May 15th, 1814
Battle of NervesThe Battle of Pultneyville was a skirmish between British forces under Commander Yeo and American Militia forces. The British periodically raided coastal communities for supplies, but the people of Pultneyville did not surrender them willingly.Prior to May 15 - Having heard of impending attack, the women, children, and supplies were moved inland to safety while General Swift and a small force of militia were sent to defend the Hamlet.
Prior to May 15 - Major William Roger's Battalion is called out to aid in defense of the settlement.
1. On the morning of May 15th a heavy fog lifts to reveal to the Americans, British warships anchored in the bay, and to the British, American troops under General Swift parading near the shore.
2. Swift's Militia takes cover and prepares for battle.
3. Samuel Ledyard, Russell Whipple, and Edward Phelps negotiate a deal to give up the stores in the warehouse in exchange for sparing the settlement.
4. British troops take the supplies but also occupy Washington Street and begin to plunder houses.
5. James Seeley emerges from the trees and fires on the Redcoats.
6. Shots are exchanged, the British retreat to their ships, and take 3 prisoners, Richard White, Prescott Fairbanks, and Russell Cole. Russell escapes and swims to shore.
7. Brockway fires on ships and fire is returned from a swivel gun.
8. British ships shell the settlement. The Selby House is hit by cannon fire, but the British cease the bombardment and depart as suddenly as they appeared.
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