American Field Hospital

In October 1781, Dr. James Craik, chief physician and surgeon, supervised the American Field Hospital in this area, assisted by Drs. James Thacher and Aeneas Munson. They worked constantly to protect soldiers from exposure to small pox and other diseases, secure adequate medical supplies, and shelter the sick and wounded. Thacher recalled attending at the hospital, amputating a man’s arm, assisting in dressing a number of wounds, and on October 7, 1781, hurrying to procure another supply from Dr. Craik, who directed that if the Marquis de la Fayette should be wounded, Thacher was to give him first attention. Patients needing long term medical care were transported to the American Hospital in Williamsburg. The hospital’s location near the Marquis de Lafayette’s headquarters may reflect Dr. Craik’s concern for Lafayette’s welfare.

Virginia · United States