The Americans took up a position behind the high log and stone fence across the Castleton Road to the east after being forced there by the British. After heavy fighting, remnants of the 2nd New Hampshire Regiment moved back across the road and flanked the British to the north. With his left flank under attack, British Brigadier General Simon Fraser sent word to his rear guard to advance quickly. As the Americans were nearly winning the battle, part of Major General Baron Friedrich Riedesel's German Brunswicker force arrived, advancing with fixed bayonets and to the sound of music, and disrupted the American flanking attempt. Near the end of the battle, American Colonel Ebenezer Francis was killed by a British volley. Impressed by the bravery and gallantry of Francis and Seth Warner, Riedesel ensured that Francis received a Christian burial on the battlefield with full military honors. The American soldiers then scattered east over Pittsford Ridge, and many later regrouped in Center Rutland or elsewhere before moving on to Manchester, Vermont. Around 10:00 am. the battle ended with a running fight along the top of Pittsford Ridge. Both sides suffered heavy casualties. The British and Germans claimed victory because they held the field, but the American rear guard accomplished its mission by engaging the enemy in a fierce battle that stopped British pursuit of the main American army. The Battle of Hubbardton was the beginning of the end for British Lieutenant General John Burgoyne and his northern forces. It saved the Northern American Army, which was instrumental in the American victories at Bennington on August 16, 1777, and at Saratoga, New York, where Burgoyne surrendered with his entire army on October 17, 1777.

Photo: Steve Stoessel

Photo: Steve Stoessel

Hubbardton, Vermont · USA