Paulus Hook

Paulus Hook was a lighting raid by the Americans against the British strong point across from New York City. The tactics used were going to be the same as used as Stony Point. A night attack with bayonets to quietly …

1779-08-19

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Paulus Hook was a lighting raid by the Americans against the British strong point across from New York City. The tactics used were going to be the same as used as Stony Point. A night attack with bayonets to quietly storm the defenses. Led by Major Henry Lee, the surprise attack was discovered as the men approached the defense and made too much noise. Once alarmed the British confronted the Americans on the outer defenses, but were quickly overwhelmed and routed. As the Americans poured through the outer works the British commander and the remaining troops barricaded themselves in a blockhouse and defended themselves well.

Paulus Hook, New Jersey

The Battle of Paulus Hook was fought on August 19, 1779 between Continental Army and British forces in the American Revolutionary War. The Patriots were led by Major Light Horse Harry Lee, and launched a nighttime raid on the British-controlled fort in what is today downtown Jersey City. They surprised the British, taking 158 prisoners, and withdrew with the approach of daylight. Despite retaining the fort and its cannons, the British lost much of their control over New Jersey. Lee was rewarded by the Second Continental Congress with a gold medal, the only non-general to receive such an award during the war.

Wikipedia: Battle of Paulus Hook

Continental Army

Great Britain