Battles & Campaigns · 1777
Battle of Red Bank
Fort Mercer, Red Bank, New Jersey, USA
What happened
The British held Philadelphia and needed to clear the American forts guarding the Delaware River. Von Donop attacked Fort Mercer, at Red Bank in New Jersey, from two directions. The defenders drove back both attacks, and the Hessians retreated.
Why it matters
Why it matters: The American win raised Patriot morale and delayed the British effort to secure Philadelphia. It eased pressure on Washington's army.
What came next
After Fort Mifflin fell in mid-November, the Americans left Fort Mercer on 20 November 1777. Washington's army spent the winter at Valley Forge.
Did you know?
Before the attack, von Donop boasted that the fort's name would be changed to 'Fort Donop'.
Timeline
- 22 October 1777Battle of Red Bank.
- 15–16 November 1777Americans leave Fort Mifflin.
- 20 November 1777Greene abandons Fort Mercer.