Battle of Shallow Ford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Shallow Ford |
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| Part of the American Revolutionary War | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Patriot militia |
 Loyalist militia |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Joseph Williams |
Gideon Wright |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 300 | 600 | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 1 killed | 14 killed | ||||||
The Battle of Shallow Ford was a small but important fight during the American Revolutionary War. It happened on October 14, 1780, in Huntsville, North Carolina. This battle was between American colonists who wanted independence (called Patriots) and American colonists who stayed loyal to the British King (called Loyalists). The Patriots won this quick battle.
Contents
Why Did the Battle Happen?
The American Revolutionary War was a fight for independence from Great Britain. In 1780, British forces were trying to control the southern colonies. A large British army, led by General Cornwallis, had taken over Charlotte.
Loyalists on the Move
About 600 Loyalist militia members were trying to join General Cornwallis. They were led by Colonel Gideon Wright and his brother Captain Hezikiah Wright. Their plan was to cross the Yadkin River at a place called Shallow Ford. From there, they would march to Charlotte.
Patriots Set an Ambush
Colonel Joseph Williams led about 300 Patriot militia members. They knew the Loyalists were coming. So, they decided to set up a surprise attack at the Shallow Ford crossing. This was a smart move to stop the Loyalists.
What Happened During the Battle?
The Patriots waited for the Loyalists to arrive at the ford. When the Loyalists began to cross, the Patriots attacked. It was a short but fierce fight.
Patriot Victory
The Patriot forces fought very well. They quickly defeated the Loyalists. The Loyalist militia became disorganized and ran away. This was a clear victory for the Patriots.
Casualties
Only 15 people were reported hurt or killed in the battle. Fourteen of them were Loyalists. Only one Patriot was killed. His name was Henry Francis, and he was a captain from Virginia. There is a tombstone at the battle site that honors him. People also believe a large tree, called the Big Poplar Tree, was hit by gunfire during the battle.
Why Was This Battle Important?
The Battle of Shallow Ford was one of several battles that helped the Patriots. These fights stopped British reinforcements from reaching Charlotte.
Delaying British Forces
Other important battles, like the much larger Battle of King's Mountain, also happened around this time. These smaller fights, including Shallow Ford, constantly bothered the British. They made it hard for General Cornwallis to get more soldiers.
Cornwallis's Retreat
Because of these constant attacks, Cornwallis could not get the help he needed. He was forced to move his army south in November. This showed that even small victories could make a big difference in the war.
