The Path to Battle

Morning skirmishing in the woods more than a mile north on September 19, 1777 made clear that the British were coming. General Arnold urged that they march out and attack, and General Gates agreed, ordering him to send Colonel Morgan and the light infantry and support them. This elite force totaled more than 700 and included Stockbridge warriors as Morgan's men moved toward the sounds of gunfire along a wooded path, facing the unknown perils and uncertainties of combat before most, but not all, passed this point again on their return to camp.

Saratoga, New York · United States