America 250

[JFischer]

On this day, August 4, 1776
Brigadier General Nathaneal Greene sent a dispatch to General Washington. He advised the General that Colonel Hand reported seeing 21 sails (ships) last evening eight of them arriving at "The Hook" this morning. This comes on the heels of Greene noted 40 ships on August 1st.
New York is where the fight will begin in earnest...but when?

On August 2, delegates began signing the Declaration. There's no turning back.

[Michael M]

Even though we know when the Battle of New York occurred and what happened, when I read what you wrote I found myself with anticipation!

I'm sorry that I could not make tonight's net as I particularly enjoy your historical updates in remembering the birth of this great nation. When possible, please also update us here in this thread. I enjoy your wordsmithing!

[JFischer]

August 17 -
Washington knows that the British bombardment is imminent and warns that women, children and the infirm should evacuate for a couple reasons. One, they are exposed and two as he writes, " shrieks & cries" will unnerve young, inexperienced soldiers.

August 18 -
British warships HMS Phoenx and HMS Rose run downriver to rejoin their fleet. They exchange fire with the American batteries as they pass. The fight is on.

[JFischer]

August 25
General Washington is still trying to discern whether the British landing on Long Island is the main attack or a diversion - he'll know soon enough.
General Nathanael Greene is dangerously ill. That's unfortunate because he is the most familiar with the ground. And as always, the good General Washington is continuing to emphasize discipline in the ranks.