The Loyalists Leave Early

In October 1777, hundreds of American soldiers camped on this hillside whose loyalty to Britain was so strong that they were willing to fight for King George III. As the British camp on the heights of Saratoga echoed with talk of impending surrender, these Loyalists feared severe reprisals from the Americans they called rebels. On October 14, about 35 Queen’s Loyal Rangers walked Indian-file through the dark woods and bluffed their way past the surrounding patriot pickets. They eluded pursuers and reached the British camp at Lake George four days later. Although negotiations between General Gates and General Burgoyne stated that no one in the British army, of whatever country, was to be singled out for abuse, American Loyalists still sought Burgoyne’s permission not to surrender.

Victory, New York · United States