Today historian Rick Britton talks about TODAY IN U.S. HISTORY: September 16, 1776–Gen. George Washington fought the Battle of Harlem Heights on the northern end of Manhattan island (a battle that lifted American spirits and restored public confidence in Washington and the Continental Army).

The prior day, 4,000 British troops had landed in Manhattan and taken control of the lower island, driving American forces north out of New York City. Early on September 16, Washington ordered the Continentals to hold their line at Harlem Heights while he sent a group of Rangers to scout British movements. While the Rangers engaged the British in a frontal assault, Washington sent a second force of Patriots to attack the British right flank. During the short but intense fighting that ensued, the Americans were able to force a British retreat. For the first time, British redcoats ran from American Continentals.

Despite the American failure to stop the British from capturing New York City, the successful Battle of Harlem Heights restored the spirits of the Continental Army and their supporters. The Americans and British each lost approximately 70 troops in the fighting. One of the Americans lost was the Ranger leader, Captain Thomas Knowlton.

And there’s a local connection: One of the participants in the fight–a young subaltern in the 3rd Virginia Infantry–was 18-year-old James Monroe, future fifth president of the United States.

Rick is also hosting A NEW Beginning: Tales of Post Civil War Albemarle County. More info at : www.SeniorCenter.org or 434-974-6538