The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
March 10, 1776
As dawn breaks, Continental Army soldiers have begun gathering the nearly 700 British cannonballs fired at their position overnight.
At headquarters, Gen. George Washington calls for a detailed account of how the troops fared after the bombardment, asking what effect the cannonade had and how the works now stand.
ON THIS DAY: DORCHESTER HEIGHTS IS SECURED!
Robert Hanson Harrison writes to Artemas Ward of Washington’s orders:
“By his Excellency’s command I am to inform you that It is his desire that you give peremptory Orders to the Artillery Officer commandg at Lams Dam, that he must not fire upon the Town of Boston tonight unless the Enemy first begin a Cannonade, and that you Inform the Officer at Dorchester heights that he is not to fire from thence on the Town—If they begin, and we have any Cannon on Nuke [Nook’s] Hill, his Excellency wou’d have the fire to be returned from thence among the Shipping and every damage (don)e them that possibly can. Notwithstanding the accounts received of (the) Enemy’s being about to evacuate the Town with all seeming hurry & expedition, his Excellency is apprehensive that Genl Howe has some design of having a brush before his departure and is only waiting in hopes of findg us of[f] our Guard, he therefore desires that you will be very vigilant and have every necessary precaution taken to prevent a Surprize and to give them a proper reception in case they attempt anything”
On the ridges outside of Boston, American patriots watch streets that are now crowded with redcoats hauling artillery and baggage to the wharves. Gen. William Howe issues a proclamation ordering inhabitants to surrender linen and woolen goods that might aid the rebel cause.
