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Extract of a letter from Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, dated Charles town, South Carolina, June 30, 1780.
The submission of General Williamson (a.) at Ninety Six, whose capitulation I enclose with Captain Paris's letter, and the dispersion of a party of rebels, who had assembled at an iron work on the north-west border of the province, by a detachment of dragoons and militia from Lieutenant-colonel Turnbull, put an end to all resistance in South Carolina.
I have agreed to a proposal made by Mr. Harrison, (c.) to raise a provincial corps of five hundred men, with the rank of major, to be composed of the natives of the country between the Pedee and Wateree, and in which it is at present extremely probable that he will succeed.
[p118] I have established the most satisfactory correspondence, and have seen several people of credit and undoubted fidelity from North Carolina. They all agree in the assurances of the good disposition of a considerable body of the inhabitants, and of the impossibility of subsisting a body of troops in that country till the harvest is over. This reason, the heat of the summer, and the unsettled state of South Carolina, all concurred to convince me of the necessity of postponing (b.) offensive operations on that side until the latter end of August, or beginning of September; and, in consequence, I send emissaries to the leading persons amongst our friends, recommending, in the strongest terms, that they should attend to their harvest, prepare provisions, and remain quiet till the King's troops were ready to enter the province.
Notwithstanding these precautions, I am sorry to say, that a considerable number of loyal inhabitants of Tryon county, encouraged and headed by a Colonel (d.) Moore, rose on the 18th instant, without order or caution, and were in a few days defeated by General Rutherford with some loss.
Extract of a letter from Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, dated Charles town, July 14, 1780.
Since my arrival at this place, I have been employed in the internal (a.) regulations of the province, and settling the militia of the lower districts, both of which are in great forwardness; and I have kept up a continual correspondence with the frontiers, and the internal [p119] parts of North Carolina, where the aspect of affairs is not so peaceable as when I wrote last. Major-general de Kalbe (c.) is certainly at Hillsborough, with two thousand continental troops, including some cavalry, and said to be preparing to advance to Salisbury: Porterfield is in the neighbourhood of Salisbury, with three hundred Virginians; and Rutherford, with some militia, with him: Caswall, with one thousand five hundred militia, is marched from Cross creek to Deep river, between Hillsborough and Salisbury; and Sumpter, with about the same number of militia, is advanced as far as the Catawba settlement. Lord Rawdon reports to me, that many of the disaffected South Carolinians, from the Wacsaw, and other settlements on the frontier, whom he has put on parole, have availed themselves of the general release of the 20th of June, and have joined General Sumpter.
Accounts from Virginia, through different channels, say, that two thousand five hundred of their militia had followed De Kalbe; that the assembly had voted five thousand men to be immediately drafted to serve as a corps of observation, and had vested their governor with absolute power during their recess. The government of North Carolina is likewise making great exertions to raise troops, and persecuting our friends in the most cruel manner; in consequence of which, Colonel Bryan, although he had promised to wait for my orders, lost all patience, and rose with about eight hundred (b.) men on the Yadkin; and, by a difficult and dangerous march, joined Major M'Arthur on the borders of Anson county: About two thirds only of his people were armed, and those I believe but indifferently.
The effects of the exertions which the enemy are making in those two provinces, will, I make no doubt, be exaggerated to us. To enable me to begin first, I am using every possible dispatch in transporting [p120] to Camden, rum, salt, regimental stores, arms, and ammunition, which, on account of the distance and excessive heat of the season, is a work of infinite labour, and requires considerable time. In the mean while, the measures I have directed Lord Rawdon to take, will, I trust, put it out of the power of the enemy to strike a blow at any of our detachments, or to make any considerable inroads into this province. I have (d.) the satisfaction to assure your excellency, that the numbers and dispositions of our militia equal my most sanguine expectations.
I have agreed to the proposal of Mr. Cunninghame, in Ninety-six district, to raise a corps on the footing of Major Harrison's.
Extract of a letter from Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, dated Charles town, July 15, 1780.
I have just received intelligence from Lord Rawdon, that De Kalbe has certainly joined Caswall (b.) at Coxes' plantation on Deep river; his lordship in consequence has withdrawn Major M'Arthur's detachment over the Black creek, when he means to join him with two battalions, and post Lieutenant-colonel Webster on Hanging-rock creek. This will make his situation pretty compact; but I fear the enemy will make incursions into the country. I propose going down in a few days. Although you will easily imagine, that arrangements here are much wanted, and that I can be but ill spared, the other business is, however, the most pressing.
[p121] Lord Rawdon likewise inclosed to me a letter from Lieutenant-colonel Turnbull, (a.) at Rocky mount, on the west bank of the Wateree, thirty miles from Camden, who reports, that having heard that some of the violent rebels, about thirty miles in his front, had returned to their plantations, and were encouraging the people to join them, he sent Captain Huck of the legion, with a detachment of about thirty or forty of that corps, twenty mounted men of the New-York volunteers, and sixty militia, to seize or drive them away. Captain Huck, encouraged by meeting with no opposition, encamped in an unguarded manner, was totally surprised and routed. The captain was killed, and only twelve of the legion, and as many of the militia, escaped.
SOUTH CAROLINA.
By the Right Honourable Charles Earl Cornwallis, Lieutenant-general of His Majesty's forces, &c. &c. &c.
PROCLAMATION.
Whereas it hath been presented unto me, that some licentious and evil-disposed persons have lately drove away, from the plantations of several of the inhabitants in this province, the cattle which were upon the same, falsely asserting, that they were properly authorized so to do, to the great loss and injury of the proprietors of the said cattle; in order that a stop may be put to so iniquitous and unjust a practice, I do, by this my proclamation, most strictly prohibit and forbid the same; and I do hereby give notice, that if any person [p122] or persons shall hereafter offend therein, he or they shall not only be compelled to make recompence and satisfaction to the owners of cattle drove away, but shall be farther punished in a manner that an offence of so great enormity and evil example doth deserve. And the more effectually to prevent complaints and irregularities in future, I do hereby give notice, that whenever a future exigency may render it necessary to impress, for the use of His Majesty's troops, any cattle, the field officers of the militia of the district will receive the proper orders, and be authorized to cause the same to be done; and no persons whatever, except those acting under their authority, are, upon any pretence, to interfere therein; and all persons whatever are hereby most strictly required to pay a due obedience to this proclamation, as they will answer the contrary at their peril.
Given under my hand, at Charles town, the eighteenth day of July, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the twentieth year of His Majesty's reign.
(Signed) CORNWALLIS.
By his lordship's command,
(Signed) A. ROSS, Aid-de-camp.
From the South Carolina Gazette, dated Charles town, July 27, 1780.
By the Right Honourable Charles Earl Cornwallis, Lieutenant-general of His Majesty's forces, &c.
A PROCLAMATION.
Whereas a memorial hath been presented unto me by sundry persons, who have been heretofore concerned in carrying on the trade [p123] and merchandize of this province, setting forth, "That, in consequence of their former dealings, they are indebted unto several merchants and manufacturers in Great Britain, in large sums of money, which they are anxious to discharge as fast as possible, and that there are now in this province over and above what will be wanted for the consumption of the army and inhabitants, several thousand barrels of rice, and also other usual articles of produce, to a very considerable amount, which, if they are permitted to be shipped to Great Britain, would be applied to that purpose, but if detained in the country, will, from their perishable nature, greatly diminish in value." And they have therefore prayed, that I would grant them my permission to export the same to Great Britain, under such regulations and restrictions as may be thought fit to be established. And whereas, upon due consideration it hath appeared to me, that it will be fit and expedient to grant the prayer of the said memorial, I do, by this my proclamation, notify and declare, that permission will from henceforth be granted to His Majesty's faithful and loyal subjects, to export to Great Britain or Ireland, for the purpose above mentioned, so much of the rice now remaining in the country, and also such other articles of produce as may be lawfully exported, and will not be wanted for the use of the army, navy, or inhabitants; subject nevertheless unto, and under such rules, regulations, and restrictions, as it hath been found necessary to substitute and superadd to those specified and directed by the proclamation issued by His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, on the twenty-seventh day of May last. And all masters of vessels, and other persons, are hereby cautioned against receiving on board any merchandize or effects which may belong to prisoners, either upon parole or under confinement, or to any other whatsoever, except His Majesty's loyal subjects, as their vessels will thereby be rendered liable to confiscation, and themselves [p124] to other forfeitures and punishments, which will be levied and inflicted with the rigour so criminal a conduct doth deserve.
Given under my hand, at Charles town, the twenty-second day of July, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the twentieth year of His Majesty's reign.
(Signed) CORNWALLIS.
By his lordship's command,
(Signed) A. ROSS, Aid-de-camp.
SOUTH CAROLINA.
By the Right Honourable Charles Earl Cornwallis, Lieutenant-general of His Majesty's forces, &c.
PROCLAMATION.
Whereas it hath been represented unto me, that some of the inhabitants of this province have endeavoured to dispose of great part of their property, and intended to remove with their effects out of the limits of His Majesty's government, whereby the merchants in Great Britain, and other lawful creditors, may be greatly injured and defrauded of the just debts which are due to them; and for many other reasons, the same ought not at present to be permitted: I do therefore, by this my proclamation, strictly forbid all persons whatever, from selling or disposing of, or from offering to sale or disposal, any lands, houses, or negroes, without having first obtained a license so to do from the commandant of Charles town, who in fit and reasonable cases will grant the same; and all houses, lands, or negroes, [p125] which shall hereafter be sold, or otherwise disposed of, without such license, will be seized and sequestered. And whereas the privileges and advantages incident to the trade and commerce which is carried on in this province, are by law limited to, and ought to be exclusively enjoyed by, His Majesty's liege and faithful subjects; yet, nevertheless, persons who are prisoners have presumed to interfere therein, and have opened shops for the purpose of carrying on trade and commerce in Charles town: All such persons are hereby cautioned against continuing such practices; and if, in future, they do not desist therefrom, their goods and merchandize will be seized and forfeited; and all auctioneers and vendue masters, or other persons, are hereby strictly enjoined from carrying on any trade, or selling, or disposing of any goods, wares, or merchandize, on account of, or for the benefit of such persons, upon pain of having their license taken from them, or being otherwise dealt with according to the nature of the case. Provided, nevertheless, that nothing is hereby to be construed to extend to prevent bakers, butchers, or any handicraft tradesman, manufacturer, or labourer, from exercising or carrying on their usual and accustomed occupations and employments. And as sundry persons may clandestinely withdraw themselves from this province, to the prejudice of His Majesty's service, and injury of their lawful creditors, I do hereby, in the most strict manner, prohibit and forbid all masters of transports, or other vessels employed in His Majesty's service, from receiving on board, or carrying away any persons whatever, either white or black, except the crew they brought with them, unless they shall receive a written passport or permission from the commandant of Charles town for that purpose. And the more effectually to prevent the same being done in the vessels employed in the trade and commerce of the country, the masters of all such vessels are hereby ordered to comply with the directions specified in two acts of the general [p126] assembly of this province; the one entitled, "An act for the entry of vessels;" and the other, "An additional act to an act for the entry of vessels," upon pain of being prosecuted for the penalties inflicted by the said acts, in case of their neglect or refusal.
Given under my hand, at Charles town, the twenty-fifth day of July, Anno Domini one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the twentieth year of His Majesty's reign.
(Signed) CORNWALLIS.
By his lordship's command,
(Signed) A. ROSS, Aid-de-camp.
Extract of a letter from Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, dated Charles town, August 6th, 1780.
The general state of things, in the two provinces of North and South Carolina, is not very materially altered since my letters of the 14th and 15th of last month were written. Frequent skirmishes, with various success, have happened in the country between the Catawba river and Broad river. The militia (a.) of the district about Tiger and Ennoree rivers was formed by us under Colonel Floyd; Colonel Neale, the rebel colonel, had fled; but Lieutenant-colonel Lisle, who had been paroled to the islands, exchanged, on his arrival in Charles town, his parole for a certificate of his being a good subject, returned to the country, and carried off the whole battalion to join [p127] General Sumpter at Catawba. We have not, however, on the whole, lost ground in that part of the country. Turnbull was attacked at (b.) Rocky mount by Sumpter, with about one thousand two hundred men, militia and refugees, from this province, whom he repulsed with great loss: We had, on our part, an officer killed, and one wounded. Colonel Turnbull's conduct was very meritorious. The affair of Captain Huck turned out of less consequence than it appeared at first: The captain and three men of the legion were killed, and seven men of the New-York volunteers taken. On the eastern part of the province, Major M'Arthur, seeing the great importance of the post at Chiraw hills, and finding himself perfectly secure from any attack of the enemy, desired to continue there longer than it was intended he should when I had the honour of writing to you on the 15th. At last, however, the 71st regiment grew so exceedingly sickly, that he found it absolutely necessary to move, and marched on the 24th to the east branch of Lincoln's creek. Gates, who had taken the command of De Kalbe's corps, was still on Deep river; and Rutherford no farther advanced than Rocky river, Pedee. Knowing of no enemy within many miles, he ventured to send about one hundred sick in boats down the Pedee to George town. Colonel (c.) Mills, who commanded the militia of the Cheraw district, though a very good man, had not complied with my instructions in forming his corps; but had placed more faith in oaths and professions, and attended less to the former conduct of those he admitted. The instant the militia found that M'Arthur had left his post, and were assured that Gates would come there the next day, they seized their own officers, and the hundred sick, and carried them all prisoners into North Carolina. Colonel Mills with difficulty made his escape to George town. The wheat harvest in North Carolina is now over, but the weather is still excessively hot; and, notwithstanding our utmost exertions, a great part of the [p128] rum, salt, and necessaries for the soldiers, and the arms for the provincials, and ammunition for the troops, are not very far advanced on their way to Camden. However, if no material interruption happens, this business will be nearly accomplished in a fortnight or three weeks.
Our assurances of attachment from our distressed friends in North Carolina are as strong as ever. And the patience and fortitude with which those unhappy people bear the most oppressive and cruel tyranny that ever was exercised over any country, deserve our greatest admiration.
The London Gazette Extraordinary.
Whitehall, Oct. 9, 1780.
This morning Captain Ross, aid-de-camp to Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis, arrived in town from South Carolina, with a letter from his lordship to Lord George Germain, one of His Majesty's principal secretaries of state, of which the following is a copy.
Camden, Aug. 21, 1780.
My Lord,
It is with great pleasure that I communicate to your lordship an account
of a complete victory obtained on the 16th instant, by His Majesty's
troops under my command, over the rebel southern army, commanded by
General Gates.
[p129] In my dispatch, No. 1, I had the honour to inform your lordship, that while at Charles town, I was regularly acquainted, by Lord Rawdon, with every material (a.) incident or movement made by the enemy, or by the troops under his lordship's command.
On the 9th instant two expresses arrived with an account that General Gates was advancing towards Lynche's creek with his whole army, supposed to amount to six thousand men, exclusive of a detachment of one thousand men under General Sumpter, who, after having in vain attempted to force the posts at Rocky mount and Hanging rock, was believed to be at that time trying to get round the left of our position, to cut off our communication with the Congarees and Charles town; that the disaffected country between the Pedee and Black (c.) river had actually revolted; and that Lord Rawdon was contracting his posts, and preparing to assemble his force at Camden.
In consequence of this information, after finishing some important (b.) points of business at Charles town, I set out on the evening of the 10th, and arrived at Camden on the night between the 13th (d.) and 14th, and there found Lord Rawdon with all our force, except Lieutenant-colonel Turnbull's small detachment, which fell back from Rocky mount to Major Ferguson's posts of the militia of Ninety Six, on Little river.
I had now my option to make, either to retire or attempt the enemy; for the position at Camden was a bad one to be attacked in, and by General Sumpter's advancing down the Wateree, my supplies must have failed me in a few days.
[p130] I saw no difficulty in making good my retreat to Charles town with the troops that were able to march; but in taking that resolution, I must have not only left near eight hundred sick and a great quantity of stores at this place, but I clearly saw the loss of the whole province, except Charles town, and all of Georgia, except Savannah, as immediate consequences, besides forfeiting all pretensions to future confidence from our friends in this part of America.
On the other hand, there was no doubt of the rebel army being well appointed, and of its number being upwards of five thousand men, exclusive of General Sumpter's detachment, and a corps of Virginia militia, of twelve or fifteen hundred men, either actually joined, or expected to join the main body every hour; and my own corps, which never was numerous, was now reduced, by sickness and other casualties, to about fourteen hundred fighting men, of regulars and provincials, with four or five hundred militia and North-Carolina refugees.
However, the greatest part of the troops that I had being perfectly good, and having left Charles town sufficiently garrisoned and provided for a siege, and seeing little to lose by a defeat, and much to gain by a victory, I resolved to take the first good opportunity to attack the rebel army.
Accordingly, I took great pains to procure good information of their movements and position; and I learned that they had encamped, after marching from Hanging rock, at Colonel Rugeley's, about twelve miles from hence, on the afternoon of the 14th.
[p131] After consulting some intelligent people, well acquainted with the ground, I determined to march at ten o'clock on the night of the 15th, and to attack at daybreak, pointing my principal force against their continentals, who, from good intelligence, I knew to be badly posted, close to Colonel Rugeley's house. Late in the evening I received information, that the Virginians had joined that day; however that having been expected, I did not alter my plan, but marched at the hour appointed, leaving the defence of Camden to some provincials, militia, and convalescents, and a detachment of the (e.) 63d regiment, which by being mounted on horses which they had pressed on the road, it was hoped would arrive in the course of the night.
I had proceeded nine miles, when about half an hour past two in the morning my advanced guard fell in with the enemy. By the weight of the fire I was convinced they were in considerable force; and was soon assured by some deserters and prisoners, that it was the whole rebel army on its march to attack us at Camden. I immediately halted and formed, and the enemy doing the same, the firing soon ceased. Confiding in the disciplined courage of His Majesty's troops, and well apprised by several intelligent inhabitants, that the ground (f.) on which both armies stood, being narrowed by swamps on the right and left, was extremely favourable for my numbers, I did not chuse to hazard the great stake for which I was going to fight, to the uncertainty and confusion to which an action in the dark is so particularly liable; but having taken measures that the enemy should not have in their power to avoid an engagement on that ground, I resolved to defer the attack till day: At the dawn I made my last disposition, and formed the troops in the following order: The division on the right, consisting of a small corps of light [(g.)] infantry, the 23d and 33d regiments, under the command of Lieutenant-colonel Webster; [p132] the division of the left, consisting of the volunteers of Ireland, infantry of the legion, and part of Lieutenant-colonel Hamilton's North-Carolina regiment, under the command of Lord Rawdon, with two six and two three-pounders, which were commanded by Lieutenant M'Leod. The 71st regiment, with two six-pounders, was formed as a reserve, one battalion in the rear of the division of the right, the other of that of the left, and the cavalry of the legion in the rear, and the country being woody, close to the 71st regiment, with orders to seize any opportunity that might offer to break the enemy's line, and to be ready to protect our own, in case any corps should meet with a check.
This disposition was just made when I perceived that the enemy, having likewise persisted in their resolution to fight, were formed in two lines opposite and near to us and observing a movement (h.) in their left, which I supposed to be with an intention to make some alteration in their order, I directed Lieutenant-colonel Webster to begin the attack, which was done with great vigour, and in a few minutes the action was general along the whole front. It was at this time a dead calm, with a little [(i.)] haziness in the air, which preventing the smoke from rising, occasioned so thick a darkness, that it was difficult to see the effect of a very heavy and well-supported fire on both sides. Our line continued to advance in good order, and with the cool intrepidity of experienced British soldiers, keeping up a constant fire, or making use of bayonets, as opportunities offered, and, after an obstinate resistance during three quarters of an hour, threw the enemy into total confusion, and forced them to give away in all quarters. At this instant I ordered the cavalry to complete the rout, which was performed with their usual promptitude and gallantry; and after doing great execution on the field of battle, they continued the pursuit to [p133] Hanging rock, twenty-two miles [(k.)] from the place where the action happened, during which, many of the enemy were slain, and a number of prisoners, near one hundred and fifty waggons, (in one of which was a brass cannon, the carriage of which had been damaged in the skirmish of the night) a considerable quantity of military stores, and all the baggage and camp equipage of the rebel army, fell into our hands.
The loss of the enemy was very considerable; a number of colours, and seven pieces of brass cannon, (being all their artillery that were in the action) with all their ammunition waggons, were taken; between eight and nine hundred were killed, among that number Brigadier-general Gregory, and about one thousand prisoners, many of whom wounded, of which number were Major-general Baron de Kalbe, since dead, and Brigadier-general Rutherford.
I have the honour to inclose a return of the killed and wounded on our side. The loss of so many brave men is much to be lamented; but the number is moderate in proportion to so great an advantage.
The behaviour of His Majesty's troops in general was beyond all praise; it did honour to themselves and to their country. I was particularly indebted to Colonel Lord Rawdon, and to Lieutenant-colonel Webster, for the distinguished courage and ability with which they conducted their respective divisions; and the capacity and vigour of Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, at the head of the cavalry, deserve my highest commendations. Lieutenant M'Leod exerted himself greatly in the conduct of our artillery. My aid-de-camp, Captain Ross, and Lieutenant Haldane, of the engineers, who acted in that capacity, rendered me most essential service; and the public officers, major of brigade England, who acted as deputy adjutant general, and the majors [p134] of brigade Manley and Doyle, shewed the most active and zealous attention to their duty. Governor Martin became again a military man, and behaved with the spirit of a young volunteer.
The fatigue of the troops rendered them incapable of farther exertion on the day of action; [(l.)] but as I saw the importance of destroying or dispersing, if possible, the corps under General Sumpter, as it might prove a foundation for assembling the routed army, on the morning of the 17th I detached Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton with the legion cavalry and infantry, and the corps of the light infantry, making in all about three hundred and fifty men, with orders to attack him wherever he could find him; and at the same time I sent orders to Lieutenant-colonel Turnbull and Major Ferguson, at that time on Little river, to put their corps in motion immediately, and on their side pursue and endeavour to attack General Sumpter. Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton executed this service with his usual activity and military address. He procured good information of Sumpter's movements, and, by forced and concealed marches, came up with and surprised (m.) him in the middle of the day on the 18th, near the Catawba fords. He totally destroyed or dispersed his detachment, consisting then of seven hundred men, killing one (o.) hundred and fifty on the spot, and taking two pieces of brass cannon and three hundred prisoners, and forty-four waggons. He likewise retook one hundred of our men, who had fallen into their hands partly at the action at Hanging rock, and partly in escorting some waggons from Congarees to Camden; and he released one hundred and fifty of our militiamen, or friendly country people, who had been seized by the rebels. Captain Campbell, (n.) who commanded the light infantry, a very promising officer, was unfortunately killed in the affair. Our loss otherwise was trifling. This action was too brilliant to need any comment of mine, and will, [p135] I have no doubt, highly recommend Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton to His Majesty's favour. The rebel forces being at present dispersed, the internal commotions and insurrections in the province will now subside. But I shall give directions to inflict exemplary punishment on some of the most guilty, in hopes to deter others in future from sporting with allegiance and oaths, and with the lenity and generosity of the British government.
On the morning of the 17th I dispatched proper people into North Carolina, with directions to our friends there to take arms and assemble immediately, and to seize the most violent people, and all military stores and magazines belonging to the rebels, and to intercept all stragglers from the routed army; and I have promised to march without loss of time to their support. Some necessary supplies for the army are now on their way from Charles town, and I hope that their arrival will enable me to move in a few days.
My aid-de-camp, Captain Ross, will have the honour of delivering this dispatch to your lordship, and will be able to give you the fullest account of the state of the army and the country. He is a very deserving officer, and I take the liberty of recommending him to your lordship's favour and patronage.
I have the honour to be, &c.
CORNWALLIS.
Field return of the troops under the command of Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis, on the night of the 15th of August, 1780.
Royal artillery. 2 lieutenants, 2 serjeants, 15 rank and file.
Light companies. 2 captains, 3 lieutenants, 1 ensign, 1 adjutant, 11 serjeants, 1 drummer, 129 rank and file.
23d regiment. 3 captains, 6 lieutenants, 1 adjutant, 13 serjeants, 8 drummers, 261 rank and file.
33d regiment. 1 lieutenant colonel, 5 captains, 4 lieutenants, 2 ensigns, 1 adjutant, 1 surgeon, 1 mate, 13 serjeants, 1 drummer, 209 rank and file.
1st battalion, 71st regiment. 2 captains, 4 lieutenants, 1 ensign, 1 adjutant, 1 quarter master, 1 mate, 14 serjeants, 6 drummers, 114 rank and file.
2d battalion, ditto. 1 captain, 3 lieutenants, 3 ensigns, 9 serjeants, 94 rank and file.
Volunteers of Ireland. 1 colonel, 4 captains, 4 lieutenants, 6 ensigns, 1 mate, 23 serjeants, 11 drummers, 253 rank and file.
British legion cavalry. 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 major, 2 captains, 3 lieutenants, 2 cornets, 1 adjutant, 1 surgeon, 12 serjeants, 2 trumpeters, 157 rank and file.
British legion infantry. 4 captains, 4 lieutenants, 9 serjeants, 3 drummers, 106 rank and file.
Royal North-Carolina regiment. 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 major, 5 captains, 6 lieutenants, 4 ensigns, 1 adjutant, 1 quarter master, 1 surgeon, 16 serjeants, 8 drummers, 223 rank and file.
Pioneers. 2 lieutenants, 3 serjeants, 23 rank and file.
[p137] Volunteer militia. 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 major, 3 captains, 5 lieutenants, 4 ensigns, 8 serjeants, 300 rank and file.
Total. 1 colonel, 4 lieutenant colonels, 3 majors, 31 captains, 46 lieutenants, 23 ensigns, 6 adjutants, 2 quarter masters, 3 surgeons, 3 mates, 133 serjeants, 40 drummers, 1944 rank and file.
(Signed) R. ENGLAND,
Acting deputy adjutant general.
Return of the killed, wounded, and missing, of the troops under the command of Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis, in the battle fought near Camden, South Carolina, on the 16th of August, 1780.
Royal artillery. 1 lieutenant, 2 rank and file, wounded.
Light infantry. 1 serjeant, 6 rank and file, killed; 1 ensign, 5 rank and file, wounded.
23d regiment. 6 rank and file killed; 1 captain, 17 rank and file, wounded.
33d regiment. 1 captain, 17 rank and file, killed; 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 1 ensign, 4 serjeants, 72 rank and file, wounded; 1 rank and file missing.
1st battalion, 71st regiment. 1 lieutenant, 4 rank and file, killed; 1 captain, 1 lieutenant, 1 serjeant, 22 rank and file, wounded.
2d battalion, ditto. 1 serjeant, 4 rank and file, killed; 1 serjeant, 8 rank and file, wounded.
[p138] Volunteers of Ireland. 17 rank and file killed; 1 lieutenant, 2 ensigns, 2 serjeants, 1 drummer, 64 rank and file, wounded.
Legion cavalry. 4 rank and file killed; 1 serjeant, 3 rank and file wounded; 2 rank and file missing.
Legion infantry. 1 rank and file killed; 1 lieutenant, 1 serjeant, 10 rank and file, wounded; 2 serjeants, 3 rank and file, missing.
Royal North-Carolina regiment. 3 rank and file killed; 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 lieutenant, 1 ensign, 3 serjeants, 8 rank and file, wounded.
Pioneers. 2 rank and file killed; 1 lieutenant wounded.
Volunteer militia. 2 rank and file wounded; 3 rank and file missing.
Total. 1 captain, 1 lieutenant, 2 serjeants, 64 rank and file, killed; 2 lieutenant colonels, 3 captains, 8 lieutenants, 5 ensigns, 13 serjeants, 1 drummer, 213 rank and file, wounded; 2 serjeants, 9 rank and file, missing.
OFFICERS KILLED and WOUNDED.
Royal artillery. Lieutenant Marquois wounded.
Light companies. Ensign Bowen wounded.
23d regiment. Captain James Drury wounded.
33d regiment. Captain Allen Malcolm killed; Lieutenant-colonel Webster, Captain Richard Cotton, Lieutenants George Wynyard, James L. Harvy, Ensign John-Wheeler Collington, wounded.
1st battalion, 71st. Lieutenant Archibald Campbell killed; Captain Hugh Campbell, Lieutenant John Grant, wounded.
Volunteers of Ireland. Lieutenant Gillispie, Ensigns Whatley and Thompson, wounded.
Legion infantry. Lieutenant Donovan wounded.
[p139] North-Carolina regiment. Lieutenant-colonel Hamilton, Lieutenant M'Alpine, Ensign Shaw, wounded.
Pioneers. Lieutenant Macdonald wounded.
(Signed) CORNWALLIS
Lieutenant General.
Return of ordnance and military stores taken by the army under the command of Lieutenant-general Earl Cornwallis, at the battle fought near Camden, the 16th of August, 1780.
[(a.)] BRASS FIELD PIECES.
Six pounders, 4; three pounders, 2; two pounders, 2. Total, 8.
(Abandoned by the enemy, and brought from their camp, Lynche's creek.[)]
IRON FIELD PIECES.
Three pounder, 1; two pounder, 1; swivels, 3; Total, 5.)
Ammunition waggons, covered, 22; travelling forges, 2; fixed ammunition for six pounders, 160; ditto for three pounders, 520; stands of arms, 2000; musquet cartridges, 80,000.
[p140] Taken by Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton at the defeat of General Sumpter, August 18, 1780.
FIELD PIECES.
Three pounders, 2.
(Signed) J. MACLEOD,
Lieutenant, commanding officer
of artillery.
Return of killed and wounded of the troops under the command of Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton, in the action near Catawba fords, on the 18th of August, 1780.
Light infantry. 1 captain, 5 rank and file, killed.
Legion cavalry. 1 serjeant, 2 rank and file, killed; 6 rank and file wounded.
(Signed) R. ENGLAND,
Acting deputy adjutant general.
Copy of a proclamation issued by General Gates at Pedee, the 4th of August 1780.
By Horatio Gates, Esq. major general and commander in chief of the army of the United States in the southern department of America, &c. &c. &c.
A PROCLAMATION.
The patriotic exertions of the virtuous citizens of the United States having enabled me, under the protection of Divine Providence, [p141] to vindicate the rights of America in this state, and by the approach of a numerous, well appointed, and formidable army, to compel our late triumphant and insulting foes to retreat from their most advantageous posts with precipitation and dismay, I have judged it most expedient, at this period of my progress, to give assurances of forgiveness and perfect security to such of the unfortunate citizens of this state as have been induced, by the horror of sanguinary punishments, the means of confiscation, and all the arbitrary measures of military domination, apparently to acquiesce under the British government, and to make a forced declaration of allegiance and support to a tyranny, which the indignant souls of citizens, resolved on freedom, inwardly revolted at, with horror and detestation.
And in order to afford an opportunity to real friends of America, to testify the affection and attachment to the cause of liberty, an invitation is held out to them to assert that rank among the free and independent citizens of America, in which their former exertions and zeal had deservedly placed them, and to join heartily, when called upon, in rescuing themselves and their country from an opposition of a government imposed on them by the ruffian hand of conquest. Nevertheless, I cannot at present resolve to extend these offers of pardon and security to such as in the hour of devastation have exercised acts of barbarity and depredation on the persons and property of their fellow citizens; nor to such, as being apprized of the security afforded to them by the army under my command, shall be so lost to a sense of honour, and the duty they owe to their country, as hereafter to give countenance and support to that enemy, who, but for the disaffection of many of the apostate sons of America, had long ere this been driven from the continent.
[p142] The inhabitants of this state may rely on the assurance that an army composed of their brethren and fellow citizens cannot be brought among them with the hostile vices of plunder and depredation. Such triumphs, under the colour of protection and support, are left to grace the British arms alone; but they may rest satisfied, that the genuine motive which has given energy to the present exertions, is the hope of rescuing them from the iron rod of oppression, and restoring to them those blessings of freedom and independence which it is the duty and interest of the citizens of these United States, jointly and reciprocally, to support and confirm.
Given at our head quarters, on the river Pedee, this fourth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the fifth year of our independence.
HORATIO GATES.
By the general command,
CHRIST. RICHMOND, Sec.
Copy of General Gates's orders.
AFTER ORDERS.
Camp, at Rugeley's, 15th of August, 1780.
The sick, the extra artillery stores, the heavy baggage, and such quarter-master's stores as are not immediately wanted, to march this evening under a guard to Wacsaws: To this order the general requests [p143] the brigadier generals to see that those under their command pay the most exact and scrupulous obedience.
Lieutenant-colonel Edmonds, with the remaining guns of the park, will take post, and march with the Virginia brigade, under General Stevens; he will direct, as any deficiency happens in the artillery affixed to the other brigades, to supply it immediately; his military staffs, and proportion of his officers, with forty of his men, are to attend him, and wait his orders.
The troops will be ready to march precisely at ten o'clock, in the following order, viz. Colonel Armand's advance, cavalry commanded by Colonel Armand: Colonel Porterfield's light infantry on the right flank of Colonel Armand, in Indian file, two hundred yards from the road; Major Armstrong's light infantry in the same order as Colonel Porterfield's, on the left flank of the legion; advanced guard of foot, composed of the advanced pickets, first brigade of Maryland, second brigade of Maryland, division of North Carolina, Virginia division; rear-guard volunteers, cavalry on the right and left of the baggage equally divided. In this order the troops will proceed this night. In case of an attack by the enemy's cavalry in front, the light infantry on each flank will instantly march up, and give, and continue the most galling fire upon the enemy's horse; this will enable Colonel Armand not only to support the enemy's charge, but finally rout them: The colonel will therefore consider the orders to stand the attack of the enemy's cavalry, be their numbers what they may, as positive: General Stevens will immediately order one captain, two lieutenants, one ensign, three serjeants, one drum, and sixty rank and file, to join Colonel Porterfield's infantry. These men are to be taken [p144] from the most experienced woodsmen, and men every way fittest for the service.
The general will likewise complete Armstrong's light infantry to their original number; those must be immediately marched to the advanced post of the army. The troops will preserve the profoundest silence on the march; and any soldier who offers to fire, without the command of his officer, must be instantly put to death.
When the ground will admit of it, and the near approach of the enemy renders it necessary, the army will, when ordered, march in columns; the artillery at the head of their respective brigades, and the baggage in the rear. The guard of the heavy baggage will be composed of the remaining officers and soldiers of the artillery. One captain, two subalterns, four serjeants, four drums, and sixty rank and file, and no person whatever is to presume to send any other soldier upon that service.
All batmen, waiters, &c. who are soldiers taken from the line, are forthwith to join their respective regiments, and act with their masters, while they are upon that duty.
The tents of the whole army to be struck at Tattoo.
Extract of a letter from General Gates to the President of Congress, dated Hillsborough, Aug. 20, 1780.
Sir,
In the deepest distress and anxiety of mind, I am obliged to acquaint
your excellency with the defeat of the troops under my command. I
arrived with the Maryland line, the artillery, and the North-Carolina
militia, on the
(a.)
13th instant at Rugeley's, thirteen miles from Camden; took post there,
and was the next
(b.)
day joined by General Stevens, with seven hundred militia from
Virginia. Colonel Sumpter, who was at the Wacsaws with four hundred
South-Carolina militia, had the Sunday before killed and taken near
three hundred of the enemy, who were posted at Hanging rock. This, and
other strokes upon the enemy's advanced posts, occasioned their calling
in all the outposts to Camden. The 15th, at daylight, I reinforced Colonel
Sumpter with three hundred
(d.)
North-Carolina militia, one hundred of the Maryland line, and two
three-pounders from the artillery, having previously ordered him down
to the Wacsaws, and directed, as soon as the reinforcements joined him,
that he should proceed down the Wateree, opposite Camden, intercept
any stores coming to the enemy, and particularly the troops from Ninety
Six, who were likewise withdrawn from that post. This was well
executed by Colonel Sumpter, as his letter inclosed will shew.
Having communicated my plan to the general officers in the afternoon of the 15th, it was resolved to march at ten at night, to take post in a very advantageous situation, with a deep creek in front, [p146] seven miles from Camden; the heavy baggage. &c. being ordered to march immediately by the Wacsaw road. At ten the army began to march in the following order: Colonel Armand's legion [(e.)?] in front, supported on both flanks by Colonel Porterfield's regiment, and the light infantry of the militia; the advanced guard of infantry, the Maryland line, with their artillery, in front of the brigades, the North-Carolina militia, the Virginia militia, the artillery, &c. and the rear guard. Having marched about five miles, the legion was charged by the enemy's cavalry, and well supported on the flanks, as they were ordered, by Colonel Porterfield, who beat back the enemy's horse, and was himself unfortunately wounded; but the enemy's infantry advancing with a heavy fire, the troops in front gave way to the first Maryland brigade, and a confusion ensued, which took some time to regulate. At length the army was ranged in line of battle, in the following order: General Gist's brigade (c.) upon the right, with his right close to a swamp, the North-Carolina militia in the center, and the Virginia militia, with the light infantry and Porterfield's corps, on the left; the artillery divided to the brigades; and the first Maryland brigade as a corps de reserve, and to cover the cannon in the road, at a proper distance in the rear. Colonel Armand's corps were ordered to the left, to support the left flank, and oppose the enemy's cavalry. At daylight the enemy attacked and drove in our light party in front, when I ordered the left to advance and attack the enemy; but to my astonishment, the left wing and North-Carolina militia gave way. General Caswall and myself, assisted by a number of officers, did all in our power to rally the broken troops, but to no purpose, for the enemy coming round the left flank of the Maryland division, completed the rout of the whole militia, who left the continentals to oppose the enemy's whole force. I endeavoured, with General Caswall, to rally the militia at some distance, on an advantageous [p147] piece of ground, but the enemy's cavalry continuing to harass their rear, they ran like a torrent, and bore all before them. Hoping yet, that a few miles in the rear they might recover from their panic, and again be brought into order, I continued my endeavour, but this likewise proved in vain.
The militia having taken the woods in all directions, I concluded, with General Caswall, to retire towards Charlotte. I got here late in the night; but reflecting there was no prospect of collecting a force at that place adequate to the defence of the country, I proceeded with all possible dispatch hither, to endeavour to fall upon some plan of defence, in conjunction with the legislative body of the state. I shall immediately dispatch a flag to Lord Cornwallis, to know the situation of our wounded, and the number and condition of the prisoners in his hands.
Copy of a letter from Colonel Sumpter to General Gates, dated Wateree ferry, August 15th, 1780.
Dear General,
I have just time to inform you, that early this morning I took possession
[(a.)]
of all the passways over the Wateree river, from Elkins' ford to Mr.
Whitear's ferry, five miles below Camden. The enemy had guards at
many different places upon the river, all of which were evacuated last
night or this morning, and the guards ordered into Camden, except those
at Wateree ferry, which was continued on both sides of the river, of
which the guard upon the west side was
[p148]
surprised by a party of my men, who killed seven, and took about thirty
prisoners, among which was Colonel Cary, the commander, together
with thirty-eight waggons, loaded with corn, rum, &c. also a
number of horses: The boats are all upon the opposite side of the river;
the ground upon this side is very bad; the enemy keep up a constant fire,
but I have received no damage yet. I intend to keep possession if I can,
until I am honoured with your excellency's farther command. I should
not have been so precipitate in my movements, but foresaw the excessive
disadvantage that would result from their having the communication
open, whereby they were constantly receiving both men and provisions.
The number of troops, regulars I mean, do not exceed two thousand, and not as many as one thousand of the militia, who are generally sickly, and much dispirited. There is a reinforcement said to be on the road from town, which will arrive in two days, the number about five hundred.
As soon as possible, will give you an account of what is passing.
I am, dear general,
With the greatest respect,
Your excellency's most obedient,
Humble servant,
THOMAS SUMPTER.
His Excellency General Gates.
P. S. I have the pleasure to inform your excellency, that I have this instant made about seventy prisoners, all British, six waggons, baggage, &c. just from Ninety Six; many of the prisoners are sick.
Extract of a letter from Governor Nash to the Delegates of North Carolina, dated Hillsborough, Aug. 23, 1782.
Since our late defeat near Camden, I delayed writing till I could give you some certain account of that unhappy affair. The militia, except one North-Carolina regiment, commanded on the occasion by Colonel Dixon, of the regulars, gave way on the first fire, and fled with the utmost precipitation. The regulars and the regiment just mentioned, bravely stood, and pushed bayonets to the last. By the desertion of the militia, the enemy was able to turn the left of the standing troops, and to bend their whole force against them. The conflict was obstinate and bloody, and lasted for fifteen minutes. After our brave troops had retreated from the ground, they were fiercely charged by a party of British horse, whom they repulsed, and, to their immortal honour, made good their retreat. General Caswall has sent in a flag, and a surgeon to attend the wounded. As yet we have no particular account of the fate of the missing, except a few principal officers; among these is the Baron de Kalbe, said to be mortally wounded. Generals Gist, Smallwood, Stevens, Rutherford, Butler, and Gregory, are safe; so is Colonel Gunby, who was said to be killed. To add to our misfortunes, Colonel Sumpter, who the day before the action had captured a party of the British, with forty waggons, was the day after the action overtaken and surprised near Hanging rock, by a party of the British horse. They came on him so unprepared, as to oblige him and his men (a.) to fly to the woods, leaving their prisoners, waggons, and even their arms behind them. [p150] General Stevens writes to General Gates, that he has collected between seven and eight hundred of Virginia militia and state troops. General Caswall made a stand at Charlotte, near the boundary line, and called in upwards of one thousand fresh men. These he added to Colonel Sumpter's party of about seven hundred, and gave him the command of the whole, whilst he came here. I have ordered out three regiments from this district, and mean to put them under the command of General Sumner, and the officers of the three regular regiments of this state, so that I hope in a few days we shall be able to assume a tolerable good countenance.
Extract of a letter from General Gates to the President of Congress, dated Hillsborough, Aug. 30, 1780.
Sir,
I have the honour to enclose to your excellency, for the perusal of
Congress, my letter of this date to General Washington.
Extract from the enclosed letter to General Washington, dated Hillsborough, Aug. 30, 1780.
Since my public letter to Congress, I have been able to collect authentic returns of the killed, wounded, and missing of the officers of the American line, Delaware regiment, artillerists, and those of the [p151] legion under Colonel Armand. They are enclosed. The militia broke so early in the day, and scattered in so many directions upon their retreat, that very few have fallen into the hands of the enemy. By the firmness and bravery of the continental troops, the victory is far from being bloodless on the part of the foe; they have upwards of five hundred men, with officers in proportion, killed and wounded. Lord Cornwallis remained with his army at Camden, when I received the last accounts from thence. Two days after the action of the 16th, fortune seemed determined to continue to distress us; for Colonel Sumpter, having marched near forty miles up the river Wateree, halted with the waggons and prisoners on the 15th. By some indiscretion, the men were surprised, cut off from their arms, (a.) the whole routed, and the waggons and prisoners retaken. Colonel Sumpter, since his surprise and defeat up the west side of the Wateree, has reinstated and increased his corps to upwards of one thousand men. I have directed him to continue to harass the enemy upon that side: Lord Cornwallis will, therefore, be cautious how he makes any considerable movement to the eastward, while this corps remains in force upon his left flank, and the main army is in a manner cantoned in his front. Anxious for the public good, I shall continue my unwearied endeavours to stop the progress of the enemy, to reinstate our affairs, to recommence an offensive war, and recover our losses in these southern states.
List of the continental officers killed, captivated, wounded, and missing, in the actions of the 16th and 18th of August, 1780.
Killed. The honourable Major-general the Baron de Kalbe; Captain Williams, 6th Maryland regiment; Captain Duvall, 2d ditto; [p152] Lieutenant Donovan, 6th ditto, Lieutenant and Adjutant Coleman, artillery.
Wounded. Captain Somerwell, 6th Maryland regiment; Gibson, 5th ditto; Roun, Virginia-state artillery; Lieutenant Duvall, 3d Maryland regiment; Sears, ditto; Ensign Fickle, 7th.
Prisoners. Lieutenant-colonel Woolford, 5th Maryland regiment, wounded; Lieutenant-colonel Vaughan, Delaware; Lieutenant-colonel Porterfield, Virginia state, wounded; Lieutenant-colonel Du Buson, A. D. C. Gerald [sic] Kalbe, ditto. Majors, Winder, 1st Maryland regiment; Penton, Delaware regiment; Pinkney, A. D. C. General Gates, wounded. Captains, Brice, 3d Maryland regiment; Hoops, 5th ditto; Lynch, 5th; Hamilton, 5th; Hardman, 2d, wounded; Smith, 3d, ditto; Dorset, artillery, ditto. Lieutenant Brune, legion, ditto; Rhoads, Delaware regiment; Lamout, ditto; Captain-lieutenant Waters, artillery; Lieutenant Shoemaker, 4th Maryland regiment, wounded; Hanson, 4th ditto, ditto; Norris, 6th, ditto, ditto; Wallace, artillery, foot legion; Moreley, artillery; Doll, Delaware regiment; Skillington, ditto; Lieutenant and Adjutant Penvie, ditto. Ensigns, Burgis, 4th Maryland regiment; Roach, Delaware regiment. Volunteers, Nelson, 6th Maryland regiment, wounded; Rutledge, 4th ditto.
Missing. Captains, Morris, 7th Maryland regiment, wounded; Gassay, 2d ditto. Lieutenant Gassaway, 2d ditto; Captain Meredith, artillery; Captain-lieutenant Blair, ditto.
[p153]
Sir,
The above is the most accurate return at present. Those who have
received slight contusions, which do not hinder their doing their duty,
are not included.
Your most obedient, humble servant,
O. H. WILLIAMS,
Deputy adjutant general.
Hillsborough, August 29, 1780.
N.B. Seven hundred non-commissioned officers and soldiers of the Maryland division have rejoined the army. An exact return thereof shall be sent by the next conveyance.
HORATIO GATES.
Published by order of Congress.
CHARLES THOMPSON, Sec.
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