Battle of White Plains
White Plains, Westchester County, New York, USA
What happened
British and Hessian troops under William Howe fought George Washington's American army. After losing New York City, Washington pulled his army north to White Plains and built defences. American troops held Chatterton Hill until British and Hessian troops attacked it. The Americans then withdrew north in good order.
Why it matters
Why it matters: It was a British victory in the campaign that pushed Washington out of the New York area. But the American army escaped to fight on.
What came next
Howe captured Fort Washington in November. Washington retreated across New Jersey, then surprised the Hessians at Trenton on 26 December.
Did you know?
Some historians think the Headless Horseman in 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' was inspired by a Hessian soldier killed in this battle.
Timeline
- 27 August 1776Battle of Long Island.
- 28 October 1776Battle of White Plains.
- 16 November 1776The British take Fort Washington.
- 26 December 1776Washington wins at Trenton.