Burning of Kingston facts for kids
The Burning of Kingston was a major event during the American Revolutionary War. It happened on October 17, 1777, in Kingston, New York. This attack was part of a larger plan by the British called the Saratoga Campaign.
Why Kingston Was Attacked
The British wanted to help their army, led by General John Burgoyne, who was fighting near Saratoga, New York. To do this, another British general, Henry Clinton, led his troops to attack American forts. They successfully captured Fort Montgomery and Fort Clinton in the Hudson Highlands.
The British Plan
After taking the forts, General Clinton sent some of his soldiers further north. These troops were led by John Vaughan. Their mission was to raid the Hudson Valley. This meant they would attack towns and destroy supplies.
Kingston Under Fire
On October 17, 1777, Vaughan's forces reached Kingston, New York. At that time, Kingston was the capital of New York State. The British attacked and burned the town. They destroyed over 300 buildings. The state government had to quickly leave Kingston and move to Hurley, New York for safety.
Kingston in Books
The burning of Kingston has been featured in stories. For example, it is an important part of the 1883 novel Rachel Du Mont. This book was written by Mary Westbrook Van Deusen.
