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Domestic News
September 4, 1779
The Virginia Gazette
Richmond, Williamsburg, Richmond County, Virginia
What is this article about?
Letter from General Stirling to John Jay reporting Major Lee's successful surprise attack on the British garrison at Powles Hook on August 20, 1779, capturing 160 prisoners with minimal American losses, published by order of Congress in Philadelphia on August 24.
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PHILADELPHIA, August 24.
SIR,
PARAMUS, August 20, 1779.
MOVED from the camp at Ramopogh, to Hackensack New Bridge, that evening I sent off Major Lee who had taken great pains to gain a knowledge of the enemy's situation, with about 400 men, in order to surprise the garrison of Powles Hook, which they effected before day-light next morning; and brought off about 160 prisoners, which I have sent on to Philadelphia. The killed and wounded left behind is uncertain, as it was necessary for the troops to come off before day appeared. They are all returned safe to camp, with the loss of not more than four or five; after a march of upwards of 80 miles in less than three days. Farther particulars you will no doubt receive through his Excellency General Washington, this I write on my way to camp at Ramopogh.
And with sincere regard and esteem,
I am, your most obedient humble servant,
STIRLING.
His Excellency John Jay, Esq;
Published by order of Congress,
CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.
SIR,
PARAMUS, August 20, 1779.
MOVED from the camp at Ramopogh, to Hackensack New Bridge, that evening I sent off Major Lee who had taken great pains to gain a knowledge of the enemy's situation, with about 400 men, in order to surprise the garrison of Powles Hook, which they effected before day-light next morning; and brought off about 160 prisoners, which I have sent on to Philadelphia. The killed and wounded left behind is uncertain, as it was necessary for the troops to come off before day appeared. They are all returned safe to camp, with the loss of not more than four or five; after a march of upwards of 80 miles in less than three days. Farther particulars you will no doubt receive through his Excellency General Washington, this I write on my way to camp at Ramopogh.
And with sincere regard and esteem,
I am, your most obedient humble servant,
STIRLING.
His Excellency John Jay, Esq;
Published by order of Congress,
CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.
What sub-type of article is it?
Military
What keywords are associated?
Powles Hook
Major Lee
Prisoners
Surprise Attack
American Forces
What entities or persons were involved?
Major Lee
Stirling
General Washington
John Jay
Where did it happen?
Powles Hook
Domestic News Details
Primary Location
Powles Hook
Event Date
August 20, 1779
Key Persons
Major Lee
Stirling
General Washington
John Jay
Outcome
captured 160 prisoners; enemy killed and wounded uncertain; american losses not more than four or five.
Event Details
Major Lee with 400 men surprised the garrison at Powles Hook before daylight, capturing prisoners and returning safely after an 80-mile march in less than three days.