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The Virginia Gazette
Richmond, Williamsburg, Richmond County, Virginia
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Major General Gates reports to Congress that British troops evacuated Rhode Island on October 25, 1779, allowing American forces to take possession of Newport without destruction. Supplies like hay and firewood were left behind; Gates is fortifying the island and praises his army's zeal.
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Extract of a letter from Major General Gates, to the President of Congress, dated Newport, October 27, 1779.
SIR,
I have the honour to acquaint your Excellency, that this island was evacuated by the enemy's troops on the night of the 25th instant, and the next morning the army under my command took possession of the town of Newport: I have further the pleasure to inform your Excellency, that the enemy did not commit any wanton destruction upon their leaving the island; the batteries and defences towards the sea line only being demolished; about 3400 tons of hay, 450 cords of firewood, 60 cords of peat, and a large quantity of straw were left in the enemy's magazines.
If the United States do not receive every advantage that can be made from the enemy's precipitate retreat from this island, it will not be for want of faithfulness and assiduity therein; for I assure your Excellency that neither myself nor the officers under my command, have any object but the publick good.
I am now wholly employed in securing the advantage we have gained, by fixing batteries of heavy cannon to the sea line, and in fortifying every post that commands the harbour: This so entirely engrosses all my time, that I must beg your Excellency will excuse my referring you to my Aid de Camp, Major Armstrong, for the further particulars relative to the evacuation and repossession of Rhode Island.
Before I close my letter I must in justice to the whole army under my command, say, that I have ever discovered in them, the utmost zeal and alacrity in their obedience to all the orders I have given: Civil liberty and the rights of mankind, are well supported by such gallant men.
Published by order of Congress.
CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.
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Domestic News Details
Primary Location
Newport, Rhode Island
Event Date
October 25, 1779
Key Persons
Outcome
enemy evacuated without wanton destruction; batteries and sea defenses demolished; 3400 tons of hay, 450 cords of firewood, 60 cords of peat, and large quantity of straw left behind; american army took possession and is fortifying the island.
Event Details
Enemy troops evacuated Rhode Island on the night of October 25, 1779; American army under Major General Gates took possession of Newport the next morning; Gates is securing the position by fixing batteries and fortifying posts; refers to Major Armstrong for further particulars.