their families, and sowing their lands: They were required also, to give an account to the Colonels of militia of their respective districts, what quantities of grain they possessed, and what it might be necessary to reserve for the above uses. The Commander in Chief has been pleased to order that Proclamation remain in force, and be strictly, observed, the rates excepterd, which as an encouragement for an ample supply of the markets are to be as follow. Shillings Wheat,26 currency per bushel. Wheat Flour,80 - per cwt. [quart] Rye, 10 - per Bushel. Rye Meal, 30 - per Cwt. Indian Corn,10 - per Bushel.

Supply Extortion (Imposing Privations) An Army Living Off the Land: A Reminder, Pt. 2 January 22, 1779 Shillings. Indian Meal,28 - per Cwt. Buckwheat, 7 - per Bushel. Buckwheat Meal, 26 - per Cwt. half of the forfeitureto the Informerthe other halffor the use of the poor oftownship where the offence is committed It is therefore ordered, that from after the first day of February next, no greater price for any of the above articles, shall be demanded, offered or received, on the penalty of the person offending, forfeiting on being convicted on oath, before the Police of New-York, or the Colonel of the militia of the district on Long-Island or Staten Island, where the offence is committed, the Grain, Flour, Corn or Meal, so offered to be sold or purchased, or the value thereof, and to suffer imprisonment till the said forfeiture is paid, the one half of the forfeiture to be paid to the Informer, and the other half for the use of the poor of this city, or the township where the offence is committed. Colonels of militia on Long-Island hereby required, to take an account of whatquantities of Wheat, Rye, Indian Corn, Grain, Flour, or Meal are in their respective districts, and in whole possession; and report the same as soon as possible to the Commander of New- York. The Police of New-York, and the Colonels of militia on Long-Island and Staten Island are hereby required, to take an account of what quantities of Wheat, Rye, Indian Corn, Grain, Flour, or Meal are in their respective districts, and in whole possession; and report the same as soon as possible to the Commander of New- York. New-York, January 22, 1779. D. JONES, Major General.” Source: [Rivington’s] Royal Gazette, Sat., February 10, 1779: p. 1.

Little Excitement Hails in from the Caribbean English Mist, Santa Lucia!: Forwarding News to NYS Wm. Floyd to Geo. Clinton – February 2, 1779, Pt. 1 “Sir, Philadelphia, Feb. 2d 1779. Inclosed I Send you a News paper which Contains the Chief of the News that is here, Except by a vessel Just arrived from Martinique in 13 days, and another at Baltimore in 10 days we are Informed, that the Count d’Estaing, Cruising in the West Indies in Expectation of meeting with the English, which went from New York last fall, unluckily mist [sic] of them; they [the British] went directly to St. Lucia and took that place, the Count Soon getting notice thereof went there; when he arrived, he found their Ships Covered [I.e., protected] with Such Strong Batteries that he did not think it proper to Risk his own to attack them, But Concluded to attack them by Land, for which purpose Landed his Troops, what number is uncertain, Some Say 5, 6, or more thousand men. The Count being apprehensive that Admiral Byron might arrive there with his fleet and be too Strong for him, which precipitated him to attack them by Storming hteir Stronghold, he was Repulsed with very Considerable Loss, Some Say near 1500 men; he Returned with the Remainder of his men and Ships to Martinique and is now Joyned by 6 Capitol [I.e., capital] Ships from France, and it is Said with

Little Excitement Hails in from the Caribbean VT & Other NYS Concerns: Forwarding News to NYS Wm. Floyd to Geo. Clinton – February 2, 1779, Pt. 2 Several Thousand men; this augmentation of his navy will make him Superior to Byron, and Enable him to Strike the Enemy where he pleases, without being under a necessity of making any Rash attempts. General Washington The application you made to General Washington Sometime Since, and which they did not think them Selves authorised to with Respect to the Demands on the Commissary and Quarter master, pay, he laid before Congress, and they thereupon Resolved that the Commissary and Quartermaster be directed to pay all Such of those accounts as your Excellency Should Judge proper. I am Sorry as well as Grieved, that I am not able to Inform you that Something is done in that Important affair of Vermont. There has nothing Important to our State, that has lately passed in Congress, the Grand Business which has for a Considerable time taken up their attention and is not yet finished, is the arranging and Recruiting our army. When any thing of Importance happens here I Shall do my Self the pleasure to Inform you. In the mean time I am S’r your most humble Serv’t Wm. Floyd.” Source:: Letters of Delegates to Congress, v. 11 (Oc 1, 1778-Ja 31, 1779), American Memory Project, http://memory.loc…

Permission to Pillage: February 5, 1779 Brookhaven Rebel Estates to be De-fenced & Defoliated Permission to Pillage: February 5, 1779 Brookhaven Rebel Estates to be De-fenced & Defoliated Hints that the British Army was Losing the Minds & Hearts of Local Tories “By the Permission of the Commandant of New-York. “By the Permission of the Commandant of New-York. not under the protection of Government PERMISSION will be granted to the Farmers and Gardeners, of these islands (that have not wood on their lands proper for fencing) to cut railing for fences, on the lands of persons not under the protection of Government, on Long Island, or Staten Island. Complaints have been made, that the wood cutters have broke down the fences, and done other damage on cultivated lands, such offenders will upon proof be severely punished, and forfeit their claims to any further Permits. The Permits granted to cut firewood for the use of the city are to expire the first day of March next. New Permits will be granted. Applications are to be made to the Police of New-York. D. JONES, Maj. Gen. New-York, February 5, 1779.” Source: [Rivington’s] Royal Gazette, Sat., February 10, 1779: p. 1.

Taxation with Representation – Floyd’s Pleasure Taxation with Representation – Floyd’s Pleasure Provisioners: The Infernal Crew – A Pointed Inquiry William Floyd to John McKesson, Pt. 1, February 18, 1779 “Sir, I Recd. Your Letter by the Governors Express, and am very much Obliged to you for the many usefull Informations it Contains, and particular that a tax Bill has passed the Assembly, upon a plan which if the Assessors Does their Duty faithfully And honestly must Bring in a very handsome Sum of Money, I am pleased with your Representation of it, And hope it will pass the Senate and Answer the Valuable purposes Intended. “Sir, I Recd. Your Letter by the Governors Express, and am very much Obliged to you for the many usefull Informations it Contains, and particular that a tax Bill has passed the Assembly, upon a plan which if the Assessors Does their Duty faithfully And honestly must Bring in a very handsome Sum of Money, I am pleased with your Representation of it, And hope it will pass the Senate and Answer the Valuable purposes Intended. I am Sorry to hear that the troops in and About the [Hudson] Highlands are so Short of provisions, and am much Surprised when you Say that not more than ten Days provisions are purchased. Whatcan be the Cause of this?Is the Commissaries deficient in their Duty or it there a Real Scarcity; I should be glad to be Informed to which of these Causes it may be attributed or to what other.” I am Sorry to hear that the troops in and About the [Hudson] Highlands are so Short of provisions, and am much Surprised when you Say that not more than ten Days provisions are purchased. What can be the Cause of this? Is the Commissaries deficient in their Duty or it there a Real Scarcity; I should be glad to be Informed to which of these Causes it may be attributed or to what other.” “The Observations which you have made in your letter on money matters I think is well worth the notice of our TreasuryBench, and therefore I Shall Lay that part of it before them, as in my opinion there are some hints which may be usefull to them. “The Observations which you have made in your letter on money matters I think is well worth the notice of our Treasury Bench, and therefore I Shall Lay that part of it before them, as in my opinion there are some hints which may be usefull to them.

Provisioners: The “Infernal Crew”!, Part 1 William Floyd’s Temper Flares William Floyd to John McKesson, Pt. 2, February 18, 1779 As to those Cursed, Deputies Comsys [Commissaries], Qrs [Quartermasters], & forage Masters, I don’t very well know what can be Done with them; I know they are an Infernal Crew, very few Excepted, Saping the very foundation of this Continent - proper Information given to the heads of those Departments Of the MaleConduct of those Deputies is the only Method that at present strikes me as proper to Regulate those fellows, unless the Governor should Exercise the Authority given him by Congress to Remove from office or suspend such of them as do not behave well therein.” As to those Cursed, Deputies Comsys [Commissaries], Qrs [Quartermasters], & forage Masters, I don’t very well know what can be Done with them; I know they are an Infernal Crew, very few Excepted, Saping the very foundation of this Continent - proper Information given to the heads of those Departments Of the MaleConduct of those Deputies is the only Method that at present strikes me as proper to Regulate those fellows, unless the Governor should Exercise the Authority given him by Congress to Remove from office or suspend such of them as do not behave well therein.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to the Continental Congress, v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779 – William Floyd to John McKesson. Washington, DC: Library of Congress, 1976-2000. http://memory.loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/r?ammem/hlaw:@field(DOCID+@lit(dg012102))

Provisioners: The “Infernal Crew”!, Part 2 Of Phantom Military Campaigns & StateSession Laws William Floyd to John McKesson, Pt. 3, February 18, 1779 “As General Washington has the Direction of the Army and All Expeditions are Left with him he will Do what he thinks proper therein, But I have no Expectation of Any Northern Expedition, Except to the westward of Albany and I do not of any there. “As General Washington has the Direction of the Army and All Expeditions are Left with him he will Do what he thinks proper therein, But I have no Expectation of Any Northern Expedition, Except to the westward of Albany and I do not of any there. You’l Be kind Enough to Continue your Correspondence, I should be Glad to hear what Laws pass this Session – from Sir, your very humble Servt. You’l Be kind Enough to Continue your Correspondence, I should be Glad to hear what Laws pass this Session – from Sir, your very humble Servt. Wm. Floyd” Wm. Floyd” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. “William Floyd to John McKesson,” Letters of Delegates to Congress

Financial Straits of a Congressional Delegate William Floyd to N.Y.S. Gov. George Clinton -- February 20, 1779 “Sir, …The money which I Rec’d as of our Treasurer for the purpose of Bearing my Expenses here, happened to be mostly of the two Emitions which were put out of Circulation about the time I arrived here. Some of it I have Changed the Rest I cannot [remember: each state, like a separate sovereign nation at this point, had its own currency, and didn’t have to honor that of another], without a Loss of ten per Cent. [exchange rate & exchange fees], and God knows I am not in Circumstances to put it on Interest [remember, his estate on L.I. was in British hands, providing no source of income]; therefore, I Enclose it to your Excellency, and Beg you would Desire Mr. Benson to give it to the Treasurer that he may make a memorandum on the back of my Receipt; there is 568 Doll[ar]’s. I Shall be under a Necessity (Contrary to my Inclination), to get from the Continental Treasury Some money on Credit of our State to Bear my Expenses Our necessary Expence here is far beyond any thing I had an Idea of....I am with the Greatest Respect S’r your most obedt and humble Serv’t Wm. Floyd” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress. v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779William Floyd to George Clinton Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress. v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779 -- William Floyd to George Clinton Washington, DC: Library of Congress, 1976-2000. http://memory.loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/r?ammem/hlaw:@field(DOCID+@lit(dg012112)) http://memory.loc.gov/cgi- bin/query/r?ammem/hlaw:@field(DOCID+@lit(dg012112))

Something Fishy: Admiralty & Arnolds Accounts Floyd’s Committee Appointments,& Cong’l. Resolutions February 20, 1779 “On motion of Mr. [William] Floyd, “On motion of Mr. [William] Floyd, Resolved, That a member be elected for the Board of Admiralty in the room of Mr. [William] Floyd: Resolved, That a member be elected for the Board of Admiralty in the room of Mr. [William] Floyd: The member chosen, Mr. [William] Ellery. The member chosen, Mr. [William] Ellery. Resolved, That two members be added to the committee on General [Benedict] Arnold’s accounts in the room of Mr. [Henry] Laurens and Mr. [James] Mercer. Resolved, That two members be added to the committee on General [Benedict] Arnold’s accounts in the room of Mr. [Henry] Laurens and Mr. [James] Mercer. [Note: This is well prior to Benedict Arnold’s defection.] [Note: This is well prior to Benedict Arnold’s defection.] The members chosen Mr. [William] Floyd and Mr. [Thomas] Burke. The members chosen Mr. [William] Floyd and Mr. [Thomas] Burke. Resolved, That all matters heretofore referred to the marine committee be transmitted to the Board of Admiralty....” Resolved, That all matters heretofore referred to the marine committee be transmitted to the Board of Admiralty....” Source: Source: Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to the Continental Congress, v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779 – Washington, DC: Library of Congress, 1976-2000.

“Their Approach Was Like Death to Us” The Very Personal Risks & Hazards of Espionage April 24, 1779 & December 12, 1779 Abraham Woodhull to B. Tallmadge & G. Washington Abraham Woodhull to B. Tallmadge & G. Washington “I purpose this only to inform you of my misfortune on the 24 th of April, 1779. John Wolsey returned from Connecticut, being paroled, and lodged information against me before Coll. Simcoe of the Queens Rangers, who thinking to find me at Setauket, came down, but happily I set out for New York the day before his arriva[l], and to make some compensation for the voige he fell upon my father and plundered him in a most shocking manner. I hearing of it and his intentions, used every endeavor to defeat his designs, which I happily did in a measure by a friend of mine making interest with the Gen’l aid and only that saved me. I have the pleasure to inform you my fears are much abated since the troops have been with us. Their approach was like death to us. Did not know whether to stand or fall. Had they been the Queens Rangers or [Tarleton’s?] Legion should have been with you before now. Were I now (December 12, 1779) in the State of New Jersey without fear of Law or Gospel, would certainly kill Coll. Simcoe for his usage to me.”

Accounting for a Revolution William Floyd’s Treasury Committee Curbing Army Financial Shenanigans, Pt. 1 Resolutions Arrive to Cut Back Army Pay – May 22, 1779 “The Committee on the Treasury having received the representation (No 1) from the Board of War on the necessity of some alteration in the manner of keeping the accounts of the expenditures for the Army, inconsequence of the establishment of a pay office for that Board, and having referred the same to the Pay Master General and Mr Johnston, Auditor for the Army, the said Pay Master General and Auditor make their report in the paper (No 2) which being submitted to the Auditor General, he reported his opinion thereon in the paper (No 1), which are severally referred to. And your Committee having considered the said representation and reports, and being satisfied of the necessity of reducing the accounts of the pay and money allowances to the army to one view, without which stoppages cannot regularly be made or Justice done to the public, and being also of the opinion that the books to be kept for this purpose may be so formed as to serve as auxilliary to the books of the Treasury, beg leave to submit the following resolutions:

Accounting for a Revolution – William Floyd’s Treasury Committee Curbing Army Financial Shenanigans, Pt. 2 Keeping the Local Account Keepers More Honest– May 22, 1779 Resolved, That the paymaster general shall keep his office in the place where Congress may from time to time hold their sessions: That he be allowed to employ as many clerks as shall be judged necessary by the Board of Treasury. That he be authorized to superintend the several deputy pay masters general, whose duty it shall be to make monthly returns to him and reasonable applications for money for the use of the army; to follow his directions in the mode of keeping their accounts, and all other matters relative to their office: That all accounts of advances made by any of the states, or any officer or person whatsoever, for the pay of the continental army or for the recruiting service, shall be delivered to the deputy paymaster general of the district where such advances may be made; and so much of the said accounts as may be lost by as aforesaid, shall be disallowed by the public; and the said deputies are hereby directed to keep a copy of such accounts in a book to be provided by them for that purpose, and to transmit the originals immediately to the pay master general:

Accounting for a Revolution – William Floyd’s Treasury Committee Curbing Army Financial Shenanigans, Pt. 3 Keeping the Paymasters & Auditors More Honest – May 22, 1779 That the pay master general shall keep regular books, and charge therein all monies that have been, or may be advanced to the deputies in the several departments: and when he receives their monthly returns shall give them credit for the same, charging the several regiments or persons to whom such advances have been made, and transmitting their accounts to the auditors of the army respectively: That the auditors of the army in the several districts make monthly returns to the paymaster general of the accounts settled in their office, particularly specifying the manner in which such accounts were balanced, and the date of settlement: That a deputy pay master general be appointed for the army, under the immediate command of his Excellency George Washington. Resolved, That it be referred to the Committee on the Treasury to consider and report the allowances of pay to be made to the deputy pay master general at the main army, as well as to the deputy pay masters general in the other districts, and to the clerks of the several deputy pay masters general. Resolved, That the assistant auditor general and secretary of the Board of Treasury be respectively allowed the same salary as is granted to a commissioner of the chamber of accounts.

Accounting for a Revolution – William Floyd’s Treasury Committee Curbing Army Financial Shenanigans, Pt. 4 Keeping the Paymasters & Auditors More Honest – May 22, 1779 In consequence of a nomination by the Board of Treasury, Congress proceeded to an election of an assistant auditor general, and a secretary to the Board of Treasury; and the ballots being taken, Joseph Nourse was elected assistant auditor general; Robert Troup secretary to the Board of Treasury. Resolved, That so much of the report as recommends that ‘So much of the accounts of advances made by any of the states, or any officer or person whatever, for the pay of the continental army, or for the recruiting service…as may be lost by neglecting to deliver them, as aforesaid, be disallowed by the public’ be recommitted. Resolved, that William Calladay, Matthew Strong, James Johnson, Samuel Nicholas, William Gray, John Graff, Jr., Jacob Masoner, John Hazlewood, and Daniel Wistar, be appointed signers of the continental bills of credit.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to the Continental Congress, v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779 –Washington, DC: Library of Congress, 1976-2000.

Gov. George Clinton, William Floyd, & Congress Gov. George Clinton, William Floyd, & Congress Revolution within a Revolution – Delay & Irresolution Congress Procrastinates on Issue of Vermont Independence May 22, 1779 “A letter, of [May] 18, from G. Clinton, governor of New York, was read, enclosing copies of sundry papers, viz. No. 1. A petition of the committees of Cumberland county; 2. A letter of Colonel [Eleazer] Patterson of Cumberland county to Governor Clinton, May 5, 1779; 3. Governor Clinton’s letter of May 14, in answer to the petition of the committees of Cumberland county; [4.] A printed pamphlet, entitled, A public defence of the right of the New Hampshir grants, &c. and sundry other papers relative to the dispute between the State of New York and the inhabitants of a certain district “A letter, of [May] 18, from G. Clinton, governor of New York, was read, enclosing copies of sundry papers, viz. No. 1. A petition of the committees of Cumberland county; 2. A letter of Colonel [Eleazer] Patterson of Cumberland county to Governor Clinton, May 5, 1779; 3. Governor Clinton’s letter of May 14, in answer to the petition of the committees of Cumberland county; [4.] A printed pamphlet, entitled, A public defence of the right of the New Hampshir grants, &c. and sundry other papers relative to the dispute between the State of New York and the inhabitants of a certain district stiling themselves inhabitants of the State of Vermont. Ordered, That it be referred to the committee of the whole...Congress was resolved into a Committee of the Whole, and after some time, the President resumed the chair, and Mr. [George] Plater reported, that the committee have under consideration the letter from Governor Clinton, of the 18 th, together with the papers enclosed, and the resolutions moved by delegates of New York and made some progress, but not having come to a resolution, desire leave to sit again.” [The momentous matter was tabled, once again.] Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to the Continental Congress, v. 12: February 1, 1779-May 31, 1779 –Washington, DC: Library of Congress, 1976-2000.

William Floyd to N.Y. Gov. George Clinton  N.Y.’s Struggle Against Vermont Independence The N.Y.S. View Appears Ascendant – May 25, 1779 “S[i]r…I do my Self the pleasure to Inform you that our Vermont Affair is by Motion before Congress and next Saturday is Appointed to goe into Committee of the whole on that Business, and from what I can Judge of the Disposition of Individual Members, I think I have Reason to hope that we Shall Succeed to our wishes….” “S[i]r…I do my Self the pleasure to Inform you that our Vermont Affair is by Motion before Congress and next Saturday is Appointed to goe into Committee of the whole on that Business, and from what I can Judge of the Disposition of Individual Members, I think I have Reason to hope that we Shall Succeed to our wishes….” Source: “William Floyd to George Clinton,” U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress; Portrait Source: N.Y.S. Comptroller. New York in the Revolution as Colony & State, v. 1. Albany, N.Y.: J.B. Lyon Co., Printers, 1904: p. [6]. Source: “William Floyd to George Clinton,” U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress; Portrait Source: N.Y.S. Comptroller. New York in the Revolution as Colony & State, v. 1. Albany, N.Y.: J.B. Lyon Co., Printers, 1904: p. [6]. Note: There was a great deal additional correspondence between U.S. Congressman William Floyd and N.Y.S. Gov. George Clinton on the subject of keeping Vermont part of New York. In the end, it became clear that Congress would favor Vermont’s bid for statehood over its domination by either New York or New Hampshire. This reflects one of New York’s rare moments of hope. Note: There was a great deal additional correspondence between U.S. Congressman William Floyd and N.Y.S. Gov. George Clinton on the subject of keeping Vermont part of New York. In the end, it became clear that Congress would favor Vermont’s bid for statehood over its domination by either New York or New Hampshire. This reflects one of New York’s rare moments of hope.

A Frolic in Their Midst Rebels, Thumbing Their Noses at the British June 21, 1779 Rebels had a feast at the house of Benj. Havens at Moriches “Suffolk Co.... The most notorious Rebels boast they can have goods from N.Y. as usual. Several of our inhabitants entertain and join with the plundering parties. Last week a party of Rebels had a feast at the house of Benj. Havens at Moriches (a most pernicious caitiff), and several of the inhabitants attended this frolic. Wm. Philips, Benajah Strong (who was privy to the murder of Maurice Seaman at Islip), and Caleb Brewster, gave this entertainment.” Rivington’s Gazette, July 3, 1779 Rivington’s Gazette, July 3, 1779 Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties…. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 688) p. 84.

“Petticoat” Isaac Smith, Rebel or Tory Raider? -- Aug. 14-15, 1779 “Aug. 14 B. Haven Town Crane Neck Drowned Meadow Eben. Dayton Petticoat Isaacthe two latter joined the rebels about three months ago. Mr. Petticoat Isaac has been remarkably industrious in harboring and supplying the Rebels with provisions and intelligence. “Aug. 14, a party of about 20 rebels made their appearance at Corum, and took 2 of Isaac [or Isaiah] Smith’s sons. Thence they proceeded 6 miles westward to the house of Isaac Smith, and also made him and 3 more of his sons prisoners. Mr. S. threw one of the rebels over the stoop and made his escape. Thence they proceeded to B. Haven Town [I.e., Setauket village] and stopped at John Baleys’s, where they remained some time. Thence they went to Crane Neck, 3 miles west of B. Haven where their boats lay. Between this place and Crane Neck one of Mr. Smith’s sons made his escape. Next morning their boats were seen near Crane Neck. The same day a party of militia [Rebel or Tory?] were in motion, and their orders were to march to Drowned Meadow [today’s Port Jefferson], 3 miles east of B. Haven. The well-known Eben. Dayton was at the head of this party, 2 of the sons of Israel Conklin, od Huntington South, Stephen Woodhull, of B. Haven, the noted Isaac Smith, of Corum (commonly called Petticoat Isaac) and one of his sons ; the two latter joined the rebels about three months ago. Mr. Petticoat Isaac has been remarkably industrious in harboring and supplying the Rebels with provisions and intelligence. The above party made their appearance at Corum, at noon-day, and ordered Isaac Smith ‘s family to depart from that place, by Tuesday following, otherwise their house should be destroyed by fire. I. S. is the only Loyalist in the whole district of Corum.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Rivington’s Gazette, August 28, 1779 Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 688) p. 84. (Drawn from Rivington’s Gazette, August 28, 1779)

Head NYC Spy Robert Townsend to Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge Following Andre’s Capture & Arnold’s Escape Relates Arnold’s Mixed Reception by the British -- Late September 1779 “I am happy to think that [Benedict] Arnold does not know my name. no person has been taken up on his information. I am not much surprised at his conduct, for it was no more than I expected of him. Clinton has introduced him to the general officers as General Arnold in the British service This will tend to gloss his characterwith the venal part of the army, but the independent part must hold him in contempt,his name still stinks to eternity, with the generous of all partys.” “I am happy to think that [Benedict] Arnold does not know my name. However, no person has been taken up on his information. I am not much surprised at his conduct, for it was no more than I expected of him. General[Henry] Clinton has introduced him to the general officers on parade as General Arnold in the British service, and he is much caressed by General Robinson. This will tend to gloss his character with the venal part of the army, but the independent part must hold him in contempt, and his name still stinks to eternity, with the generous of all partys.” Major Andre.a most amiable character. General Clinton was inconsolable for some days; and the army in general and inhabitants were much exasperated, and think that General Washington must have been destitute of feeling I believe General Washington felt sincerely for him, and would have saved him if it could have been done with propriety.” I never felt more sensibly for the death of a person whom I knew only by sight, and have heard converse than I did for Major Andre. He was a most amiable character. General Clinton was inconsolable for some days; and the army in general and inhabitants were much exasperated, and think that General Washington must have been destitute of feeling or he would have saved him. I believe General Washington felt sincerely for him, and would have saved him if it could have been done with propriety.” Source: Source:

American Setauket-Mt. Sinai Plundering Raid November, 1779 “We hear from B. Haven, that last Monday evening, a party of 20 rebels, in 3 whale-boats, arrived near the house of Col. Benj. Floyd. They attacked the house, and robbed him of ₤ 600, and the most valuable part of his household goods. 2 of the party had their faces blacked; and the same night the house of Andrew Seton was robbed (by the same party) of the most valuable effects: and on the preceding evening the house of Capt. Solomon Davis at Old Man’s [I.e., Mount Sinai] was attacked. They fired several shot through the house, but Capt. Davis stood ready to receive the first who should dare enter, either at the doors or windows. He told them he was accustomed to having balls fly around him, and some of the inhabitants being alarmed, the rebels went off without doing any more damage in that quarter. Several other robberies have been committed on the south side.” Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 704) p. 88. (Drawn from Rivington’s Gazette, Nov. 3, 1779)

1780 Raid & Counter-Raid, by Land & Sea Wm. Floyd’s estate is seized by Tory soldiers Connecticut Diaspora Whaleboat Hostage-Raid on Setauket An Overseer Risks Life in Enemy Country for Back Pay Ship-to-Ship Engagement in Great South Bay Simcoe’s Raids – Sweeping the Area of Rebellion Benjamin Tallmadge’s Cross-Island Raid Tallmadge Raid: Ft. St. George (Mastic Beach) Tallmadge Raid: True Objective -- Burning of the Hay (Coram)

Tories Seize William Floyd Estate in Mastic April 1780 “Wm. Floyd from L.I. To Middletown – Gen. Tryon allowed two tories to take his estate, and his steward fled to Conn. – asks to send over for his effects – granted.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 707) p. 90.

Connecticut’s Brookhaven Diaspora American Soldier-Sailor Refugees Connecticut’s Brookhaven Diaspora American Soldier-Sailor Refugees April 27, 1780 “Joshua SmithCapt. D[aniel]. Roe, Capt. D. RoeLt. Caleb BrewsterSeth and Ephriam MarvinCornelius and Eben’r Conklin, Alex. and Carll KethcumW. Sammis, Jas. Hubbs, Benj. Blachly, Pearson Brush, Epenetus Smith, Jos. Titus, Tim. Wiliams,Isaac Smith “Joshua Smith and Capt. D[aniel]. Roe, of B. Haven [I.e., Setauket], at Middletown; Capt. D. Roe at Woodbury, ’80; Lt. Caleb Brewster of Continental Army, Seth and Ephriam Marvin, of B. Haven, at Norwalk, ‘’80; Cornelius and Eben’r Conklin, Alex. and Carll Kethcum, W. Sammis, Jas. Hubbs, Benj. Blachly, Pearson Brush, Epenetus Smith, Jos. Titus, Tim. Wiliams, at Norwalk; Isaac Smith at N[ew]. Haven.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 707) p. 90.

A Whaleboat Hostage-Raid, on Setauket July 1780 Dr. Punderson Wm. Jayne, jr. for John Smith and Mr. Jayne for Wm. Philips, who were seized at Smithtown, “Last Friday night a party of Rebels surrounded the house of Dr. Punderson of Setauket, took him prisoner and carried him to Con[necticu]’t: in that night the same party took Wm. Jayne, jr. The rebels told Mrs. P. they had taken the Dr. to exchange for John Smith and Mr. Jayne for Wm. Philips, who were seized at Smithtown, at widow Blydenbury’s [sic], on a trading expedition. Gaine, July 17, ’80.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 712) p. 93.

Floyd’s Overseer Risks Life to Rescue His Back Pay, & Floyd’s & His Effects, from Enemy Country October, 1780 “Wm. Philips wants permit to go to L.I. And bring off effects of Col. Floyd and his own (and £600 then due from Col. F[loyd]. from Dan’l Downs.) Philips was Floyd’s overseer and had resided 2 years at Milford.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 707) p. 92.

Another Ship-to-Ship Engagement in Great South Bay October 5, 1780 Elisha ElderkinTrue Blue Betsey,Dan’l Pardue “Capt. Elisha Elderkin in the True Blue, took the Betsey, Dan’l Pardue, master, in South Bay.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 718) : p. 94.

Simcoe’s Sweeps, July-August, 1780, Part 1 East, West, East; Coram Depot Regimental Rendezvous Jul;y 19,, ’80. to secure the communication overland, between the Fleet which lay off the East end of the Island and N.Y.Queen’s RangersAug. 9, Corum, Aug. 15,King’s AmerReg met the Commander-in-Chief (Clinton), Clinton sent Symcoe to Admiral Arbuthnot march of near 300 miles uncommonly hot weather, Pine barren, The troops had been obliged to subsist on the country militia dragoon “Jul;y 19,, ’80. Symcoe crossed the Sound at Flushing, and marched to Huntington, where 100 of the militia cavalry of the Island joined him. This corps was destined to secure the communication overland, between the Fleet which lay off the East end of the Island and N.Y. The Queen’s Rangers remained about the Points, on the E. end of the Island till Aug. 9, when they fell back to Corum, whence they returned Eastward. [Coram was a British depot. They appear to have fed and re-supplied their horses, probably having likely used up the salt hay stores on the East End.], Aug. 15, being joined by the King’s Amer[ican]. Reg[iment]., which Symcoe was ordered to detach to Riverhead, and he himself met the Commander-in-Chief (Clinton), who was now on his journey by the Admiral’s invitation, to hold a conference with him. Clinton sent Symcoe to Admiral Arbuthnot, whose fleet was anchored in Gardiner’s Bay, but sailed before Clinton could arrive. This march of near 300 miles had been made very fatiguing by the uncommonly hot weather, which rendered the Pine barren, through which the roads principally lay, as close and sultry in the night as in the daytime. The troops had been obliged to subsist on the country [I.e., by requisitioning, looting, and pillaging their way through it; obliged or inclined?]. A militia dragoon who was sent express to the Adj. Gen. [Andre?] to inform him what

Simcoe’s Sweeps, July-August, 1780, Part 2 Losing the Locals: Living Off the Land, then Summary Punishment of the Inhabitants for a Rear-Area Raid Lt. Col Symcoeobtained leave of Clinton, to raise a contributionfrom the inhabitants £80 currency, difficulty there was in procuring provisions for the troops, and the hardships which consequently fell upon the inhabitants, was waylaid, taken and robbed at Smithtown, by a party from the Rebel shore. As this had been formerly the case, and it was obvious no party could remain secreted unknown to the inhabitants, Lt. Col Symcoe obtained leave of Clinton, to raise a contribution [I.e., indemnity] from the inhabitants of £80 currency, one-half to reimburse the militia man for what was taken from him, the other to recompense him for the chagrin he must have been under in not being able to execute his orders.” Source:Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties Source: Onderdonck, Henry, Jr. Revolutionary Incidents of Suffolk and Kings Counties. Port Washington, NY: Kennekat Pr., 1849, repr. 1970: (item no. 711) pp. 92-93. (From the Journals of the Continental Congress) Note: Hard currency was by then quite hard to come by, and greatly valued for its purchasing power and scarcity. During the course of the Revolution the price of even staple commodities skyrocketed. This was indeed exacting a punishment. By war’s-end, repeated British exactions exasperated and alienated neutrals & former British friends, gradually strengthening support for the American cause, as Thomas Jones,for one, a steadfast, influential loyalist would later bitterly attest.

The Lightning Cross-Island Tallmadge Raid of 1780 George Washington’s Spymaster : Major Benjamin Tallmadge The Lightning Cross-Island Tallmadge Raid of 1780 Route Through Brookhaven Town & Today’s Tallmadge Trail

The Tallmadge Raid, November 23, 1780 Seizure of Fort St. George, Mastic Beach, NY (Phase 1) Below Left: The confiscated Manor of St. George, as an improvised Tory fort, its buildings converted into bastions, linked by palisades. Barracks are located centrally, on the parade ground, a citadel to the West, surrounded by an abatis (felled trees, sharpened ends pointed outward, to discourage, snare & entangle attackers, slowing them, & rendering them susceptible to defensive fire or counterattack. Good intelligence, planning, stealth, speed, surprise, & luck handed the raiders a stunning victory. Despite naval gunfire, a docked British ship was sunk, garrison and stores captured. Prisoners were escorted, across L.I. to CT. Below Right: Classic portrait of Washington’s spymaster Major Benjamin Tallmadge in his primary official role, as regimental dragoon commander, in appropriate helmet & uniform. Below Left: The confiscated Manor of St. George, as an improvised Tory fort, its buildings converted into bastions, linked by palisades. Barracks are located centrally, on the parade ground, a citadel to the West, surrounded by an abatis (felled trees, sharpened ends pointed outward, to discourage, snare & entangle attackers, slowing them, & rendering them susceptible to defensive fire or counterattack. Good intelligence, planning, stealth, speed, surprise, & luck handed the raiders a stunning victory. Despite naval gunfire, a docked British ship was sunk, garrison and stores captured. Prisoners were escorted, across L.I. to CT. Below Right: Classic portrait of Washington’s spymaster Major Benjamin Tallmadge in his primary official role, as regimental dragoon commander, in appropriate helmet & uniform.

The Burning of the Hay at Coram The Burning of the Hay at Coram True Objective of the Tallmadge Raid of 1780: Priority One, by Order of George Washington Returning northward from his highly successful raid on Ft. St. George, Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge took a mounted detachment to seize and burn the forage depot at Coram, so stressed by Washington as the raid’s primary objective, the attack on the fort masking that purpose. A pile of hay? Why so important?: Huge stacks of salt hay, harvested from local marshes, by forced labor, and requisitioned by British-Allied forces, fed their horses and cattle. This translated into the ability to rapidly project British & Tory cavalry power (horsemen) and to communicate orders swiftly, via couriers. It meant the ability to move artillery swiftly, to direct raids, without adequate enemy warning, across, or from central and eastern Long Island, into New England; and the ability to keep the predominantly and increasingly hostile L.I. populace terrorized into obedience, by sudden punitive strikes; as well as and to feed any potential raiding force with cattle on the hoof. It meant unimpeded domination over Brookhaven Town. This dual insult of a raid was an embarrassment to Britain. In one bold stroke, the British were hamstrung, partly blinded, their control over this region of L.I. briefly lapsing. The raid highlighted that despite its vaunted Royal Navy, its far flung signal system across the Island, and its network of Loyalist informers, spies, and sympathizers, British outposts on L.I., and their logistics, supply, & communications systems were tenuous and vulnerable to any swift, well-planned American raid from New England. Also implicit was that the Americans had been quite well-informed in advance by their own intelligence agents. Tallmadge delivered that message esp. clearly, as Washington’s spymaster.

1781 “Such Men are Not Very Plenty in America” -- William Floyd William Floyd secures 2 tons of gunpowder for the defense of N.Y.S. You Load 2 Whole Tons, and What Do You Get? Congressional Precedent for U.S. Presidential Cabinet posts – One Delegate’s Thoughts

William Floyd, Brookhaven Town’s Political Sage & Cynic Signer of the U.S. Declaration of Independence February 8, 1781 (Just a Few Months Before Yorktown Secured Independence) [The Continental Congress, having decided that managing a “continent” was too vast a task for it, compartmentalized some of the themes of their work into several offices, precursors of the U.S. Presidential Cabinet, posts just about to be filled. At that juncture, delegate William Floyd expressed several thoughts & reservations likely to resonate with voters, to this day.] [The Continental Congress, having decided that managing a “continent” was too vast a task for it, compartmentalized some of the themes of their work into several offices, precursors of the U.S. Presidential Cabinet, posts just about to be filled. At that juncture, delegate William Floyd expressed several thoughts & reservations likely to resonate with voters, to this day.] “I expect we shall, in a few days proceed to the appointment of men to fill these offices, and I fear we shall not be able to get persons who are properly qualified for the purposes. Those are all very important appointments, and require men of great abilities, great integrity, and great industry, and they should be men who possess the fullest confidence of the people. “I expect we shall, in a few days proceed to the appointment of men to fill these offices, and I fear we shall not be able to get persons who are properly qualified for the purposes. Those are all very important appointments, and require men of great abilities, great integrity, and great industry, and they should be men who possess the fullest confidence of the people. Such characters are not very plenty in America.” Such characters are not very plenty in America.” “William Floyd to [NYS Gov. George Clinton” In Letters of Delegates to Congress, v. 16 (Se 1, 1780-Fe 28, 1781) Library of Congress American Memory Project http://memory.loc.gov “William Floyd to [NYS Gov. George Clinton” In Letters of Delegates to Congress, v. 16 (Se 1, 1780-Fe 28, 1781) Library of Congress American Memory Project http://memory.loc.govhttp://memory.loc.gov Ed. Note: This is Wm. Floyd’s choice of the term, “men”. Women were still disenfranchised. Ed. Note: This is Wm. Floyd’s choice of the term, “men”. Women were still disenfranchised.

You Load 2 Whole Tons, & What Do You Get? By Congressional Order You Load 2 Whole Tons, & What Do You Get? December 21, 1781 gun-powder, “Ordered, That the Secretary at War furnish to the order of Mr. [William] Floyd, one of the delegates for the State of New York, two tons of gun-powder, and charge the same to the said State.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project Journals of the Continental Congress

1782 “Dr. Franklin has sent us a copy of a commission...” -- William Floyd Stalling action on a U.S. public debt settlement report, deferred by recommitment to discussion Floyd, Hamilton, & others commissioned NYS delegates to the Continental Congress News from France, news of British peace feelers

Stalling on a Topic Too Hot to Handle Report on Public Debt Settlement Deferred or Further Committee Debate February 7, 1782 “The committee, consisting of Mr. [Samuel] Livermore, Mr. [Samuel] Osgood, Mr. [William] Ellery, Mr. [Richard] Law, Mr. [William] Floyd, Mr. [Abraham] Clark, Mr. [George] Clymer, Mr. [Daniel] Carroll, Mr. J[oseph] Jones, Mr. [Benjamin] Hawkins, Mr. [Nicholas] Eveleigh, and Mr. [Edward] Tellfair, to whom was referred a report of the Superintendant of finance, touching the settlement of public accounts, having delivered in a report, the same was taken into consideration, and after debate, recommitted.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project Journals of the Continental Congress

Alexander Hamilton & William Floyd November 25, 1782 William Floyd, “Mr. Alexander Hamilton, a delegate for the State of New York, attended, and produced a commission under the great seal of the State, dated at Poughkeepsie, the 25 of October, 1782, which was read, and by which it appears, that on the 22 of July, 1782, the Hon. James Duane, William Floyd, John Morin Scott, Ezra L’Hommedieu and Alexander Hamilton, were appointed delegates to represent the said State for one year, from the first Monday in November, 1782.” Source: U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project Journals of the Continental Congress

News of the British Peace Commission William Floyd to Thomas Dering, Part 1 December 25, 1782 “Sir By the last post I wrote to Doctor Dickenson Inclosing the Newspapers Requesting him After he had perused them to send them to your house, for the Entertainment of the family if there was anything in them that would answer that purpose. Since that time a Vessel, Indeed a French Frigate is arrived from France having a Short passage, by which Doctor Franklin has Sent us a Copy of a Commission, Given by the king of Britain, to a Mr. Oswald, to Treat of peace with our Ministers in France. The Commission is full and Ample; impowering him to treat with the Ministers, or Commission of the thirteen United States of America, Naming them from New Hampshire to Georgia Inclusive. The French officers who Came in the Frigate Say, that the Negociation was going on, and that it was in General, Expected, that peace would take place in the course of the winter. But as there are Many Interests Concerned in the

News of the British Peace Commission William Floyd to Thomas Dering, Part 2 December 25, 1782 making of Peace, so it Renders it the more uncertain, and we ought not to Raise our Expectations too high, tho’ prospects may appear very favourable. You know that I am Apt to be pretty Sanguine Respecting our public Affairs, But shall not give you my Opinion at this time, Expecting in Some future Letter to do it, without Reserve. The above Mentioned Frigate unfortunately Run a Shore in a Snow Storm Coming into this River [the Delaware], a Little below Reedy Island, the Weather afterward proving favourable She Got off Safe, with little other Loss than that of her masts. We have not Rec’d. any Official Account of the Evacuation of Charlestown, But it is Generally Believed to have taken place.

News of the British Peace Commission William Floyd to Thomas Dering, Part 3 December 25, 1782 Inclosed you have Some of the News papers, and altho’ they Do not Contain anything very Inportant yet they may assist to Shorten a Winter’s Evening. When you have read them youl give Mr. Huntington & Doctr Dickenson the Reading of them, Requesting that they may be Returned to you, I could wish them all preserved for the Sake of Some political & other pieces which they Contain. My best Respects to Mr. & Mrs. Dering and to all the family, and am sir you most obedt and humble Servt. Wm. Floyd Source: “William Floyd to Thomas Dering,” U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress

1783 -- William Floyd 1783 “The Express is now at the door...The Packet is in the River” -- William Floyd Peace breaks out, U.S. liberty is secured

Peace! The Express is now at the Door...The Packet is in the River – March 23, 1783 Peace! The Express is now at the Door...The Packet is in the River – William Floyd, to N.Y. Governor George Clinton March 23, 1783 “My Dear Sir, I have only time to write one line as the Express is now at the Door. -- the packet is in the River a few miles below. We have not Received the Dispatches nor any particulars – But only in General that peace is Concluded and this Vessel Was Sent to bring the Dispatches that will Give us the Particulars. “My Dear Sir, I have only time to write one line as the Express is now at the Door. We have this moment Certain intelligence that a General peace is concluded, Hostilities to Cease in America the 20 th of March -- the packet is in the River a few miles below. We have not Received the Dispatches nor any particulars – But only in General that peace is Concluded and this Vessel Was Sent to bring the Dispatches that will Give us the Particulars. I hope in two or three Days to give you the particulars. From Sir your Excellencys most obedt and very humble Servt, From Sir your Excellencys most obedt and very humble Servt, Wm Floyd” Wm Floyd” Source: “William Floyd to George Clinton,” U.S. Library of Congress. American Memory Project. Letters of Delegates to Congress

The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring Slipping Past the British Grip Nathan Hale’s martyrdom for openness about his spying activities, led to greater care in American espionage operations George Washington, Benjamin Tallmadge, Abraham Woodhull, Robert Townsend, Austin Roe, Caleb Brewster, and Anna Smith Strong, became some of the principals of American spying on British Headquarters, on L.I., and in Brookhaven Town. Intelligence and requests for intelligence passed between Washington’s and Tallmadge’s Headquarters, to Setauket (the lynchpin of operations), and New York City (British HQ, North America) The course of the war was affected more than once by what was learned and how rapidly it could be transmitted The ring’s existence was still a closely guarded secret, long after need for it had passed. Why? From 1783 to at least 1815 Britain was still a major world power and the prime potential threat. There was always the possibility that the ring’s method of operations might need to be replicated at some future date.

Brookhaven Under British Occupation The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part I Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part I Nathan Hale, Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge Setauket: Following the capture and hanging of Nathan Hale, who proved far more memorable in death than competent as a spy, Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge, became Washington’s chief spymaster. He pieced together a network, based initially on contacts from his home village of Setauket: people who already knew and trusted each other, for they would now entrusting each other with their lives and safety, behind the lines of British occupation, on L.I. North Castle, N.Y. Abraham Woodhull, Tallmadge, was often based in North Castle, N.Y. (roughly equidistant from Washington’s Headquarters and Stamford, CT), or along the CT coast, during the Northern Phase of Operations, esp. when Washington’s army lay astride the Hudson River, in the Hudson Highlands. Tallmadge and his main Setauket contact, Abraham Woodhull, gradually worked out a method of covert operations & correspondence, involving agents assigned fictitious code names, using coded messages, written in invisible ink, the messages often hidden in a ream of apparently blank writing paper, as a veil of security. Messages were revealed by passing a candle flame under the paper (at a safe height, to keep it from burning).

Brookhaven Under British Occupation The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part II Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part II Abraham Woodhull, initial head of L.I.-N.Y.C. based covert operations compromised Abraham Woodhull, of Setauket, who developed the code, was initial head of L.I.-N.Y.C. based covert operations, until his over-frequent poking around British HQ, rendered him suspect in British eyes, which compromised his effectiveness there, requiring his replacement in New York, by a new agent. Culper Sr.,” Robert Townsend “Culper Jr Woodhull, who had designated himself “Culper Sr.,” for covert correspondence, recruited acquaintance, Robert Townsend, as his N.Y.C. replacement. Townsend was a merchant, privy to British & Tory circles, with secret American sympathies. He at first, became rather unnerved & was highly reluctant to take on such risks. But as he steadied, soon proved himself more discreet than Woodhull had been, and an excellent intelligence-gathering operative. In the City, he was believed to be a loyal Tory. (The ideal cover.) He became “Culper Jr.,” assuming the primary & most dangerous task of gathering information directly from enemy sources, in the very seat of their power and authority, under the nose of their guns and in sight of their notorious prison ships. Spies, of course, if caught, were routinely shot or hanged.

Brookhaven Under British Occupation The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part III Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part III Culper Jr.of Oyster Bay & New York As British Headquarters, North America, New York City richest source of unguarded tongues (British, German-Allied, & Tory), often communicating critical information on British moves and intentions (as well as rumor). prime jumping off point for British naval squadron, fleet, & troop concentrations & dispersals, destined for major strikes and expeditions Culper Jr. of Oyster Bay & New York operated in the city (then occupying only the lower tip of Manhattan), during much of his tenure as leading spy. As British Headquarters, North America, New York City was the richest source of unguarded tongues (British, German-Allied, & Tory), often communicating critical information on British moves and intentions (as well as rumor). It was also the prime jumping off point for British naval squadron, fleet, & troop concentrations & dispersals, destined for major strikes and expeditions. Townsend (and those he recruited), like Woodhull before him, was Washington’s eyes, spotting and reporting these coming and goings. Culper Sr.Setauket carefully screening & interpreting the most essential information gathered, forwarding it across The Devil’s Belt to Tallmadge Capture of a coded letter led to Washington’s suggestion of the use of invisible ink, which he provided. Culper Sr. then confined most of his activity to the Setauket (or receiving) end of L.I. operations, carefully screening & interpreting the most essential information gathered, forwarding it across The Devil’s Belt (L.I. Sound) to Tallmadge (again in invisible ink, in case the boat was captured). Capture of a coded letter led to Washington’s suggestion of the use of invisible ink, which he provided. Benjamin Tallmadge (alias John Bolton), sent the most truly timely & essential information on to Geo. Washington Benjamin Tallmadge (alias John Bolton), following a second screening, sent the most truly timely & essential information on to Geo. Washington

Brookhaven Under British Occupation The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part IV Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part IV New York Tories, fortifications, and waiting prison ships, as well as headquarters of British intelligence in North America were among the hazards of operating in and near the city. So, New York was treacherous waters in which to go casually fishing for information. New York Tories, fortifications, and waiting prison ships, as well as headquarters of British intelligence in North America were among the hazards of operating in and near the city. So, New York was treacherous waters in which to go casually fishing for information. The Ring’s Main Couriers were: Capt. Austin Roe (who owned a Setauket tavern), and traveled to N.Y. ostensibly to reprovision it), and Capt. Caleb Brewster, who covered the Setauket-Long Island Sound-Connecticut crossing. The Ring’s Main Couriers were: Capt. Austin Roe (who owned a Setauket tavern), and traveled to N.Y. ostensibly to reprovision it), and Capt. Caleb Brewster, who covered the Setauket-Long Island Sound-Connecticut crossing. Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge & General George Washington, were the essential final links in the chain. This circuitous route allayed suspicion, allowing some of the danger & risky movement to be dispersion among several individuals. Maj. Benjamin Tallmadge & General George Washington, were the essential final links in the chain. This circuitous route allayed suspicion, allowing some of the danger & risky movement to be dispersion among several individuals. While British, German-Allied, & Tory high-handedness and depredations, during the occupation increasingly disaffected & demoralized erstwhile Tories & neutrals, over the course of the war, the local American cause slowly gained in strength, despite American whaleboat raids & even piratical depredations. While British, German-Allied, & Tory high-handedness and depredations, during the occupation increasingly disaffected & demoralized erstwhile Tories & neutrals, over the course of the war, the local American cause slowly gained in strength, despite American whaleboat raids & even piratical depredations. Meanwhile, Culper Ring’s operations, skills, & effectiveness improved, as they learned their craft, & as information arrived or was culled from new sources. Meanwhile, Culper Ring’s operations, skills, & effectiveness improved, as they learned their craft, & as information arrived or was culled from new sources. Eventually, even the editor of NYC’s chief Tory newspaper, Rivington’s Gazette, was recruited to the ring, though just how devoted to the cause he was, is debatable. He may simply have wanted to secure a future welcome in the U.S. Eventually, even the editor of NYC’s chief Tory newspaper, Rivington’s Gazette, was recruited to the ring, though just how devoted to the cause he was, is debatable. He may simply have wanted to secure a future welcome in the U.S.

Brookhaven Under British Occupation The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part V Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The Setauket (or Culper) Spy Ring, Part V Effectiveness: The Culper spiesprovided intelligence on British movements & intentions (by land & sea, and on Long Island), British morale supply, apprehensions, and the effect of planted disinformation. Effectiveness: The Culper spies provided intelligence on British movements & intentions (by land & sea, and on Long Island), British morale supply, apprehensions, and the effect of planted disinformation. They uncovered Benedict Arnold’s treason, before he could turn over West Point, leading to his flight to British lines, & the capture of John Andre They uncovered Benedict Arnold’s treason, before he could turn over West Point, leading to his flight to British lines, & the capture of John Andre They appear to have provided essential pre-attack information for a number of American raids They appear to have provided essential pre-attack information for a number of American raids Their intelligence may have saved a French Fleet from defeat Their intelligence may have saved a French Fleet from defeat Anna Smith Strong (code name “Nancy”), via the placement & color of her laundry, signaled American spies (chiefly Caleb Brewster & Abraham Woodhull) which of 5 Setauket landing locations was safe, & where the courier might be found and met. Anna Smith Strong (code name “Nancy”), via the placement & color of her laundry, signaled American spies (chiefly Caleb Brewster & Abraham Woodhull) which of 5 Setauket landing locations was safe, & where the courier might be found and met. Caleb Brewster provided a detailed report on British movements and fortifications on Eastern L.I. Caleb Brewster provided a detailed report on British movements and fortifications on Eastern L.I. Many of spies had narrow escapes & some recruited others Many of spies had narrow escapes & some recruited others Setauket, was occupied & had its own coterie of Tories, as well as a British fort. So operating conditions were always dangerous. Setauket, was occupied & had its own coterie of Tories, as well as a British fort. So operating conditions were always dangerous.

Instructions to Culper, Jr. from G. Washington A Changing of the Espionage Guard in Manhattan “Culper Jr. is to remain in the City of New York to collect all the useful information he can—to do this he should mix as much as possible among the officers and refugees, visit the coffee houses, and all public places. He is to pay particular attention to the movements by land and water, in and about the city especially.” He is to ascertain how their transports are secured against attempts to destroy them. How many men are destined for the defense of the city, how many redoubts are upon the line from river to river, and how many cannon in each, and much more of a similar nature.” Source: Clements Library. Spy Letters of the American Revolution

Captain Austin Roe, 1749-1830 Courier, Culper Spy Ring, between New York City & Setauket Captain Austin Roe, 1749-1830 Owner, Roe’s Tavern, Setauket Courier, Culper Spy Ring, between New York City & Setauket Austin Roe Benjamin Operating under the unobtrusive guise of simply gathering those supplies (in New York City) essential to running his country tavern, Austin Roe repeatedly placed his life on the line, running coded, invisible ink, American intelligence message between the two main operatives in the ring, Robert Townsend (Culper, Jr.) and Abraham Woodhull (Culper, Sr.), under the very noses of the enemy, concealed in half-reams of paper. Messages from New York went, for screening, to Woodhull in Setauket. Essential information was passed on across the Sound to American spymaster Benjamin Tallmadge & George Washington, via Caleb Brewster. Messages in reverse were passed by Roe to Robert Townsend in the City. Roe, essential link in the spy chain, repeatedly under suspicion, kept a cool-head.. Photo Courtesy Patchogue-Medford Library Local History Room.. Virginia Roe Marshall Collection.

Capt. Caleb Brewster, 1747-1827 Capt. Caleb Brewster, 1747-1827 Master Runner of the Devil’s Belt, Soldier, Raider, & Spy A Setauket resident, Caleb Brewster, was appointed 2 nd Lieutenant of Col. Joasiah Smith’s Suffolk Minuteman Regiment (December 22, 1775). He was later appointed Ensign of the 4 th N.Y. Line Infantry, then Captain-Lt. Of the 2 nd N.Y. Line Artillery. [in progress]

Brookhaven Under British Occupation Brookhaven Under British Occupation Slipping Past the British Grip, 1776-1783 The network is credited with: Exposing Benedict Arnold’s treason, before he could turn over West Point to the British Enabling raids on British-held Long Island posts Preventing a number of potential disasters, including saving a French Fleet Providing critical intelligence from New York on British fleet and troop movements that rendered the Yorktown Campaign feasible to Washington

Brookhaven Town (Suffolk County, Long Island, 350 Years Part IX: Revolutionary Brookhaven 1775-1783 comp. & ed. by Mark H. Rothenberg © 2003-2004.

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Brookhaven Town (Suffolk County, Long Island, 350 Years Part IX: Revolutionary Brookhaven 1775-1783 comp. & ed. by Mark H. Rothenberg © 2003-2004.

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Presentation on theme: "Brookhaven Town (Suffolk County, Long Island, 350 Years Part IX: Revolutionary Brookhaven 1775-1783 comp. & ed. by Mark H. Rothenberg © 2003-2004."— Presentation transcript:

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