We have just passed another 1 yr Anniversary for the AMTY effort. It was a year ago, and it was 226 yrs ago, on the 18th of August, that the respective American and French Armies left the area of Philipsburg, New York, and headed south toward the eventual goal of Yorktown, Va. Apparently this march still lives on, and you are all the reason for that success. Again, we can only continue to thank you all for your continued support and cooperation. The web-site continues to be very active, much to my pleasant surprise.

As far as I can tell, some of the Marchers from our effort last year, will be in Philadelphia for a huge parade on Labor Day weekend. More info on that as I receive it. You may recall that while this parade was scheduled for last year, a torrential rain canceled the event. Thus, we get to try to do it again, this year......huzzah!!

I hope that all of you in the area can came out to say hello, and we wish you continued health and good fortune. Look for some further up-dates in the next couple of days......

Also, a number of us, including myself, will be attending the event at Mt. Vernon on the weekend of Sept. 29-30. I hope to be able to meet some of you for the first time, even though we have been corresponding for some time now. Please do think about stopping by and saying hello.....

I Remain,
At Your SErvice,
Richard Chair, AMTY
America's March to Yorktown

What a most pleasant evening just passed, at the Willimantic Public Library. The evening there was devoted to a presentation, by Keleigh Shumbo, with good help from daughter Dana, along with Marcher Dave Fagerberg. We were pleasantly reminded of Friends made, miles traversed, and tears shed, during last years America's March to Yorktown. As most of you may recall, Keleigh and children, after finding the March in Connecticut, joined with the marchers at Philipsburg, NY and stayed on the trail with them for approx 2 weeks or so, down to Philadelphia, Pa. This was a night of recollection of their experience with us.

Another pleasant surprise, it should be noted, was the arrival of Dr. Robert Selig, primary researcher of the Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary Road. It was Dr. Selig's meticulous research that was of so much value to the AMtY organization in following the W3R from Newport, RI to Yorktown, Va.

Also, a most unexpected pleasant surprise was the arrival of Dr. Richard Deseauriers, as well. Doc Richard, as we called him, twice joined the marchers here in Connecticut on two very long and exhaustive days of march. You can read about Dr. Richard, Keleigh Shumbo and children, in the Daily Log section of the marchtoyorktown.org web site. Look at March Date, Wednesday, June 21, Day #5. Both joined with us initially on the March from Windham to Bolton, CT, known as Camps 4 & 5. I should add that Dr. Richard is past his 70th year, by some measure,(I can not tell) and in most excellent health. T'was almost like 'old home week' for the AMtY folks on hand.

The program was presented, questions answered, tea served. As we seperated and went off into the night, only the fond memories of those past experiences were brighter than the streetlamps that lit our way home......

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, AMtY

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, AMtY

Yesterday, Saturday, May 5th, a 'little' ceremony took place at Camp Fogarty, National Guard Camp, in E. Greenwich, RI. T'was the momentous return of the infamous W3R 'Baton' back to the folks in Rhode Island.

The story goes something like this..... (I say something because I do not have all the particulars, so feel free to make any corrections). At the beginning of the 225th Anniversary of the W3R Rhode Island activities, June 17th, 2006, a 'Baton' (tis a curious thing, quite blue stained maple wood, about 1 1/4" dia, maybe 18" long, with 16 fleur-de-lea along its circumference, all in all a handsome little thing) was presented to a re-enactment group, (2nd Cont.Dragoons, if I recall correctly) the purpose being that the baton would somehow make its way to Yorktown, via some ceremonial work at each of the Colonial borders, thru the collective W3R,or Boy Scouts. I am not quite privy as to how this was to all be carried out, but I think that was the plan. And apparently it went along well for awhile. I think that the redoubtable Roseanna Gorham was responsible for the 'baton' idea, and a good idea it was.

The 'Baton' did make its way to Philadelphia, without any help from the folks of AMtY, we had no idea where it was, nor did we see it again, for some 10 weeks after seeing it handed off in Providence, when it surfaced, sort of, in Philadelphia. There, it seems, it went amiss..... Apparently, it became stuck in the dark recesses of someone's closet, this person having it but not knowing quite what was to be done with it. Enter the energetic Ursala Reed, who managed to have the 'Baton' delivered to the AMtY (Rose, David, Mike and Dave) folks with instructions that they should carry it on to Yorktown. Thus we did..... I believe you can track all this in the on-line Daily Logs that Rose was writing as the March moved through the Philadelphia area....

So the Baton did go to Yorktown afterall, with AMtY, and now it was time to try to get it back to the good folks in RI. After some missed communications, we were finally able to set up a time, and place to hand-off the 'Baton' back to the folks it started with.

T'was a beautiful, spring morning yesterday. Thanks to the work of Roseanna Gorham, Gen. Bray (RI Natl. Guard Commander), Capt. John Tabor of Newport Artillery, and Richard Sheryka of the Kentish Guard, indeed a 'little' ceremony was accomplished. The 'Baton' was handed over the RI Militia authorities, in hopes that it is now in safe-keeping......

If any of you reading this are familiar with the good folks of the Southington CT. Rochambeau Commitee, or the Southington, Ct. Historical Society, please be so kind as to have them contact us here at AMtY. We would like to arrange a similar ceremony to return the beautiful flags that they persented to us to take to Yorktown. The flags were made, and signed by the Girl Scouts that made them, they have indeed made it to Yorktown. In fact they were also flying when we marched into Washington's Camp at Philipburg, NY, last July. Time to get them back home.....

We continue to enjoy your support of America's March to Yorktown, t'would have been difficult without you all. Be well, be safe, walk in History of your choosing...

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, 'AMtY'
earhorn@att.net

Ahh, the Spring has finally Sprung here in Connecticut. You can almost watch the Srping floweres leaping out the ground, growing by inches a day, noticeably. The sky is clear after the horrendous Nor'easter what hung around for days and days, the temps are warm and the birds are truly a'singing and a'courtin'.......

Just a few notes to keep you all in the loop. In the past week we were featured on a local radio morning program, WILI, 1400 AM on Wednesday morning. Wayne Norman, always a gracious host and a bit of a history buff, as well, put us at ease (myself, along with Irv Stanley and Ed Shapiro of the Andover, Ct., Historical Society) and kept up the banter for a full two hours.....

Then on Friday evening, I was asked to give a brief chat concerning the 'March', at the Columbia, Ct., Historical Society, with a meal included and a very interested audience......

All of this leads up to this past Sunday, when, with the kind help of the good folks at the Andover Historical Society, a number of us were encouraged to discuss the march, at length. David Holloway, Rose Morin and Mike Fitzgerald were on hand, as was I, to give presentations and answer questions from the interested audience. Serge Gabriel, of the CT. W3R was also on hand and gave a presentation of the French help during the AWI. The program lasted a couple of hours and was well attended, considering it was the first truly gorgeous day of Spring, perhaps some 40 people in attendence.

I noticed folks in the audience from Windham, Columbia, Bolton, East Hartford, Ct. Historical Societies..... all these folks had given of their time to help us along the road. If it weren't for the CT. Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Connecticut Historical Societies, t'would have been a much harder road. They were giving us help long before we finally caught the eye of other Organizations.... In fact, it was the local Historical Societies (CT., NY) that kept us going on the road........ Many thanks to you all.....

The program went very well, I suspect we will be able to tweak our presentations in the coming months as the offers to speak keep coming....

EXCITING NEWS.........
David Holloway called today to say that he, and Mike, were going to go to Washington, DC, to chat with a Senate Committee concerning the W3R. I understand that Kim Burdick will also be involved. Ursala Reed, our old friend from the Philadephia area,is also involved, I believe. Spread the word folks, and try to get there to see the Boys try to put the W3R on the NPS Map. David did not know what building, or Room they were going to, so if any of you can help with that let us know. I am sure they will know by the time they get there, but perhaps the info would be useful for those of you that want to be there and join them...... the hearing is on Thursday, at 2:00 PM.....(more to follow, perhaps)

MORE EXCITING NEWS.....
I understand that the good folks of W3R Rhode Island, Roseanna Gorham and company, will be hosting 'AMtY', on Friday, May 4th, for a ceremony to complete the return of the infamous ' W3R Baton', back to Providence. Most of you should know about the 'Baton', if not, ask Ursala (grins)... the time and place have yet to be settled but we will let you know as soon as we find out. I expect that David, Rose, Mike and Richard will be in attendence there....

I also believe that some of us will be attending a W3R here in Connecticut on May 12th, more on that in the near future.......

TIS A LONG AND WINDING ROAD........

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, AMtY

May the joy of the day be with you, and yours, even if it is a Nor'easter!
I had an occasion to chat with David Holloway today and he has given me the following information to impart to you all......
There is a Press Conference, Scheduled to be held on Friday, April 13th, at Eleven of the Clock in the Morning, at the 1781 French Camp site at Phidelphia. I am informed that this site is at Schuykill (ain't that the infamous Surely-kill?) River area, near the intersection of Market St. and 30th Ave.....should any of you have an opportunity to attend, please do so. I expect that you will see David Holloway, Rose Morin, Mike Fitzgerald and Dave Fagerberg there. These are indeed the folks that had feet (and tires) on the ground, in that area, during the March... come say hello to some old (new?) friends. Look for a gathering of folks and in particular those wearing some funny clothes...!
Unfortunately, I will not be able to attend, 'work' keeps calling me (being self-employed, you have to pay attention to those calls). I wish you all well and trust that while Spring may have not really sprung yet, perhaps winter will not arrive, again!!? Be well, be safe........

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, 'AMtY'

Tis a pleasure to be able to address you all once again. Most of us are still waiting for Spring, to spring!!
About a year ago, I was in the throes of charting the Northern Route of the Rochambeau/Washington route, with designs that we might soon be walking upon it. Of course, that is all history now, the March itself was completed, but the work is going on. Here is an update of upcoming activities that will involve the members of AMtY.....
Of course, most of you are aware of the National Leeadership Conference of the W3R, being held in Baltimore, Maryland, this Saturday. Members of the AMtY road gang (Rose, David, Mike and Dave) are expected to be there, perhaps as early as Friday to attend a news conference as well.
Here, in east-central Connecticut, an AMtY presentation on the experiences of the Marchers while on the March will be held in the Andover Elementary School Cafeteria, Sunday, April 22nd at One of the Clock in the Afternoon. The event has been noted locally, with many invites going out to area Historical Societies. I am told the response has been very postive. The school is located on Rt. 316, in Andover, Ct. The event is open to the public and all interested parties are invited. We expect Richard, Rose, David, Mike to be on hand. Also, Serge Gabriel will be on hand to present a short talk on the French committment to the American Revolution.
On Wednesday, April 18th, both Richard and David will be giving a chat on the Wayne Norman radio show, in Wyndham, Ct. (Camp #4) The show will run from 7-9:00 AM and can be heard on WILI Radio, 1420 on the AM dial.
As you can see, tis a busy month of April for the AMtY group. Now, I haven't taken a look at the statistics lately, but we know that just two months ago, the AMtY web-site was still receiving some 30,000 hits a month, that is incredible. Particularly since the actual walk has been over since October! Please be assured that, because of the excellent donations from our supporters, the web-site will remain on-line for some years to come.
If your group is having something of interest concerning the W3R, let us know and we will post it.
Wishing you all the best, with a fervent desire for Spring to appear.......

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Chair, AMtY

Greetings to all,

At long last, I have arrived home after our long “March to Yorktown.”

After the ceremonies at Yorktown I drove north to Connecticut to unload my gear from Camp Martha - stopping along the way to visit family and friends.

When I arrived in Connecticut I was told that my company, Rogers Rangers (www.rogersrangers.org) was attending a reenactment in New Hampshire so I drove up for a few days to see them. While there I received a call from a production company in NYC telling me that I was selected to portray Gen.Guy Carleton in a film about Benedict Arnold the following weekend in Rhode Island. So, after returning to Connecticut to clean out “Martha” I drove up to Newport, RI to begin filming on the ship “Providence.”

It was ironic that the last thing I was to do this year was happening back in Newport, RI, the site where we began our ‘March to Yorktown,’ on June 17.

When we began this journey, and I think I can speak for all of us, we were pretty naive about the impact it would have on not only ourselves but the thousands of people along the way. We simply thought that we would be ‘just three amigos’ walking along the road -completely incognito-as if people did this sort of thing every day.

The impact on us was not only the physical and mental demands that we faced – such as
crawling out of the tent to bandage our feet each morning and tromping along the roads in 10 inches of driving cold rain—but also from the unexpected support and enthusiasm we encountered in town after town - day after day. What a boost to one’s spirit to find ‘cheerleaders’ along the worst of roads in the worst of weather, breakfast outside our tents and a warm meal at the end of a grueling days march.

The response from the general public was both surprising and very humbling.
I imagine the support and appreciation was due for a number of reasons – pride in one’s local history, an appreciation of someone making the effort, a release from the frustrations of our current conflict, to just old fashioned patriotism. Whatever the reason, people cried on our shoulders and welcomed us into their homes. Oftentimes it was difficult not to share in those tears.

So many things just seemed to work out for this endeavor. Without the many hours of effort from all of the various state W3R members our journey would certainly have been something much less—if not impossible. With the march, the W3R gained critical, positive recognition at a time it needed it most. A year before would have been too early, a year after, too late. It was a wonderful synergy.

There are so many people and groups I wish to thank such as the various state W3R members, the DAR and SAR, Scouts, marchers who joined us here and there, individuals and towns, Richard Swartwout and the rest of the March to Yorktown support group and
most importantly my fellow marchers, Rose, David and Dave for their dedication to making this dream come true. Thank you and Huzzah!

So many people, so many miles, so many wonderful memories for all of us to share. Thank you all for welcoming us into your towns and homes. We all made this march a success. We all made history together.

I remain,
Yr most humble and obedient servant,
Capt. Michael S. Fitzgerald
America’s March to Yorktown

Greetings Friends and Patriots...

Tis almost a fortnight now since last I was able to write to you. We have been more busy than even I could have imagined. The work of the Peace seems almost as much as the work of the War. Oh, tis that it t'would not be so.

We have learned that Gen. Clinton did come, with the British Fleet, to try to affect a rescue of Cornwallis. Apparently the fleet left New York the same day that Lord Cornwallis had surrendered, here in York. The fleet arrived off of the Capes on or about the 24th of October, staying until the 29th when it was decided, apparently, that naught could be done to remedy the fate of Cornwallis. The French still hold the Naval line on the Chesapeake, therefore, the Brits sailed off and we can only assume that they have gone back to New York.

We have now had the time to take care of the dead and wounded and a count of those that fell, or were captured is as follows, to the best of my knowledge. These numbers seem to change almost daily, but tis the best that I can do now.......

........the number of men surrendered as prisoners amounted to some 7,073. Of that lofty number some 5,950 were Rank and File.....add to that some 2,000 Sailors,1,500 Tories and 1,800 Negroes... the total British loss is some 12,000 men. The seige cost the British some 550 men killed, wounded and missing.....the loss to the Allies (French and American) appears to 253 French and 125 Americans...

The British also of course lost considerable supplies and weaponry, as follows thusly.....some 75 Brass and 160 Iron Cannon, 7,794 Muskets, 28 Regimental Standards, (10 British, 18 German), and a large quantity of mortars, bombs, cannon and musket ball, and some $11,000 in specie...

The day after the surrender, we hear, the Lord Cornwallis paid a visit to Gen. Washington, to await his orders. How far the great had fallen. However, it seems that Cornwallis's bearing, elegant manners and frank soldierly bearing soon made him a favorite at the table of Washington. We would see the two of them about as they inspected the 'leveling of the works'. There was a Grand Dinner, in which the British and Americans sincerly toasted the efforts of the other. It is said that Cornwallis noted that this War was probably over as he did not expect the Ministry to be sending another Army to America....tis grand news indeed.

However, not the same can be said of the bastard Col. Tarelton. He was never invited to the table and was inquiring as to why he was being so dismissed. It fell upon Col. Laurens, as aide-de-camp to General Washington, to explain to the Col. that indeed, his lack of invite was not an accident, but was meant as a reproof for some certain cruelties practiced by him, and his troops, in the field... Ah hah, wish I had been there for that takedown.... It is also said that Tarelton had hired a body guard to protect his person against some slight of the Americans, but after being totally ignored, was soon seen to see that the guard be dismissed. Another time, while canting into Town on a beautiful blood-horse, the horse was claimed by a gentleman from Virginia, as his, and left the Colonol afoot to continue his journey to dinner, with the Count de Viomenil. He was relieved by a French Officer who gave his own steed to the Colonl so that he might make his dinner engagement. Tar elton... not one of the favorites here abouts, at the moment.....

After the surrender, General Washington, in his Orders of the Day, gave praise to General Knox and Col. Du Portail, of the Artillery. Thanks were also given to Governor Nelson, who had asked that the men fire upon his own house where the British Officers were garrisoned. It was also suggested that all men 'to attend Divine Services' in the Brigades.

Gen. Washington has sent Col. Tilghman to Philadelphia, with the latest despatches from Congress. We can be sure that he has spread the word of this Great Victory whilst upon the road, to that end. We have heard the Great Bells of the Churches ringing in the distance, much to our delight.

We have also learned that Gen. Washington has attempted to persuade Adm. De Grasse to co-operate in an expedition against Charleston or Wilmington. The Admiral has demurred, saying that he had different orders from his own Government. We have also learned that this extraordinary expedition against the British here in York, was the last offer from the French. Had this Campaign come to no avail, it is certain that the French would have abandoned us to perhaps a different fate. It seems that King Louis was not all that fond of the idea of aiding a Republican uprising against a sitting King (George), a fellow sitting King, I might add. Perhaps that is why we have not seen the King's Colours aloft in this Campaign. Tis the only standards we have seen among the French, are the Regimental Standards. A situation that is most curious, at best...

In this fortnight since the Surrender, the American Army has left the Town of York, except for Gen. St. Clair, who has marched southward to reinforce Gen. Greene. The rest of the Army is headed northward, we gather to New York perhaps.......We have left Gen. Rochambeau, that saviour of our effort, here in the Virginias. Within the fortnight, we have evacuated the Town of York, both us and the British. The prisoners have been, and are being, taken to Winchester, in the Virginias, some to Fort Frederick and Frederickstown in the Marylands, and some to Lancaster in Pennsylvania. When the Bonetta, sloop-of-war, went to New York, it carried a number of Tories that will be protected by Gen. Clinton, there... All the British Officers have gone by sea to New York, on parole.....

My guess is that King George III has yet to learn of the fate of his Army, or his Colonies. OH, again, t'wish that I could be there in the chamber when he finds it all lost......
Until again, soonest.....

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
For, 'AMtY'
Homestead Headquarters

There is hot tea and coffee, sweets, smiles, handshakes and hugs. We are joined by Ursula and the Shumbos, and many photographs are taken before we are ushered into a reception room for formalities. We are officially welcomed and congratulated by Dan Smith, Superintendant of Colonial National Historic Parks, County Administrator James McReynolds, County Board of Supervisors Sheila Noll, Comte de Grasse Chapter DAR Nan Fogler, 96th District State Representative Melanie Rapp, York County Historical Museum Director Bonnier Karwac, and Parks and Recreation Supervisor David Meredith and his lovely wife "Sam". The four original marchers are each gifted with Victory at Yorktown posters, and the group is presented a framed Salute to the Military 1781-2006 poster and the commemorative Yorktown 225th medallion.

During this time, the rains have relented and the group now forms a line on Main Street facing southeast. This is the moment for which we have strived. Cadence is called and the final steps begin. Under the still dark skies, we march to the majestic Monument of Victory. We stand quietly, in reverance and gratitude, awed by the magnificence of our experience and remembering the great sacrifices given for the purpose of our free nation. Liberty surely did not come free. For a time, we are each lost in our thoughts as we walk the base of the monument and gaze at Lady Liberty.

The Yorktown Waterfront Tavern is our next refuge, (of course!) and here, across the street on the stretch of sandy beach, is our last ceremony. Richard has brought the 6th Connecticut's regimental pewter bowl, and we fill it with the bottle of Rochambeau wine given to us 113 days ago by Paul Graham at Waterman's Tavern, our first night's camp in Coventry, Connecticut. The bowl is passed....Richard, David, Rose, Mike and Dave all sip its contents...surely the best full, rich, red wine this writer has EVER tasted....round and round until empty. We have realized our dream.

Richard soon departs northward for home...David and Rose drive camp Martha to relatives in Poquoson, Dave and Mike return to Williamsburg motels. The day is done....the march is done. HUZZAH!! Nous sommes finis!!

Merci, Tout le monde...
Avec amour,
Rose

Greetings Froiends and Patriots...

Please forgive this late post. The events of the last couple of days, and most notably yesterday, the 19th have been most overwhelming. Combine that fact, with the need to still be on duty, have left but little time to write. We still have the Army on alert, Ole' corny is a wily and dangerous enemy, or was...

HUZZAH, HUZZAH, HUZZAH.....THE END MOMENT HAS COME, THE BATTLE CEASES, THE CANNONS ARE QUIET.......

When yesterday, I wrote to you of some of the end games that have come undone for the enemy, I had not the time to finish the dispatch. Much, much more has happened here in this Town of Yorktown. The last dispatch ended with the British sortie across the York River and a possible break-out from Gloucester, to the north. That action was foiled by the gods of weather, to which we shall ever owe our due.

Ole' Corny then, on the 17th, asked for a parley.... a lone drummer on the battered earthen works beating the parley...to discuss terms of surrender, asking for 24 hours to do so. In that time the appointment of commisioners would be made, to discuss and settle the surrender terms. Gen. Washington thought it was to long a time to wait, knowing that Corny was expecting British re-inforcements at any time, and asked that Cornwallis write his surrender proposals before the Commisioners were to meet....and a suspension of hostilities for two hours would be allowed for Cornwallis to do so...The Earl complied with Gen. Washington's request and sent his proposals, but they were rejected....General Washington then made a counter-offer of terms, that was generally accepted by Cornwallis. The capitulation had begun... HUZZAH...

Col. Jhn Laurens and Vis. de Noailles (Lafayette's brother-in-law) were appointed the two commisioners on behalf of the Allies. Col. Ross and Lt. Col. Dundas on behalf of the British. They met on the morning of the 18th, but to no final avail, the entire day being spent in conferences and negotiations. We could see, from the defensive lines, all the comings and goings of the various particpants to the talks. Flags a'blowing, uniforms bright and clean, all spit and polish, t'was the sight to see and we all strained to get a good look...... this was, afterall, a moment to remember.

Gen. Washington should not, could not and would not allow any further delay of the signing of the terms, and early on the morning of the 19th sent a transcript of the terms to Cornwallis, for signature. We are told that he demanded they be signed by 11 of the Clock, that morning, and that the troops to be marched out of the Garrison for surrender, by 2 of the Clock in the Afternoon.....

The British, having no where to go, had to oblidge, and thus they did, much to the rousing satisfaction of the Army entrenced about them. We have been on the march since June, from Newport, some 4 months ago. Tis finally that we are here, at this place, at this moment, to perhaps put an end to the continuing British injustices in America. We no longer think of ourselves as subjects of the King, nor have we for some time, and now, all the world knows it. We are about to be free.....

At the appointed hour of 2 of the clock in the Afternoon, the garrisons at the Towns of York and Gloucester, the shipping in the harbor, all of the ordinance, amunition and stores, were surrendered to the land and naval forces of America and France, after a siege of some 13 days.
The Battle is won, the enemy has surrendered, I am still alive.........

The excitement of the moment is overwhelming, with tears of joy and relief for us all. The Terms of Surrender, at least a brief form of them, have been posted and they are as such......
I. The garrisons at York and Gloucester to surrender themselves prisoners of war, the land troops to remain prisoners to the United States-the naval forces to to the Naval Army of the French.
II. The artillery, stores, etc to be delivered to the proper Officers, to receive them.
III. The two redoubts captured on the 16th, to be surrendered, one to the Americans, one to the French troops. The garrrison at York to march out at Two of the Clock in the Afternoon, with shouldered arms, colours cased, and the drums beating: there to lay down their arms and return to the encampment. The works on the Gloucester side to be delivered to the Americans and French; the garrison there to lay down their arms at Three of the Clock in the Afternoon.
IV. The Officers to retain their side-arms, papers and personal property. Also, the property of the Loyalists found in the garrison to be retained.
V. The soldiers to be kept in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, and to be subsisted by the Americans. British, Anspach and Hessian Officers, allowed to be quartered near them, and supply them with clothing and necessities.
VI. The Officers to be allowed to go on parole to Europe, or to any part of the American Confederacy: proper vessels to be granted by the Count de Grasse to convey them, under flags of truce, to New York, within 10 days, if they choose; passports to be granted to those who choose to go by land.
VII. Officers allowed to keep soldiers as servants; and servants, not soldiers, not to be considered prisoners.
VIII. The ship Bonetta to be under the entire control of Cornwallis, to go to New York with Dispatches, and then to be delivered to Count de Grasse.
IX. Traders not considered prisoners of war, but on parole, and allowed three (3) months to dispose of their property, or remove it.
X. Loyalists not to be punished on account of having joined the British Army. (Washington did not assent to this article, considering it a civil matter)
XI. Proper hospitals to be furnished for the sick and wounded, they to be atended by British surgeons.
XII. Wagons to be furnished, if possible, for the carrying of Officers attending the Soldiers, and of the Hospital-surgeons when traveling on account of the sick.
XIII. The shipping and boats in the two harbors (York, Gloucester), with all their appendages, arms, and stores, to be delivered up un-impaired after the private property was unloaded.
XIV. No article of this capitulation to be infringed upon by pretext of reprisal: and a fair interpretation to be given, according to the common meaning and acdeptation of the words.......

These Articles were signed by Lord Cornwallis and Thomas Symonds, the Naval commander in the York River, for the British..... and by Gens. Washington and Rochambeau, and by Adm. De Grasse and De Barras, for tha Allies.....

Will write of the Grand Surrender Ceremonies, in the next post. I am now oblidged to take my station, with my mates,in conducting the surrender terms..... soonest...

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Homestead Headquarters
For, 'AMtY'

Greetings Friends and Patriots....

The walls are tumbing down, this Day of Days..... Oh, I am so excited that I can barely contain my hand on the page. The world, our world, your world has been changed, indeed..... but first, let me bring you up to date on the last couple of days here at the Town of York.

My last despatch to you concerned the taking of Redoubts #9 & 10. I have a bit more intelligence concerning that moment.......... the American attack, commanded by Hamilton, was swift in its resolve and its finality. The Americans made a rather impetous rush, pulling the defensive 'abattis' aside with their hands, knocking down the palisades, leaping over the ditch and scrambling up the redoubts walls and into the enemy works. Tis happened so fast that the enemy could do naught but surrender. The Americans never fired a musket, taking the redoubt by the point of the bayonet only......it happened so fast that the American losses were but 9 killed and thirty-two wounded. The Commander of the British redoubt, Major Campbell, was taken prisoner with 17 of the garrison there, with 8 of the defenders being killed. It is reported that the cry of the Americans, as they mounted the assault, was, "Remember New London"!.... you may recall my report of the dissatisfaction of the Arm y concerning the British actions at that Fort. Let it be said that the Americans acted with mercy, and did not follow the lead of the British atrocity at New London......

The French were not so rapid in their assault and suffered consequences. They determined to do 'european style' and cut the abattis, all the time suffering a mortal fire from the British entrenched there. The French loss of life was considerable, with no accounting at this time. The Regiment Gatanais restored its name to a place of honor.

It is said that Gen. Washington kept himself constantly exposed to the dangers of the furious British cannonade that began as the Allied assault began...... tis many stories I can relate but will hold for another time. Let it be known that while the British did not counter-attack on the redoubts, they did stiffen their cannonade.

The two captured redoubts were now a part of the new parrallel line that had been dug, facing the British defensive works. Shortly thereafter, the heaviest of the guns (cannons) taken from the French ships were mounted there and began their awful work. The allied cannonade was now having tremendous effect upon the Town. Ole' Corny's situation was becoming difficult, we could all see.... that was some days ago, on the 14th.

But we must say that Corny is a dangerous enemy, always alert to the changing situation. Apparently, his thoughts of surrender were not yet in his mind, though we thought that they should be. It seems he ordered an attack, on the 16th Oct.. This took us a bit by surprise, I must admit, we being sure the final cards had already been played. To retard the progress of our 2nd parrallel line, a sortie of some 350 British troops, composed of Foot Guards and Light Infantry, under the command of Col. Abercrombie, assaulted in a stealth manner, the new French Batteries. The attack began a bit before day-break. Abercrombie divided his force into two detachments, sending the Guards against one of the batteries and the Light Infantry against the other. Both attackes were made with furious dash and alacrity...the French were surprised, overrun and driven from the works. The British were able to spike all the guns in the works, and killed an estimated 100 of the French defenders, b less their Papist souls......shortly thereafter, support came from the French trenches and drove the British back out of the works..... the cannon had been so quickly, but poorly spiked, that the French were able to get the guns working in short order, again wreaking havoc on the Town below. For just a moment it was a close thing.......

But tis not over just yet, it seems..... that moment having failed the British plan, another soon took its place, much to our very surprise. Corny, not one to consider surrender easily, was not done.... During the night of the 16th, it seems, a plan was devised to move the Army across the York River to the British garrison at Gloucester, that being commanded by Tarleton (you remember him, I am sure). Perhaps the plan was to move the Army across the river, leave the sick and infirmed, join with Tarleton and take on Gen. Choisy, Lauzon's Legion and the Virginia Militia, in hopes of fighting their way eventually to New York. A bold and ambitious plan, no doubt.... It seems that in the night, members of the Guard, also the 23rd Regiment, must have embarked in boats to go to Goucester. This was done so secretly that we think that perhaps none of the allies, on either side of the river, knew it was happening. We can only surmise at this point as we do not have any documnets, only knowing the fact that a storm came up over-night, and numbers of British soldiers were seen coming back from Gloucester, to Yorktown, upon which we did fire...... tis another close thing, very close...... thanks to Providence for the storm that unveiled this latest plan.

On the 17th, more batteries of allied cannon opened up upon the Town. It does not seem that the land could stay above water with all the cannon shot landing there. Tis must be hell for the British thugs to endure...but we are not sorry. Later on, about noon of the 17th, we saw a lone drummer, beatng the parley. Corny had proposed a cessation of hostilities for some 24 hours, and that commisioners be appointed, so that terms of surrender might be conducted, and settled. The loudest cheer was heard at that moment that the drummer appeared on the battered earthen works.

Gen. Washington, seems to be fearing that Corny is fretting time away time waiting for re-inforcements from Clinton in New York, objected to the long delay. We can only assume that the surrender terms will be made known to us soon..... that is where we are at the moment, the cannonade has ceased, the world is quiet, for the first time in days.... sleep is but a blink away, with hopes that this moment shall come to some good fruition.......will write again soonest.

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
Homestead Headquarters
For, 'AMtY'

Greetings Friends and Patriots.....

As I was writing before being called to duty, the Grand Surrender Ceremony was scheduled for the afternoon, at Two of the Clock, on the 19th Oct. I have already indicated to you the Terms of the Surrender, and those that signed the Agreement.

Under the Terms by General Washington, the British were to step out of the Garrison, to lay down their Arms on the Surrender Field....and thus it happened.

The news of the Capitulation generated wide interest in the surrounding area, certainly among the civilian population. The Publick showed up, by the thousands. It seems there were at least as many spectators as there were those about to Capitulate.

General Lincoln was appointed by Gen. Washington to conduct the surrender, which was upon the same terms as those prescribed to Lincoln when he was forced to surrender Charlestown. There can be no doubt that Lincoln was much pleased to act as such.

At about Twelve of the Clock Noon, the combined French and American Army was drawn up in two lines, on the road from Yorktown, to Hampton, Virginia. The troops created a line a mile long, with the American troops on the right side of the road, the French on the left. At the head of the line were General Washington, upon his most trusted mount, Nelson....and at the head of the other line sat Gen. Rochambeau, on a handsome bay horse, surrounded by his cadre of Officers. The French troops were in complete uniforms, presenting a very military appearance. The Americans, though not as well dressed, some in rags, exhibited the most military appearance possible, of a Soldier at Arms (attention). It is said that Gen. Washington cautioned his troops, saying, "My boys, let there be no insults over a conquered foe, when they lay down their arms, don't huzzah, posterity will huzzah for you". It is also said that the British were amazed at the number of 'blacks' in the Americna ranks, perhaps as many as twenty per-cent of the troops assembled. They may have been surprised, we were not.........

At Two of the Clock in the Afternoon, the captive Army came out of the entrenchments, and began to advance between the lines of the Allies. We all expected to see Lord Cornwllis to attend, and were much dissappointed when informed that he was 'ill'. He had appointed Gen. O'Hara in his place, to attend the Surrender ceremonies. O'Hara, handsome in his full uniform, walked his horse at the head of the column of British troops. He was followed by the soldiers, all with shouldered arms, colors cased, and the drum beating a British march.

Oh, the moment. Oh, the feelings, the emotions that run through my body, my eyes tearing at the sight. The rememberance of friends left behind, of friends lost, of family tossed from homes, of unfairness in the courts, of brutality, and starvation, and want, and need, and hatred, and hatred, and hatred.........

But I digress, let us return to the moment...... the martial beat of the drum, the line of Redcoats, marching before my eyes.....betwen the lines of the Allied troops. The British only looked to their left, to the French troops, adding a last insult to the Americans. The good Gen. Lafayette, noticing this slight, by the loosers to the victors, ordered that 'Yankee Doodle' be played by the his Military Band. Thus did the British look to the right, but not at all pleased to do so..

While I was not at the head of the line, with the General Officers, it was reported that Gen. O'Hara first offered the Sword of Lord Cornwallis to Gen. Rochambeau, who then politely suggested that it be given to Gen. Washington, who then politely suggested that it be given to Gen. Lincoln. And thus it was....

The Royal Army was resplendent in its uniform, having all received new uniforms for the Surrender Ceremony. Lord Cornwallis would have it no other way of course. The British troops were haggard in their step and march, some thought they must be drunk, or afflicted in some way. And at the moment of the laying, or in some cases, throwing down of arms, their mortification was best displayed. The embarrassment of giving the order to 'Ground Arms' was exceedingly noticed by all. Apparently it t'was done in a most un-military manner. Some British soldiers cried, some laid their arms gently, others threw them down with disgust. Do'est not matter, the thing is done.. the arms are done, the surrender is almost completed...

And then came the surrender of the Regimental Colours. Oh, the anger of the momnent, the trying of their souls, the pain ...... Tis a moment that every soldier would wish not to happen, that his Regiment had failed, been captured,and giving up the colours to the enemy the worst wound of all....we could see the dissappintment and the anger, the embarrassed moment, the shame of it all...we are just glad tis not us that is doing the giving up...

Twenty eight (28) British Captains, each with a cased Regimental Colour, were drawn up on the parade, in a line. Opposite to them, at a distance of but six (6) paces, twenty-eight American Sergeants were drawn up, to receive the cased Colours. An American Ensign, still unknown, was appointed by Col. Hamilton, as Officer of the Day, to conduct the ceremony.. The Ensign ordered the two lines to advance toward eash other, for but two paces, but the British demurred.... The British were un-willing to present their Colours to Non-Commissioned Officers (NCO's). Hamilton, sitting ahorse, noticed this hesitation of the British, and ordered that the Colours all be given to the Ensign, which was accomplished. He then handed the Colours to the assembled Sergeants.

When all the ceremonial surrender work was accomplished, the British troops were conducted back to their lines, under sufficient guard. The French and American trops were directed back to their respective lines, to await the morrow.... tis must be said that we hardly knew how to act at the moment. We were so relieved, and happy...yet, New York was still under the British boot heel, and what would become of us next? Must we now needs to march back to the north, in the appraoching winter, to face the British there....?

I shall report more, as soon as I am able..... for now, the peace allows us to drink hard, and rest, to chat about the fires, and express our wonder and happiness at the current situation, to take stock, perhaps to rest a moment or two... we are victors, winners in the game now...free?, how wonderful that small word do'est sound......free to do what? We have won, tis sure, but to what end, now?

I Remain,
At Your Service,
Richard Swartwout
For, 'A Homestead Headquarters
ww.marchtoyorktown.org

The day has warmed up to 78 degrees...sunny for the most part. We are briefly visited by Stran Trout who has found the men walking on a most deserted stretch of dirt road....he is checking on their progress and brings a DVD gift of photos and maps.

As Rose waits in the parking area of a small local shop, she is approached by a mistress who has stopped here for provisions. This lady has seen the colorful marchers up the road and questions who, what, where, why? Her curiosity satisfied, she shops and drives away in her carriage. It is not until the men stop here for a brief rest and hope of procuring ice cream, that we learn from the shopkeeper of this mistress' generosity. She has quietly left a monetary donation with the shopkeeper...to be used for whatever the army will purchase here to ease their thirst or hunger as they march. And we never did learn her name or residence.

As the march progresses along route 746, we see our first sign for Williamsburg/Yorktown/Jamestown on the parallel highway where fast carriages seem to fly by the army. This is reassuring proof that our ultimate destination is within reach...spirits soar and there is a sudden spring in the men's step. There are no more complaints of sore feet. The day's march covers 15.5 miles and we return to the Courthouse to fetch Martha. By this late afternoon, the parking lot is almost empty of the day's carriages and we see a paper under the carriage windshield. Surely we have not received another violation ticket? No...not in this kind County. 'Tis a gift from Pam Crosby...a most kind letter of appreciation, CD and copies of the previous day's photographs . We continue to receive.

Martha is brought to our night's camp at Taono Upper County Park, prearranged by Stephanie Deal of James City County Parks and Recreation. This handsome park with large fire-placed shelter is deserted save for our presence. We find the Shumbo family has arrived...Keleigh and all four children....to rejoin us for our entrance into Yorktown. Ursula Reed from Philadelphia arrives as our special guest and everyone settles in for an evening and meal before the fire. David and Rose detach Martha from George and travel to his cousin's home in Poquoson where his new clothing has been delivered. The camp is dark and quiet on their return....Damon asleep in her carriage, the rest of the group nestled in their beds under the shelter's roof.

We have but two more days of our long journey southward....we have heard from the locals that the weather prediction is not good. Some talk of a 'Nor-easter with heavy rains. A fitting ending for the army's long march? We retire, praying for clear skies.
A demain.

Avec amour,
Rose