Battle of Harlem Heights
Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York, USA
What happened
George Washington's American army, with Thomas Knowlton's Rangers, fought British light infantry under Alexander Leslie and William Howe. The British had just taken New York City. An early morning clash between American scouts and British pickets grew into a running fight through the woods of northern Manhattan. Both sides sent more men, until the British, short of ammunition, pulled back.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was the first success for the army under Washington's direct command. Washington said it lifted his soldiers' spirits 'prodigiously'.
What came next
Washington later withdrew to White Plains and was pushed across New Jersey. Knowlton, who died in the fight, is remembered as the father of American military intelligence.
Did you know?
Colonel Joseph Reed thought the British bugle calls sounded like a fox hunt, and took them as an insult.
Timeline
- 15 September 1776The British land at Kip's Bay and take New York City.
- 16 September 1776Battle of Harlem Heights.
- 1895A statue of Knowlton is dedicated in Hartford.