Battle of Pine's Bridge facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of Pine's Bridge
Part of the American Revolutionary War
Date May 14, 1781 Location Yorktown, New York Result Loyalist victory
Belligerents
United States	New York Loyalists
Commanders and leaders
Christopher Greene  †	James DeLancey
Strength
	200 infantry 60 Cavalry
Casualties and losses
6 killed, 5 Wounded, 33 captured ["Return of the Killed, Wounded and Missing of the Detachment of May 14, 1781" in Papers of Continental Congress]	unknown

The Battle of Pine's Bridge was a small fight during the American Revolutionary War. It happened on May 14, 1781, in Yorktown, New York. This battle involved American soldiers and Loyalist forces. Loyalists were Americans who supported the British King.

Loyalist troops, led by James DeLancey, launched a surprise attack. They targeted an American position guarding Pine's Bridge. This bridge crossed the Croton River. The American soldiers were from the Rhode Island Regiment. This regiment included some brave African-American soldiers. Other American troops from Massachusetts and New Hampshire also helped defend the bridge.

What Was the Battle of Pine's Bridge?

The Battle of Pine's Bridge was a quick but important event. It took place near a key crossing point. This bridge was important for moving troops and supplies. The Loyalists wanted to control this area.

A Surprise Attack

On May 14, 1781, Loyalist forces attacked the American defenders. They caught the American soldiers by surprise. The Loyalists were able to defeat the American troops. Many American soldiers were killed or captured during this attack.

Who Fought in the Battle?

The battle involved two main groups. On one side were the American soldiers. On the other side were the Loyalists. These Loyalists were Americans who remained loyal to Great Britain.

American Soldiers

The American side was mainly the 1st Rhode Island Regiment. This regiment was special because it had African-American soldiers. These soldiers fought bravely for American independence. Other American troops from Massachusetts and New Hampshire also joined the defense.

Loyalist Forces

The Loyalists were led by James DeLancey. His forces included about 200 infantry soldiers. They also had 60 cavalry, who rode horses. They were well-prepared for their surprise attack.

Remembering the Heroes

During the battle, two important American officers were killed. They were Colonel Christopher Greene and Major Ebenezer Flagg. Both were from the 1st Rhode Island Regiment. They died fighting for their cause.

Colonel Greene and Major Flagg were buried in Yorktown. Their graves are marked by a large monument. Near this monument, there is another stone marker. It is called the Monument to First Rhode Island Regiment. This monument honors the African-American soldiers. It remembers those who died defending their commander.