Chapter V: Section 2: And be it further enacted, That on the (2)

_Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to His
Excellency General Washington, for ordering with so much wisdom
the late attack on the enemy's fort and works at Powles Hook.[38]

[Footnote 38: Properly Paulus Hook (Hoeck), now
Jersey City. It derived its name from Michael
Paulusen, who was commissary there in 1633.]

_Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to (p. 031)
Major-General Lord Stirling for the judicious measures taken by
him to forward the enterprize and to secure the retreat of the
party.

_Resolved_, That the thanks of Congress be given to Major Lee for
the remarkable prudence, address and bravery displayed by him on
the occasion; and that they approve the humanity shown in
circumstances prompting to severity, as honourable to the arms of
the United States, and correspondent to the noble principles on
which they were assumed.

_Resolved_, That Congress entertain a high sense of the
discipline, fortitude, and spirit manifested by the officers and
soldiers under the command of Major Lee in the march, action and
retreat; and while with singular satisfaction they acknowledge
the merit of these gallant men, they feel an additional pleasure
by considering them as part of an army, in which very many brave
officers and soldiers have proved, by their cheerful performance
of every duty under every difficulty, that they ardently wish to
give the truly glorious examples they now receive.

_Resolved_, That Congress justly esteem the military caution so
happily combined with daring activity by Lieutenants McAllister
and Rudolph in leading on the forlorn hope.

_Resolved_, That a medal of gold, emblematical of this affair, be
struck, under the direction of the Board of Treasury, and
presented to Major Lee.

_Resolved_, That the brevet, and the pay and subsistence of
captain, be given to Lieutenant McAllister and to Lieutenant
Rudolph respectively.

_Resolved_, That the sum of 15,000 dollars be put into the hands
of Major Lee, to be by him distributed among the non-commissioned
officers and soldiers of the detachment he commanded at the
attack and surprize of Powles Hook, in such manner as the
commander-in-chief shall direct.

Friday, September 24, 1779.

_____

_General Washington to the President of Congress._

To Head Quarters, West Point,
THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. August 23, 1779.

Sir: I have the honour to enclose to Your Excellency Major Lee's
report of the surprize and capture of the garrison of Powles
Hook. The Major displayed a remarkable degree of prudence,
address, enterprize and bravery, upon this occasion, which does
the highest honour to himself and to all the officers and men
under his command. The situation of the post rendered the attempt
critical and the success brilliant. It was made in consequence of
information that the garrison was in a state of negligent
security, which the event has justified. I am much indebted to
Lord Stirling for the judicious measures he took to forward the
enterprize, and to secure the retreat of the party. Lieutenant
McAllister, who will have the honour of delivering these (p. 032)
despatches, will present Congress with the standard of the
garrison, which fell into his possession during the attack. Major
Lee speaks of this gentleman's conduct in the handsomest terms.

I have the honour to be, &c.,
Geo. WASHINGTON.

P.S. The report not having been received till this day, prevented
a speedier transmission. Major Lee mentions twenty men lost on
our side. Captain Rudolph informs me that, since the report was
concluded, several of the missing had returned, which will lessen
the supposed loss near one half.

_____

_Major Henry Lee to General Washington._

To His Excellency Paramus, August 22, 1779.
General WASHINGTON.

Sir: Lord Stirling was pleased to communicate to Your Excellency
my verbal report to his Lordship of the 19th instant. I now do
myself the honour to present a particular relation of the
enterprize Your Excellency was pleased to commit to my direction.

I took command of the troops employed on this occasion on the
18th. They amounted to four hundred infantry, composed of
detachments from the Virginia and Maryland divisions, and one
troop of dismounted dragoons.

The troops moved from the vicinity of the New Bridge about four
o'clock P.M. Patrols of horse being detached to watch the
communication with the North River, and parties of infantry
stationed at the different avenues leading to Powles Hook. My
anxiety to render the march as easy as possible, induced me to
pursue the Bergen road lower than intended. After filing into the
mountains, the timidity or treachery of the principal guide
prolonged a short march into a march of three hours; by this
means the troops were exceedingly harassed, and being obliged,
through deep mountainous woods, to regain our route, some parties
of the rear were unfortunately separated. This affected me most
sensibly, as it not only diminished the number of men destined
for the assault, but deprived me of the aid of several officers
of distinguished merit.

On reaching the point of separation, I found my first disposition
impracticable, both from the near approach of day and the rising
of the tide. Not a moment being to spare, I paid no attention to
the punctilios of honour or rank, but ordered the troops to
advance in their then disposition. Lieutenant Rudolph, whom I had
previously detached to reconnoitre the passages of the canal,
returned to me at this point of time and reported that all was
silence within the works, that he had fathomed the canal and
found the passage on the centre route still admissible. This
intervening intelligence was immediately communicated from front
to rear, and the troops pushed on with that resolution, order,
and coolness which insures success.

The forlorn hopes, led by Lieutenant McAllister, of the (p. 033)
Maryland, and Lieutenant Rudolph, of the dragoons, marched on
with trailed arms, in most profound silence. Such was the
singular address of these two gentlemen, that the first notice to
the garrison was the forlorns plunging into the canal. A firing
immediately commenced from the block-houses and along the line of
the abatis, but did not in the least check the advance of the
troops. The forlorns, supported by Major Clarke, at the head of
the right column, broke through all opposition, and found an
entrance into the main work. So rapid was the movement of the
troops, that we gained the fort before the discharge of a single
piece of artillery. The centre column, conducted by Captain
Forsyth, on passing the abatis, took a direction to their left.
Lieutenant Armstrong led on the advance of this column. They soon
possessed themselves of the officers and troops posted at the
house No. 6, and fully completed every object of their
destination. The rear column, under Captain Handy, moved forward
in support of the whole. Thus were we completely victorious in
the space of a few moments.

The appearance of daylight, my apprehension lest some accident
might have befallen the boats, the numerous difficulties of the
retreat, the harassed state of the troops, and the destruction of
all our ammunition by passing the canal, conspired in influencing
me to retire in the moment of victory. Major Clarke, with the
right column, was immediately put in motion with the greater part
of the prisoners. Captain Handy followed on with the remainder.
Lieutenants Armstrong and Reed formed the rear guard.

Immediately on the commencement of the retreat, I sent forward
Captain Forsyth to Prior's Mill to collect such men from the
different columns as were most fit for action, and to take post
on the heights of Bergen to cover the retreat.

On my reaching this place I was informed by Cornet Neill (who had
been posted there during the night for the purpose of laying the
bridge and communicating with the boats), that my messenger,
directed to him previous to the attack, had not arrived, nor had
he heard from Captain Peyton, who had charge of the boats.

Struck with apprehension that I should be disappointed in the
route of retreat, I rode forward to the front, under Major
Clarke, whom I found very near the point of embarkation, and no
boats to receive them. In this very critical situation I lost no
time in my decision, but ordered the troops to regain Bergen road
and shove on to the New Bridge; at the same time I communicated
my disappointment to Lord Stirling by express, then returned to
Prior's Bridge to the rear-guard.

Oppressed by every possible misfortune, at the head of troops
worn down by a rapid march of thirty miles, through mountains,
swamps, and deep morasses, without the least refreshment during
the whole march, ammunition destroyed, incumbered with prisoners,
and a retreat of fourteen miles to make good, on a route
admissible of interception at several points, by a moving in our
rear, and another (from the intelligence I had received from the
captured officers) in all probability well advanced on our right;
a retreat naturally impossible to our left; under all these
distressing circumstances, my sole dependence was in the
persevering gallantry of the officers and obstinate courage of
the troops. In this I was fully satisfied by the shouts of the
soldiery, who gave every proof of unimpaired vigour the moment
that the enemy's approach was announced.

Having gained the point of intersection opposite Weehawken, (p. 034)
Captain Handy was directed to move with his division on the
mountain road, in order to facilitate the retreat. Captain
Catlett, of the Virginia regiment, fortunately joined me at this
moment, at the head of fifty men, with good ammunition. I
immediately halted this officer, and having detached two parties,
the one on the Bergen road in the rear of Major Clarke, the other
on the banks of the North River, I moved with the party under the
command of the captain on the centre route. By these precautions
a sudden approach of the enemy was fully prevented. I am very
much indebted to this officer, and the gentlemen under him, for
their alacrity and vigilance on this occasion.

On the rear's approach to the Fort Lee road, we met a detachment
under the command of Colonel Ball, which Lord Stirling had pushed
forward, on the first notice of our situation, to support the
retreat. The colonel moved on, and occupied a position which
effectually covered us.

Some little time after this, a body of the enemy (alluded to in
the intelligence I mentioned to have received from the officers
while in the fort) made their appearance, issuing out of the
woods on our right, and moving through the fields directly to the
road. They immediately commenced a fire upon my rear. Lieutenant
Reed threw himself, with a party, into a stone house which
commanded the road. These two officers were directed mutually to
support each other, and give time for the troops to pass the
English Neighbourhood Creek, at the liberty pole. On the enemy's
observing this disposition, they immediately retired by the same
route they had approached, and gained the woods. The
precipitation with which they retired, preventing the possibility
of Colonel Ball's falling in with them, saved the whole.

The body which moved in our rear, having excessively fatigued
themselves by the rapidity of their march, thought prudent to
halt before they came in contact with us.

Thus, Sir, was every attempt to cut off our rear completely
baffled. The troops arrived safe at the New Bridge, with all the
prisoners, about one o'clock P.M. on the nineteenth.

I should commit the highest injustice was I not to assure Your
Excellency that my endeavours were fully seconded by every
officer in his station; nor can any discrimination justly be made
but what arose from opportunity. The troops vied with each other
in patience under their many sufferings, and conducted themselves
in every vicissitude of fortune with a resolution which reflects
the highest honour on them.

During the whole action not a single musket was fired on our
side--the bayonet was our sole dependence.

Having gained the fort, such was the order of the troops, and
attention of the officers, that the soldiers were prevented from
plundering, although in the midst of every sort.

American humanity has been again signally manifested.
Self-preservation strongly dictated, on the retreat, the putting
the prisoners to death, and British cruelty fully justified it,
notwithstanding which, not a man was wantonly hurt.

During the progress of the troops in the works, from the
different reports of my officers, I conclude not more than fifty
of the enemy were killed, and a few wounded. Among the killed is
one officer, supposed (from his description) to be a captain in
Colonel Buskirk's regiment. Our loss, on this occasion, is very
trifling. I have not yet had a report from the detachment of (p. 035)
the Virginians; but as I conclude their loss to be proportionate
to the loss of the other troops, I can venture to pronounce
that the loss of the whole, in killed, wounded, and missing,
will not exceed twenty. As soon as the report comes to hand,
I will transmit to headquarters an accurate return. I herewith
enclose a return of the prisoners taken from the enemy.

At every point of the enterprize I stood highly indebted to Major
Clarke for his zeal, activity, and example. Captains Handy and
Forsyth have claim to my particular thanks for the support I
experienced from them on every occasion. The Captains Reed,
McLane, Smith, Crump, and Wilmot, behaved with the greatest zeal
and intrepidity. I must acknowledge myself very much indebted to
Major Burnet and Captain Peyton, of the dragoons, for their
counsel and indefatigability in the previous preparations to the
attack. The premature withdrawal of the boats was owing to the
non-arrival of my despatches; and, though a most mortifying
circumstance, can be called nothing more than unfortunate.
Lieutenant Vanderville, who was to have commanded one of the
forlorns, but was thrown out by alteration of the disposition of
battle, conducted himself perfectly soldier-like. The whole of
the officers behaved with the greatest propriety; and, as I said
before, no discrimination can justly be made, but what arose from
opportunity.

The Lieutenants McAllister, Armstrong, Reed, and Rudolph
distinguished themselves remarkably. Too much praise cannot be
given to those gentlemen for their prowess and example. Captain
Bradford, of the train, who volunteered it with me, for the
purpose of taking direction of the artillery, deserves my warmest
thanks for his zeal and activity. I am personally indebted to
Captain Rudolph and Dr. Irvine, of the dragoons, who attended me
during the expedition, for their many services.

I beg leave to present Your Excellency with the flag of the fort
by the hands of Mr. McAllister, the gentleman into whose
possession it fell.

It is needless for me to explain my reasons for the instantaneous
evacuation of the fort. Your Excellency's knowledge of the post
will suggest fully the propriety of it. The event confirms it.

Among the many unfortunate circumstances which crossed our
wishes, none was more so than the accidental absence of Colonel
Buskirk and the greatest part of his regiment. They had set out
on an expedition up the North River the very night of the attack.
A company of vigilant Hessians had taken their place in the fort,
which rendered the secrecy of approach more precarious, and, at
the same time, diminished the object of the enterprize by a
reduction of the number of the garrison. Major Sutherland
fortunately saved himself by a soldier counterfeiting his person.
This imposition was not discovered until too late.

I intended to have burned the barracks, but on finding a number
of sick soldiers and women with young children in them, humanity
forbade the execution of my intention. The key of the magazine
could not be found, nor could it be broken open in the little
time we had to spare, many attempts having been made to that
purpose by the Lieutenants McAllister and Reed. It was completely
impracticable to bring off any pieces of artillery. I consulted
Captain Bradford on the point, who confirmed me in my opinion.
The circumstance of spiking them being trivial it was omitted
altogether.

After most of the troops had retired from the works, and were (p. 036)
passed and passing the canal, a fire of musketry commenced
from a few stragglers, who had collected in an old work, on the
right of the main fort. Their fire being ineffectual, and the
object trifling, I determined not to break in upon the order of
retreat, but continued passing the defile in front. I cannot
conclude this relation without expressing my wannest thanks to
Lord Stirling, for the full patronage I received from him in
every stage of the enterprize. I must also return my thanks to
the cavalry, for their vigilant execution of the duties assigned
them.

Captain Rudolph waits on Your Excellency with these despatches. I
beg leave to refer to this officer for any further explanation
that may be required.

I have the honour to be, Sir, with the most perfect respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient and humble servant,
Henry LEE, Jr.

No. 7. (p. 037) PLATE VII.

_September 23, 1780._

Fidelity. [Rx]. Vincit amor patriæ.

JOHN PAULDING, DAVID WILLIAMS, ISAAC VAN WART.

[_Capture of Major André._]

FIDELITY. Field embossed in and wreathed with two branches, one of laurel, the other of palm, united by a ribbon.

VINCIT AMOR PATRIÆ. (_Love of country conquers._) A vacant space, to receive the name of the recipient, between two branches of fleur-de-lis, united by a ribbon.[39]

[Footnote 39: See INTRODUCTION, page xxxv.]

This is not properly a medal, but a _repoussé_, made by a silversmith.

JOHN PAULDING was born in New York in 1759; and died in Westchester County, New York, February 18, 1848.

DAVID WILLIAMS was born in Tarrytown, October 21, 1754, and died in Broome, Schoharie County, New York, August 2, 1831.

ISAAC VAN WART was born in New York in 1750, and died in Westchester County, New York, May 23, 1818.

These three militiamen captured Major André, of the British Army, September 23, 1780, and refusing his large offers of money, delivered him up to the American commanding officer of the district. Thus the treasonable intentions of General Arnold to surrender West Point to the enemy were frustrated. For this great service to their country they each received the thanks of Congress and a silver medal.

_____

ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS. (p. 038)

_Resolution of Congress Voting Medals to John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart._

BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.

_Whereas_, Congress have received information that John Paulding,
David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, three young volunteer
militiamen of the State of New York, did, on the 23d day of
September last, intercept Major John André, adjutant-general of
the British army, on his return from the American lines, in the
character of a spy; and, notwithstanding the large bribes offered
them for his release, nobly disdaining to sacrifice their country
for the sake of gold, secured and conveyed him to the commanding
officer of the district, whereby the dangerous and traitorous
conspiracy of Benedict Arnold was brought to light, the insidious
designs of the enemy baffled, and the United States rescued from
impending danger:

_Resolved_, That Congress have a high sense of the virtuous and
patriotic conduct of the said John Paulding, David Williams, and
Isaac Van Wart. In testimony whereof,

_Ordered_, That each of them receive annually, out of the public
treasury, 200 dollars in specie, or an equivalent in the current
money of these States, during life; and that the Board of War
procure for each of them a silver medal, on one side of which
shall be a shield with this inscription: "Fidelity," and on the
other the following motto: "Vincit amor patriæ," and forward them
to the commander-in-chief, who is requested to present the same,
with a copy of this resolution, and the thanks of Congress for
their fidelity, and the eminent service they have rendered their
country.

Friday, November 3, 1780.

_____

_General Washington to the President of Congress._

To Robinson House, In The Highlands,
THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. September 26, 1780.

Sir:
- - - - -

In the mean time, a packet had arrived from Lieutenant-Colonel
Jameson, announcing the capture of a John Anderson, who was
endeavouring to go to New York with several interesting and
important papers, all in the handwriting of General Arnold. This
was also accompanied with a letter from the prisoner, avowing
himself to be Major John André, adjutant-general of the British
army, relating the manner of his capture, and endeavouring to
show that he did not come under the description of a spy. From
the several circumstances, and information that the general
(Arnold) seemed to be thrown into some degree of agitation on
receiving a letter, a little time before he went down from (p. 039)
his quarters, I was led to conclude immediately, that he had
heard of Major André's captivity, and that he would, if possible,
escape to the enemy; and I accordingly took such measures as
appeared the most probable, to apprehend him. But he had embarked
in a barge, and proceeded down the river under a flag to the
Vulture sloop-of-war, which lay some miles below Stony and
Verplanck's Points. After he got on board, he wrote to me a
letter, of which the enclosed is a copy.

Major André is not arrived yet, but I hope he is secure, and that
he will be here to-day. I have been and am taking proper
precautions, which I trust will prove effectual, to prevent the
important consequences which this conduct on the part of General
Arnold was intended to produce. I do not know the party that took
Major André, but it is said to have consisted only of militia,
who acted in such a manner as does them the highest honour, and
proves them to be men of great virtue. They were offered, I am
informed, a large sum of money for his release, and as many goods
as they would demand, but without any effect. Their conduct gives
them a just claim to the thanks of their country, and I also hope
they will be otherwise rewarded. As soon as I know their names, I
shall take pleasure in transmitting them to Congress.

- - - - -

I have the honour to be, &c.,
Geo. WASHINGTON.

_____

_General Washington to the President of Congress._

To
THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS. Paramus, October 7, 1780.

Sir:
- - - - -

I have now the pleasure to communicate the names of the three
persons who captured Major André, and who refused to release him,
notwithstanding the most earnest importunities and assurances of
a liberal reward on his part. Their conduct merits our wannest
esteem; and I beg leave to add, that I think the public will do
well to make them a handsome gratuity. They have prevented in all
probability our suffering one of the severest strokes that could
have been meditated against us. Their names are John Paulding,
David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart.

I have the honour to be, &c.,
Geo. WASHINGTON.

No. 8. (p. 040) PLATE VIII.

_January 17, 1781._

Danieli Morgan duci exercitus Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Victoria
libertatis vindex.

BRIGADIER-GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN.

[_Victory of the Cowpens._]

DANIELI MORGAN DUCI EXERCITUS COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress to General Daniel Morgan._) America, personified as an Indian queen, standing, places with her right hand a crown of laurel upon the head of General Morgan, while her left rests on a bow. To the left are seen trophies of the enemy's arms; against a cannon is the American shield, upon which lies a branch of laurel; to the right is a forest. DUPRÉ, F. (_fecit_).

VICTORIA LIBERTATIS VINDEX. (_Victory, the vindicator of liberty._) General Morgan is leading his troops, who advance with colors flying, and put to flight the British army; in the foreground, a combat between an Indian and a dismounted cavalry soldier. Exergue: FVGATIS CAPTIS AVT CAESIS AD COWPENS HOSTIBVS XVII. JAN. MDCCLXXXI. (_Fugatis captis aut cæsis ad Cowpens hostibus, 17 Januarii, 1781: The enemy put to flight, taken, or slain at the Cowpens, January 17, 1781._) DUPRÉ INV ET F. (_Dupré invenit et fecit_).[40]

[Footnote 40: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
xiii, xvii, xx, xxi, xxii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; D, xli;
E, xliv; and F, xlv.]

The legend of the exergue of this medal, as originally proposed by the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, was CÆSIS AUT CAPTIS AD COWPENS HOSTIUM * * SIGNIS RELATIS * * 17 JAN. 1781. The change was made at the suggestion of Jefferson.

AUGUSTIN DUPRÉ was born in St. Etienne, France, October, 1748. (p. 041) He began life as a workman in a manufactory of arms. In 1768 he went to Paris as apprentice to an engraver, and became one of the most distinguished medal engravers of the latter part of the 18th century. Among his works are the celebrated five franc piece known as "à l'Hercule," the five centime and one decime pieces, on which the head of Liberty is the profile of Madame Récamier, and seven medals relating to America: John Paul Jones, General Morgan, General Greene, Libertas Americana, the Diplomatic medal, and two of Franklin. Dupré was engraver-general of the Paris Mint from July, 1791, to 1801, when he was dismissed by General Bonaparte, then first consul. He died at Armentières, January 31, 1833.

DANIEL MORGAN was born in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, in 1736. In early life he served as a teamster in General Braddock's army, and afterward settled in Frederick (now Clarke) County, Virginia. In 1775 he was captain of a rifle company, and served under Washington. He accompanied General Arnold to Canada, and was made prisoner at Quebec; he served again under Washington, as colonel of a rifle regiment, in 1776, and greatly distinguished himself under General Gates at Saratoga. He was brigadier-general in 1780, served in the South under Generals Gates and Greene, and won the brilliant victory of the Cowpens, January 17, 1781, for which Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. Soon afterward he resigned from ill health, and retired to his plantation. He was a member of Congress from 1795 to 1799. In 1780 he removed to Winchester, Virginia, where he died July 6, 1802.

_____

ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.

_Resolutions of Congress Voting Medals to General Morgan and to Lieutenant-Colonels Washington and Howard, etc._

BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.

Considering it as a tribute due to distinguished merit to give a
public approbation of the conduct of Brigadier-General Morgan,
and of the officers and men under his command, on the 17th day of
January last, when with 80 cavalry and 237 infantry of the troops
of the United States, and 553 militia from the States of
Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, he (p. 042)
obtained a complete and important victory over a select and
well appointed detachment of more than 1,100 British troops
commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton; do therefore
_resolve_:--

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled be
given to Brigadier-General Morgan, and the officers and men under
his command, for their fortitude and good conduct displayed in
the action at the Cowpens, in the State of South Carolina, on the
17th day of January last:

That a medal of gold be presented to Brigadier-General Morgan,
and a medal of silver to Lieutenant-Colonel Washington (William),
of the cavalry, and one of silver to Lieutenant-Colonel Howard,
of the infantry of the United States; severally with emblems and
mottoes descriptive of the conduct of those officers respectively
on that memorable day:

That a sword be presented to Colonel Pickens, of the militia, in
testimony of his spirited conduct in the action before mentioned:

That Captain Edward Giles, aid-de-camp of Brigadier-General
Morgan, have the brevet commission of major; and that Baron de
Glasbuch, who served with Brigadier-General Morgan as a
volunteer, have the brevet commission of captain in the army of
the United States; in consideration of their merit and services.

_Ordered_, That the commanding officer in the southern department
communicate these resolutions in general orders.

Friday, March 9, 1781.

_____

_General Morgan to General Greene._

To Camp, near Cain Creek,
General GREENE. January 19, 1781.

Sir: The troops I have the honour to command have been so
fortunate as to obtain a complete victory over a detachment from
the British army, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton. The
action happened on the 17th instant, about sunrise, at the
Cowpens. It perhaps would be well to remark, for the honour of
the American arms, that although the progress of this corps was
marked with burning and devastation, and although they waged the
most cruel warfare, not a man was killed, wounded, or even
insulted, after he surrendered. Had not the Britons during this
contest received so many lessons of humanity, I should natter
myself that this might teach them a little. But I fear they are
incorrigible.

To give you a just idea of our operation, it will be necessary to
inform you, that on the 14th instant, having received certain
intelligence that Lord Cornwallis and Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton
were both in motion, and that their movements clearly indicated
their intentions of dislodging me, I abandoned my encampment on
Grindall's Ford on the Pacolet, and on the 16th, in the evening,
took possession of a post, about seven miles from the Cherokee
Ford, on Broad river. My former position subjected me at once (p. 043)
to the operations of Cornwallis and Tarleton, and in case of a
defeat, my retreat might have easily been cut off. My situation
at the Cowpens enabled me to improve any advantages I might gain,
and to provide better for my own security should I be unfortunate.
These reasons induced me to take this post, at the risk of its
wearing the face of a retreat.

I received regular intelligence of the enemy's movements from the
time they were first in motion. On the evening of the 16th
instant they took possession of the ground I had removed from in
the morning, distant from the scene of action about twelve miles.
An hour before daylight, one of my scouts returned and informed
me that Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton had advanced within five
miles of our camp. On this information, I hastened to form as
good a disposition as circumstances would admit, and from the
alacrity of the troops, we were soon prepared to receive them.
The light infantry, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, and
the Virginia Militia, under the command of Major Triplett, were
formed on a rising ground, and extended a line in front. The
third regiment of dragoons, under Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
were posted at such a distance in their rear as not to be
subjected to the line of fire directed at them, and to be so near
as to be able to charge the enemy should they be broken. The
volunteers of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, under
the command of the brave and valuable Colonel Pickens, were
situated to guard the flanks. Major McDowell, of the North
Carolina Volunteers, was posted on the right flank in front of
the line, one hundred and fifty yards; and Major Cunningham, of
the Georgia Volunteers, on the left, at the same distance in
front. Colonels Brannon and Thomas, of the South Carolinians,
were posted on the right of Major McDowell, and Colonels Hays and
McCall, of the same corps, on the left of Major Cunningham.
Captains Tate and Buchanan, with the Augusta Riflemen, to support
the right of the line.

The enemy drew up in single line of battle, four hundred yards in
front of our advanced corps. The first battalion of the 71st
regiment was opposed to our right, the 7th regiment to our left,
the infantry of the legion to our centre, the light companies on
their flank. In front moved two pieces of artillery.
Lieutenant-Colonel Tarleton, with his cavalry, was posted in the
rear of his line.

The disposition of battle being thus formed, small parties of
riflemen were detached to skirmish with the enemy, upon which
their whole line moved on with the greatest impetuosity, shouting
as they advanced. McDowell and Cunningham gave them a heavy and
galling fire, and retreated to the regiments intended for their
support. The whole of Colonel Pickens' command then kept up a
fire by regiments, retreating agreeably to their orders. When the
enemy advanced to our line, they received a well-directed and
incessant fire; but their numbers being superior to ours, they
gained our flanks, which obliged us to change our position. We
retired in good order about fifty paces, formed, advanced on the
enemy, and gave them a fortunate volley, which threw them into
disorder. Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, observing this, gave orders
for the line to charge bayonets, which was done with such address
that they fled with the utmost precipitation, leaving their field
pieces in our possession. We pushed our advantages so
effectually, that they never had an opportunity of rallying, had
their intentions been ever so good.

Lieutenant-Colonel Washington, having been informed that (p. 044)
Tarleton was cutting down our riflemen on the left, pushed
forward, and charged them with such firmness, that, instead of
attempting to recover the fate of the day, which one would have
expected from an officer of his splendid character, they broke
and fled.

The enemy's whole force were now bent solely in providing for
their safety in flight--the list of their killed, wounded, and
prisoners, will inform you with what effect Tarleton, with the
small remains of his cavalry, and a few scattering infantry he
had mounted on his waggon horses, made their escape. He was
pursued twenty-four miles, but owing to our having taken a wrong
trail at first, we never could overtake him.

As I was obliged to move off the field of action in the morning,
to secure the prisoners, I cannot be so accurate as to the killed
and wounded as I could wish. From the reports of an officer whom
I sent to view the ground, there were one hundred
non-commissioned officers and privates, and ten commissioned
officers, killed, and two hundred rank and file wounded. We have
now in our possession five hundred and two non-commissioned
officers and privates prisoners, independent of the wounded, and
the militia are taking up stragglers continually. Twenty-nine
commissioned officers have fallen into our hands. Their rank you
will see by an enclosed list. The officers I have paroled, the
privates I am conveying by the safest route to Salisbury.

Two standards, two field pieces, thirty-five waggons, a
travelling forge, and all their music are ours. Their baggage,
which was immense, they have in a great measure destroyed.

Our loss is inconsiderable, which the enclosed return will
evince. I have not been able to ascertain Colonel Pickens' loss,
but know it to be very small.

From our force being composed of such a variety of corps, a wrong
judgment may be formed of our numbers. We fought only eight
hundred men, two-thirds of which were militia. The British, with
their baggage guard, were not less than one thousand one hundred
and fifty, and these veteran troops. Their own officers confess
that they fought one thousand and thirty-seven.

Such was the inferiority of our numbers, that our success must be
attributed to the justice of our cause and the bravery of our
troops. My wishes would induce me to mention the name of every
sentinel in the corps I have the honour to command. In justice to
the bravery and good conduct of the officers, I have taken the
liberty to enclose you a list of their names, from a conviction
that you will be pleased to introduce such characters to the
world.

Major Giles, my aid, and Captain Brookes, my brigade-major,
deserve and have my thanks for their assistance and behaviour on
this occasion.

The Baron de Glasbuch, who accompanies Major Giles with these
despatches, served with me in the action as a volunteer, and
behaved in such a manner as merits your attention.

I am, dear Sir, your obedient servant,
Daniel MORGAN.

P.S. Our loss was very inconsiderable, not having more than
twelve killed and about sixty wounded.

The enemy had ten commissioned officers and upwards of one (p. 045)
hundred rank and file killed, two hundred rank and file
wounded, and twenty-seven officers and more than five hundred
privates which fell into our hands, with two pieces of artillery,
two Standards, eight hundred stand of arms, one travelling forge,
thirty-five waggons, ten negroes, and upwards of one hundred
dragoon horses.

Although our success was complete, we fought only eight hundred
men, and were opposed by upwards of one thousand British troops.

_____

_Act of Congress directing a gold copy of General Morgan's medal
to be struck and presented to Morgan Neville, Esq., the lineal
heir of General Morgan._

_Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States in Congress assembled_, That, in pursuance of the
request of Morgan Neville, in his memorial presented at the
present session of Congress, the director of the mint be and he
is hereby authorized and directed to cause to be struck, a gold
medal, of the intrinsic value of one hundred and fifty dollars,
in honour of the battle of the Cowpens, which was fought on the
seventeenth day of January, seventeen hundred and eighty-one, to
replace the original medal presented by a resolution of the
Continental Congress, of March ninth, seventeen hundred and
eighty-one, to Brigadier-General Daniel Morgan; the said medal to
be struck from the original die, and delivered when executed to
the said Morgan Neville, the lineal heir of General Morgan; the
expense of the same to be paid out of any money in the treasury
not otherwise appropriated.

Approved July 2d, 1836.

No. 9. (p. 046) PLATE IX.

_January 17, 1781._

Gulielmo Washington legionis equit. præfecto Comitia American.
[Rx]. Quod parva militum manu, etc.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL WILLIAM AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON.

[_Victory of the Cowpens._]

GULIELMO WASHINGTON LEGIONIS EQUIT. (_equitum_) PRÆFECTO COMITIA AMERICAN. (_Americana._) (_The American Congress to William Washington, commander of a regiment of cavalry._) Lieutenant-Colonel Washington, at the head of his men, is pursuing the enemy's cavalry. A winged Victory hovers above him, holding in her right hand a crown of laurel, and in her left a palm branch. DUV. (_Duvivier_).

Within a crown of laurel: QUOD PARVA MILITUM MANU STRENUE PROSECUTUS HOSTES VIRTUTIS INGENITÆ PRÆCLARUM SPECIMEN DEDIT IN PUGNA AD COWPENS XVII. JAN. (_Januarii_) MDCCLXXXI.(_Because in vigorously pursuing the enemy with a handful of soldiers he gave a noble example of innate courage at the battle of the Cowpens, January 17, 1781_).[41],[42]

[Footnote 41: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
xvii, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; G, xlv; and H,
xlvii.]

[Footnote 42: The resolution of Congress voting
this medal, and the official report of the battle
of the Cowpens, are given under No. 8, page 40.]

WILLIAM AUGUSTINE WASHINGTON, a distant relation of General Washington's, was born in Stafford County, Virginia, February 28, 1752. He was educated for the church, but entered the army as captain of infantry, and fought in the battles of Long Island, Trenton, and Princeton. In 1778 he was lieutenant-colonel of dragoons, and served in the South under Generals Lincoln, Greene, and Morgan. He distinguished himself at the victory of the Cowpens, for which he (p. 047) received from Congress a silver medal; was made a prisoner at Eutaw Springs, and remained in captivity in Charleston, South Carolina, till the close of the war, when he settled in that city. He served for some time in the South Carolina Legislature; was appointed on General Washington's staff with the rank of brigadier-general, in 1797, and died in Charleston, March 6, 1810.

No. 10. (p. 048) PLATE X.

_January 17, 1781._

Joh. Egar Howard legionis peditum præfecto Comitia Americana.
[Rx]. Quod in nutantem hostium aciem, etc.

LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN EAGER HOWARD.

[_Victory of the Cowpens._]

JOH. (_Johanni_) EGAR. (_sic_) HOWARD LEGIONIS PEDITUM PRÆFECTO COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress to John Eager Howard, commander of a regiment of infantry._) Lieutenant-Colonel Howard, on horseback, is in pursuit of a foot-soldier of the enemy who is carrying away a standard. A winged Victory hovers over him, holding in her right hand a crown of laurel, and in her left a palm branch. DUVIV. (_Duvivier_).

Within a crown of laurel: QUOD IN NUTANTEM HOSTIUM ACIEM SUBITO IRRUENS PRÆCLARUM BELLICÆ VIRTUTIS SPECIMEN DEDIT IN PUGNA AD COWPENS XVII. JAN. (_Januarii_) MDCCLXXXI. (_Because by rushing suddenly on the wavering lines of the enemy, he gave a brilliant example of martial courage at the battle of the Cowpens, January 17, 1781_).[43],[44]

[Footnote 43: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xii,
xvii, xxiii, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; G, xlv; and H,
xlvii.]

[Footnote 44: The resolution of Congress voting
this medal, and the official report of the battle
of the Cowpens, are given under No. 8, page 40.]

JOHN EAGER HOWARD was born in Baltimore County, Maryland, June 4, 1752. On the breaking out of the Revolution he was appointed captain, and took part in the battle of White Plains. He was promoted to the rank of major in 1777, and fought at Germantown and Monmouth. He became lieutenant-colonel of the 5th Maryland regiment of infantry in 1779, and served in the South under Generals Gates, Greene, and Morgan, taking a brilliant part in every engagement. At the victory of the Cowpens he held in his hands at one time the swords of seven (p. 049) British officers who had surrendered to him. For his services in this battle Congress awarded him a silver medal. He was colonel of the 2d Maryland regiment at Eutaw Springs. At the close of the war he retired to Baltimore, and was governor of Maryland, 1789-1792, and United States senator, 1796-1803 When a war with France was expected in 1797, he was selected by General Washington for one of his brigadier-generals. He organized the defence of Baltimore in 1814, and died in that city, October 12, 1827.

No. 11. (p. 050) PLATE XI.

_September 8, 1781._

Nathanieli Green egregio duci Comitia Americana. [Rx]. Salus
regionum australium.

MAJOR-GENERAL NATHANIEL GREENE.

[_Victory of Eutaw Springs._]

NATHANIELI GREEN (_sic_) EGREGIO DUCI COMITIA AMERICANA. (_The American Congress to Nathaniel Greene, a distinguished general._) Bust of General Greene, in uniform, facing the left.

SALUS REGIONUM AUSTRALIUM. (_The safety of the southern regions._) A winged Victory holds a crown of laurel in her right hand, and a palm branch in her left; one foot is resting on a trophy of arms and flags of conquered enemies. Exergue: HOSTIBUS AD EUTAW DEBELLATIS DIE VIII SEPT (_Septembris_) MDCCLXXXI. (_The enemy vanquished at Eutaw on the 8th of September, 1781._) DUPRÉ.[45]

[Footnote 45: See INTRODUCTION, pages x, xi, xiii,
xvi, xvii, xviii, xxi, xxviii, xxxv; B, xxxvi; C,
xli; F, xlv; and H, xlvii.]

The legend of the reverse of this medal, as originally proposed by the French Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres was, SALUS PROVINCIARUM AUSTRALIUM.

NATHANIEL GREENE was born at Potowhommet, Warwick County, Rhode Island, May 27, 1742. He began life as a blacksmith, but entered the "Kentish Guards" as a private in 1774. He was made brigadier-general of the Rhode Island contingent to the army before Boston, in May, 1775, and a brigadier-general in the Continental Army, June 22, 1775, and remained in active service throughout the war. In 1776 he commanded in Long Island as a major-general; and fought at Trenton, Princeton, the Brandywine, Germantown, Monmouth, Newport, and Springfield. He was quartermaster-general from March 2, 1778, to August, 1780; and was commander of the army, in September, when Arnold's treason was discovered. The same year he was appointed commander-in-chief of (p. 051) the southern department, retook the two Carolinas and Georgia, and won the battle of Eutaw Springs, September 8, 1781, for which victory Congress gave him a vote of thanks and a gold medal. After the war he removed to a plantation, which the State of Georgia had given him, on the Savannah river, and died there of a sunstroke, June 19, 1786.

_____

ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS.

_Resolutions of Congress Voting a Medal to General Greene, etc._

BY THE UNITED STATES IN CONGRESS ASSEMBLED.

_Resolved_, That the thanks of the United States in Congress
assembled, be presented to Major-General Greene for his wise,
decisive, and magnanimous conduct in the action of the 8th of
September last, near the Eutaw Springs, in South Carolina, in
which, with a force inferior in number to that of the enemy, he
obtained a most signal victory.

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
presented to the officers and men of the Maryland and Virginia
brigades, and Delaware battalion of continental troops, for the
unparalleled bravery and heroism by them displayed, in advancing
to the enemy through an incessant fire, and charging them with an
impetuosity and ardour that could not be resisted.

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
presented to the officers and men of the legionary corps and
artillery, for their intrepid and gallant exertions during the
action.

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
presented to the brigade of North Carolina for their resolution
and perseverance in attacking the enemy, and sustaining a
superior fire.

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
presented to the officers and men of the state corps of South
Carolina, for the zeal, activity, and firmness by them exhibited
throughout the engagement.

That the thanks of the United States in Congress assembled, be
presented to the officers and men of the militia, who formed the
front line in the order of battle, and sustained their post with
honour, propriety, and resolution, worthy of men determined to be
free.

_Resolved_, That a British standard be presented to
Major-General Greene as an honourable testimony of his merit, and
a golden medal emblematical of the battle and victory aforesaid.

That Major-General Greene be desired to present the thanks of (p. 052)
Congress to Captains Pierce and Pendleton, Major Hyrne and Captain
Shubrick, his aids-de-camp in testimony of their particular
activity and good conduct during the whole of the action.

That a sword be presented to Captain Pierce, who bore the
general's despatches giving an account of the victory, and that
the Board of War take order herein.

_Resolved_, That the thanks of the United States in Congress
assembled, be presented to Brigadier-General Marion, of the South
Carolina militia, for his wise, gallant, and decided conduct in
defending the liberties of his country; and particularly for his
prudent and intrepid attack on a body of the British troops, on
the 30th day of August last, and for the distinguished part he
took in the battle of the 8th of September.

Monday, October 29, 1781.

_____

_General Greene to the President of Congress._

Headquarters, Martin's Tavern, near Ferguson's Swamp,
To His Excellency South Carolina, September 11, 1781.
THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Sir: In my last despatch of the 25th of August, I informed Your
Excellency that we were on our march for Fryday's Ferry, to form
a junction with the State troops and a body of militia,
collecting at that place, with an intention to make an attack
upon the British army laying at Colonel Thompson's, near McCord's
Ferry. On the 27th, on our arrival near Fryday's Ferry, I got
intelligence that the enemy were retiring.

We crossed the river at Howell's Ferry, and took post at Motte's
plantation. Here I got intelligence that the enemy had halted at
the Eutaw Springs, about forty miles below us; and that they had
a reinforcement, and were making preparations to establish a
permanent post there. To prevent this, I was determined rather to
hazard an action, notwithstanding our numbers were greatly
inferior to theirs. On the 5th we began our march, our baggage
and stores having been ordered to Howell's Ferry under a proper
guard. We moved by slow and easy marches, as well to disguise our
real intention, as to give General Marion an opportunity to join
us, who had been detached for the support of Colonel Harden, a
report of which I transmitted in my letter of the 5th, dated
Maybrick's Creek. General Marion joined us on the evening of the
7th, at Burdell's plantation, seven miles from the enemy's camp.

We made the following disposition, and marched at four o'clock
the next morning to attack the enemy. Our front line was composed
of four small battalions of militia, two of North and two of
South Carolinians; one of the South Carolinians was under the
immediate command of General Marion, and was posted on the right,
who also commanded the front line; the two North Carolina
battalions, wider the command of Colonel Malmady, were posted in
the centre; and the other South Carolina battalion under the (p. 053)
command of General Pickens, was posted on the left. Our second
line consisted of three small brigades of continental
troops--one from North Carolina, one from Virginia, and one from
Maryland. The North Carolinians were formed into three
battalions, under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Ash, Majors
Armstrong and Blount; the whole commanded by General Sumner, and
posted upon the right. The Virginians consisted of two
battalions, commanded by Major Snead and Captain Edmonds, and the
whole by Lieutenant-Colonel Campbell, and posted in the centre.
The Marylanders also consisted of two battalions, commanded by
Lieutenant-Colonel Howard and Major Hardman, and the brigade by
Colonel Williams, deputy adjutant-general to the army, and were
posted upon the left. Lieutenant-Colonel Lee with his legion
covered our right flank; and Lieutenant-Colonel Henderson, with
the State troops, commanded by Lieutenant-Colonels Hampton,
Middleton, and Polk, our left. Lieutenant-Colonel Washington,
with his horse and the Delaware troops, under Captain Kirkwood,
formed a corps of reserve. Two three-pounders, under
Captain-Lieutenant Gaines, advanced with the front line, and two
sixes, under Captain Browne, with the second.