William Woodford facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William Woodford
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| Delegate Third Virginia Convention | |
| In office 1775–1775 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | October 6, 1734 Caroline County, Virginia Colony |
| Died | November 13, 1780 (aged 46) New York City, Province of New York |
| Spouse | Mary Thornton |
| Profession | soldier, farmer |
| Signature |  |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  Great Britain,  United States |
| Branch/service | Virginia Regiment (Virginia Colonial Militia), Continental Army |
| Years of service | 1761–1780 |
| Rank | brigadier general |
| Commands | 2nd Virginia Regiment, Virginia State Forces |
| Battles/wars | French and Indian War
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William Woodford (October 6, 1734 – November 13, 1780) was an important general from Virginia during the American Revolutionary War. He played a key role in several early battles.
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Who Was William Woodford?
William Woodford was born in Caroline County, Virginia Colony. This area is now known as Woodford. His family had strong ties to early Virginia history. For example, his wife's grandmother was George Washington's aunt. His father was a "Knight of the Golden Horseshoe," a special group of explorers. His grandfather was the Secretary of the Colony.
Fighting in the French and Indian War
Before the American Revolution, William Woodford was a soldier in the French and Indian War. This war was fought between Great Britain and France, along with their Native American allies. Woodford started as an ensign, a low-ranking officer, in George Washington's Virginia Regiment. He was promoted to lieutenant in 1761. During that year, he also took part in the Cherokee Expedition. This was a conflict against the Cherokee people.
Leading in the American Revolutionary War
As tensions grew with Great Britain, William Woodford became a delegate to the Third Virginia Convention. This was a meeting where Virginia leaders discussed their future. There, he was chosen to be a colonel. He took command of the 2nd Virginia Regiment, which was part of Virginia's own army.
The Battle of Great Bridge
Woodford led his troops in the Battle of Great Bridge on December 9, 1775. This was the first major battle of the Revolution in Virginia. His forces successfully pushed the British royal governor, Lord Dunmore, out of the Norfolk area. This was a big victory for the American cause.
Joining the Continental Army
In late 1776, Woodford's 2nd Virginia Regiment was ordered to join George Washington's main army. This army was called the Continental Army. Woodford was promoted to brigadier general in February 1777. This meant he was now a high-ranking officer in the national army.
Key Battles and Capture
Woodford and his troops fought bravely in several important battles:
- The Battle of Brandywine in 1777: Woodford was wounded in this battle, but his troops fought well.
- The Battle of Monmouth in 1778: He led his soldiers to take control of Comb's Hill. From there, their cannons fired on the British army.
In late 1779, Woodford and his brigade were sent south. They joined the Southern Continental Army. However, they were captured by the British during the Siege of Charleston in 1780.
Death of General Woodford
After being captured, William Woodford was sent to New York City. He died there on November 13, 1780. He passed away while on a British prison ship. These ships were often crowded and unhealthy. Woodford was buried at Trinity Church in New York.
Honoring William Woodford
William Woodford was a brave leader who served his country. Two counties in the United States are named in his honor:
Images for kids
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Signature of William Woodford
