The chief engagement of Connecticut’s only inland battle during the War for Independence was fought approximately 100 yards from this site. Several hundred hastily mustered militia joined a handful of Continental troops under Generals Benedict Arnold and Gold Stilliman to face British regulars more than thrice their number led by Major General William Tryon. Only an hour before, American General David Wooster fell mortally wounded during his second attack on the British rearguard as it retreated toward Ridgefield after burning patriot supplies at Danbury. Although Tryon’s redcoats carried the day in Ridgefield, the resulting Hornet’s Nest of patriot farmer-soldiers ensured Crown troops never returned, and may have contributed to British General John Burgoyne’s isolation and surprising defeat at Saratoga six months later.