Even a Friendly Army Does Damage

Around 1777, John and Lydia Neilson’s home stood in the path of an invading army. Knowing they were in danger, they left for safety farther south. When John later returned, he found that American troops had damaged his property: his fences were “Taken and Burnt,” his hayfields were “used as pasture,” and “40 Bushels of Potatoes Taken by the Soldiers.” Generals Benedict Arnold and Enoch Poor used the house as a headquarters, and Arnold led the American army’s left wing there. Although Arnold complained of the “repeated Ill Treatment I have met with have met with and continue to daily receive” from General Gates and his staff, he resolved to remain there “at this Critical Juncture when my Country needs Every support.” Lieutenant Colonel Richard Varick, one of Arnold’s aides, fueled the feud between Arnold and Gates.

Stillwater, New York · United States