1781 Officer’s Pattern USA Button

Large Overlaid USA Cipher in High Relief

 

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1775 to 1783

Prior to the Muster of the Continental Army & State Militia Forces

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“If you are use to Winning, then your not really a leader until you Lost”

My Take-Away from the American Revolution– Robert J. Silverstein

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     The Patriot movement didn’t happen quickly in the American colonies. It took several years of disparaging social and economic contract changes directed at the American colonists by the Crown and Parliament. After the Seven Years War Britain was left in a financial crisis and its subjects were being taxed at an unusually high rate. The people in Great Britain felt that the American colonists needed to pay their fair share of associated costs for the operational government in America. There was a tax burden to the English for Royal governors, Imperial officials, and the British troops who provided security against the French and Native American Indians. A tax would need to be introduced to offset some of these associated government costs.

 

Glass Sleeve Liberty Button Insert

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     In the American colonies not only was there a widespread class stratification, but there was a second class citizen status that existed. Under British law European migrants were to socially have a 2nd class citizenship in regard to native born British citizens that were born in England. This left American colonists politically and in often cases economically disadvantaged to their British counterparts. When Parliament enacted the Sugar Tax of 1763, the Stamp Act Tax of 1765, and the Townshend Duties series of tax laws the American colonists saw themselves as being targeted by the British in England. 

     In their attempts to change these tax laws through political channels it proved to be a meaningless superficial exercise that was powerless in the legislative body in Parliament. Their pleas for social contract decency and economic tax relief would fall on the most part on deaf ears. The American working class with 2nd class citizenship had no power. They were forced to rely on America’s newly landed gentry to protest. As 2nd class citizens with some economic power they tried to use their limited influence to get the proposed laws rescinded by Parliament. This lack of equal political rights would be the root cause of a British civil war in the American colonies.

 

British Tax Stamp Directed at American Colonists

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     In 1763, the Sugar Act was introduced to a firestorm of bitter indignation by the colonists. The enforcement of the Molasses Act, which was actually passed earlier in 1733, would now be enforced. In the colonists eyes they knew this tax existed, but it was really never effectively enforced or sidestepped by trade merchants. So, when Prime Minister George Grenville increased the tax with the Sugar Act he cleverly made an enforcement provision for Imperial officials  to abide by. This alarmed the colonists who always evaded this tax because they could no longer sidestep it with the   enforcement measure in place. The British Parliament was just looking to collect the tax on an already existing tax that was in place for 30 years to help offset some of the colony’s expenses. In the colonists’ eyes who always sidestepped the tax argued that these new enforcement laws to collect the revenue on sugar was all part of an increasingly corrupt autocratic empire in-which their traditional liberties were threatened. In England, the British Parliament legislatures were deaf to the colonists protests. The British officials made it clear to the American colony representatives that they would not address any formal protest letters concerning age old Molasses Tax 1733, and the new enforcement measures put into effect to collect were not onerous on colonists.  

 

1760’s Wilkes & Liberty 45 Button
In 1763, Wilkes Attacks the King’s Speech on the Paris Peace Treaty
using Radical Journalism in his weekly publication of N. Briton issue 45
The 45 would be “Perception” Associated W/ a Re-kindling of Jacobitism

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     The British Government emerged from the Seven Years War in 1763, the country was burdened by heavy debt. England was in a post-war depression and the taxes for it’s subjects was nearly double from that prior to the war. British merchants who were once lenient in payments were now demanding immediate collection of outstanding obligations of debt incurred by the advancement of British imported products. As a further slap in the face to American trade merchants they wanted payments to be made in British pound sterling rather than colonial currency. Wealthy British merchants were able to enforce this by using their political pull in Parliament and had them pass the 1764 Currency Act. This made it illegal for colonies to issue paper currency. This Act produced a rippling devaluing effect throughout the colonies whose wealth was dramatically reduced, and their ability to pay their debt and taxes nearly impossible. 

     In 1765, Prime Minister Grenville would submit to Parliament a new direct tax on the British colonies in America called, “the Stamp Act.”  Unfortunately, only one member of Parliament William Pitt would raise objection to Parliament’s right to tax the colonies. This law required that all printed material in the colonies such as, legal documents, magazines, playing cards, newspapers, and other paper goods be produced on government issued stamped paper from London. The law also required it also be paid in British currency and not colonial paper. The purpose of the tax was under the guise of paying for the British Troops stationed in the American colonies and to pay the British officers who returned to London in British currency.

 

December 17th 1765, Stamp Act Solicitation
for “The True Sons of Liberty” to meet
Under the Liberty Tree in Massachusetts Bay Colony.

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     When the Stamp Act of 1765 was first proposed it hit the newspapers in New York and Boston and was extremely unpopular to the American colonists. At this point all the colonists were suffering from a devaluation of their currency from the Currency Act of 1764. In the colonist’s view they had already paid their share of expenses that was derived from the French Indian War, and this was nothing but in excess. They considered this new tax as a violation of their rights as Englishmen to be taxed without the consent of colonial legislatures. Colonial assemblies immediately sent petitions to London, and the colonists took to rioting in the streets and organizing attacks on custom houses and homes of tax collectors. They even went as far as developing a popular political-war slogan, “Taxation Without Representation is Tyranny,” which was on the mind and lips of every American colonist. A boycott of British goods swept through the colonies as an attempt to force English merchants to lobby for the repeal of the Stamp Act on pragmatic economical grounds. 

 

 The Massachusetts Town Square Elm Tree
A Patriot Propaganda Button Circa 1770’s

******* Replica Button *******

     In the city of Boston Massachusetts, a protest gathering was held under an Elm Tree, and the tree would afterward be renamed, “The Liberty Tree.” The organizers of the protest would become publicly known as, “The Sons of Liberty.” They would continually hold protest rallies under the old “Elm Tree”until the Royal Governor ordered it to be cut down. This didn’t stop the Sons of Liberty from continuing to organize citizen protest rallies, they just staked a Liberty Pole where the old Elm Tree once stood. The Liberty Pole was an idea given to them by Morin Scot who was a Mason, Jacobite, and cousin to the Bonnie Prince. He would be the first to use the Liberty Pole propaganda once used by Prince Edward Stuart in 1745, when he staked a Liberty Pole in the City of New York on an earlier occasion.

     After several months of protests and boycotts of British goods the Stamp Act 1765, was finally rescinded. Benjamin Franklin would make a formal appeal before the House of Commons in March of 1766, and they voted in a conditional favor measure. Meaning, in order to save face, the House of Commons would concurrently pass the Declaratory Act, which had two underlying provisions. First, it stated that Parliament’s legislative powers had the same authority in America as it did in Great Britain. This meant that Parliament’s legal authority to pass laws were binding on all the American colonies. Second, they loosened-up the directives concerning the enforcement of the Sugar Act.

 

1770’s
Liberty & Piece Cuff Buttons

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    For a short period of time the repeal of the Stamp Act in March of 1766, seemed to quiet the widespread anarchy in the streets of the colonies. Unfortunately, there would be a renewed resistance when the British Parliament passed the Townshend Acts during 1767 & 1768. This was a series of 5 new taxes and laws over a series of months by Parliament, which was directed at the American colonies in hopes of generating new revenue. Embittered over the repeal of the Stamp Act, the Parliament tried to cleverly disguise a new set of revenue generating taxes through an indirect tax on glass, led, pain, paper, and tea, which all had to be imported from Britain. This provoked colonial indignation and led to the Boston Massacre of 1770. Afterward, there were widespread protests once more sweeping through the colonies, and American port cities in Boston and New York refused to import British goods. In response most of the Townshend Duties Parliament partially repealed some of the Townshend duties except for teas, which was retained in-order to demonstrate to the colonies that Parliament had the sovereign authority to tax the colonies.

 

British Stamp Act Tax of 2 Shillings & Six Pence

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     The Parliament continued with their legislative policies to tax the British colonies without American legislative representation. This caused a resentment by the colonists and it just promoted a negative sentiment with a feeling of government corruption. British politicians in London and Imperial officials in the colonies were in the crosshairs for groups like the Sons of Liberty. Neighborhood political rallies led to the organization of groups, which would organize committees to address political and economic concerns of citizens. Sometimes neighborhood rallies would turn into mob groups who felt righteous indignation and would take the law into their own hands and attack Imperial official’s homes, British merchant shops. Some groups would act nefarious and would steal or burn ships’ cargo.

     In 1773, one of the Townshend Act measures was the taxation of tea. In this new tax measure Parliament would give the East India company a tax free duty in the transport of their tea. This new tax gave the East India Company a monopoly because colonial tea traders could not compete against a competitor with a tax free status. This led to the night of December 16th 1773, when the Sons of Liberty members disguised themselves as Native American Indians, and boarded the East India Ships in Boston Harbor and famously threw the crates of tea overboard. In response, Parliament passed several pieces of legislative laws which would place enforcement and safety  of British goods in the Colony of Massachusetts under direct British military control of General Thomas Gage. To the American colonists they were referred to as the Intolerable Acts.

 

1766 William Pitt “The Great Commoner”
America’s First Propaganda Button of Rebellion
No Stamp Act Button, Copper, 20mm. Sleeve Size.
A Propaganda Measure to Rally Colonist Support

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     There were very few political figures in London who would even try to champion the American colonists in Parliament. William Pitt and John Wilkes were some of the few who would use their resources and try. William Pitt was a British Statesman and supporter of Britain’s Whig faction. He was a public figure and treasured member of the British Cabinet who was known to champion citizen rights. His peers found him to be fair and balanced in his political approach against corrupt government policies. He firmly agreed with Parliament’s right to legislate for the colonies, but on the other hand he disagreed with their extension of their right to impose tax measures without the proper colonial representation. When he addressed Parliament on America’s behalf, it was said his speech for colonists’ rights was heartfelt, and his address even reached the King’s ear. Unfortunately, his fellow politicians were controlled by wealthy elites. So, his plea fell on deaf ears.

 

Wilkes 45 Laurel Wreath Oval Cuff Button
Both the Wreath & Number 45 Represents the
Bonnie Prince’s Jacobite Uprising of 1745

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    John Wilkes was another British radical politician and journalist who supported the American Patriot movement. Wilkes was known to use his journalistic talents in the media to sway public sentiment. Oftentimes he would viciously attack Parliament’s legislative issues or King George III for his stand during the Seven Years War and its aftermath. Wilkes was very cunning and knew how to use the various instruments and vehicles of society to not only curry public sentiment, but to politically maneuver changes in society by using political figures. As a society club member he used the underground social clubs as a vehicle to induce other members in positions of political and economic authority to take actions against the King and Parliamentary legislatures.

 

Wilkes & Liberty 45 Sleeve Button 
Found in Hannastown, Pennsylvania

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     John Wilkes was known to flip-flop back-n-forth on his position of being a Jacobite supporter over the years, but when he was a member of the St Francis of Wycombe (Hellfire club) he did work with many of them to undermine the King. The Hellfire clubs did have many prominent members of English society, which would work together and take action in nefarious ways to undermine the Crown and Parliament. The next 25 to 30 years would be a Jacobite transition period in London starting with the Uprisings around 1745, to the outbreak of the American Revolution in 1775. Underground societies like Sir Francis Dashwood’s Orders of the Friars of St. Francis of Wycombe member’s activities would spread from underground to an openly public domain of socially accepted behavior by Jacobite sympathizers. A number of Hellfire clubs would emerge bringing not only societal acceptance, but their revolutionary propaganda symbols turned into consumer products of support.

 

Wilkes & Liberty 45 Sleeve Button 
Found in Hannastown, Pennsylvania

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     John Wilkes was able to expand his anti-British media campaign to both sides of the Atlantic. He would pen his weekly radical stance on Parliament’s legislation or bash the King’s policies in his weekly publication of The North Briton; with North meaning Scotland. Some say that Wilke’s weekly publication of North Briton had an enormous impact on the development of America’s Patriot movement. His seditious propaganda would be a sort of pseudo-voice or guide for equality to a new emerging revolutionary political culture. Wilkes probably believed the old saying, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend  and became sympathetic to American rebels plight early-on. He was known to correspond and fully support the Patriot movement with groups like the Sons of Liberty.

     After awhile, the American colonists had become so adapt with Wilke’s writings they would start using politically toned catchphrases in public like, “Wilkes and Liberty.” This allowed the American colonist to express their disfranchisement of British government social contracts and economic laws provided by Parliament’s legislation. This kind of catchphrase  propaganda was seditious on many levels to the British ruling class in America. These bywords or embodiment phrases of symbolism would be used by recruiters of revolutionaries throughout all 13 colonies. Wilkes himself was seen as a de-facto leader of sorts or even a champion of liberty and fairness to all of British society’s commoners. In England his seditious behavior and writings appealed to the underground Gentry class. In America he appealed to the commoner who was automatically barred from the benefits of formal British citizenship. In America, the revolutionaries liked Wilkes “down-to-earth” appeal and promotion of ones liberties and equality of rights.

     One can reasonably say that Wilkes pushed the bounds of British societies civility and etiquette by his constant barrage of anti-British (seditious) articles in his publication of North Briton. He constantly fueled anti-king propaganda along with his view of British Parliament legislative decisions. His sentimental persuasive writings of Parliament’s legislative injustices would be the bridge across the Atlantic Ocean. His commentary would feed right into the emerging disenfranchisement that was felt by the revolutionaries across the Atlantic in the Patriot movement. His writings would be the ground work for the grass-roots movement who was already psychologically taxed to the limit on slew of British Legislative economic decrees. Wilkes was so critical of the King he became a martyr of sorts. At one point, he lashed out so violently in his writings of the King and his endorsement of the the Paris Peace Treaty of 1763, that he was arrested for sedition and held liable for his article in North Briton 45.

     After some time, England’s underground movement would finally go above ground with their anti-King sentiment and Jacobite sympathy propaganda objects. This next level in the propaganda warfare was enabled by the revolutionaries in America. (A “Leap of Propaganda” is when a set of seditious ideas for change comes from out of the shadows of obscurity and then takes root in a society’s main stream culture). In the early years of the Patriot Cause the revolutionaries would meet covertly just as the Gentry class did in England’s underground movement. Sedition was recognized by the Crown in the colonies and discordant laws were placed in effect to curtail revolutionary thoughts or behavior. The difference is that the American revolutionaries did not feel ethically bound by a British cohesive cultural etiquette that was only provided to a small class of Englishmen who had British citizenship. The majority who lacked the rights of British citizenship had no qualm for boldly airing their grievances in form of a rallying-cry in public squares or marching on in a mob-rule mentality throughout the streets. Public justice erupted against Imperial Officials, and then over time they became flagrantly violent and destructive in nature. Committees were formed in the name of equality in the face of British injustices, which were deemed outside of social contract fairness. 

 

 45 Buckles
John Wilkes & Liberty
Referencing the “45” North Britain
Symbolizing Jacobite Support Within the Cause

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Boston Sons of Liberty to John Wilkes, June 6, 1768

“May you convince Great Britain and Ireland in Europe, the British Colonies, islands, and Plantations in America, that you are one of those incorruptibly honest men reserved by heaven to bless, and perhaps save the tottering Empire.”

     There was a number of Jacobite Uprisings since 1688 to 1746, which used anti-British propaganda symbols to persuade public sentiment. These symbols were known to many colonists who immigrated from Europe to America. The 18th century was filled with transatlantic news of the British Army triumphs, as well as the news of sympathetic Jacobite movements throughout Scotland, France, Italy, and the Holy Roman Empire of the German nation states. Many Jacobites after the Battle of Culloden in 1745, came to America to take refuge and were wealthy capitalists. They were a part of the gentry class of Americans who were most likely Masonic members of neighborhood lodges. It is customary for all Masonic lodge brothers to learn all the symbols and understand all the historical context they were used for. Meaning, the origins of symbols and then their propaganda used by different world cultures and nationalities throughout time. Since, many lodges are Scottish-Rite by origin the members were most likely sympathetic to the Jacobite Cause, and would be aware of tidings (Current News) and symbol use in the underground movement in European nations.

 The 1760’s-1770’s English Ouroboros 
Jacobite Resistance & Restitution of the House of Stuart
Possibly the Earliest Known Introduction of the United Chain Link
13 Stripes for the Bonnie & His 12 Knights of the British Order of Garter

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     All of America’s early Revolutionary War symbols were the same ones being used concurrently by the anti-British underground movement in Scotland, England and France, but they were re-purposed to fit their narrative. American radicals adopted many of these liberty symbols in the mid-1760’s & 1770’s, and they were fully aware of their underlying meanings. As with other worldly cultures they changed their context to fit their narrative for their revolutionary movement. The Liberty Cap & Pole, Rattlesnake (Ouroboros Snake) Swallowing the 13 Rattles (Tail), the (Conquering) Laurel Wreath of the Bonnie in 1745, the Thirteen Stripes, and Chain Link (Both English Unity Symbols) were all re-purposed propaganda from an earlier time in history and transformed by the rebels to fit their radical movements against tyranny. Meaning, every single symbol used in the American Revolution is easily shown to have an earlier use in history, or recently in their century by Prince Edward Stuart’s Jacobites in their 1745, Propaganda Campaign in Scotland, France, Italy, and England; or the bar (stripe) and chain link from the London Secret Societies underground movement in 1760’s & 1770’s. Even Benjamin Franklin’s 1754, Join, or Die 8 Segmented Snake cartoon in the Philadelphia Gazette comes from a cut snake device wood block engraving of 1696, in Paris with the unite or die metaphor. The segmented snake would actually be repurposed a 2nd time in the New York Journal in 1774, as “Unite or Die” by John holt.

      Even though the snake cartoon was not reprinted in standard English newspapers or magazines, it appears to have been well circulated throughout the British colonies in New York and Boston newspapers. This repurposed cut-snake cartoon was a propaganda chess-piece move by Franklin to gain public support as a public rally-cry for action. This would in-turn give him a desired public square momentum of debate prior to his trip on June 8th 1754, to the City of New York where he would give the gentry political class his “Albany Plan for American Unification.”  As with all propaganda moves there are many other variables which contribute to it success. Such as, the Virginia Gazette later reporting Colonel George Washington’s dreadful defeat at Fort Necessity two months after the political cartoon on July 19th 1754.

 

 The 1770’s Underground Jacobite Movement in London
Resistance and Restitution of the House of Stuart
Ouroboros Circling Around an English King’s Sunburst & 13 Stripes

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     The American colonists were uncommonly unified for the first time on all social class stratification levels, but their manner of approach in solving their political and economic social contract problems was vastly different. The Nouveau Riche Americans like Samuel Adams and Benjamin Franklin who represented the newly landed gentry wanted to exhaust political channels while the common citizenry had a mob mentality toward political change. The gentry class was afraid of the repercussions of rebellious actions outside of normal diplomatic channels would sever future political and economic ties with England.

     On the other side of the spectrum, the Royal governors and Imperial officials had the hardship of enforcing these new tax laws. Imperial officials were placed in the unpopular position of being the face of the British Parliament’s new tax laws. It was their duty to oversee that trade merchants were fully complying. Unfortunately, enforcement resulted in Imperial officials over-reaching their legal authority in-order to comply with the unpopular tax duties. They themselves would then be targeted for retribution and oftentimes were forced to flee their own homes from citizen mobs.

 

Sir Robert Strange Exiled in France W/ Resistance & Restitution on
Mind Designs a Rattlesnake Button for America’s Robert Scot
This Symbol was a Popular with Radicals in London’s Underground
Movement in 1760’s 1770’s. Transformed into America’s Rattlesnake

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     In the 1760’s the rebels lacked a macro-cohesion in their movement for a centralized leading representative for the New England colonies. Each rebel faction had their own individual known leaders, but they usually operated within their own town or city. The early roots of the Patriot movement was a series of divided factions that lacked a central leadership to represent all the New England colonies. As Parliament passed new trade laws and introduced taxes affecting citizens protest organizers would start new roots and form citizen concerned groups to represent their interests.  After a while the Patriot movement started to blossom into larger numbers and began putting forth Special Citizen Watchdog Committees to counter Imperial officials governance tactics. The end-result (which in all intensive purposes was the beginning) was a formation of untrained colonists who would turn into militiamen.  “The Shot Around the World,” was the opening shot of the Battle of Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775, which began the American War of Independence. 

 

 ~ General George Washington ~
Commander in Chief of the Continental Army
One of Two Known Uniform Buttons to Still Exist
Dug at an encampment site circa. 1775.

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       On June 15th 1775, George Washington was elected by unanimous vote by the Second Continental Congress as, “The Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army.”  General Washington was able to retain this position throughout the entire war. There were eight Brigadier Generals who were appointed simultaneously to provide military aid, Seth Pomeroy, Richard Montgomery, David Wooster, William Heath, Joseph Spencer, John Thomas, John Sullivan, and Nathanael Greene (After Pomeroy did not accept, John Thomas was appointed in his place). Also, there were four Major-Generals commissioned: Artemas Ward, Charles Lee, Philip Schuyler, and Israel Putnam.

     Three days after George Washington’s appointment as General, the Continental Army would see its first engagement at the Battle of Bunker Hill with 1,200 Massachusetts State Militia troops under Colonel William Prescott. The idea was to fortify the unoccupied hills surrounding the City in-order to control Boston Harbor. The troops would first construct a redoubt on Breed’s Hill as well as fortified lines across Charlestown Peninsula. On June 17th 1775, the British would launch three attacks. The defending colonists were able to fight off two of the assaults, but on the third they ran out of ammunition and had to retreat back over Bunker Hill to Cambridge. Their defeat left the peninsula in control of the British. This early militia army that took part in the Siege of Boston in 1775, bore very little resemblance to Washington’s Continental Army that laid siege on Yorktown in 1781. General Washington was able to progressively organize, strengthen, discipline, and improve his army’s utility for engagement. By the war’s end 230,000 would have served in the Continental Army, although never more than 48,000 at one time. Washington’s Army would be supplemented by 145,000 minutemen for rapid deployment.

Congressional Lottery Ticket, Philadelphia Pennsylvania November 18th 1776.

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     Little known fact is that Congress printed its own money, (about 28%) of the war’s funds since 1775. Congress did not have the power to tax through the Articles of Confederation, and there was no organized national bank at this time. Even though there were several lenders to the Cause, Robert Morris & Hyam Salomon was its principal financier in America. Salomon was a Polish-Jewish who immigrated to America, and was a financial broker in the City of New York. As a well known financier he was able to help Robert Morris find purchasers of government bills, and get sympathetic prominent citizens to lend money to the government. 

 

~ Depiction of Events on June 17th 1775 ~
The Death of General Warren at the Battle of Bunker Hill
Boston Museum of Fine Arts Painted by, John Trumbull

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Preface on Military Buttons

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     Buttons have been around for 5,000 years. Originally, sea shells, curved stones, and wood was used in-conjunction with a simple fastening loop of animal (ex. horse) hair placed around it to fasten it loosely. In the 13th century, the Germans introduced a more functional button with sew holes. This allowed buttons to fasten to the garment more securely, and allowed clothing to fit more snuggly against the body. This German innovation of button sew holes spread quickly all throughout Europe. Military type buttons didn’t make an appearance until the second half of the 18th century. Until 1750, it had been customary for Royal guards and armies to wear the same kind of buttons as civilians. Even though individuals could wear any pattern they choose, they sometimes would wear a specific matching pattern as their fellow in-the-service individuals.

     The trend toward specialized reflective service military type buttons blossomed in the 1760’s and 1770’s. The British first introduced uniforms to the army in the 18th century. Each soldier was issued a wool coat with their own insignia or regiment numbered button; Along with linen garments in the spring and fall. The trend immediately caught on in other European countries like Spain and France, who also had established large military armies of varying regimental lines. The French military took the designing of officer’s buttons even one step farther and provided design styles comparable to their highly detailed coins. Emblems of loyalty such as crowns, cyphers, mottoes, laurel wreaths, eagles, battle horns, and so forth were introduced originally for officers, and then through popularity appeared on most enlisted men’s military buttons. From that point on both British and other European nation’s armies would use specific regimental or corps emblems on newly issued uniforms from the lowest to the highest ranks.

 

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The Establishment of Continental Army

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    The Continental Army was the first national army of the thirteen colonies raised by the Second Continental Congress on June 14th 1775, to oppose the British Army during the American War of Independence. The Continental Army would go through three major establishments. The first was in 1775, the second was in 1776, and the third was in 1777, lasting to the end of the war. The members of the Continental Congress were hostile to the idea of having to continually fund and maintain a large standing army, so they curtailed enlistment durations to a year. Under the perpetual union of the Articles of Confederation Congress did not have the power to raise troops by the means of a draft. Enlistment in the Continental Army would be voluntary by any able bodied citizen in the colonies. The Continental Army was expected to work in-conjunction with state-controlled militia units. The plan was for the state militia forces to be called out as needed in-order to supplement the Main Continental Army. Unfortunately, Washington found the process to be inefficient in strategic planning or for time sensitive engagements using ill prepared state militia. 

The First Establishment of 1775: 

     In direct response to the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19th 1775, the Second Continental Congress resumed the responsibility for the volunteer troops raised in the colonies of Connecticut, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The force adopted on June 14th 1775, amounted to 39 regiments of infantry, 1 regiment of Artillery, and 1 separate company of Artillery. This would be the foundation to the birth of the Continental Army. Along with assuming the responsibility for these troops, Congress also voted to raise additional troops for the national defense. It called for ten companies of “expert riflemen” to be raised in the colonies of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. This was a transitioning order that differed from the past when they merely adopted militia units already raised by the states.

     Five days later on June 19th 1775, the Continental Congress would commission George Washington as Commander in Chief of the newly raised Continental Army. George Washington was chosen over other viable candidates such as John Hancock based on his previous military experience serving in the British Army. He was also seen as a prominent Virginia political statesman who the other colonies could easily unite under. After receiving his commission, he left for Massachusetts and assumed command of the Continental Army in Cambridge on July 3rd 1775.

     A Second Force was also raised by the Continental Congress in July of 1775. This would be a smaller force specifically created to defend New York under Major General Phillip Schuyler. The mandate authorized by Congress allowed General Schuyler to launch preemptive attacks, which ultimately instigated the invasion of Canada on August 31st 1775. It wasn’t long before the Southern colonies like Virginia’s Lord Dunmore’s 2nd Virginia Volunteer Regt. saw active service as a supplemental force to the Continental Main Army.

The Second Establishment of 1776:

At the end of 1775, General Washington still had his forces at the Siege of Boston, and the attempt to capture Quebec City failed. To continue forward with the war the Continental Congress voted to re-raise the army at Boston and maintain Continental State Militia forces elsewhere. The Second Establishment would serve from January 1st to December 31st 1776, and be organized into 27 infantry regiments created from new units and reorganizing existing units.      After January 17th 1776, the Army would be placed under specific theatre departments. The Canadian Department established January 17th 1776, the Middle Department February 27th 1776, the Southern Department established on february 27th 1776, the Northern Department April 14th 1776, Eastern Department established on April 14th 1776.

The Third Establishment 1777 to 1784: 

 

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Crown Insignia Buttons Make their Appearance Early on

**************      Provincials & Loyalist Volunteers Join Ranks      *************

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Unknown British Service Button
Crown Surmounting initials FDM
Cast Pewter, Circa. early 1770’s

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    With the RRN, RM,FDM, and CN buttons we might have a starting point into the American theatre by the British through Provincial service. As noted in a recent conversation with Don Troiani, these buttons do not have any records of the specific use for these buttons and we don’t know who wore them. So, any evidence I put forth is just speculation on my part about who could of worn these buttons. We know that Royal governors did raise Provincial and Volunteer forces to counter rebel activity and try to put a halt to the growing Revolutionary Movement. With the bulk of the British Army’s forces in the European theatre, the British regulars were short in numbers and only had a few strategic garrisons spread-out through New England and Canada.

 

 Rhode Island Royal Navy

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     We know that Royal Provincials “RP” buttons by requisition records appear in 1780, but we don’t know for certain if they were used slightly before this time. The buttons below “could” have been a sort-of prototype for later “RP” buttons; Since, military style buttons outside of numbers were just making it’s entrance in England. They use an identical style design with a Georgian crown symbolizing service to the King, which is surmounting the particular designation of the buttons meaning use. Using this line of design correlation these groups of buttons would date to slightly before or after 1780. They were made specifically for a certain dynamic service to the Royal Governors of the New England colonies under the King’s authority.

     If we date the button prior to just prior to the outbreak of the Revolution, we can theorize that there was some kind of preemptive military measure taken outside of the regular British Army in light of the Patriot movement. In this line of reasoning, King George III would have utilized the Royal Governor’s authority to organize either Provincial or Volunteer militia forces to assist General Gage’s garrisoned troops, as well as and the Royal Navy troops stationed in Rhode Island. The wearer of these buttons could have acted as a pseudo law enforcement under the Royal Governors authority to assist town officials who had to carry-out their duties under public resentment and hostility. The button’s crown acts as a reflection of service and legal authority under the King’s authority.

     The Crown / RNN could mean RhodeIsland Royal Navy, Crown /RM could mean Royal Marines, as well as a province’s Royal Magistrate. There is no way to be certain without some kind of written record. The only one we know for certain is the Crown-CN buttons were ordered by the Colony of New York Committee of Safety, and the “CN” represents the Colony of New York. These buttons were thought to be given to early New York Regiments and have been found on sites prior to 1781.

 

Dale Hawley’s Research

*************   Theory   *************

Rhode Island Royal Navy: After doing an extensive search I found a Pawtucket Rangers out of Rhode Island = RIR for Rhode Island Rangers. This militia was formed in several towns, and just not Pawtucket. We also found that there was a 1st Rhode Island Regiment = RIR, which consisted of Negro’s and Native American Indians, but the waves under those initials indicate Navy or was a symbol for Rhode Island depicting three waves. The RNN I can’t make work with written records trying Rhode Island Newport Navy at the start of the Rev War 1774 to 1775.

     I find it interesting the first Commander of the Continental Navy was out of Rhode Island Marines, again I thought 1775 to 1776 have to double check the dates. All of these buttons were made just prior to the start of the revolution. These would not have been regular British Army regimental issue, * but a precursor of sorts. (Probably, just months short of the introduction of the Crown over the “CN” Colony of New York buttons). I believe the mold was made around 1774 to 1775. Rhode Island started a Navy and the colonists for intensive purposes were still British subjects. It would only make sense that the design pattern and inscription would be RRN = RhodeIsland Royal Navy. Since, all of these patterns were found in New York and New Jersey areas along the Hudson River it would make sense for the outbreak in 1775 to 1776. The problem is seafairing men never wore pewter buttons and they always brass. Pewter is a soft metal and does not hold up to the rigors or hardship labor of a sailor’s life at sea. Although a lead mold made from a brass original would produce a replica of these first Royal “RhodeIsland Royal Navy” buttons while they are on land and that is exactly where 99% of all Americans fought the British.  I’m not mis-spelling Rhode Island. You need to think outside the box for the buttons design pattern.            

 

   Rhode Island Royal Navy 

Continental Navy, Pewter                                                                                                                                             Continental Navy, Y. M.

 

 

~ June 29th 1776 ~
John Lawrence ~ Pays Captain Jehiel Meigs  £172,
to enlist a Company in Boston for Service in the Continental Army.

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     Shortly before the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Second Continental Congress was already moving ahead with their preparation for War. Congressional Department Committees were being formed, and money was being sought by Cause Benefactors. Money for enlistments, weapons, rations, and supplies, were needed for the new Continental Army.

 

Continental Army & Militia Infantry Weapons

************** Muskets, Long rifles, & Bayonets *************

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The Brown Bess

The Brown Bess is a muzzleloading smoothbore musket. The musket would fire a single shot ball, or a cluster style shot that fired multiple projectiles giving the weapon the so called, “Shotgun” effect. There was two variations of the Brown Bess. The Long Land Pattern, and the Short Land Pattern. .75 caliber.

The Charleville Musket

 

 The Charleville Musket was a standard .69 caliber French Infantry Musket. There was a large number of Charleville Model 1763 and 1766 muskets imported into the United states from France because of Marquis de Lafayette’s influence.

 

 18th Century Brass Gang Bullet Mold for a 69 Caliber Shot.

American Made Committee of Safety Muskets 

After the war broke out a lot of muskets were produced by various gunsmiths in the colonies. Long Rifles such as, “The Pennsylvania Rifle or Kentucky Long Rifle”were used by snipers and light infantrymen. The long rifle was first introduced by German gunsmiths operating in Pennsylvania. They were able to modernize the existing musket by introducing a spiral groove on the inside of a rifle barrel. This modification increased the range and accuracy by of the rifle by spinning a snuggly fitted ball. A spinning ball was found to be more stable in its trajectory, and therefore more accurate than a projectile that does not spin. This was a big improvement over the traditional smoothbore barrels. The rifled barrel was also able to accurately increase its range up to 300 yards compared to 100 yards from a smoothbore musket. There was some drawbacks to the long rifle, they could not be fitted with a bayonet, and the complicated loading process took valuable reload time in firefights.

 

American & French Model Bayonets used by Continentals & Militia

The Continental Army and State Militia units were in most cases not equipped with a bayonet as part of their enlistment. British infantrymen were furnished with a bayonet as part of their standard gear, which in most cases was stored in their side pouch until instructed to place on their rifles. After engagements some American soldiers who used Brown Bess muskets were known to claim bayonets off of fallen British soldiers. The Bayonet was fixed on the end of the musket, and often acted as their primary weapon due to the long loading times, limited range, and poor accuracy. The bayonet became the soldiers front line of defense during hand to hand combat, or when one or both sides charged each other. The triangular shape of the bayonet was specifically designed to create a deep puncture wound that could become easily infected.

 

French Model 1766 Bayonet

This bayonet fit around the barrel of the gun, which allowed the soldier to fire while attached.

 

 

*
America’s Continental Army Begins to Muster Regiments

************** Continental Army Insignia Buttons First Appear *************

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~ Victi Vincimus ~

     A good general not only sees the way to victory, he also knows when victory is impossible. In war we must always leave room for strokes of fortune, and accidents that cannot be foreseen.

 

Intertwined Block Letter USA Button
W/ Raised Pie Crust Edge Border
Cuff Size 19.8mm Cast Mold Pewter, 1- Piece

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     It is unclear when the first USA pattern buttons appeared, but we know Congress authorized the production of these buttons fairly early on and we’re in use by 1777. The intertwined USA button was designed specifically for Continental service, and they were issued to every branch and regiment either loose or sewn onto their uniforms. The intertwined USA button offered an inclusive style pattern, which provided a military service commonality, and allowed state soldiers to use them with their own specialized state buttons. A brass gang mold found at Independence Hall in Pennsylvania, shows us the molds were cut by professional artisan button makers, and then produced in large quantities in government contracted workshops. There are over 40 style USA button patterns, which can only be differentiated by size and shape of the letter cuts. This was probably due the new molds replacing worn out molds after large numbers were manufactured. We also know that other local artisans in upstate New York in the Fishkill barracks and in Connecticut Village supplied similar block style intertwined USA buttons. These also appear to be slight variations in letter style from the original gang mold found in Philadelphia. Some earlier USA patterns found in-use prior to 1780, appear to have more slender lettering. Thicker block style letters seem to appear from sites post – 1780. 

 

 One of only 2 known USA Button Molds known to exist. The Mold depicts an
intertwined USA Script Pattern, which is believed to be produced towards the
tail end of the Revolution circa. 1783-84. There has never has been any of these
Script style buttons found by archeologists on any campsites or battlefields. 

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     The soldiers who enlisted in the Continental Army were colony Patriots who fought for the “Cause of Independence.” The standard enlistment period ranged from one to three years, and the men were paid, rationed, and supplied with uniforms that had intertwined USA pattern buttons. A private would make $6.23 per month and his pay would increase with promotion. Most men who served in the Continental Army were between the ages of 15 and 30 years old. Sometimes a promotion in rank brought an increase in a soldier’s food rations, and in some cases money was in lieu of their food rations. In the beginning of the war, enlistments were curtailed to a year’s duration, as the Continental Congress feared the possibility of the Army evolving into a costly permanent standing army. In 1778, congress changed the rules and men could either serve three years or the duration of the war. 

The Intertwined USA Dated 1777 Button (Thicker Letters)
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s Pattern Found in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
This Pewter Cast Button is Coat Size 20mm. with a Loop Shank.

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     This intertwined dated 1777, USA button would have been worn by a Continental Army soldiers who took winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. Valley Forge functioned as one of the eight military encampments used by the Continental Army’s main body. After the British captured Philadelphia on September 26th 1777, Washington was not able to recapture America’s new capitol city. Washington who was unfamiliar with the territory surrounding Philadelphia asked for his generals recommendation on where to winter quarter the Continental Army. In addition to their strategic recommendations, he also had to contend with input from politicians of the Continental Congress and Pennsylvania state legislators who expected the Army to select an encampment site, which could protect the countryside around Philadelphia. Considering all the political and strategic dynamics, Washington choose Valley Forge, which was approximately 18 miles northwest of Philadelphia. Valley Forge’s location allowed for quick troop deployment to protect the countryside, and its higher altitude flat ground meant that any offensive attack from the British would prove difficult. This would be the new home for 12,000 of George Washington’s Troops. 

 

The Intertwined USA Dated 1777 Button (Thinner Letters)
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s Pattern, Slight Pattern Difference. 
Excavated by BRAVO at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania.
This Pewter Cast Button is Coat Size 20mm. with a Loop Shank.

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     This intertwined dated 1777, USA button is one of two dated mold patterns found. This button would have been worn by a Continental Army soldier who took winter quarters at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. The six month encampment in Valley Forge, PA. was a major turning point in the American Revolution. George Washington arrived with 11,000 Continental regulars six days before Christmas in 1777. Provisions were short in supply, and cold weather conditions were extremely harsh for his improperly clothed soldiers. Washington’s troops constructed somewhere between 1,500 to 2,000 log huts that measured approximately 14 x 16 feet. This would allow the 400 women that accompanied the troops and soldier’s families who arrived to be with their spouses. In addition to the huts, his troops built miles of trenches, military roads, and paths. This ended-up being more than an encampment, it was a small city of constant activity. On the political side, certain members of Congress wanted to replace Washington for his strategic losses. Some previously politicians who originally backed him were now calling him incompetent. The one positive measure would be the transformational roots of the Continental Army into a properly disciplined and trained fighting force. General Washington would enlist the service of former Prussian military officer Friedrich Wilhelm Barron Von Steuben to properly instruct military drills to fellow officers who in-turn trained the bulk of Washington’s Army. 

 

USA-Made Roman Font (Intertwined) USA Button
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s USA Pattern of 1780
Waist Coat Size 18-19mm. White Metal or Pewter, 1-Piece

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    This is the small size “borderless” intertwined USA pattern used by enlisted men. This button appears to have been made by local artisans familiar with button making. This borderless style button has been found in South Carolina and Fort Anne New York, and dates circa. 1780’s. Collectors should note the borderless style difference in the intertwined USA pattern of this button and the ones purchased from the French issued in 1782. The French borderless style only intertwines the US, and the A is left detached. 

     The Battle of Fort Anne was fought on July 8th 1777. Several days earlier General Burgoyne was surprised by the news that the American Army withdrew their forces from Fort Ticonderoga. He hurried as many of his troops forward in pursuit of the retreating Americans, and the remainder of his forces would drive forward toward Fort Edward. The British caught up to the retreating American Army and encamped about 3/4 of a mile north of Fort Ann. The Americans decided to surround and attack the British while they had the numerical advantage. The British were outnumbered, and sent for reinforcements. The Americans would have most probably captured the entire British forward force, but they fell back to Fort Anne because they fell for a rouse produced by British war whoops, which indicated reinforcements were close. As more of Burgoyne’s Army came down the road in support the Americans took the preemptive steps and retreated from fort Anne to Fort Edwards. 

 

 

North Carolina Volunteers
Intertwined USA Regt. Button
Cuff Size 17mm. One-Piece Cast Pewter Mold

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     North Carolina Regiments fought in both the Northern and Southern theatre during the American Revolution. On March 7th 1777, three companies of NC Light Dragoons were placed on the Continental Line. Later, on July 10th 1777,  two companies of NC Artillery were placed on the Continental Line. On March 7, 1777, the Continental Congress approved placing three companies of NC Light Dragoons onto the Continental Line, not to be assigned to any existing regiment. North Carolina Continentals performed well throughout Washington’s Northern campaign, afterwards they were dispatched to help General Benjamin Lincoln in South Carolina and Georgia. By June of 1779, the 2nd Company of NC Artillery was disbanded. On May 12th 1780, the British accepted the surrender of General Benjamin Lincoln at the siege of Charleston, South Carolina, which included almost all of North Carolina’s Continental Troops under his command. Sometime afterwards four regiments of NC soldiers reconstituted and continued on to support Major General Nathanael Greene in South Carolina until he furloughed them in the spring of 1783.

 

Intertwined Block Letter USA Button W/ Raised Pie Crust Edge Border
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s Pattern is Found on 1780-82 Sites
Cuff Size 17.8mm Cast Pewter, 1-Piece

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       General George Washington’s Continental Army consisted of several successive armies. By 1783, most of the Continental Army was disbanded in hopes for a Paris Peace Treaty. General Washington and his remaining Generals encamped the Continental Army’s last 7,200 troops at New Windsor’s Cantonment, West Point Area, as well as several mountain areas around the Hudson River. The 1st and 2nd Regiments went on to form the nucleus of Wayne’s Legion 8 years later in 1792 under General Anthony Wayne. This became the foundation of the United States Army in 1796. George Washington had to fight for this because he did not want our country to be at the mercy of hired European mercenaries. A little known fact is that the army never numbered more than 17,000 men. Turnover proved to be a constant problem for General George Washington, especially in the winter of 1776–77. This high attrition rate was the cause for the Second Continental Congressional Board of War to approve longer enlistments. The USA button was the most universally used button and found on Revolutionary War sites throughout the 13 states. 

 

Officer’s Pattern Overlaid USA Pattern button
French Design Mirroring French-made Belt Plates & Infantry
Hangers brought by Lafayette for the men of his Light Division
Silvered Pewter Repousse 26.5mm Wood back, Cat Gut Cord

*************               *************            *************

    Major General Marie Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier de La Fayette was born into a privileged life in an expansive chateau in Chavaniac, France on September 6th 1757. To the public in the United States he was simply known as Lafayette. In 1772, King George III’s younger brother Prince William Henry The Duke of Gloucester revealed that he secretly married Maria, Countess Dowager of Waldegrave. King George III did not approve of the marriage and barred them from the Royal presence. Sometime afterward Prince William was a guest of honor at a dinner party in-which the young Lafayette was attending. William was still angry about his censure and began lashing-out about his brother’s political policies in the American colonies. In a vengeful arrogance against his brother the king he praised the colonists anti-British rebellion and gave his admiration for their fortitude and courage in the opening battles at Lexington and Concord. The young ambitious Lafayette whose father had died in the Seven Years War fighting the British received all the inspiration he needed to fight back against the British Empire.

 

French-Made Roman Font (Partially Intertwined) USA Button
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s USA Pattern of 1781/82
Coat Size 27mm. White Metal or Pewter, 1-Piece Button.

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     After the dinner party with King George III’s brother it was said that Lafayette couldn’t think about anything else except joining th American Cause against the British. He was a highly motivated individual who only sought to get to America no matter what the personal cost. Some say he saw glory in joining the American Cause because it enabled him to fight against his archenemy and get vengeance for his father’s death. As soon as he arrived in Paris immediately started to make inquiries and preparation to voyage across the Atlantic to America. In 1777, after the Paris Peace Treaty, King Louis XVI really did not want to provoke Great Britain at this point, nor did he want to involve himself in what he felt was an internal civil war and just a British political matter. At one point he even issued explicit orders reflecting his intentions to all french noblemen who were sympathetic to the American Cause. Being young and arrogant Lafayette just ignored the King’s orders and eluded authorities to cross the Atlantic so he could join-up with the American Revolutionaries. At the time, Lafayette was still a young teenager who spoke very little English, and lacked any formal military training, nevertheless had any battle experience.

 

 George Washington and Lafayette at the Battle of Brandywine on September 11th 1777.
Oil on canvas, by John Vanderlyn. Picture courtesy of the Gilcrease Museum, usa OK.

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     Lafayette quickly joined the ranks within Washington’s Army and was said to be eager to fight in battle. He would see his first action at the Battle of Brandywine near Philadelphia. Lafayette was shot in the leg, but he showed courage and was able to organize a successful retreat of his fellow soldiers. Following a two month recuperation, he was given command over his own division. Lafayette endeared himself to General Washington and would stay with him from the winter quarters of Valley Forge in 1777, all the way to the Siege of Yorktown in 1781. Washington definitely took to the young Lafayette as a son, and the Frenchman considered Washington as both a friend and a father figure. General Lafayette died in Paris on May 20th 1834, at 76 years old. He was known by the citizens of the world as the “Revolutionary Hero of Two Worlds.” In his will he requested that he be buried in both American and French soil. His son fulfilled his request and placed dirt on his coffin taken from Bunker Hill.

 

French-made USA Enlisted Man’s Pattern of 1781/82
Raised Letters S Overlaps U, A Separate on Plain field
1-Piece, 27mm. Coat Size. White Metal or Pewter.

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     In 1778, the first order for USA buttons was from a Congressional requisition in April of 1778, for 100,000 suits of clothes. The USA buttons were supposed to have roman intertwined letters and be made of Block Tin or Brass with a strong eye shank. White buttons would be made for wagoners and drivers. In 1779, the French gave a written estimate, which was a modified version of the original order stating that White buttons would be made in Pewter, or white metal, and yellow ones of brass. Ten thousand uniforms were made in 1779, stockpiled and then shipped aboard the Marquis de Lafayette. Unfortunately, the British captured the ship and the uniforms and buttons were sold as a prize in an auction in London. We don’t know if any brass buttons were made and shipped with this order. Another order arranged by Colonel John Laurens in France on April 26th 1781, included 300 gross of white metal buttons for coats, 25 gross of yellow buttons, and another 300 gross of white metal buttons for waistcoats and this order was filled and delivered. Later in August of 1781, the final shipment arrived in Boston which contained 1,200 dozen of the large USA buttons, and 1,200 dozen of the small white stamped metal buttons. This shipment would include the “Borderless Style USA Buttons,” which are found throughout the Hudson Highlands in NY. It is believed that this style button was not shipped out of military stores until sometime in 1782.

 

French-made Partially Intertwined USA Continental Service button
Continental Army Enlisted Man’s USA Pattern of 1781/82
Small Size 18mm. One-Piece, Dug in Virginia

*************               *************            *************

    Like radical university professors in 18th Century Scotland and the anti-British (Jacobite Sympathizers) underground movement in England, France was a seedbed of Enlightenment liberal ideologies. In the beginning of the American Revolution, non-official government French merchants would ship supplies to the Continental Army. Unfortunately, this was too limited in supply and Congress needed to have formal help from France’s government. Congress considered France’s official military supply chain vital for America’s Cause. Congress would immediately send envoys to France a few months after the war started in December of 1775, with Julien Bonvouloir and met with a Committee of Secret Correspondence. Unfortunately, nothing came out of it except an open communication window. In early 1776, Silas Deane was sent to France in hopes of seducing the French government to lead aid to the colonies. This gained some French sympathy and he was able to secure a shipment of arms and ammunition. He was also able to enlist a number of Continental soldiers of fortune, including Johann de Kalb, Thomas Conway, Casmir Pulaski, Baron von Steuben, and Lafayette! All notable figures who would make great contributions to the revolution and be of great assistance to George Washington. Benjamin Franklin would be dispatched to France in December of 1776, as Commissioner for the United States and would stay until 1785. 

     With Washington’s victory at the Battle of Saratoga hope was brought back to the Patriot movement and newly developed enthusiasm in France. This realization that Americans could be victorious spurred France to formally recognize the United States with the Treaty of Alliance in 1778. This would be a momentous shift in support from private French benefactors to the French government resources. The treaty allowed the country of France to provide formal funding and send supplies, equipment, and weapons in a military supply management system to the Continental Army. By war’s end France accumulated over 1 billion livres in debt, which partially caused her own revolution.

 

 

This NC USA was found along the banks of the town Creek in Brunswick County, N.C. March 2011.
Allen Gaskins said there was a skirmish there when Cornwall came up from S.C and took Wilmington, N.C.

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     There is no way to be certain how many gang molds were made with slight letter variations in the intertwined USA buttons. The importance was placed on national affiliation, as well as any kind of misappropriation of government stocks of clothing. Below is a handful of pattern designs found to be made throughout the war. I was personally able to account for 41 known American & French made intertwined USA buttons.

 

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The Continental Army Regiments of 1776

************** Continental Army Numbered Buttons First Appear *************

*************    3-A   *************

*

General George Washington Commander in Chief of the Continental Army provides General Orders for Regiment uniforms and buttons on November 13th 1775.

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 “The Colonels upon the new establishment to settle, as soon as possible, with the Quartermaster General, the uniform of their respective regiments, that the Buttons may be properly numbered, and the work finished without delay.”

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The Main Army of 1776 

      At years end of 1775, General Washington had made little stride in the Siege of Boston, and his Army’s attempt to capture Quebec City in Canada failed. On December 30th, General Montgomery and Colonel Benedict Arnold who were two of Washington’s greatest assets made an un-calculated foolish attempt in the harsh weather conditions to capture Quebec city because their troops enlistments were coming to end-term in two days. General Montgomery’s plan was to scale the walls during the night in a snowstorm undetected. Unfortunately, Colonel Arnold was wounded, Daniel Morgan was taken prisoner, and General Montgomery was killed instantly at close range by a Grapeshot wound to the head.

     General Washington desperately understood that he had to keep his Army of state volunteers intact if the Cause for American Independence was going to be successful. At the end of 1775, the reality of expiring troop enlistments was on the forefront of his mind. At the end of December he was able to successfully convince a good number of soldiers to overstay their enlistments. Washington understood that Congress willfully limiting enlistments for a year was going to hinder the success of his campaign’s Departments. General Washington corresponded with Congress suggesting that they would need to expand the one year limit duration for enlistment service. 

The Second Establishment in January of 1776

   In order to continue with the war effort the Continental Congress had to vote to re-raise the Army at boston and maintain Continental state militia volunteer units. By year’s end of 1775, the Continental Congress was supporting units from every state except for Maryland. Washington’s year-end request for an extension of enlistments went unchecked, by fearful Congressional leaders worried about the costs of supplying and maintaining a large Army. The new enlistments would once again only serve a one year term, which started from January 1st to December 31st 1776. To help address the lack of state cohesiveness within the Main Army, Washington issued a  General Order on January 24th 1776. It stated that the State Units would be re-organized and redesigned into numbered Continental Regiments. The Main Army would now consist of 27 infantry regiments. (There would be no separate Artillery unit until Harrison’s 1st on November 26th 1776)-( There also would be no Dragoon’s unit until the 3rd establishment of 1777). They would be organized from the new enlistments in Boston and the existing state units whose volunteers were encouraged to continue on in supporting the Cause for Independence. Each of the Continental Regiments would be comprised of 8 companies with 728 men. Of these, 640 men of lower rank would provide the front line musket firepower and the rest were officers and their staff.

 

 

The 5th Continental Regiment was organized from the
1st New Hampshire Regt. on January 1st 1776. This 1-Piece, 17mm 
Pewter Cuff Button Depicts a Large Arabic Style “5” in the Center

**************   Red Wool for British Uniforms is Dyed Brown   *************

    The 1st New Hampshire Regiment was an early infantry unit formed under Commander John Stark on May 22nd 1775. The unit fought in the second military engagement of the Boston Campaign at Chelsea Creek on May 27th & 28th 1775. Afterward, they fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill in Charlestown Massachusetts on June 17th 1775. While actively taking part in the siege of Boston, the unit was renamed the 5th Continental Regiment. Later in the spring, the 5th regt. was sent to Canada where the New Hampshire soldiers fought on June 8th 1776, at Trois-Rivieres. Under Brigadier General William Thompson they attempted to stop the British advance up the Saint Lawrence River Valley by Quebec Militia forces under Guy Carlton. Afterward, they helped defend the area around Lake Champlain. Later in the year, the 5th Continental was transferred south to George Washington’s main army where it fought at the pivotal Battle of Trenton on the morning of December 26th 1776. On January 1st 1777, the unit was renamed the 1st New Hampshire. Shortly afterward on January 3rd 1777, the regiment had a small victory at Princeton and then sent back to the Northern Department. 

 

The 8th Continental Regiment was organized from the
2nd New Hampshire Regiment under Colonel Enoch Poor
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “8” in the Center.

**************             Blue Faced Scarlet & Scarlet and White             *************  

     Shortly after the Battle of Lexington & Concord the Massachusetts Provincial Congress called upon other New England Colonies for their assistance in raising an army of 30,000 men. On May 22nd 1775, the New Hampshire Provincial Congress answered their call and voted to raise a volunteer force of 2,000 men. Volunteers from southeastern New Hampshire and western Maine answered the call to arms in order to join the Patriot army in the siege of Boston. The New Hampshire Provincial volunteers were organized into three regiments and each made-up of ten companies. This 2nd New Hampshire Infantry Regiment was commanded by Colonel Enoch Poor from Exeter, New Hampshire. Colonel Poor was sympathetic to the separatist movement ever since the introduction of the Stamp Act of 1765. He was also an elected official of New Hampshire’s Provincial Assembly. His regiment immediately departed for Boston and arrived on June 25th 1775, which was shortly after the Battle of Bunker Hill. By the summer time Poor’s Regiment was absorbed into the Continental Army, and placed under the Northern Department. Poor’s regiment was assigned under  Richard Montgomery’s and set out on his Canadian expedition. 

 

 The Green Mountain Boys was a Militia Unit made up of Vermont Settlers. The rebel group was formed prior to the 
Rev. War in the 1760’s. The membership mostly consisted of relatives of Ethan Allen, who was their original leader.
On the onset of the war, The Green Mountain Boys under Allen marched north and captured Fort Ticonderoga from a
small garrison of British soldiers on May 10th 1775. Afterward, they dragged its artillery down to Boston for the Siege.

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     General Montgomery’s expedition would be composed of regiments from Connecticut, New York, and New Hampshire, as well as the Green Mountain Boys under the command of Ethan Allen’s cousin Seth Warner. The invasion force was led by General Schuyler whose strategy was to go up through Lake Champlain in order to begin the campaign with the attack on Montreal. Afterward, they would go on to Quebec. The troops of the 2nd New Hampshire played a key role in the Battle of Lounge Pointe and the Siege of Fort Saint Jean in September of 1775.

 

This was the Flag (colors) of the 2nd New Hampshire, which was captured at Fort Anne on
July 8th 1777, by an advance of General Burgoyne main army. Remarkably, the 2nd’s
Flag was kept as a war trophy instead of being burned or cut into strips for bandages. 

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     On January 1st 1776, the 2nd New Hampshire became the 8th Continental Regiment. In May of 1776, the 8th Continental would see action in Carleton’s Counter offensive at the Battle of Trois-Rivieres. In July, they retreated south to Fort Ticonderoga and helped construct a new fort across Lake Champlain on Rattlesnake Hill. In November the New Hampshire units marched south and rejoined the rest of the Continental Army for the Battle of Trenton at the end of December. On January 1st 1777, the 8th Continental regiment was reorganized and resumed as the 2nd New Hampshire Regiment and went oh ahead to the Battle of Princeton on January 3rd. A little more than a month later on February 21st 1777, Colonel Poor was made a Continental Brigadier General, and Lieutenant Nathan Hale was commissioned as a Colonel and given the command of the 2nd New Hampshire in April. Three months later at Hubbardton Vermont, Colonel Hale and part of the 2nd regt. was captured by the British in a surprise attack while having breakfast. After Colonel Hale’s capture, George Reid assumed command of the remainder of the regiment who proceeded back north to Fort Ticonderoga. After the ordered withdraw of Fort Ticonderoga on July 5th, Reid’s 2nd went to Fort Anne in-which it lost its Flag (Colors) during the battle.

 

 

The 11th Continental Regiment was Reorganized from Colonel Hitchcock’s
 2nd Rhode Island Regiment on January 1st 1777. This a 1-Piece, 22mm. 
Pewter Coat Button, which depicts a Crude Style Arabic “11” in the Center.

**************           Possibly Brown W/ White Facings             *************

     On May 6th 1775, shortly after the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the General Assembly decided to raise a brigade of three regiments. Colonel Daniel Hitchcock in the Rhode Island Army of Observation was authorized to raise a brigade of volunteers from County of Providence for service during the siege of Boston. Initially, the observation unit’s mission statement was to monitor the British Army’s strategic preparation for future hostile activities. Two days later on May 8th 1775, Colonel Hitchcock was able to raise eight companies of willful volunteers, which would end-up umbrellaed as one of the brigades under General Nathanael Greene; but still under the command of Colonel Hitchcock. In this early period the Continental Army did not have unit number designations, and was often called after the commanding officer. For the most part, Hitchcock’s Brigade ended-up expanding their duties and participated in the siege of Boston for the remainder of 1775. On June 17th the regiment would see action at Roxbury, Massachusetts during the Battle of Bunker Hill. On the 28th, the regiment was expanded to ten companies, and was adopted into the Continental Army when George Washington arrived in Cambridge to take command on July 3rd. On July 22nd the regiment was assigned back to General Greene’s Brigade. Later in the year, some elements of his regiment accompanied Benedict Arnold on his expedition to Quebec.

 

********** Charles M. Lefferts **********

     On January 1st 1776, Hitchcock’s Brigade was renamed the 11th Continental Infantry. After the British evacuation of Boston in March the regiment was redeployed with the bulk of the Continental Army to defend New York City. Starting in August of 1776, the 11th Continental Regiment fought in the New York and New Jersey Campaign for the control of the Port of New York, and the state of New Jersey. The British forces under General Sir William Howe landed his force in Long Island and quickly defeated George Washington’s Continentals. General Howe was successful in driving Washington out of New York, but overextended his reach into New Jersey, and ended his active campaign in January of 1777. The last battles of the 11th Continental Infantry Regiment was on december 26th at the Battle of Trenton, and on January 3rd 1777, with the Battles Princeton. Afterward, the 2nd Rhode Island Regiment was ordered away to defend the Hudson River Valley where Colonel Hitchcock met his demise on January 13th 1777. Colonel Israel Angell was placed in command and went on to fight at the Battle of Red Bank, and the siege at Fort Mifflin. In 1778, the 2nd Rhode Island distinguished itself in the Battles of Monmouth, and in august traveled up to Newport Rhode Island for the siege on Aquidneck Island. From June of 1778 to December of 1780, the regiment was assigned to Stark’s Brigade in the Main Army, which was based in Morristown, New Jersey. Their last major engagement was the Battle of Springfield in 1780. Out of a strength of 160 men 6 were killed, 31 wounded, and 3 were reported missing. Afterward, there were several minor skirmishes before they consolidated into the 1st Rhode Island Regiment in 1781.

 

 

The 12th Continental Regiment was formed from
Colonel Moses Little’s Regiment of Massachusetts State Troops
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts a crude Style Arabic “12” in the Center.

**************             *************             *************  

    Moses Little served in the Massachusetts Militia, and fought with his company at the Battles of Lexington and Concord on April 19th, 1775. Immediately afterward on April 23rd 1775, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress (Assembly) needed to answer the call of the Second Continental Congress and help supply and arm the Continental Army besieged in Boston. In the call to arms, the Massachusetts Assembly made Moses Little Colonel, and gave him the authority to raise a regiment in Cambridge for the newly forming Massachusetts State Troops. His Regiment would consist of 10 companies, and quickly become known as, “Little’s Regiment.”  By June of 1775, the Continental Congress needed the newly raised states militia forces from New Jersey, New York, Maryland, and Massachusetts to help with the Siege in Boston. Colonel Moses Little Regt. would answer to their call on June 14th, and join the newly forming Continental Army. In July Little’s Regiment was assigned to Greene’s Brigade, which was an element of Washington’s Main Army.

     On January 1st 1776, Colonel Little’s Regt. was reduced from ten companies down to eight, and re-designated as, “The 12th Continental Regiment.” At his point it was still an element under Greene’s Brigade. On August 12th 1776, Little’s Regiment would be reassigned as an element of Nixon’s Brigade. From here they would move to the City of New York with Washington’s Main Army, and fight in the New York & New Jersey Campaigns. By year-end they would fight in the Battle’s of Trenton and Princeton. Moses Little remained Colonel of the 12th Continental Regiment throughout 1776, but in January of 1777, he would retire from service. In the following February, his Continental Regiment would officially disband in Morristown, New Jersey. 

 

 

The 13th Continental Regiment was organized from Colonel Read’s
Walker’s and Brewer’s Massachusett’s Regt’s., on January 1st 1777. This is a 1-Piece,
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts a crude Style Arabic “13” in the Center.

**************             *************             *************

   Joseph Read was a Lieutenant Colonel during the opening Battles of Lexington and Concord. In the aftermath, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress immediately raise 27 regiments of volunteers as a Provincial Army (Massachusetts Grand Army) for the Massachusetts Bay Colony. The Massachusetts Grand Army would be the roots for the Massachusetts lines when they were absorbed into the 27 Continental regiments in the following year. On April 23rd 1775, Joseph Read was made a Colonel and raised a militia regiment at Cambridge Massachusetts. A month later in June of 1775, they were adopted into the first establishment of the Continental Army. (Button Collector’s note: Units were generally referred to by the names of their Colonels because states numbered them differently then the Continental Army Regt. designation). On June 22nd, 1775, they were assigned to Spencer’s Brigade, which was an element of the Continental’s Main Army. On January 1st of 1776, Read’s regiment was consolidated with remnants of both Walker’s regiment and elements certain of David Brewer’s Massachusetts’s troops. They were redesigned as, “ the 13th Continental Regiment.”  This still was still an element of Spencer’s Brigade at this point, but his Brigade would now consist of 8 companies. Throughout 1776, the 13th Continentals would go through a number of reassignments: January 24th 1776, reassigned to Thomas’ Brigade, April 24th, reassigned to Heath’s’ Brigade, August 12th 1776, reassigned to Clinton’s Brigade, November 5th, assigned to Mc Dougall’s Brigade, and December 11th reassigned to Sargent’s Brigade.

 

George Washington stood on Dorchester Heights Alongside 59 Captured Cannons high above
the City of Boston. General Knox and Allen’s Green Mountain Boys moved the Cannons a little more
then 300 miles in 56 days with the help of oxen and ice sleighs. They arrived in Boston on Jan 25th, 1776.

**************             *************             *************

     As far as active service, Reid’s Massachusetts unit 1st went went on to Boston and helped with the siege by cutting off the British supply routes. His regiment also furnished work details for the fortifications on Dorchester Heights. This was instrumental for Washington, because it allowed him to place his heavy artillery cannons in a strategically dominant offensive position. After the fortification was complete and the captured cannons put in place he British were outgunned. General Howe realized his position was indefeasible and withdrew his forces to the British strong hold in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Afterward, the 13th Continental Regiment remained with the Continental main army for the New York Campaign to capture and strategically control the shipping Port of New York. The Continental Army suffered from several defeats in New York, and was never able to gain control of the port. The Continental Army retreated back through New Jersey and into Pennsylvania. On December 25th 1776, George Washington crossed the Delaware just north of Trenton New Jersey. On the morning of december 26th 1776, Washington led the main body of the Continental Army including the 13th Continental regiment to victory against a small garrison of Hessian auxiliaries stationed at Trenton. Keeping with a favorable momentum Washington subsequently decided to attack the British in New Jersey before taking winter quarters. On the night of January 2nd 1777, Washington drove back a British attack at Assunpink Creek. Washington strategically circled back around Cornwallis’ Army quickly and attacked the British garrison (1,400 Troops) at Princeton New Jersey. Even though these were considered small military engagements it inspired the rebels in the colonies and contributed toward re-enlistments. On January 3rd 1777, would be the last, but successful victory for the 13th Continental Regiment. Afterward Washington led his troops to nearby Morristown for the duration of the winter until the spring. Washington took residence in Arnold’s Tavern on the Green, which was the central hub of Morristown society. The 13th Continental Regiment disbanded at this point. 

 

 

The 14th Continental Regiment was organized
From Colonel John Glover’s Massachusetts Seafaring Men
of the 23rd Massachusetts Regt. on January 1st 1776.
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic Style “14” in the Center.

**************            Amphibious Unit, 728 Soldiers             *************

    In January of 1775, a town meeting called for a reorganization of the local militia unit in Marblehead Massachusetts. The aim was to strip the Tory commanders of their military powers, and place Jeremiah Lee in their stead as the new regimental Patriot commander. John glover was elected as second Lieutenant Colonel. In February, the regiment armed itself by seizing weapons and powder in a night time raid of the HMD Lively. Although the Marblehead Militia was not present at the Battles of Lexington and Concord they had a serious impact on its command. Jeremiah Lee and John Glover met with Sam Adams and John Hancock at Weatherby’s Black Horse Tavern. They were planning on staying the night, but they were forced to flee from their beds because the British did a surprise search of the tavern. Lee ended-up  falling sick and dying from exposure after hiding in a field. John glover then resumed command over the militia.

 

Continental Navy Officer’s Coat Button

**************             *************             *************

     On June 22nd 1775, the Marblehead militia was formally adopted as a regiment in the Continental Army in Cambridge Massachusetts. At the time it consisted of 10 companies totaling 505 officers and men. On July 1st 1775, John Glover was given a Colonel’s Commission by the Continental Congress, and the unit was designated the 23rd Massachusetts Regiment. Glover’s regiment was issued orders to join the main Continental Army to help Washington repel the British Army, and recapture the Port of Boston. During the siege the British Army was able to maintain a steady stream of provisions through their ships arriving from the their British stronghold in Nova Scotia. Washington realized that he needed a greater naval presence to disrupt the supply line, and turned to Colonel Glover who was a wealthy successful shipping merchant with a slew of sailing vessels at his disposal. The Marblehead militiamen of the 23rd Regt. were made-up of sea-faring men whose primary occupation was fishing and privateering. Washington new he had to disrupt the British supply line in-order for his campaign to be successful. He turned to Glover who owned a shipping wharf in Beverly, and a 78 ton schooner named, Hannah. Colonel Glover was eager to assist Washington in his maritime capacity. He selected a Captain and crew from his Massachusetts Regt. that he knew were seafaring men from Marblehead and Beverly who knew underwood shipping from their personal endeavors. This detail would be responsible for outfitting (with arms) and manning the fishing vessels aboard the Franklin, Hancock, Lee, and Warren. This small fleet of ships would be the first naval force under “Continental sponsorship and control.” It would become to be known as, “George Washington’s Navy,” by Congressional politicians and seagoing men. 

 

The Schooner Hannah was the first armed American Naval Vessel of the American Revolution. 
The Hannah was owned by Colonel John Glover’s in-laws of Marblehead, Massachusetts, and
named for his wife, Hannah. The Crew was drawn largely from the Mass. 23rd Regt. of Marblehead
enlistments in Washington’s Main Army of 1775. Painting is the Marine art of Geoff Hunt (RSMA).

**************             *************             *************

     In October 1775, General George Washington called for his first naval expedition into the Saint Lawrence River.  to intercept two British Brigs arriving from England. He ordered the schooner’s Franklin and Hancock to sail into the Saint Lawrence River in order to intercept two British Brigs as they freshly arrived form England. Instead of engaging the English Brigs, the Captains of the schooners took an opportunistic moment and sought an easier and more bountiful quarry off the Cape of Canso. Riding off their recent success, the Captains went on and raided the Charlottetown settlement on November 17th. Without any regard to Washington’s strict orders to respect the Canadian’s property they raided and pillaged the locals. When Washington found out about their illegal actions both Captains were relieved of duty, and the Canadian’s property returned to the Nova Scotians with his apologies.

 

The 14th Continental Regiment Coat 22mm. 
There appears to have been 5 Variants known 
This is William Calvers 1920 Specimen Dug at West Point 

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     Washington’s small naval force was successful and began returning to port with captured vessels and cargos as wartime prizes. After sometime, Washington had begun to be concerned that his navy was starting to receive too much attention from the British Commanders. So, in an attempt to secure the Beverly Wharf and harbor from any kind of British offensive, Washington called back the rest of the Marblehead Regiment from Cambridge in December. He ordered them to construct 5 separate forts to protect and defend the harbor. At the end of December the enlistments reached their term and the unit was reorganized as,”the 14th Continental Regiment” on January 1st 1776. The 14th Continentals would be responsible for the task of defending the Beverly’s harbor.

 

 

The 18th Continental Regiment was also known as,
the 12th Massachusetts Regt., and Phinney’s Regt.
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “18” in the Center.

**************             *************             *************

    On January 1st 1776, Colonel James Scammon’s 13th Massachusetts Regt., remnants of Peterson’s Regt. Phinney’s Regt., and Captain Nathan Watkin’s Company were all consolidated and redesigned the 18th Continental Regiment.  This Regt. would consist of 8 companies and would be an element of Heath’s Brigade. Colonel Edmund Phinney would command this unit throughout the year of 1776. In April of 1776, Phinney’s Regt. occupied Boston, Massachusetts just after the siege. In the Aftermath, Americans moved in to reclaim Boston and Charlestown very cautiously due to the high contagion risk of small pox, which was sweeping the city. Washington allowed the British Army to leave the city unhindered at their threat of burins the city, but did not allow them to leave the outer harbor so easy. After General Howe left Boston, he left a small contingent of vessels to re-direct the transport ships arriving from Halifax carrying British troops. In early April, fearing the British would attack the City of New York, Washington departed with his army to Manhattan to begin the New York and New Jersey Campaign.

 

The USS Spitfire bateaux gunboat that operated on Lake Champlain in 1776.
She was part of Benedict Arnolds hastily built fleet of ships. General Carleton knew that controlling 
Lake Champlain was essential for either the British or American forces. This waterway link to New York
could crushing the American rebellion completely in the New England & Canada. Arnold’s idea for these
boats came from his hasty put together expedition from Boston Mass. to the siege of Quebec in Dec of 1775.

*************   *******   *************

     Later in August, the 18th Continental Regiment was issued new orders to go onto northern New York to oppose Sir Guy Carlton’s counteroffensive. Earlier in July of 1776, General Horatio Gates was given command of the Continental Army’s northern forces in upstate New York. After retreating from Quebec, he gathered the bulk of his army at Fort Ticonderoga on the southern end of Lake Champlain, and left a small unit of approximately 300 soldiers at the Fort at Crown Point; and a small detachment of seafaring shipbuilders at Skenesborough on the south bay to build ships to defend the Lakes. Fort Ticonderoga formally known as, “Fort Carillon,” was an 18th century “Star Fort” built by the French. The name “Ticonderoga” comes from the Native Iroquois, which is roughly translated, located at the junction of two waterways. The 18th Continental Regt. was part of the reinforcements which poured into Fort Ticonderoga. when all said in done it was estimated to be 10,000 strong. 

 

 

The 22nd Continental Regiment was formed from
the 2nd Connecticut Regiment in January of 1776
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “22” in the Center.

**************             *************             ************* 

    Prior to the outbreak of the war, the Connecticut Colony passed some sweeping anti-Tory laws in support of the Patriot movement and targeted against its Loyalist population. These laws forced many of Connecticut’s citizens who were loyal to Britain to either flee their homes or suffer imprisonment. In the wake of the clash between the British regulars and the Massachusetts Militia at Lexington and Concord Connecticut’s legislature authorized the raising of six new regiments. Benedict Arnold immediately joined the Continental Army in April, and was commissioned a Colonel under the Revolutionary government of Massachusetts. He partnered with Vermont’s Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys to capture Fort Ticonderoga. The 2nd Connecticut Regiment was authorized within the Connecticut State Troops, and was able to raise 10 companies of  volunteers in Hartford County between May 1st – 20th of 1775. Some 1,200 Connecticuts State Troops immediately were dispatched to the Siege in Boston with Israel Putnam and fought the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17th. In the meanwhile, the 2nd Connecticut was adopted into the Main Continental Army on June 14th, 1775, and assigned to Brigadier General Joseph Spencer’s 3rd Brigade of the Continental Main Army on the 22nd of 1775.

 

A Broadside Soliciting Recruits for the Continental Army in Connecticut, Circa.1775.
Connecticut Historical Society.

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    The 22nd Continental Regiment was formed on January 1st 1776, from the 2nd Connecticut Regiment. It would be one of three (6th & 8th) Connecticut Regiments to transition into Continental Regiments in General Spencer’s 3rd Brigade. Previously, the 2nd Connecticut regiment was a “Cadre” force trained under the command of Colonel Samuel Wyllys. In July of 1775, Wyllys was appointed as a lieutenant colonel in Colonel Joseph Spencer’s 2nd Regt.. On January 1st 1776, when the 2nd was reorganized into the 22nd Continental regiment Wyllys was promoted to Colonel and stayed in command. The 22nd Continentals served in the siege of Boston until the British evacuated in March. Afterward, they marched with General Washington to New York and saw action in the Battle of Long Island. They continued to serve in the New York Vicinity area until the end of the year. On November 12th 1777, Spencer’s Brigade was redesigned as Parson’s Brigade, and the 22nd Continental Regiment was reassigned to Mercer’s Brigade. In 1777, Colonel Wyllys went on to lead the 3rd Connecticut Regiment serving in the New York area. The State of Connecticut went on to be known as, “the Provision State” for the Continental Army.

 

 

The 24th Continental Regiment was formed from

Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “24” in the Center.

**************             *************             ************* 

    Lieutenant Colonel John Greaton assumed command of the Massachusetts 21st regiment on June 22nd 1775, when Colonel William Heath was promoted to Brigadier General of the Continental Army. On July 1st 1775, he was promoted to   Colonel and the regiment officially became Greaton’s Regiment. For the remainder of the year the unit went on to Boston to support Washington’s Main Army in the Siege. In the new reorganization of the Main Army into Continental numbered Regiments, Bond’s Regiment, Craft’s Company and the remnants of Greaton’s Regt. was consolidated into the 24th Continental Regiment. In April of 1776, Greaton’s Regt. moved with the Main Army to New York City to help capture the Port of New York. In that same month they were ordered to provide reinforcement for General Richard Montgomery’s Army in their campaign to capture Quebec. Afterward, they rejoined the Main Army in November who was setting-up winter quarters in Morristown, New Jersey. 

 

 

The 25th Continental Regiment was formed by consolidating
Remnant Troops from Bond’s 15th, Cotton’s 4th, Danielson’s 8th Mass. Regt’s,
and Mayhew’s & Egerys’ Companies in January of 1776  
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “25” in the Center.

**************    Was issued 600 Coats, The Color was not Recorded    *************

    Colonel William bond was placed as Commander of the 25th Continentals with Lieutenant Colonel Ichabod Alden as his senior officer in January of 1776. In April the regiment was deployed to New York and New Jersey Campaign to control the Port of New York and the state of New Jersey. General Washington knew that New York harbor would make an excellent base and staging area for the Royal Navy, so he established defenses and waited for the British. On July 3rd 1776, General Howe after evacuating from Boston, he was able to land his troops unopposed a few miles across the harbor in a sparsely populated area of Staten Island. General Howe soon after led his forces to the western edge of Long Island on August 27th. The engagement would become the known as, the Battle of Brooklyn Heights or the Battle of Long Island. This battle would be the largest military engagement in the North America theatre throughout the American Revolution. Washington’s Continental force in the New York & New Jersey Campaign was approximately 23,000 troops and militia. In the Battle of Long Island Washington would use 10,000 Continental Regiments under the leadership of himself, Israel Putnam, William Alexander, Thomas Mifflin, Henry Knox, and John Sullivan (who was taken a pioneer of war). Washington’s Continentals were out gunned and numbered to Howe’s 20,000 British regulars who had the benefit of proper military training and experience. After a fierce clash the Continentals were able to make an orderly retreat in the darkness and fog to Manhattan. Three hundred were killed, 800 wounded, and 1079 were captured. Colonel William Bond Commander of the 25th Continentals would die on August 31st 1776, being replaced by Lieutenant Colonel Ichabod Alden who would hold command until the end of the year. In April the 25th Continentals remained with Washington’s main army in Manhattan, and then went on to help reinforce the American Army trying to seize control of the British Province of Quebec, Canada.

 

 

The 26th Continental Regiment was formed from
Colonel Samuel Gerrish’s 25th Massachusetts Regiment
Pewter, 22mm. Coat Button, which depicts an Arabic “26” in the Center.

**************             Brown Coats with Buff Facings             ************* 

     Colonel Samuel Gerrish’s 25th Massachusetts Bay Provincial Regiment was established on June 14th 1775, when the Continental Congress assumed the responsibility for maintaining militia regiments raised in the colonies of New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. Gerrish’s regiment was made-up of 10 infantry companies, and was one of many newly raised units stationed outside of Boston for the siege. Later, Colonel Samuel Gerrish retired and his command passed to Lieutenant Colonel Loammi Baldwin on August 19th 1775. Baldwin a noted American engineer enlisted in the Massachusetts militia and was given the rank of a Major. He mustered-up and commanded the Wodburn militia for the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Immediately afterward he joined Gerrish’s 25th Regt. and was able to rapidly advanced in rank to Lieutenant Colonel. Colonel Gerrish retired on August 19th, and Baldwin assumed command. The 25th Massachusetts remained near Boston until the end of 1775. On January 1st 1776, Baldwin was promoted to Colonel, and his 25th Massachusetts Regt. was reduced from 10 companies to 8, and designated as the 26th Continental Regiment in Washington’s reorganized Main Army. In April 1776, Baldwin’s 26th Regt. became part of Heath’s Brigade, and ordered to go to New York City with the Main Army. A few months later on August 19th 1775, the 26th Continental Regiment was transferred again and assigned to Clinton’s Brigade. 

 

     On August 27th 1775, Baldwin’s 26th Continental Regt. would see action at the Battle of Brooklyn Heights. Then two months later on October 12th, the Regt. would distinguish itself at the Battle of Pell’s Point (AKA Battle of Pelham). The 26th Continentals would be instrumental in delaying the British Army who landed 4,000 troops at Pelham in-order to surround Washington’s Army on the island of Manhattan. Baldwin’s 26th continentals was part of an American force led by John Glover and his 14th Continental Regt. Glover’s strategy had troops situated themselves behind a series of stone walls. From here the 26th & 14th had sufficient cover to offensively attack and delay British advance units. As the British slowly overran each wall position the Americans would just fall back and reorganized behind the next interior wall. This timely strategy allowed Washington’s Army the time needed to have an orderly retreat out of Harlem to White Plains, NY. Afterward, Colonel Baldwin boldly claimed that his regiment’s actions help kill 200 British troops. The 26th would go on and re-group with Washington’s Main Army, and then be present for action in the Battle of White Plains on October 28th. At the end of December just before enlistments ran out, the 26th accompanied General Washington when he crossed the Delaware River to surprise attack the Hessian Garrison on the morning of the 25th at Trenton New Jersey. On January 3rd, they would continue on campaign and see action at the Battle of Princeton.

 

Emanuel Leutze’s Painting of George Washington Crossing the Delaware on Christmas December 25, 1776.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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     In 1777, the 9th Massachusetts Regt. was formed from the remnants of the 26th Continental Regiment. Colonel Baldwin was forced to retire due to health issues. James Wesson who was previously a Major in Gerrish’s Regt. in 1775, and a Lieutenant Colonel in Baldwin’s 26th Continental Regt., would be promoted to Colonel and become the new Commander of the 9th Massachusetts. He would command until 1781, and then Henry Jackson would assume command until 1783.

 

Additional Continental Regiments Request of 1776

********** Second Continental Congress Authorizes 16 Regt. *********

*************    3-B   ************* 

    During the fall of 1776, George Washington and the Second Continental Congress began preparations for reorganizing the army. The original 1- year enlistments Congress authorized were set to expire at the end of the year on December 31st 1776, and there was much discussion for the extension of enlistments to be for the war’s duration. Congress needed to use a regt. quota population formula, which would govern enlistment numbers of volunteers expected from each of the 13 states. This was done for several reasons including providing a base number of volunteers needed for the war and to govern its fiscal responsibilities and govern the allocation of resources to the number of soldiers asked to raise from each state. The simple formula helped determine anticipated troop levels to support the Cause. The more dense populated state like Massachusetts and Virginia would be able to provide more troop regiments than less populated states like Delaware and Georgia. In September of 1776, Congress was able to authorize eighty-eight regiments for the upcoming year with the extended enlistment duration for the war.

     In early December of 1776, General Washington anticipated the need for more troops than allotted by Congress in September, and pressed Congress for even more men. He requested Congress raise the number of infantry regiments from the approved 88 to a minimum of 110. On December 27th 1776, after deliberating Congress acted on General Washington’s request and ruled, “That General Washington shall be, and he is here by, vested with full ample, and complete powers to raise….from….all of these United States, 16 battalions of infantry, in addition to those already voted by Congress..” These 16 Additional Continental Regiments would be organized by General Washington’s authority, rather than the authority of the state governments. All of the 16 Regt. would be placed directly under General Washington’s authority and control instead of the state from which they were raised from. This gave Washington a 110 regiments because there was 6 extra regiments were approved earlier by Congress, which was not tied to any single state. 

The 16 Additional Continental Regiments:

Forman’s Additional Continental Regiment            Gist’s Additional Continental Regiment
Grayson’s Additional Continental Regiment           Hartley’s Additional Continental Regiment
Henley’s Additional Continental Regiment             Jackson’s Additional Continental Regiment
Lee’s Additional Continental Regiment                  Malcolm’s Additional Continental Regiment
Patton’s Additional Continental Regiment              Sheppard’s Additional Continental Regiment
Sherburne’s Additional Continental Regiment        Spencer’s Additional Continental Regiment
Thruston’s Additional Continental Regiment           Webb’s Additional Continental Regiment 
Cornell’s Additional Cont. Regt. (never formed)     Scammell’s Additional Cont. Regt. (never formed)

The 6 Extra Continental Regiments:

Maryland & Virginia Rifle Regiment              Warner’s Regiment ( Ethan Allen’s Green Mountain Boys)
1st Canadian regiment                                  2nd Canadian Regiment
German Battalion                                          Dubois Regiment (Later 3rd New York Regt.)

 

 

Hartley’s Additional Continental Regiment
Raised Crude Letters HR, Cast Pewter 18mm.
One of Two Dug by Ian W. & Steve E.

**************   Dug Jefferson County, WV   ************* 

     Thomas Hartley was born in Berk’s County Pennsylvania and moved to New York to study law at 18 years old. In 1774, he was appointed 1st Lieutenant of a New York company, and a year later in the summer of 1775, he was appointed Lieutenant Colonel of First Battalion of York County Associators. In the fall of 1775, he served on his 1st expedition to Canada. After he returned he was chosen as a Lieutenant Colonel of the Pennsylvania Seventh Regiment. In December of 1776, General Washington appealed to the Second Continental Congress for more soldiers, and Congress obliged him with 16 additional Continental Regiments. Under the recommendation of Richard Henry Lee, General Washington appointed Thomas Hartley as Colonel of one the additional 16 Continental Regiments. 

    Colonel Hartley was authorized to recruit ten companies, but unfortunately was only able to recruit enough soldiers to recruit eight companies; four from Pennsylvania, three from Maryland, and one from Virginia. Colonel Hartley’s Regt. also included a rare grenadier company, which was unusual for an American Continental Army unit. Hartley’s troops assembled in Philadelphia in the spring of 1777, and by May 22nd they went on to be part of the permanent brigades forming. Hartley’s Regt. became part of the 1st Pennsylvania Brigade in Washington’s Main Army. 

 

Hartley’s Continental Regt. 1777-1779
There are 2 Known Cast Pewter Variants
Both Have Raised “HR” and Raised Edge

**************   Dug Jefferson County, WV   ************* 

     In September of 1777, Hartley’s Regt. would see action at the Battle of Brandywine as part of a 2,000 man division led by Brigadier General Anthony Wayne. In the absence of division commander Major General Benjamin Lincoln, General Wayne moved-up in command and Hartley served as acting Brigadier General. Afterward, in September of 1777, Hartley’s Regt. would fight Paoli, and then on October 4th fight at the Battle of Germantown. In the summer and fall of 1778, the unit would help defend the Pennsylvania frontier against Indian raids. Hartley’s infantry regiment would only serve for two years in Revolutionary War Campaigns. In January of 1779, they were reorganized and combined with Patton’s Additional and Malcom’s additional Continental Regiments to form a complete battalion known as, “11th Pennsylvania Regiment.” The 11th would go on and participate in the Sullivan-Clinton expedition against the loyalists and the Native Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Indians. Washington’s aim was to take the war home to the enemy by destroying their villages and stores of winter crops in New York up through the Great Lakes. 

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William Malcom Additional Continental Regiment 

**********  No Known Buttons Exists   *************

     William Malcolm’s Additional Continental Regiment is one of the 16 additional Continental Regiments authorized by the Second Continental Congress in answer to George Washington’s request for more infantry regiments. William Malcolm was a wealthy Scottish import/export merchant who operated in New York City. He joined the New York Militia in 1774, and when the war broke out he volunteered for military service in the Continental Army. In 1777, he was given authority to raise an additional regiment under George Washington’s authority, and he used his own funds to pay and equip it. Malcolm commanded as a Colonel and Aaron Burr acted as his second in command with a Lieutenant Colonel rank. On June 27th 1777, the regiment was assigned to the Highland’s Department and participated in the defense of the Hudson River. On September 23rd 1777, the regiment was reassigned to the Main Army. Malcolm’s Regt. winter quartered in Valley Forge in 1777-1778. Colonel Malcom took part in the Battles of Long Island, White Plains, Monmouth, and then later at the end of the year in Trenton and then Princeton in the beginning days of the new year. Colonel Malcolm went on later to command Continental forces in upstate New York as a Brigadier General of the New York Militia. On January 13th 1779, his Pennsylvania companies were assigned to the 11th Pennsylvania Regt., and on April 1st 1779, his New York companies were assigned Spenser’s additional Continental Regt. 

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John Patton’s Additional Continental Regiment

**********  No Known Buttons Exists   *************

     John Patton was an Irish immigrant who came to Pennsylvania in 1765. Patton enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Rifle Regiment after the war broke-out and distinguished himself in command of the 2nd Battalion during the New York & New Jersey Campaign. On January 11th 1777, he was appointed as Colonel and authorized to raise an additional regiment under his command. Seven companies were recruited from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. In May of 1777, Patton’s Regt. fought as part of the 4th Virginia Brigade in the Philadelphia Campaign under the command of Charles Scott. In July of 1778, the regiment was reassigned to the Highland’s Department. In January 1779, merged with other units which transitioned into the new 11th Pennsylvania Regiment. The Delaware company would go onto to the 1st Delaware Regiment. 

 

Artillery Regiments in the Continental Army

************** George Washington’s Artillery Regiments *************

*************    3-C   *************

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1776 Continental Artillery Button
Artillery Piece With Grand Union Flag
American Manufactured Cast Brass, 21mm.
Henry Knox Ordered These Buttons From Clark in 1776

**************             Enlisted Man’s Pattern             *************  

     The Americans, British, and French used three types of artillery in the American War of Independence: Cannons, Howitzers, and Mortars. Cannons are smoothbore muzzle-loading guns made of cast iron or bronze. When fired the recoil moves the gun in a backward motion requiring it to be moved back into position for the next shot. There are two types of Cannons used on the battlefield each having its own purpose. The first cannon was relatively smaller and its light weight allowed soldiers to quickly position, load, and fire in a fairly quick time frame. The most comm cannon used was a 3-pounder called, “the Galloper.” This field-piece could either fire canisters, grapeshot, or a solid shot in a flat trajectory, which would create a large pocket in the enemy’s formation line. The second type of cannon was the much larger and heavier field piece. The size made it harder to reposition after firing, and repositioning and loading would take instrumental time during an engagement. The cannon’s fire would range anywhere from a 6 to 18 pound solid shot. Larger Cannons were much harder to transport, but instrumental in destroying walled fortifications, ramparts, redoubts, and especially good for firing long-range at enemy ships offshore. Against wooden ships, artillerists were known to superheat cannon their solid shot in-order to set ships on fire. These larger bore cannons could also fire bar-and-chain shot in-order to pull down a ship’s mast and riggings.

 

 

Coehorn Mortar 
Raised Emblem of Coehorn Mortar
Cast Pewter, 17mm Cuff Size

 *************       Enlisted Man’s Pattern      *************  

    The second piece of Artillery used on the battlefield was the Mortar. This is a simple light weight muzzle-loaded weapon that had a smooth bore metal tube affixed to a base plate in-order to spread out the recoil. The plate was attached to a flat bed-block made of wood, which could easily be positioned by two artillerists. The wood had a simple elevated wedge, which raised the barrel to manipulate the trajectory of the shell (bomb). Mortars were used as an indirect fire weapon, which would provide cover for troops on the offensive move. They would simply launch explosive shells in a high arching orbit over the enemy. The shell would explode while still airborne and rain shrapnel over the enemy. This forced to take cover instead of concentrating on or engaging the enemy’s offensive attack. The Mortar was quickly reloaded and repositioned if need be. The Howitzer combined the principles of both the Cannon and the Mortar. Howitzers are mounted on a field artillery carriage, and can fire either exploding shells or solid projectiles at a high or straight trajectory. Howitzers were seldom used on the battlefield in the revolution, and usually reserved in defense of a redoubt or fort. The size of the Howitzer and Mortar was designated by the width of the bore, 8, 10,12, and 13 inch. 

 

1776-82 Continental Artillery Button
Artillery Piece With Grand Union Flag
American-Made Unknown Variant Cast Brass, 21mm.
Similar to the Ones Henry Knox Ordered From Clark in 1776

**************             Enlisted Man’s Pattern             *************  

     In March of 1775, Benedict Arnold was elected to serve as Captain in the Connecticut Colony Militia. In April, after the formation of his company they immediately set out to assist the militia forces at the Siege of Boston. When Arnold arrived he acquainted himself and quickly became friends with General Washington. Understanding the dynamics of strategic warfare it is believed Captain Arnold had talked with Washington about the need of heavy artillery if they were going to take back and hold the city. Washington understood the dynamics of the British stronghold in Boston, and knew  that any offensive without heavy artillery was a fruitless endeavor. At some point, Captain Arnold came-up with the idea (Possibly) of continuing north and capturing the munitions at Fort Ticonderoga in upstate New York.

     After being station in Boston briefly, Captain Arnold decided to send a written submission for the capture of Fort Ticonderoga to the Massachusetts Committee of Safety. They agreed with Arnold’s plan and on May 3rd they issued him a Colonel’s commission for the expedition. The capture of the fort was actually a plan already in the works by Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Boys of New Hampshire who had proposed the idea earlier. Arnold seeing the value of a joining -up with Allen and his men immediately set out for Castleton, New Hampshire (Vermont now). In this early stage of the revolution Fort Ticonderoga was more of a backwards village and only defended by a small garrison of 2 officers and 46 British soldiers who were for the most part disabled. On May 10th, in a swift surprise attack Colonel Arnold and Ethan Allen and 83 men were able to swiftly capture the poorly defended fort without a fight. The next day in a brazen move they sent a small detachment of the Green Mountain Boys to capture the nearby Fort at Crown Point. Victory would shine on the American militia again as they were able to capture the Fort without any military confrontation. Colonel Arnold immediately took munitions inventory of both captured forts and sent word back to Washington in Massachusetts along with a list of heavy artillery and weaponry. Unfortunately, Arnold noted that they lacked the resources to transport the armaments to Washington in Boston. In June, a Connecticut Militia unit arrived to secure the forts and assume command. Colonel Arnold’s ego was bruised and had a disagreement in turning over the command of the captured forts. He ended-up resigning his Massachusetts commission.

 

Late 1776-82 Continental Artillery Button
Cannon With Grand Union Flag
 Cast Brass, 21mm. W/ Loop Shank

**************             Enlisted Man’s Pattern             *************  

     The First Continental Artillery regiment under Charles Harrison wasn’t authorized until a year and half into the war on November 26th 1776. Fortunately, for General Washington he had Boston Engineer Richard Gridley and his Continental Artillery Regiment from the onset of the war. Richard Gridley of Boston previously served as a soldier and military engineer for the British Army in the French and Indian War. His engineering skills were found to be exceptional, and was granted a commission even though he was an American colonist. Shortly after the Battle of Lexington and Concord, Gridley who was a feisty politically active 65 year old decided to side with the Americans and their cause. On May 10th 1775, Richard Gridley was commissioned as a Colonel and made Chief Engineer of the New England Provincial Army by the Continental Congress.

 

A Pair of Brass Artillery calipers Owned by Captaincies. Jona M. Edes of the Train of Artillery 1777

**************             *************             ************* 

     The only American Artillery unit during from the onset of the war was initially mobilized as, “The Regiment of the Train Artillery in the Massachusetts State Troops.” The Artillery unit war raised in the middle of May and in the beginning of June of 1775, in Cambridge Massachusetts. Men volunteered from five counties assembled to make an artillery field strength of 10 batteries. A few days later on June 14th 1775, the Train of Artillery officially became part of the Continental Army, and placed under Colonel Richard Gridley’s command during the Siege of Boston. Two days later after their arrival on the night of the 16th, Chief Engineer Gridley, Colonel Putnam, and Prescott where deciding on the best strategic placement of artillery, which could have the most profound effect on the British Army in Boston.

An illustrated Map of the of Bunker & Breed’s Hill. Depicts the HMS Lively’s Firing Position on the morning of June 17th.
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Gridley argued that Breed’s Hill was closer to Boston and was more defensible than Bunker Hill ( in-which some preparations has already begun prior to his arrival). Colonel Gridley provided a fortification outline and Colonel Prescott had his 1,200 soldiers proceed immediately that evening in building a redoubt. Unfortunately, their activity didn’t go unnoticed by General Clinton who was out on reconnaissance that evening. He requested that General Gage and Howe authorize an attack Breed’s Hill at first light. Before this could happen, in the early predawn around 4:00 AM, a sentry aboard the HMS Lively spotted the construction of the new fortification, and the Captain ordered an open fire causing the work on the redoubt to stop. The next day Gridley was wounded at the Battle of Bunker Hill. The Artillery Company was not organized properly during the engagement and was reorganized into 11 companies afterward. General Knox would take command of Gridley’s Artillery Regiment toward the end of the year on November 17th 1775, and Gridley would stay on overseeing the preparations of Dorchester Heights fortifications. After Boston General Washington moved his Main Army south, and the elderly Gridley stayed-on as Chief Engineer of the Eastern Department. 

 

Early Continental (French Inspired) Artillery Button
Two Artillery Field Pieces Back to Back
W/ A Trophy of Captured Flags

**************   Poss., Officer’s Cuff Variant   ************* 

     In the summer of 1776, General Washington began his search for qualified European Officers to staff his artillery regiments and train cannoneers. The Siege of Boston was a reality check that his newly formed Continental Army’s was inexperienced and their inability to employ field artillery pieces would cost him the war. In November of 1776, Washington wrote to Congress insisting upon procuring artillerist from France of Holland. His urgings produced results with a contract awarded to Philip Tronson de Coudray as, “General of the Artillery and Ordnance.” Coudray along with some of his French artillerymen arrived in America in the spring of 1777. Coudray was commissioned the rank of a Major General and to some controversy that his French artillerymen were bestowed ranks senior to those of colonial artillerists.   The controversy of ranks being distributed to the French ended quickly as Coudray drown in the Schuykill River as the main army fled from Brandywine in September of 1777. 

 

Early Continental Artillery Button
Two Artillery Field Pieces Back to Back
W/ A Panoply of Trophy Flags

**************  Enlisted Man’s Cast Pewter, 17mm.  ************* 

     Despite the setback of Coudray’s untimely death, the French gave Knox and Washington a Cadre of skilled artillery veterans. Washington reaped the benefits of the French artillerists training his colonial gun crews and teaching them strategic positioning and deployment of field artillery. In June of 1777, he sent French artificers to Springfield, Massachusett’s cannon foundry to help improve colonial production of iron cannons. Unfortunately, between the shortage of materials and shortage of artisans and laborers due to active military duty, it limited production and offset the expertise provided by the French.

 

1) Brandywine Shot /  2) Fort Ticonderoga (British Arrow) / 3) Assunpink Creek  / Saratoga

In 1777, the Continental Army benefited from the increasing production of iron projectiles by private iron furnaces. Iron masters quickly acquired the technical knowledge to cast reliable shot and shell.

**************             *************             ************* 

     In September of 1776, Knox urged Congress to form five artillery battalions and establish academies to teach the theory and practice of war to artillerists. He also suggested constructing manufacturers to make artillery material and to cast cannons, howitzers, and mortars in-order to make colonists less dependent of foreign sources for artillery. As Washington stated, the colonists had to be better organized and trained to perform the intricate movements required for maneuvering field artillery on the battlefield. The improvisation displayed in 1775-1776 was insufficient to wage the proper counter-offensive to a well trained British and Hessian Army. Even though Congress agreed with General Washington and Knox’s assessment, they did not create any academies because of the pressing need for more men, and the staging of military campaigns took precedent. 

 

This is an Artillery Officer’s Brass Shoulder Belt Tip Circa. 1778-1779
Made at the Winter Cantonment of the Continental Artillery at Pluckemin, NJ. in 1778-1779
Engraved Sheet Brass Depicting a Cannon W/ The Earliest Known Military Depiction of “Old Glory”

**************         American Artisan Made        ************* 

     The institution of formal training of Continental Artillerists was initiated at the winter cantonment at Pluckemin, New Jersey in 1778-79 under General Henry Knox. Even though some military scholars credit it as America’s 1st Military Academy, this should be seen as a continued-extension of proper military discipline and training that started the year prior at Valley Forge under Friedrich von Steuben. His success in training the Main Army’s Infantry helped convince Congressional leaders that independence could not be won with an undisciplined citizen’s army; and enlistment durations had to be expanded to encompass the war’s duration in-order to properly train artillerist’s and infantrymen.

 

Coehorn Mortar 
Raised Emblem of Coehorn Mortar, Rope Border
Repousse Sheet Copper, Wood Back 18mm. Cuff Size

 *************       Officer’s Pattern      *************  

     The Coehorn Mortar was light enough to be moved by as few as two men, although a four-man crew was more practical for rapid positioning and deployment. Since early fortifications were primarily designed to resist horizontal gun fire, the addition of a Coehorn Mortar allowed the soldiers to have an additional short range vertical trajectory, which was extremely powerful and effective. The mechanics was a simple plunging load and fire. It used a powder filled, time fused shell or solid projectile, which range could easily be adjusted by changing the size of the charge. The slow muzzle velocity of the mortar meant that the shell’s high arching flight could easily be observed from ground level. The true intensions of Coehorn Mortar was to provide cover for on-the-move offensive troops, rather than to inflict damage as a field artillery cannon with better positioning and aiming. 

 

**************             *************             *************
*

    On December 27th 1776, the Continental Congress promoted Henry Knox to Brigadier General of the Continental Artillery on George Washington’s recommendation. Knox was given command over 3 Regiments of Artillery, which was authorized to be raised the prior month before. The 1st Continental Artillery Regiment was raised on November 26th 1776, under Colonel Charles Harrison. The regiment would consist of ten artillery companies from Virginia, and two of which were previously raised and deployed as, “the Virginia State Artillery” back in January and July of 1776. Colonel Charles Harrison came from a prominent Virginia family, and his brother was a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and his nephew William Henry Harrison would go on to become a later US President. Harrison had begun his service right after the war broke-out. He immediately signed-up as a lieutenant in the Virginia State Artillery. In November of 1776, Harrison was appointed a commander and promoted to Colonel when the state expanded its small artillery battalion into a regiment. The regiment would be known as, “Harrison’s Artillery Regiment,” and was assigned to the Southern Department. In March of 1778, it was reassigned to Knox’s Artillery Brigade in George Washington’s Main Army. In June, his regt. was able to make it in-time and lend artillery support at the Battle of Monmouth, which would be the last battle of the Philadelphia Campaign. In April of 1780, Harrison’s Artillery Regt. was reassigned back to the Southern Department. In May, two of Maryland’s artillery companies would join the regiment, and expanding its size to 12 companies. On August 16th 1780, Harrison’s luck would change for the worse and his gunners would be defeated at Camden by Lieutenant General Lord Cornwallis, and then a year later on April 25th 1781, at the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill (AKA 2nd Battle of Camden) against Lord Rawdon small force.  

 

The 1781, Continental Artillery French Repousse Button
Initially intended for Officers, but were used by Enlisted Men as well
Florida Boxwood 4 Hole Reverse, Some Shells Were Crimped over USA Buttons

**************             *************             ************* 

     The 2nd Continental Artillery Regiment was authorized on January 1st 1777, under Colonel John Lamb who was a leading member of the Sons of Liberty. He was known to write anonymous rebellious articles and publish handbills of the same subject matter. After Lexington and Concord, Lamb led men to seize stores of British military supplies at Turtle Bay. Lamb started his military career as a commissioned Captain of an artillery company. He served under General Montgomery and Arnold during the Battle of Quebec. In January of 1776, he was appointed a major of artillery, and then a year later in January 1777, he was promoted to a Colonel in the 2nd Regiment of Artillery. Colonel Lamb then went on to command the artillery garrisons at West Point, New York, and afterward went on to play a supporting role at the Siege of Yorktown.

 

The 1781, Continental Artillery French Repousse Button
Artillery Field Piece W/ Waving Grand Union Flag. Pie Crust Border
Officer’s Pattern, Repousse Sheet Copper, 2-Piece, Wood Back

**************             *************             *************

     The 3rd Continental Artillery Regiment was raised under Colonel John Crane on January 1st 1777. The regt. was mad-up of 12 artillery companies from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and some pre-existing companies that served in Henry Knox’s Continental Artillery Company. John Crane previously served in the French and Indian War as a substitute for his father who had been drafted. After the war, Crane became an active member in the Sons of Liberty in Boston. Crane was one of the Sons who would disguise himself as an American Native Indian and cause problems for the British sea merchants at the harbor. In 1774, after the Boston tea party Crane moved to Providence Rhode Island because the Boston Port Bill ruined his business. Soon afterward he was commissioned as a Major in the United Train of Artillery in the Rhode Island Militia.  

     In April of 1775, Crane joined the Main Army at the Siege of Boston as a Captain of a Rhode Island Artillery Company, which was part of Gridley’s Regiment of Massachusetts Artillery. In June, his company would see action at Bunker Hill. In December of 1775, John Crane would go on to be commissioned a Major in an Artillery Company commanded by Colonel Henry Knox.  In September of 1776, he was with the Main Army in new York City and wounded in action at Corlaer’s Hook. On January 1st 1777, Crane was promoted to Colonel and given command of would become to be known as Crane’s Continental Artillery Regiment. His regiment would go on to see a lot of action and then on August 10th 1779, his unit would be redesigned the 3rd Continental Artillery Regiment. The regiment would serve with Washington, and three of the companies would be used in Ebenezer Stevens’ Provisional Artillery battalion in the Northern Department. At the end of 1778, the tree companies would rejoin Crane’s Artillery Regiment. In 1781, the regiment would go through another reorganization and several companies would transfer to another artillery regiment, and in August of 1782, the unit would be reassigned to the Highland’s Department. The 3rd Artillery would be disbanded on January 1st 1784 at West Point New York. 

 

French Style Continental Artillery Repousse Button
1940’s Waterbury Button Company Reproduction
Artillery Field Piece W/ Grand Union Flag, Device W/ Border
Recasting From Original in Pewter, Drilled Wedge Shank, 24& 20mm.

**************             ~ Reproduction ~             *************  

 

French Style Continental Artillery Repousse Button
1940’s Waterbury Button Company Reproduction
Artillery Field Cannon W/ Grand Union Flag, Plain Edge
American-Made Sheet Metal Repousse, 4 Hole Wood Back, 24mm.

**************        ~ 1940’s Reproduction ~        *************  

 

American Style Continental Artillery Button
1940’s Waterbury Button Company Reproduction
Artillery Field Cannon W/ Grand Union Flag, Plain Edge
Gilt, Struck in Brass, Drilled Wedge Shank, 24& 20mm. No B/M

**************      ~ Reproduction ~      *************  

 

French Style Continental Artillery Button
1970’s Waterbury Button Company Reproduction
Artillery Field Cannon W/ British Flag, Cable Edge
Cast in Pewter, Wedge Shank W/ Drilled Hole, 25, 24, 20mm.

**************      ~ Reproduction ~      *************  

 

 

 

 

The Continental Light Dragoons of 1777

************** An Element of the 3rd Establishment of the Army *************

*************    3-D   *************

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 Continental Light Dragoon’s Officer Trumpeting a Charge
American-Made Porcelain Dinner Plate Circa. Late 1770’s
The Metropolitan Museum of History, NYC.

**************             *************             *************

     In 1777, The Continental Light Corps of Dragoons was created as an offensive weapon as element of the third establishment of the Continental Army. The Dragoons would consist of four regiments with each authorized to raise six troops of cavalry soldiers. Casimir Pulaski a polish nobleman who was appointed a Brigadier General would assume command on September 15th 1777, and then withdraw from command the following year on March 28th 1778, due to friction with his subordinate commanders to organize a partisan corps. Afterward, he raised Pulaski’s Legion at Baltimore, Maryland, which consisted on 1 Troop of Lancers, 2 Troops of Dragoons, and 200 Light Infantry soldiers. The Legion would see action at the Little Egg Harbor Massacre in southern New Jersey, the siege of Savannah in September of 1779, and the siege of Charleston in March of 1780. Pulaski’s Legion would go on to disband in November of 1780, and the remaining troops would merge into Armand’s Legion. 

     After Pulaski left in March of 1778, the brigade of cavalry dissolved and the regiments were redistributed geographically in troop sized detachments for scouting and reconnoissance to the main army. Unfortunately, regimental musters lacked in sufficient numbers to achieve any kind of significant offensive campaigns. The Light Dragoon regiments only averaged about 120 to 180 troops during any one active campaign. On January 1st 1781, the Light Dragoons was converted into a Legionary Corps, and in 1782, with insufficient muster rolls the 1st and 3rd officially consolidated into a single unit.

 

 1779-1782 The 3rd Continental Light Dragoons Button
The 3rd CLD was Posted to the Southern Dept. on November 1st 1779
This was a South Carolina Water Find Dug by Kieth Nixon

**************             *************             *************

     Of the four original Continental Light Dragoon regiments formed in 1777, there has been very few buttons dug by metal detectorists or archeologists. Dale Hawley’s mold of the 1st (Lt. Col. Theodoric Bland) or 2nd Continental Light Dragoons (Sheldon’s Horse) provides us with evidence that at one time either the 1st or 2nd regiment was provided with either cast mold led or pewter horse and rider buttons. Kieth Nixons South Carolina’s water find of the 3rd Continental Light Dragoon’s (Baylor’s Horse) button serves as direct evidence that the mounted 3rd Light wore a third regimental block letter pattern button, which had a unit designation number. The excavation of a script LD waste coat 1″ button by Wayne Daniels at the Tappan farm in New Jersey (where Baylor’s Massacre occurred), and the burial discoveries of these known soldiers in Baylor’s 3rd proves concretely that the 3rd Continental Light Dragoons used two distinct Script patterns during the war. Meaning, there are 3 patterns used by the 3rd Continental Dragoons.

 

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A 1st or 2nd Light Continental Dragoon Mold
Found at one of the National Historic Forts & Battle sites
Foundation Cellar holes, in what was believed a Center Chimney Hole.

**************             *************             *************
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Bland’s 1st Continental Light Dragoons:
Colors: Brown Coats w/ Green Facings, 1781, Blue Coats w/ Red Facings.

     In May of 1776, the Virginia governor Patrick Henry authorized Major-Commandant Theodorick Bland to raise a volunteer battalion of Virginia troops in anticipation of the upcoming war. On June 8th, the 1st Continental Light Dragoon’s was authorized in the Virginia State Troops as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th Troops of Light horse. On June 25th, all 6 troops of Cavalry were mustered into service as, “the Virginia Light Horse Regiment.” Later, that year in November, George Washington needed a cavalry regiment to counter the British dragoons, and requested from the Continental Congress that Virginia transfer Major Bland’s Light Horse into the Continental Army for service. As an outspoken political Whig idea supporter Major Bland was first reluctant, but then agreed to George Washington’s congressional request. On November 25th of 1776, Bland was commissioned a Colonel, and his Light Horse of Virginia became the, “1st Continental Light Dragoons.” Often cited as, “Bland’s Virginia Horse.” 

    In the early years of the war, Theodorick Bland helped Washington in many facets. He was able to keep Washington’s officers and cavalry supplied with quality horses from his own large stable and other friends in the American horse-racing community.  His most notable service to General Washington was his reconnaissance observations, which turned out to be instrumental in reducing the losses in the Battle of Brandywine Creek in September of 1777. He was able to provide the proper locations of Lord Cornwallis and Sir William Howe’s armies. After the battle, Washington realized the value of proper reconnaissance of troop movements and subsequently detailed Bland’s Horse regt. to scouting duties instead of sitting on the front lines. 

     On November 8th 1778, the 1st Continental Light Dragoons was reassigned to the Southern Department. In 1779, Colonel Bland retired from active Cavalry service and returned to Virginia. For several months before he retired from military duty he served as Warden at Charlottesville over British officers taken prisoner. Lastly, another honorable mention from the 1st Continental Light Dragoon’s roots was Light Horse Harry Lee (Robert E. Lee’s Father). He started his military career as a Captain of a Virginia Dragoon detachment, which was attached to the 1st Continental Light Dragoons. In 1778, he was then promoted to Major’s rank, and given a command of a mixed corps of Cavalry and Infantrymen known as, “Lee’s Legion.” Noted engagements were the Battle of Edgar’s Lane on September 30th 1778, and the brief engagement of Banastre Tarleton’s British Legion 4 miles form Guilford Courthouse before retreating to Greene’s main body. 

 

Sheldon’s 2nd Continental Light Dragoons:
Colors: Blue Coats w/ Buff Facings.

    Elisha Sheldon of Lyme Connecticut joined the Continental Army at the outbreak of hostilities under the command of General George Washington. On December 12th 1776, General Washington requested that Congress commission Sheldon, and authorize him to raise a cavalry regiment to counter the British offensive. The regiment was mustered into service in Wethersfield, Connecticut in March of 1777, and came to be known as, “Sheldon’s Horse.” The regiment consisted of four troops from Connecticut, one troop of Massachusetts and New Jersey volunteers, and two companies of light infantry.

 

Regimental Colors of the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons
The Regt. was among the 1st to have a National American Flag in 1777.
The Colors were taken by Banastre Carleton at Pound Ridge, NY in 1779

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     Sheldon’s 2nd Continental Dragoons almost never served as a whole unit. Usually, individual troops were assigned as necessary. The regiment saw action in many unnamed skirmishes and encounters. The regiments main patrol areas were in southern Connecticut and New York where they could intercept British supplies, and help fight off bands of roving local loyalists who prayed town’s citizens who were sympathetic to the patriot cause. This policing duty quickly earned them the nickname’s, “Watchdogs of the Highlands,” and “Washington’s Eyes.” The latter is believed to have to do with more of Benjamin Tallmadge’s Spy Ring to infiltrate the British military command in the City of New York. 

 

An Authentic Spy Button worn by Patriot Spies in-order to be identified by Allies
Spymaster Benjamin Tallmadge was the leader of the Culper Ring,
as well as being a Major in the 2nd Continental Light Dragoons

 **************             *************             *************

     The 2nd Continental Light Dragoons most likely gathered and funneled intelligence to Washington on various fronts. Parts of the regiment would continually perform raids on whale boats, and on the British and Loyalists installations on Long Island; Like Fort Saint George, Fort Slongo, and Loyd’s Neck. Other parts of the regiment were involved in nameless skirmishes or saw heavy action at the Battle of Woodbridge, Battle of Brandywine Creek, PA, the Battle of Kingston, N.Y., the Battle of Schoharie, the Battle of Flocky (which was the first cavalry charge on American soil), the Battle of Paoli, the Battle of Whitemarsh, the Battle of Morrisania, the Battle of Saratoga, the Battle of Germantown, and the Battle of Yorktown. Elements of the 2nd Continental Light Dragoon also comprised George Washington’s personal bodyguard. Suffice to say, this was an extremely busy Dragoon Regt., and understandable how they rarely acted together as a whole unit. On January 1st 1781, the regiment was reorganized by the dismounting of two of the six troops and re-designated the 2nd Legionary Corps. The rest of the regiment was furloughed on June 9th, and then discharged on November 20th 1783, at Newburgh, New York by George Washington’s proclamation. 

 

 

 The 3rd Continental Light Dragoons (Baylor’s Horse)
Raised on January 1st 1777, at Morristown New Jersey, under Lt. Col. George Baylor
Excavated at Tappan Farm, location of Baylor’s Massacre on September 27th 1778.

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3rd Continental Light Dragoons
Colors: White Coats W/ Blue Facings. 

    The 3rd Continental Light Dragoons was a mounted regiment raised on January 1st 1777, in Morristown, New Jersey under the command of George Baylor. By 1778, the 3rd would consist of a regiment of six troops and roughly 160 men. George Baylor was one of the first Aide-de-Camp to General Washington in 1776, and part of his duties included updating the Continental Congress with engagements such as, The Battle of Trenton. Moving on from this position, Baylor would be appointed by General Washington to command the 3rd Continental Light Dragoons. This would be quickly become known as, “Baylor’s Horse,” and would often act as an escort for General Washington’s wife, Martha Washington. When in detail to Martha Washington, Baylor’s 3rd was often called “Lady Washington’s Horse.” 

     Baylor’s Horse would see action as a mounted unit at the Battle of Brandywine on September 11th 1777, against General William Howe’s British Army. The Battle didn’t go well for the American forces. It was the longest single day battle of the war lasting more than 11 hours, and more troops fought at Brandywine than any other Battle in the American Revolution. After Washington’s defeat, General Howe would outmaneuver Washington and seize Philadelphia on September 26th. How would leave a garrison of 3000 troops in Philadelphia and move the bulk of his forces too Germantown, Pennsylvania. Some troops of Baylor’s Horse who had fought relentlessly at Brandywine would go on and fight at the Battle of Germantown on October 4th 1777. 

 

1777-1779 3rd Continental Light Dragoons
Raised Script Intertwined “LD”
17mm. Cast Pewter, 1-Piece W/ Loop Shank

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    In late September of 1778, after the Battle of Germantown, one of the troop regiments of the 3rd was on an information gathering assignment for General Washington around Old Tappan, New Jersey. The British Army was on the move after their victory in Pennsylvania and invaded Bergen County New Jersey and were on a foraging mission. The 3rd Continental assignment was strictly reconnaissance in nature. Lt. Colonel Baylor was joined by his second in command Major Alexander Clough who was also part of George Washington’s Spy Ring. Unbeknown to them, they made a disastrous decision to encamp in a loyalist community in-which farmers would take it upon themselves to provide the British with information. On September 27th, the men of the 3rd Continental took refuge and slept in the local area houses and barnes located on Overkill Road in Old Tappan. Unfortunately, their choice of refuge was too close of a proximity to a British position held by General Charles Grey.

       As Baylor’s Horse settled in for the night, one of the loyalist farmers secretly alerted British soldiers to the 3rd’s position. As Baylor’s Horse slept, British General Charles Grey would launch a surprise surprise attack as the men of the 3rd Continental slept. General Charles Grey was a ruthless British field commander who lacked civilized military etiquette. He was known as, No-flint-Grey because he was known to have his men to extract the flints from their muskets  in order to have surprise on their side during an attack. His reputed styles was more of a stealth guerrilla type warfare, in-which his men would use their bayonets in surprise attacks against unbeknownst and unprepared enemies . In the early morning hours of September 28th 1778, No-flint-Grey’s soldiers would launch a stealth attack and inflict a considerable amount of damage without the alarm of any kind of musket fire. General Grey’s aggressive deadly action would become quickly known as, “Baylor Massacre.”  Some estimates say at least 67 soldiers were killed. Some bodies whereabouts went unknown and some bodies were barbarically thrown into tanning vats. It is believed that seventy horses were slaughtered without regard. The 3rd’s men that were wounded were taken to the Tappan Dutch Reformed Church a few miles north over the New York border. Colonel Baylor and Major Clough caught by complete surprise themselves tried to hide in a large Dutch Chimney in the house they slept in. Unfortunately, they were discovered and Colonel Baylor received a bayonet wound in the lung and was taken prisoner. His second in command (forgotten Patriot Spymaster) Major Alexander Clough died from multiple bayonet wounds. Later in the war, Colonel Baylor would be able to rejoin the Continental Army, and would be promoted to brevet Brigadier General toward the end of the war. 

 

1779-1782 3rd Continental Light Dragoons
Raised Script Intertwined “LD”
18mm. Cast Pewter, 1-Piece W/ Loop Shank

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     Lt. Colonel Baylor would be replaced by Major William Washington (George Washington’s 2nd cousin) on November 20th 1778. He would transfer over from the 4th Continental Light Dragoons where he had served since its creation in January of 1777. The 3rd Continental would have to go through a new recruiting and remounting period in the summer months in-order to get up to a regimental strength. There were only 55 men that survived and were able to escape the attack from Baylor’s Massacre. William Washington was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel when he took command of the new 3rd in Philadelphia. Sometime during the remounting period the 3rd, the regiment would receive immediate public recognition as the cavalry that was able to rescue James Wilson. Wilson was one of America’s forefathers and legal theorists who was under siege in his home in Philadelphia by radicals manipulated by Pennsylvanian President Joseph Reed anti-British rhetoric. James Wilson was recently chronicled in the news as just successfully helped defend 23 native Pennsylvanians who were accused of being British loyalists. Joseph Reed was a vindictive man had a no-mercy policy toward any suspected loyalists living in his city. Unfortunately common of the times, he goaded a drunken mob of Patriots over to Wilson’s home who happen to be socially entertaining three dozen friends and colleagues. The guests were forced to barricade themselves inside Wilson’s home as the mob turned extremely violent outside. The siege was finally broken-up after the Philadelphia City Cavalry and the 3rd Continental Light Dragoons showed-up. The 3rd was able to dispatch the crowed and rescue Wilson’s guests and escort them safely from the premises. Afterward, Wilson’s home received the moniker “Fort Wilson” in the media stories. 

 

 The 3rd Continental Light Dragoons
Under the Command of Lt. Colonel William Washington
The 3rd CLD was Posted to the Southern Dept. on November 1st 1779

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     On November 1st 1779, the 3rd Continental Dragoons were transferred to the Southern Department. On the 19th of that month they would join-up with Major General Benjamin Lincoln’s Army in Charleston, South Carolina. Lt Colonel Washington’s 3rd would participate in a number of notable battles in the Carolinas during the Campaigns of 1780 & 1781. For a brief time during 1780, there was an unofficial amalgamation of the 1st & 3rd Continental Light Dragoons. William Washington would temporarily defer his command to his old friend who he served previously under in the 4th  Colonel Anthony White. Lt. Colonel Washington would resume command on May 6th 1780, when Colonel White was captured on the Santee River. 

     On January 17th 1781, Washington’s 3rd Continentals would distinguished themselves in a mounted charge at the Battle of Cowpens. Afterward, on March 15th they would go on and fight as a mounted unit at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. In the fall on September 8th 1781, they would participate in the last major engagement in the Carolinas at the Battle of Eutaw Springs. In battle (in-which both sides claimed victory) Lt. Colonel Washington would be pinned under his fallen mount and was viciously bayoneted and then captured. Captain William Parsons as the senior surviving officer resumed command for several months. After the Siege of Yorktown in October of 1781, the 4th Continental Light Dragoons would dissolve and the remaining troops were parceled out to the 1st and 3rd. Lt. Colonel Baylor would be part of a prisoner exchange in June of 1782. After his release Lt. Colonel Baylor was promoted to Colonel, and resumed command of the 3rd Continental Light DragoonsOn November 2nd 1782, the regiment officially merged into the 1st Legionary Corps.

 

A Mounted Rider (Pulaski’s Troop of Lancers?)
Possibly a Generic British Brass Button used by Dragoons in the War
A Mounted Rider Holding a Lance on a Horse Trotting on a field 

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     Several pewter and white metal “Horse & Rider” buttons have surfaced in both the northern and southern theatre geographical campaign areas of forts, battle sites, and known skirmish areas in the later 20th early & 21st centuries. The ones depicting a rider holding a “Lance or Saber” are believed to be of generic military use, and should be discriminated against common livery buttons depicting just a mounted rider. Some are believed to be used by Light Dragoons and some variations by Loyalist State Militia Cavalry. Often mistaken for British manufacture some generic variants were made by professional American button artisans, which would have thicker raised reverse bosses in order to be durable for mounted riders.  

 

American State Militia Volunteers Begin to Assemble

************** State Militia Insignia Buttons *************

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The Connecticut Regiments

**************       The Militia Go To Boston       *************

      Shortly after the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the Colony of Connecticut immediately sent a couple of thousand militia to help defend Boston. One of Connecticuts most noted figures to answer the call to Boston was Israel Putnam. Putnam moved to Connecticut in 1740, and became a prosperous farmer and tavern keeper. As soon as he received news of Lexington and Concord he immediately rode 100 miles to Cambridge to offer his services to the Patriot Cause. Putnam was named Major General because he had a previous service record with notable distinction in Roger’s Rangers during the French Indian War. This made him 2nd in rank to General Artemas Ward in the Army of Observation, which was prior to the founding of the Continental Army. General Putnam was one of the primary figures in the planning and field engagement at the Battle of Bunker Hill. He would be one to tell William Prescott to tell his troops, Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes,” because he was trying to make best use of his low ammunition stocks. He would also argue in favor of fortifying Breed’s Hill to fire upon the British in Boston. The Colony of Connecticut would send 3,700 men to help fight the British during the American War of Independence. Connecticut would become known as the Provision State during the war. 

     Prior to 1781, the Connecticut Line Regiments appeared to use a mix of civilian, British 23rd, 62nd, French Contract, and standard pattern USA buttons.  In January of 1781, the Connecticut Line was consolidated from nine regiments into five, and it is believed this is when the first “CR” buttons were introduced. Two basic configurations of “CR” buttons have been excavated from the Connecticut Village encampment site of 1780-1782. The first style was simple block letters and the second was a more ornate foliated incised cipher pattern. Foliated specimens were found from all five regiments except from the 3rd Connecticut Regt. There is some speculation that foliated patterns were reserved for officers.

     All five regiments of “CR” buttons are believed to have been produced in camp workshop areas of the cantonment, and all the buttons appear to have been made individually from single cavity molds instead of gang molds. It appears that workers used a slow painstaking process of hand-engraved flat copper discs with the regiment number and set it into led or pewter ingot. The shank was part of the mold, but carved from wood. It is believed that in 1782, the Connecticut Line received an order of specially made French Dauphin designed buttons in honor of the birth of Louis XVI’s first son. The design depicts two large raised vertical dolphins meeting nose to nose at a raised stipple. Within the center breath of the 2 Dolphins is a raised regiment number. The design is set on a plain field with a raised concentric ring edge border.

 

1st Connecticut Regiment Buttons of 1781

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    Immediately after the Battles of Lexington and Concord the Colony of Connecticut raised the 1st Connecticut Regt. on April 27th 1775, at Norwich Connecticut. The regiment consisted of 10 companies of volunteers from New Haven and Litchfield counties. The Regiment was adopted into the Main Continental Army of June 14th, and then assigned to the New York Department on June 24th 1775. Two of the ten companies were detached on July 14th, and would go on to see action at the Siege of Boston under Captain Steel and Trowbridge. On June 22nd, General Wooster was one of eight Brigadier Generals appointed to command the Connecticut Volunteer Regiments at Boston. Later, on December 20th, two of the 10 companies were disbanded at Cambridge Massachusetts, and the rest of the companies were reassigned to the Canadian department. General Wooster would go on to see action in the invasion into Canada and at the Battle of Trois Reveries.

 

 

1st Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Pewter Gray.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 25mm. Coat Size.
Pattern Variant: CT-1-A
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, The Pewter is in Good Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large size enlisted man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts raised Arabic number “1” with a slight “J” foot over the block letters “CR.” Unlike most uniform buttons during this period, this button is slight domed. The 1st Regiment is the most common of all “CR” buttons. There appears to have been a few mold cut styles of “J” “CR” buttons made with slightly different letters. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece button with a cast loop for the reverse shank. The shank condition original and intact, but bent over.

 

 

1st Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Mud Gray with Oxidized Ugly Orange Speckles.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 25mm. Coat Size.
Pattern Variant: CT-1-B
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Pewter Remains Strong, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large size enlisted man’s pattern.  The button’s pattern depicts raised Arabic number “1” with a slight “J” foot over the block letters “CR.” Unlike most uniform buttons during this period, this button is slight domed. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece button with a cast loop for the reverse shank. The shank condition is unknown.

Excavated in the Hudson Highlands.

 

 

1st Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Dark Pewter Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 16mm. Vest Size.
Pattern Variant: CT-1-C
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Pewter Remains Strong, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the small size enlisted man’s pattern.  The button’s pattern depicts a small raised Roman Style Number “1” Dot over the block letters “CR.” The “R” for regt. appears to have been hand engraved larger than the “C”
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece button with a cast loop for the reverse shank. The shank condition is unknown.

Dug in New Haven Connecticut W/ Mold.

 

 

2nd Connecticut Regiment Buttons of 1781

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2nd Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Charcoal Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Pattern Variant: CT 2-A
Albert’s: CT 
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large Enlisted Man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic “2” is depicted over “C.R”. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece cast button with loop shank.

 

 

2nd Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Reddish Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Pattern Variant: CT 2-B
Albert’s: CT 2-B
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large Enlisted Man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic “2” is depicted over “C.R”. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece cast button with loop shank.

 

 

2nd Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Clay Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 21mm. Coat Size.
Pattern Variant: CT 2-B
Albert’s: CT 2-B
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large Enlisted Man’s pattern. There appears to have been more than one mold for this button with a slightly different “2” design. The button’s pattern depicts a number “2” in a straight line W/ “C.R”. for Connecticut Regt. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field slightly domes face.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece cast button with loop shank.

Dug at one of the West Point Redoubts.

 

 

2nd Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Silvered Gray.
Metal: Silvered Repouse Sheet Pewter.
Size: 26mm. Coat size.
Albert’s: CT 2-A
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Strong Repousse Condition, Strong A High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large size Officer’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts a raised Dolphins with a Dot surrounding an Arabic “2” depicted. Two Concentric Rings around the edge border. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Wood back button, possibly Florida Boxwood. Cut Gut Cord for attachment. 

Robert’s notes: David Gates of Vermont obtained all of the known specimens from an auction in England. He told me there was no known specimens of this type in America previously. He actually obtained these buttons as extra items, and then sold them off at a show he did years back. Price Ranges in 2015-2016 were around $1500-$2200. in the last two noted sales. Since none had ever been dug or found as heirlooms in America, button collector’s should determine it’s actual historical relevancy and usage aside from publications. 

3rd Connecticut Regiment Buttons of 1781

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4th Connecticut Regiment Buttons of 1781

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4th Connecticut Regiment of 1781

Color: Two-Tone Golden Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Albert’s: CT 4-B
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is the large Enlisted Man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic “4” is depicted over “C.R“for Conn. Regt. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece cast button with loop shank.

 

 

5th Connecticut Regiment Buttons of 1781

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The Delaware Regiments

**************       The Smallest of the State Lines       ************* 

    Delaware was officially part of Province of Pennsylvania during the colonial period. The lower counties of New Castle, Kent, and Sussex retained a separate identity and had their own governing assembly. When the war broke-out with Great Britain it prompted Delaware’s to make a formal separation from the Pennsylvania Colony as a sovereign state. On June 15th 1776, the Assembly of the Lower Counties called for a formation of a new government for the safety, protection, and happiness of its citizens. Prior to the mechanics of state sovereignty, the Continental Congress authorized a single regiment from Delaware on December 9th 1775, to serve for a year. Delaware would recruit for this regiment in early 1776, with John Haslett as Colonel and Gunning Bedford as Lieutenant Colonel. John Haslett was an American clergyman and soldier who had settled in close proximity to Milford in Kent County, Delaware. He was previously a Captain in the Pennsylvania Militia during the French and Indian War. He was part of the Forbes expedition that was able to capture Fort Duquesne in 1758. 

 

Delaware Battalion / Regiment Officer’s Button
Incised Script Overlapping “DR” Pattern on a Plain Field
Gilted Brass or Bronze, Approx. 23mm. 1-Piece
Dug at a British Fort in Richmond Hills, Long Island NY (Calver)

********  1 of 2 Script Incised Officer’s Patterns Known from 1776-1780  *******

    Delaware was able to raise the largest battalion of 800 men in the early formation of the Continental Army. They turned out in handsome red trimmed blue coats, white waist coats, buckskin breeches, white woolen socks, and carrying the latest imported English muskets. The Delaware Regiment quickly picked-up the nickname Delaware Blues by other onlooking militia units. Not only were they outfitted properly, the regiment had achieved a much higher level of training than other colonial militia units because Colonel Haslet was a former British Captain. Prior to joining Washington’s Main Army in New York, some of the Delaware companies would see their first action on the shores of Delaware Bay by capturing a boat from the Royal Navy frigate, the HMS Roebuck.     

 

Incised Script Overlapping “DR” Pattern on a Plain Field
Gilted Brass or Bronze, Approx. 23mm. 1-Piece
********  2 of 2 Script Incised Officer’s Patterns Known from 1776-1780  *******

    By the summer of 1776, the Delaware Blues were able to join Washington’s Main Army in New York and took part in the whole sequence of events surrounding the British capture of New York. At the Battle of Long Island, Haslett’s Delaware Regiment fought along side of Colonel William Smallwood’s Marylanders. Many of Washington’s higher command believed that Delaware and Maryland were the most trained and two best regiments that the Continental Army could offer. They fought under the command of Brigadier General William Alexander on the far right of the Continental line (In British deployment it was an honor to be on the far right and considered the most experienced).  During the battle, the Delaware regiment stood ground with determined countenance in the face of a British Army that was six times their number. Even thought the British did not attack, the Delaware Regt. was unfortunately surrounded and ordered to fall back wadding through the thick mud and swim across the Gowanus Bay near Brooklyn.  

 

Delaware Regiment of 1777 to 1781
Enlisted Man’s Raised Script Initialism DR Design
1-Piece, 23mm. Raised Script “DR” Pattern on a Plain Field

**************   Only Enlisted Man’s Pattern Known   *************

     Haslett’s Delaware Battalion retreated across Westchester County, and his men was able to secure a small victory over a Corps of Loyalists led by the famous Indian fighter Robert Rogers at Mamaroneck, New York. In October of 1776, the Delaware Blues would fight once again with Colonel William Smallwood’s Marylanders in White Plains, NY, on Chatterton’s Hill. Unfortunately, after the local militia fled they had to yield. In December of 1776, with expiring enlistments it left fewer than 100 men in Haslett’s regiment. Colonel Haslett’s men did cross the Delaware River with Washington, and took part in the surprise attack and capture of the Hessian force on the morning of December 26th at Trenton, New Jersey. Colonel Haslet would make his last stand on January 3rd 1777, with the last half dozen troops left of his Battalion at the Battle of Princeton. When general Mercer was mortally wounded Colonel Haslett tried to rally Mercer’s Brigade and was unfortunately shot in the head and killed instantly. Nevertheless, the Mercer’s troops did rally and had a surprising victory to compliment the earlier one in Trenton. 

 On March 23rd 1777, Colonel David Hall took command in 1777, to lead a new Delaware Regiment consisting of 312 men. In early May, Colonel Samuel Patterson of Delaware’s New Castle County militia was able to combine his volunteers along with Colonel Thomas duff and Richard Cantwell men and were able raise 1,075 volunteers. Unfortunately, they were very short of ammunition and only had four rounds per man. By the end of May on the 22nd, the Delaware Regiment was assigned to the 1st Maryland Brigade in the Main Continental Army under General William Smallwood where they opposed a British invasion on Delaware. Later on September 11th, the Delaware Continentals fought at the Battle of Brandywine with General Sterling reserve units. There was a surprise flank attack by the British, but the Delaware Continentals fought bravely and managed an orderly retreat under fire. In October they would pay a heavy price at the Battle of Germantown. The regiment ran short of ammunition and were left surrounded by the enemy. The regiment would end-up suffering heavy losses and Colonel Hall was severely wounded unable to ever fight again. 

 

**************   Replica Delaware Officer’s Raised Pattern   *************

     In 1779, the Delaware regiment was reorganized into nine companies and assigned to the 2nd Maryland Brigade under Colonel William Gist and General Johann de Kalb. In April of 1780, the 2nd Maryland Brigade were organized into 4 companies and numbered roughly about 300 men. They were now under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Vaughan, and would travel south as they were now reassigned to the Southern Army. On August 16th 1780, the Battle of Camden would prove to be devastating for the Delaware regiment. They suffered heavy losses once more and all the officers above Captain were captured or dead. After this battle the unit didn’t have a Colonel and ceased to function as a regiment. On September 3rd, the Delaware Regiment would only have enough men to be re-organized into two companies. Captains’ Robert Kirkwood and Peter Jaquett would now lead the regiment’s remnants. In January of 1781, the Delawares two companies took part in the Battle of Cowpens, and on March 15th, they participated in the Battle at Guilford Courthouse. In April, the two Delaware two companies found themselves in Camden South Carolina at the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill. On September 8th, they would end the year they would participate in the Battle of Eutaw Springs.  The Delaware Regiment would go through another reorganization in 1782, and in 1783, they were furloughed at Christina Bridge in Delaware. 

 

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The Province of Georgia’s Four Regiments

**************       Prosperity Under British Rule       *************

    When the news of the Battles of Lexington and Concord reached prominent Georgians they wavered in their allegiance to join the revolutionaries. Georgia was a Province that prospered under the British Empire. They also strongly believed that they needed the assistance of British regulars against possible Indian attacks. In 1774, Georgia did not send representatives to meet with the First Continental Congress in Philadelphia. When the 1st Continental Congress formed the Association to ban trade from Britain Georgians hesitated even though they firmly opposed British trade regulations. On January 18th 1775, Georgia delegates gathered in a provincial congress in Savanah to elect representatives to the Second Continental Congress, and to discuss whether they should join the Association to ban British Trade. Unfortunately, those representatives who were elected declined to go to Philadelphia because they were divided in their loyalty and what action should be taken. Georgians still supported the King, but did adopt the Association’s ban on trade. Now Georgians were forced to make local committees to enforce the Association’s ban, which caused a devolved political state of power between farmers and trade merchants. When violence finally broke-out in April of 1775, with the battles of Lexington and Concord the radical Whigs took control over the Provincial government and drove out the Loyalists.

     The Georgia Line in the Continental Army was vastly different than other states lines because its population was very small. It was forced to recruit volunteers from outside of its territorial boundaries. They were given the responsibility for the defense of the Florida’s border, the seacoast, and the western frontier. Georgia had 4 troops of horse that could serve wither as foot infantry or mounted cavalry depending on the encounter. Of the five formations in the Line, the 1st Georgia Regt. and the Georgia Regt. of Horse Rangers were solely recruited within Georgia. The 3rd Regiment in North Carolina, and the 5th Regiment in Pennsylvania. Georgia went on to be a staging ground for several raids into British controlled Florida. Except for finds of 4th Regiment button within Georgia, it is believed that all including its Horse wore standard USA  buttons. 

 

1st Georgia Regiment of 1775

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*************   No Known Regt. Buttons    *************

    On November 4th 1775, Lachlan McIntosh a Scottish American political figure raised the 1st Georgia Regt. for service in Savanah Georgia. McIntosh was a leader of the independence movement and had helped organize delegates to the Provincial Congress. He went on to organize the defense of Savanah, and helped repel an assault at the Battle of the Rice Boats on the Savanah River. When his unit joined the Continental Army he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and charged with the defense of Georgia’s southern flank from incursions from Florida. In 1776 and 1777, McIntosh was in a political battle with Button Gwinnett who was a radical Whig leader and the Speaker of the Georgia Provisional Congress. The two men represented opposing factions in a deeply divided patriot movement. Button was forced to step aside his military ambitions for McIntosh who was seen as better suited to fulfill Georgia’s military role and defenses. The 1st Georgia Regt. under McIntosh would go on to see action in Florida in 1777 & 1778, and participate in the Siege of Savanah, and the Siege of Charleston with the Continental Army. In 1780, the regiment was captured along with the rest of the Southern Army at Charleston, South Carolina. The regiment would reform once more on January 1st 1783, as the Georgia Battalion, and then disband on November 15th 1783.

Georgia Line Regiments:

     In the late fall of 1775, the Continental Congress created the second establishment of the Continental Army, which would serve in the campaign of 1776. The Georgia Line was a formation of soldiers within the Continental Army as part of a state quota system. The term Georgia Line refers to the state quota of numbered infantry regiments assigned to Georgia at various times by the Continental Congress. These 3 Georgia state regiments would be combined with similar contingents from the other twelve states to form the Continental Line. They would most likely wear USA Pattern or civilian buttons. The concept or the quota system was particularly important in relation to promotion of commissioned officers. Part of the new Second Establishment was the vote to maintain one Battalion in Georgia. 

 

2nd Georgia Line Regiment of 1775

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*************   No Known Regt. Buttons, USA Pattern    *************

   On July 5th 1776, the 2nd Georgia Regiment was raised at Williamsburg, Virginia for the Georgia line in the Continental Army. The regiment would see action against the British in Florida in 1777 and 1778. In September and October of 1779, it would be part of a Franco-American force in-order try to recapture Savanah from the British in the Second Battle of Savanah. Unfortunately, the assault would fail because Casimir Pulaski leading the combined Cavalry force on the American side was mortally wounded. With the failure of the joint attack, the siege was abandoned and the British remained in control of Savannah until July of 1782. the 2nd Georgia regiment in the Georgia line would be captured with the rest of the Southern Army in 1780, in Charleston, South Carolina.     

 

3rd Georgia Line Regiment of 1775

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*************   No Known Regt. Buttons, USA Pattern    *************

The 3rd Georgia Infantry Regiment was raised in Savanah, Georgia on July 5th 1776, for service in the Continental Army.  Even though the 3rd was raised in Georgia, it mainly recruited in North Carolina, and was able to raise and organize eight companies or troopsOn December 23rd 1777, it joined the Georgia Brigade and saw action against the British in Florida. In 1778, it participated at the Siege of Savanah and afterward the Siege of Charleston. In 1780, The 3rd was captured with the rest of the Southern Army at Charleston, South Carolina. The regiment would be disbanded on January 1st, 1781.

 

4th Georgia Regiment of 1775

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*************   Pewter Buttons Marked W/ An Arabic 4    *************

     There have been Arabic number 4 Pewter buttons found near Savannah and around Georgia, which are believed to come from the 4th Georgia regiment under Colonel John White. In February of 1777, the 4th Regt. was authorized for service within the continental Army by the Continental Congress. The regiment was organized into eight companies in the summer and fall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The unit was recruited from British Army deserters who acquired a bad reputation for plundering the area in which it camped. Citizens would often complain of marauding by the regiments soldiers. They were accused of breaking into wealthy houses and stealing things of value, robbing taverns, burning fences, chopping down trees, and killing livestock. The 4th Regt. was ordered out of the Philadelphia area to Lancaster, Pennsylvania where similar problems continued. Some of these British deserters who enlisted in the 4th were so brazen they robbed Colonel White of his money, papers, and even his officer’s commission. On December 23rd 1777, the 4th Georgia Regt. was assigned to the Georgia Brigade. In 1778, the 4th participated in the unsuccessful Florida Campaign, as well as cowardly in the loss of Savannah.  In 1779, the regiment was ordered to try and recapture Savannah, but failed in attempt. In 1780, the Regt. would meet-up with the Southern Army and be captured by the British. The 4th was officially disbanded on January 1st 1781. There is no written record that the 4th was ever issued or made designated buttons for their unit during their assembly. Historians and collectors believe they most likely belonged to the 4th South Carolina who spent time in George during the war. 

 

 

1777-1781 4th Georgia Regiment (South Carolina 4th) 

Color: Orange Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 24mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic number “4” to identify the regt. designation. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.
Reverse Buttons Analysis: This is a cast one-piece with a loop shank. The shank is unknown if intact.

 

The Georgia Battalion of 1783

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*************   Pewter Buttons Marked W/ Initial G B    *************

 

   After the British capture of the Southern Army in 1780, The remnants of the 1st Georgia Regiment was reformed as the Georgia Battalion in January of 1783. Unlike earlier Georgia regiments it appears that 2 variations of buttons exist with the simple crude hand cut initials for Georgia Battalion, “G.B.” Both buttons have raised initials on a plain field, and one variant has a raised concentric ring.

 

The 7 Maryland Line Regiments

**************       Very Disciplined Cohesive Units       *************

 

On January 18th 1776, the Maryland Provincial Convention established the Maryland Line as a regiment of uniformed regular soldiers to serve in the Continental Army. In 1777, The Maryland Line was assigned a quota of eight regiments. The Congressional quota refers to the number of infantry regiments assigned to Maryland by the Continental Congress. Maryland’s eight Regiments would act in concert with other similar contingents from the other 12 colonies. These combine regiments would form the Continental Line of George Washington’s Main Army. The Colony of Maryland was unique in raising their militia as its Convention members had the assumption that paid soldiers who were properly trained and rationed would provide for better disciplined soldiers. Hence, the time they spent drilling prior to joining ranks of the Continental Army resulted in a very disciplined cohesive unit compared to other colonial disorderly militia. Maryland quickly earned General Washington’s highest esteem after their heroic stand at the Battle of Long Island. Their well discipline nature quickly earned them the nickname “The Old State Line” from General Washington.

 

1777-1780 1st Maryland Battalion / Regiment
 Small “1” Surmounting “MB,” Raised Concentric Ring
18mm. Cuff, Cast Pewter, One-Piece with a Loop shank 

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     On August 27th 1776, Maryland Troops of the 1st would prove to be instrumental in providing cover and protecting Washington’s Army as it evacuated across the East River to Manhattan in the Battle of Brooklyn Heights. Roughly about 270 courageous men of 1st Maryland Regiment would lead a rear guard offensive attack against an overwhelming number of British troops who were supported by two field artillery pieces. The brave soldiers under the command of Major Mordecai Gist would give their lives and become to be known afterward as the “Maryland 400.”

     In this engagement General Stirling had ordered the bulk of his troops cross the Gowanus creek, and left a small contingent of troops under Major Gist’s command. They would lead two assaults against more than 2,000 British soldiers who were in formation in front of the Vechte Cortelyou House (AKA Old Stone House). The attacks proved deadly as two hundred and fifty six men of the 1st Maryland were killed in action. The few remaining troops retreated under heavy musket fire across the hunkering-down mud bogs of Gowanus Creek. Fewer than a dozen soldiers escaped back to the American lines. Some of the retreating troops who could not swim were captured as they surrendered to bayonets. In the heat of battle General Stirling had unfortunately become surrounded by the British, but he was unwilling to surrender. He some how broke through a gap in the British Lines leading him to von Heister’s Hessians. He ended-up surrendering to them. General Washington watched the campaign from a nearby redoubt on Cobble Hill and reportedly was quoted as saying, “Good God, What Brave Fellows I Must Loose this Day.”  

 

1776-1777 Maryland Martross
“MM” Surmounting a Cannon Concentric Ring Border
23mm Coat, Cast Pewter, 1-Piece, Integral Shank

 **************             *************             ************* 

    In October of 1776, George Washington was inspecting the terrain as to where to station his troops in Westchester County, New York. Messengers alerted him that General Howe’s troops were advancing from making previous amphibious landings at Throgs Neck on October 12th and Pell’s Point on October 18th. Returning to his headquarters he fortified his lines near White Plains and ordered several Regiments including the 1st Maryland Regiment to reinforce Chatterton Hill. General Howe advanced roughly 10,000 to 15,000 British soldiers in two columns toward Washington’s position and on October 18th the Continental brigade of Chatterton Hill was defeated. Howe’s strategy for a swift follow through over the next several days was off-railed due to heavy rain. This gave Washington time to withdraw 14,000 of his men farther north to more secure ground. William Smallwood’s 1st Maryland Regiment would play a crucial role in covering the retreat of other troops across the Bronx River. 

 

Maryland Extraordinary Battalion of 1780
Raised Maryland State Initial “M” over “E” . “B”
21mm Coat Size, Cast Pewter, 1-Piece W/ Loop Shank

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     On August 16th 1780, at the Battle of Camden, Major General Horatio Gates would place Major Mordecai Gist’s 2nd Maryland Brigade (a place of honor in British deployment) on his right flank under the command of Barron de Kalb. General Gates and his staff would stay behind with a reserve force of Smallwood’s 1st Maryland Regiment. During the engagement De Kalb would call up the 1st Maryland Brigade to help support Gist’s 2nd, but were unable to advance more than a few hundred feet forward because they were outnumbered and outflanked. The British were closing on three sides and charging continuously with bayonets. Tarleton’s Cavalry strategically charged the rear of the Continental Line, which broke-up the formation of the Continental troops and forced them to flee. Gist was able to move 100 Continental Army Troops in good order through the swamp so Tarleton’s Cavalry couldn’t follow. Another 60 Maryland troops were able to retreat in good order under the direction of Major Archibald Anderson, Lt. Col. Howard and captain Robert Kirkwood. Six months later in 1781, three companies from Stalwart’s Maryland Line would see action at the Battle of Cowpens. It should denoted that these Continentals were veterans, and Marylanders were from the Battle of Brooklyn in 1776. 

1st Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783   / 2nd Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783 
3rd Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783  / 4th Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783
5th Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783  / 6th Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783
7th Maryland Regiment disbanded in 1783 / German Battalion disbanded in 1781
Maryland & Virginia Rifle regiment in 1781 / 2nd Independent Maryland Company absorbed into the 2nd M. Regt.

 

 

 New York Joined “NY” Button 1776-1778
The Raised Letter(s) is a Crude Hand Cut Pattern
Lead 24mm. Mold Matrix One-piece Loop Shank

     The joined “NY” button made its appearance roughly around the same time as the 1775-76, Colony of New York “CN” buttons were made. These early buttons were given to state regiments from 1776-1778. There appears to be several joined NY patterns made from cast molds. By the fall of 1778, they were replaced once the French lottery coats were distributed to the New York line. These buttons primarily were found throughout the Hudson Valley areas including, Forts Clinton and Montgomery, West Point encampment areas, Constitution Island, Fishkill barracks, and Fort Stanwix. 

 

 New Jersey Script Button of 1775-1778
Raised Script Letters on a Plain Flat Face
23mm. Pewter Cast Mold W/ A Loop Shank

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     The New Jersey Script buttons were used by three regiments serving in the Lake Champlain area between 1776 and spring of 1777. The button was phased out by the time lottery coat buttons were issued in 1778.  Examples have been found in New Jersey at Valley Forge, and in New York at Fort Ticonderoga, Fort Stanwix, Crown Point and the City of New York. The buttons pattern depicts the inscription of the states name, “New Jersey” in high relief script letters. 

 

1775 Thomas 2nd Regiment of Massachusetts Grand Army

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       On April 23, 1775, shortly after the skirmish one the Greens of Lexington and Concord, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress authorized the raising of a colonial army consisting of 26 company regiments. Commonly known as the Massachusetts Grand Army of 1775. New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Connecticut soon raised similar, but smaller forces. By June 14, 1775, the Second Continental Congress decided to proceed with the establishment of a Continental Army for purposes of common defense, and adopting the forces already in place outside Boston (22,000 troops) and New York (5,000). The first ten companies of Continental Army was given a one-year enlistment. In January of 1776, Washington and his Generals set up the 1st Continental Regiments: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 17th, 18th, 20th,21st, 22nd, 24th, 25th, 26th, 27th, Hartley’s & Lee’s Additional Regt., and Congress’s own Regt. from Canadian forces. These newly forming Continental Regiments were reorganized from a mix of established state militia and new volunteers. The 1st Continental Army had riflemen from Pennsylvania, and Light Infantry from Maryland, Delaware and Virginia. 

 

 

 1st Massachusetts Regt. of 1781
Raised Design using the State Abbreviation “Mass”in a Banner over a Roman “I” above a Floral Wreath
16mm. Silvered Sheet Brass over A Bone Back Cut Gut Cord Attachment

**************             *************             ************* 

     The 1st Massachusetts was organized on April 23rd of 1775 in Cambridge Mass, under Colonel John Patterson’s state troops. Known at the time as, “Pattersons Regiment.” They served as an infantry regiment in the Continental Army. It originally consisted of 11 companies of volunteers from Berkshire, Hampshire, Suffolk, Middlesex, Worchester, and York counties. One company came from Lichfield colony in Connecticut. The regiment was adopted into the main body of the Continental Army on June 14th, 1775, and was assigned to William Heath’s brigade on July 27th 1775. A few more reorganizations and finally re-designated as the 15th Continental Regiment of Heath’s Brigade. This regt. would see action early on at the onset at Bunker Hill. By 1777, it was designated as the 1st Massachusetts Regiment, and referred to as Vose’s Regiment after Colonel Joseph Vose. 

 

 

6th Massachusetts Regt. of 1781
Raised Design, “Mass.” arced above a Roman “VI” Crowning Crossed Sword Hangers
16mm. Silvered Sheet Brass over a Wood Back W/ A Twine Cord Attachment

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     By January of 1781, the original 15 Massachusetts regiments were consolidated into 10 regiments responsible for Garrison duty in and around West Point, New Windsor, Newburgh, and the Hudson Highlands. The Light Infantry companies were sent to Yorktown Virginia to serve with Marquis de Lafayette’s Continental Army division where they shadowed Cornwallis movements.

 

 7th Massachusetts Enlisted Man’s Button of 1781
Raised Inscription,”Mass” Surmounting Roman Numeral “VII,” “REG” in Lower Legend
18mm. Pewter Mold with Loop Shank.

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     The 7th Massachusetts was an infantry regiment that served in the Continental Army. It was organized into seven companies of volunteers from across Massachusetts. Originally, it formed on September 16th 1776, under Colonel Ichabod Alden. Mayhew’s company from the 25th Continental Regiment was added in the later months of 1776. The regiment was assigned to the Northern department on February 9th, 1777 briefly and then reassigned to the Highland Department on March 13, 1777. The Regiment would be re-organized into 9 companies on September 25th 1778, and re-assigned back into the Northern department. In the interim, the regiment saw action at the Battle of Saratoga, and the Cherry Valley Massacre in which Colonel Alden was killed and William Stacey was captured. Later they would partake in the Sullivan Expedition.  On January 1st 1781, the regiment was reassigned to the 1st Massachusetts brigade, and furloughed at West Point in 1783.

 

 

8th Massachusetts Enlisted Man’s Pattern W/ Larger Skull-Button of 1781
Raised Inscription, “Mass” in Legend Above, Roman Numeral “VIII” in the center surmounting
a (Masonic Pirate?) Skull & Cross Bones in Lower Legend
16.32mm. Pewter Cast Mold W/ Loop Shank

**************             *************             ************* 

     The 8th Massachusetts was raised on April 23rd 1775, under Colonel Paul Dudley Sargent at Cambridge Massachusetts. It was called, “Sargent’s Regiment,” and listed as the 16th Continental Regiment. The regiment would see lots of action in New York and New Jersey including, The Battle of Princeton, The Battle of Trenton, The Battle of Saratoga, and The Battle of Bunker Hill. The regiment was furloughed at West Point on June 12th 1783.

 

The Massachussetts Grand Army of 1775.
Arabic Numeral “16” Centered on Plain Flat Field.
Raised Double Concentric Ring Border W/ Stipples 

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     In April of 1775, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress created the Massachusetts Grand Army, which consisted of 13,600 men. They ordered 13,000 coats for their troops with numbered pewter buttons to compliment the respective regiment. The war broke out they quickly handed them out in a precarious manor without properly assigning the regiment coat and number to the reflective regiment. Meaning, all the Grand Army buttons ordered should be considered general stock buttons and not reflective of Massachusetts regiments. Odds are that some buttons could be reflective to the numbered unit, but it’s probably just a crap shoot. Therefore, I decided to present the service record of the 16th regiment of Massachusetts as should have been reflected in the button number.  

     After the siege of Boston in 1776, Lieutenant Colonel Henry Jackson was in-charge of an independent company from remnant solders from a volunteer militia corps known as, “the Governor’s Company of Cadets.” On January 12th 1777, Lt. Colonel Jackson petitioned the Continental Congress to include his unit in the Continental Army. Jackson was given a colonel’s commission, and authorized to raise an additional Continental Regiment. His recruitment was primarily done in Boston, but the mustered regiment had members from as far off as Connecticut. In October of 1777, his regiment left Boston to join-up with George Washington’s main army outside of Philadelphia. Afterward the regiment was part of the failed attack on Staten Island on August 22nd 1777. In June of 1778, they went on with Washington’s Continental Army into New Jersey where they weathered a difficult winter. Afterward, and served with distinction at the Battle of Monmouth in New Jersey. In the following January,  the regiment was part of the failed attack on Staten Island. In 1778, the regiment was then sent on to Rhode Island where it played a major role in the Battle of Rhode Island. It wintered down and stayed there until the following year when the British pulled out of Newport in October of 1779. The regiment then returned to Boston as part of a mobilization in response to the British seizure of Castine, Maine. Later in June of 1780, the regiment took part in the Battle of Springfield. Then on July 24th, 1780 the regiment was adopted into the Massachusetts line and formally renamed the 16th Massachusetts Regiment. With the reorganization of 1781, the regiment was disbanded and Colonel Jackson was given command the 4th Massachusetts regiment. He was later given command of the 1st American Regiment, which was the last major Continental Army unit. 

 

*

The Province of Pennsylvania

************** The Life Blood of the American Revolution *************

 

1778-1780 Pennsylvania P Button
Enlisted Man’s Pattern for Multiple Regt.
1-Piece, Cast Pewter 12mm. Cuff Size

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The reference to “Pennsylvania Line” was Congress way of referring to the quota of numbered infantry regiment formations within the Continental Army. The Continental Line was a term used by state representatives with the understanding that it was made up from all 13 states regiments combined. The concept of the line was used by Congress to explicate the promotion of commissioned officers serving. Officers of the Continental Army below the rank of brigadier general were ordinarily ineligible for promotion except in the specific line of their own state in which they represented.

 

 

 

1st PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1775-1777
A Large 1.B over P in the Center W/
Continental . Army Circling the Outer
Legend Within A Concentric Ring Design

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3rd Pennsylvania Regiment of 1777-1778
Recessed-Center, Raised Arabic 3, 24mm.
1-Piece, Pewter Cast Mold W/ A Loop Shank 

**************             *************             ************* 

     Originally, the 3rd was known as the 2nd Pennsylvania Battalion, which was raised on December 9th 1775, in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. The 3rd was raised to serve on the Pennsylvania Line in the Main Continental Army. There would be 8 companies labeled A-H. The 3rd Pennsylvania regiment would fight in the Battle of Valcour Island in 1776, Battle of Brandywine in 1777, Battle of Germantown in 1777, Battle of Monmouth in 1778, and the Battle of Springfield in 1780.

Companies:

Company A : Captain Henry Epple            Company B : Captain Thomas Butler        Company C : Captain William Craig
Company D : Captain S. Moore / Dunn     Company E: Captain James Christie         Company F : Captain John Marshall
Company G : Major William Alexander      Company H Captain Thomas Moore, Captain John Henderson

 

 

 4th Pennsylvania Regiment of 1777-1778
Recessed-Center, Raised Arabic 4, 19mm.
1-Piece, Pewter Cast Mold W/ A Loop Shank

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     Originally, known as the 3rd Pennsylvania Battalion, which was raised on December 9th 1775, at Philadelphia Pennsylvania. The regiment was first assigned to Thomas Mifflin’s brigade in the Main Continental Army on June 26th 1776. Part of the unit would go to New York and fight at the Battle of Fort Washington on November 16th, 1776. Unfortunately, it was a British victory in-which the garrison was forced to surrender turning it into one of the worst patriot defeats in the war up to that point. The rest of the regiment would fight at Brandywine in 1777, Paoli, and Germantown in 1777. In 1778, the 3rd would fight at the Battle of Germantown and Monmouth. In 1779, the 4th regiment would take part in the Sullivan Expedition and fight the Loyalists and the four nations of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy) Indians. The 4th would be furloughed on January 17th 1781, at Trenton New Jersey, and disbanded on January 1st 1783. 

Companies:

Company A : Captain Edward Skull          Company B : Captain William Gray        Company C : Benjamin Fishbourne
Company D : Captain John McGowan     Company E: Captain John Mears   Company F : Captain William Cross / Sproat
Company G : Captain Robert Connelly    Company H: Major Thomas Church   Company I : Lt. Col. W. Butler / D. Brown

 

 

10th Pennsylvania Regiment of 1777-1778
Recessed-Center, Raised Number 10, 24mm.
1-Piece, Pewter Cast Mold W/ A Loop Shank

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          The 10th Pennsylvania Regiment was raised in September of 1776, as an American Infantry unit. The regiment would consist of 8 companies and in December of that year it would be assigned to the Main Army. The 10th was led by Colonel Joseph Penrose, but in actuality it was led in battle by Thomas Mifflin. On January 3rd 1777, the 10th would fight   at the Battle of Princeton. Mifflin’s actions at the Battle of Trenton and Princeton victories actually would advance his rank to Major General. The 10th would go on and see action at the Battle of Brandywine, and Paoli. In 1778, the 10th’s leadership would change again under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hubley. He would lead the 10th at the Battle of Germantown. By June of 1778, there would be another change in leadership and Colonel George Nagel would assume command for a short period. After the Battle of Monmouth, the 10th Pennsylvania would be absorbed into the 11th Pennsylvania Regiment and Colonel Richard Humpton would take over command of the 10th. In 1780, the unit would fight at Springfield, and then Bull’s Ferry. In January of 1781, the 10th would merge with the 1st Pennsylvania Regiment and ceased to exist as the 10th. 

 

 

2nd Pennsylvania Battalion of 1776
Raised Arabic number “2” with the initial “B” for Battalion
above the initial, “P” for the State of Pennsylvania.
Raised Scallop Border, 18.49mm. Cast Pewter W/ A Loop Shank

**************             *************             ************* 

     In January of 1776, the 2nd Pennsylvania Regt. was assigned to the Canadian Department for the defense of Canada and Lake Champlain. Along with the 1st Pennsylvania Batallion they took part in Benedict Arnold’s failed attempt to capture Quebec. The Pennsylvania soldiers suffered from sickness due to no winter clothes, and half their muskets were not in workable condition. By the end of March, four companies had arrived at the American lines near Quebec, but before the remainder of the 1st battalion could meet-up, the attack was abandoned and they started to retreat back to New York. The 2nd Regt. was encamped with the American Army at Fort Ticonderoga, and in October it participated in Anthony Wayne’s defeat by the British at Valcour Island. They stayed at Fort Ticonderoga until my birthday on November 13th, and remaining solders of the Pennsylvania either mustered out or went to Germantown. 

 

 

The 4th Pennsylvania Battalion of 1776
Raised Arabic number “4” with the initial “B” for Battalion
above the initial,”P” for the State of Pennsylvania.
Raised Scallop Border, 19.77mm. Cast Pewter W/ A Loop Shank 

**************             *************             ************* 

     Originally formed to be part of the Pennsylvania Line for the Continental Army. This regiment was organized in January of 1775 in Chester, Pennsylvania. (This button was found in Chester…. hmm). From March to November of 1776, they served in the Northern Department. Troop served at Fort Ticonderoga and in the Lake Champlain Valley. They were reorganized in January of 1777, as the 5th Pennsylvania Regiment which was originally authorized on December 9th 1775 in the Continental Army as the 4th Pennsylvania Battalion.  

 

The Colony of Massachusetts

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Inimica Tyrannis Buttons

 

 

1776 Inimica Tyrannis Boston’s Independent Militia

Color: An Olive Brown Orange Mixture.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 21.01mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Poor Planchet condition, Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: Originally this button was suppose to say “Hec Manus Inimica Tyrannis” on a plain field, but the design of a hand holding a drawn sword was thought to be more expressive then a motto, and also thought to be more representative of a fighting company. The original pattern idea also included a broken scabbard, but the design was never used for unknown reasons. The company’s original Commander Henry Jackson was given an additional regiment in 1777, who were also issued this pattern. The button was used until 1781, and then they were consolidated with the 9th Massachusetts regiment. This button has been found in the Hudson Highlands, and also the New Boston Cantonment along with Massachusetts 9th Regiment buttons. Some additional research theorizes this button may have been pre-cast as early as July or August of 1776, which was before the General Court of Massachusetts received a petition for the uniform code which was in December 1776.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is unfortunately missing.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.

The Massachusetts Grand Army Buttons

     In April of 1775, the Massachusetts Provincial Congress created by act the “Massachusetts Grand Army” which consisted of 13,600 troops. On June 29 1775, 13,000 uniform coats were ordered and were to be trimmed with pewter buttons with their respective regiment number. The first shipment was provided by Joseph Jones, Jr. of Mendon, Massachusetts. This order consisted of 5,797 dozen pewter buttons. Unfortunately, the button supplier could not keep up with the original order to have the troops supplied with their coats before the winter season. Therefore, the clothing committee ordered the coats to be delivered to the troops with or without the buttons. 

     In 1775, John Clarke also became a military button contractor for Massachusetts. In a letter to the clothing committee he reiterates the request that the coats should be distributed to the troops with or without the regiment’s number button. The letter helps us establishes that these coats and buttons were being issued to troops regardless of the proper regiment number. These numbered buttons should be considered stock buttons, and distributed without discretion to all soldiers in the Massachusetts Grand Army. By the end of 1775, the regiments of the Massachusetts Grand Army were integrated into the 27 new Continental Regiments that were newly forming. When they were reorganized, the uniforms and buttons were still used by the troops in their new Continental regiments. This is most likely the reason why they are found intermixed with the borderless variety known to be used by the Continental regiments. 

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1775 Thomas 2nd Regiment of Massachusetts Grand Army 

Color: A Silvery Ocher.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-7 (Only 2 known to exist)
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet condition, Strong high Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This unique button pattern is the same style used by The Massachusetts Grand Army of 1775. Thomas commanded the 2nd regiment, and it is thought that this button would be attributed to him. The button uses his initial, “T” instead of “2” for the regiment he commanded. This unit later consolidated with Cotton’s 4th Regiment to form Washington’s 23rd Continental Army Regiment. The button’s pattern depicts the initial “T” in high relief. This is encompassed by a channeled double ring concentric border. Inside the channel is a series of 21 raised stipples. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

A second button with this pattern was found around Mount Independence.

This button was excavated on the New York-Massachusetts Border, of what is known as the General Knox’s trail. This path was used by Knox to bring the Cannons over to George Washington when he was in Dorchester Heights Boston, from Fort Ticonderoga.
The Dale Collection.  

 

 

1775 Massachusetts Grand Army # 2 Button

Color: A Pewter Gray.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-5
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, A Good Planchet Condition Remains, A Strong high Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: In June of 1775, there were 13,000 coats ordered for the troops of the Massachussetts Grand Army. All the coats bore pewter buttons, which were numbered 1 through 21. The coats were given out in haste without care of assignment of numbers to specific regiments. Meaning, collectors are hard pressed to assign a specific button number to a regiment. The button depicts a raised Arabic regiment number “2” in the center. The outer legend has a raised stipple ring around the edge. At the end of 1775, the regiments of the Grand Army were absorbed into the newly forming 27 Continental regiments. Most likely the uniforms and the buttons went with these troops into the new continental regt.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is missing.

 

 

1775 Massachusetts Grand Army # 3 Button

Color: A Clay Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-5
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, A Good Planchet Condition Remains, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: In June of 1775, there were 13,000 coats ordered for the troops of the Massachussetts Grand Army. All the coats bore pewter buttons, which were numbered 1 through 21. The coats were given out in haste without care of assignment of numbers to specific regiments. Meaning, collectors are hard pressed to assign a specific button number to a regiment. The button depicts a raised Arabic regiment number “3” in the center. The outer legend has a raised stipple ring around the edge. At the end of 1775, the regiments of the Grand Army were absorbed into the newly forming 27 Continental regiments. Most likely the uniforms and the buttons went with these troops into the new continental regt.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

1775 Massachusetts Grand Army # 6 Button

Color: A Mud Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-5
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Good Planchet condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition Remains, A Strong high Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: In June of 1775, there were 13,000 coats ordered for the troops of the Massachussetts Grand Army. All the coats bore pewter buttons, which were numbered 1 through 21. The coats were given out in haste without care of assignment of numbers to specific regiments. Meaning, collectors are hard pressed to assign a specific button number to a regiment. The button depicts a raised Arabic regiment number “6” in the center. The outer legend has a raised stipple ring around the edge. At the end of 1775, the regiments of the Grand Army were absorbed into the newly forming 27 Continental regiments. Most likely the uniforms and the buttons went with these troops into the new continental regt.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

1775 Massachusetts Grand Army # 8 Button

Color: A Pewter Gray.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-5
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet condition, A Strong high Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The Massachusetts Grand Army of 1775. These Grand Army buttons should be considered stock buttons and not relating to any specific unit. Don T. believes that there should not be an assignment number to a specific regt. At the end of 1775, the regiments of the Grand Army were absorbed into the newly forming 27 Continental regiments. Most likely the uniforms and the buttons went with these troops into the new continental regt. The button’s pattern depicts the Arabic number “8” in the center. This is followed by an outer raised Concentric Ring. There is a roughly 25 raised stipples in the legend. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat filed with a thin raised edge.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

 

1775 Massachusetts Grand Army # 16 Button

Color: A Mud Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 23mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-5
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Strong Planchet condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition Remains, A Strong high Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: Previously known as Col. Nixon’s minutemen. In June of 1775, there were 13,000 coats ordered for the troops of the Massachussetts Grand Army. All the coats bore pewter buttons, which were numbered 1 through 21. The coats were given out in haste without care of assignment of numbers to specific regiments. Meaning, collectors are hard pressed to assign a specific button number to a regiment. The button depicts a raised Arabic regiment number “16” in the center. The outer legend has a raised stipple ring around the edge. At the end of 1775, the regiments of the Grand Army were absorbed into the newly forming 27 Continental regiments. Most likely the uniforms and the buttons went with these troops into the new continental regt.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

 

1st Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

 

 

1st Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Silvery Gray.
Metal: Silvered Sheet Brass Front
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Rarity: R-6
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is an officer’s large size coat button. The button’s pattern depicts a large Roman numeral “I” in the center. Above is a crude banner ribbon with the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MASS.” in Roman font capital letters. Below is a decorative Floral Half Wreath. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Bone Back button with 4 sew holes. The attachment is cat gut cord.

The W. L. Collection.

 

1st Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Silvery Gray.
Metal: Silvered Sheet Brass Front
Size: 16mm. Cuff Size.
Rarity: R-6
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is an officer’s large size coat button. The button’s pattern depicts a large Roman numeral “I” in the center. Above is a crude banner ribbon with the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MASS.” in Roman font capital letters. Below is a decorative Floral Half Wreath. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.

Picture Courteous of Ian Workman

 

3rd Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

**************       *************       *************

*************       *************

 

 

3rd Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Clear Polish Golden Brown
Metal: Cast Pewter. 
Size: 23.5mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MAS,” over the Roman numeral “III” with the abbreviation for regiment, “REG” below. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Loop Shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact.

Excavated on Knox’s Trail Massachusetts/Connecticut Border.
The Dale Collection ~ Wife’s Button Find.~

 

 

3rd Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: Pewter Gray
Metal: Cast Pewter. 
Size: 16mm. Cuff Size
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This button is the enlisted Man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts a raised abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MAS,” over the Arabic “3” with a Trophy of Arms including Drums & Flags. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Loop Shank. The Shank is original, straight, and intact.

RJ. Silverstein Collection

 

5th Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

**************       *************       *************

*************       *************

 

 

5th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: Dull Pewter.
Metal: Cast Pewter
Size: 18mm. Vest or Cuff Size
Present Condition: A Non Dug Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the small enlisted man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MAS” over a Roman numeral “VIII.” Below is the abbreviation for Regiment, “REG.” The button has a thin raised edge. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This button has a loop shank. 

 

 

5th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Clear Polish Golden Brown.
Metal: Cast Pewter
Size: 19mm. Vest or Cuff Size
Present Condition: An Excavated Example, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the small enlisted man’s 1st pattern. The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MAS” over a Roman numeral “V.” Below is the abbreviation for Regiment, “REG.” The button has a thin raised cable edge trim. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a loop shank. Unknown information.

 

6th Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

**************       *************       *************

*************       *************

 

 

6th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Pewter Gray with Golden Orange Spots.
Metal: Raised Design, Silvered Sheet Brass 
Size: 16mm. Cuff size.
Present Condition: A Non Excavated Specimen, Exceptional Planchet Condition, A n Exceptional High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This regiment was part of the Continental Army’s reorganization of 15 regiments into 10 in 1781. There service was primarily garrison duty in and around the Hudson Valley and around West Point. This is the Officer’s pattern cuff size. The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MASS” in an arc above the Roman numeral “VI.” Below is a set of Crossed Sword Hangers. The high relief pattern is set on a flat plain field. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a two pice button with a 4 sew hole wood back. 

 

6th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Pewter Gray with Golden Orange Spots.
Metal: Cast Pewter
Size: 17mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This unit was part of the Continental Army’s reorganization of 1781. There service was primarily garrison duty in the Hudson Valley and around West Point. This is the enlisted man’s 2nd pattern, small size. The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MASS” in an arc above the Roman numeral “VI.” Below is a set of Crossed Sabers. The high relief pattern is set on a flat plain field. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one pice button with a loop shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

Excavated in the Hudson Valley, New York.
The RJ Silverstein Collection.

 

 

7th Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

 

 

7th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Pewter Gray with A Glossy Finish .
Metal: Pewter
Size: 17mm. Cuff Size
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This unit was part of the Continental Army’s reorganization of 1781. The button’s pattern depicts the abbreviation for Massachusetts, “MASS” in an arc above the Roman numeral “VII.” Below is a Half Wreath. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a loop shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

The B. Henderson Collection.~

 

 

8th Massachusetts Regt. of 1781

 

 

8th Massachusetts Regiment of 1781

Color: A Pewter Gray W/ Orange Ochre Specs.
Metal: Cast Pewter
Size: 16.32mm. Cuff Size
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The 8th Massachusetts was raised on April 23rd 1775, under Colonel Paul Dudley Sargent at Cambridge Massachusetts. It was called, “Sargent’s Regiment,” and listed as the 16th Continental Regiment. The regiment would see lots of action in New York and New Jersey including, The Battle of Princeton, The Battle of Trenton, The Battle of Saratoga, and The Battle of Bunker Hill. The regiment was furloughed at West Point on June 12th 1783.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a loop shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

Picture Courteous of Ian Workman

 

The Massachusetts Ordnance Buttons of 1778

In May of 1778, two sailing ships, arrived with war supplies that were purchased by the Commonwealth of Massaachusetts for the troops who were serving on the New England line. These were considered high quality French white metal Army buttons. They are believed to be made by Tallene, who was a pewter manufacturer for the French until 1783. The ship’s manifest indicates the Commonwealth of Massachussetts recieved over 2600 gross of what was termed, “Ordnance Buttons.” They gross included two evenly supplied size amounts, and numbers ranged from 1 through 10. This Massachussett’s order is presumed to be the French style buttons that are commonly found on 1779-1783 campsites of New England Troops. These buttons are believed to be handed out loosley, and not given out to coincide with any specific regiment number. Eventhough the manifest indicates there was even numbers in numbers and sizes, there appears to be a disportionate number of sizes and numerals found at campsites. As of date, the only large size numerals found are 1, 2, and 9. These large coat size buttons are more scarce. The smaller more commonly found cuff size is numbers 1, 2, 5, 7, and 9. These are a little more obtainable on the market, but still limited. It is unknown what happened to the other numbers in the shipment. This is open to speculation. 

 

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button #2

Color: An Ocher Pigment of Brownish-Red.
Metal: White Metal.
Size: 17mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “2” in the center of a Concentric Rings and an Open Circle with almost touching Iris ends. There is a small raised Stipple above the center of the iris ends in the legend. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.This button was originally purchased by the state of Massachusetts, but it’s use was widespread by the troops throughout all of the New England Lines. This button was extremely common to campsites that were occupied by troops between the years of 1779-83. Records indicate that in 1778, the State of Massachusetts received over 2600 gross of what was termed Ordnance Buttons in both large 24mm., and small 17mm. sizes. They numbered one through ten. The small sizes 1, 2, 5, 7, & 9 appear to have been found in some quantities, while the larger pattern are more scarce. Only the larger 1, 2, and 9 in the 24mm. have been found to date. Most likely these were not attached to uniforms given or issued. Most likely these were issued loose, and they were given with no regard as to if the numbering coincided with the units that received them. Since supplies were scarce, they were probably given out, and you got what you got kind of thing is the most probable scenario.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret Style shank. The turret is straight, upright and intact.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button #5

Color: An Earthy Grayish-Brown.
Metal: White Metal.
Size: 18.13mm. Coat Size
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “5” in the center of two Concentric Rings.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret style shank. The turret is straight, upright and intact.

Dug at Camp Robinson in New York
Picture Courteous of Ian Workman.

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button #5

Color: An Earthy Grayish-Brown.
Metal: White Metal.
Size: 17mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “5” in the center of a Concentric Rings and an Open Circle with almost touching Iris ends. There is a small raised Stipple above the center of the iris ends in the legend.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret style shank. The turret is straight, upright and intact.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.

 

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button # 7

Color: An Ochres of Orange, Grey, and Yellows.
Metal: White Metal.
Size: 17.72mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “7” in the center of two Concentric Rings.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret style shank. The Turret is straight, upright and intact.

 

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button #7

Color: An Olive Gray.
Metal: White Metal.
Size: 17mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “7” in the center of a Concentric Rings and an Open Circle with almost touching Iris ends. There is a small raised Stipple above the center of the iris ends in the legend.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret style shank. The Turret is straight, upright and intact.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.

 

 

1778 Massachusetts Ordnance Button #9

Color: An Ocher Pigment of Brownish-Yellow.
Metal:  White Metal.
Size: 17mm.
Rarity: R-1
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts the regiment number, “9” in the center of a Concentric Rings and an Open Circle with almost touching Iris ends.There is a small raised Stipple above the center of the iris ends in the legend.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a Turret style shank. The turret is straight, upright and intact.

The RJ Silverstein Collection.

 

The Colony of New York

 

 

New York’s “NY” Buttons 

 

 

1776-1778 New York “NY” Button

Color: A Dull Pewter Gray
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 17mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Example, Good Planchet, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This pattern was one of the earliest known used buttons used by the New York Continental Regiments, but it wasn’t the first. The Colony of New York pattern (A British Royal Crown above two dots and the letters “CN” in the center with raised dot border) was in use before the declaration of independence. The joined NY buttons were used for only about two years by the New York Continental Regiments; and then it vanished after the French Lottery coats were distributed for use. The pattern has been found in the Hudson Valley by West Point, Fishkill Barracks, Fort Clinton & Montgomery, and also around Fort Stanwix.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one piece casting for the reverse shank. Unknown information.

Excavated in the Hudson Valley, New York.

 

North Carolina 

 

 

 

North Carolina USA Button 

There are no records to when this pattern was first made or issued, but it is believed this pattern was used towards the end of the war. Since most specimens have been dug in North Carolina, it is believed to be issued for troops who were stationed within the state. There were a few specimens that have been in South Carolina, and one in Maryland. This could be from a small detachment or troops joining other Continental regiments. These NC USA buttons also have been dug with other regiment numbers which gives credence to dating to Revolutionary War years. 

 

North Carolina Intertwined USA Pattern

Color: A Dusty Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 22mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: This is an exceptionally rare USA pattern that was known to be used by North Carolina volunteers. The button’s pattern depicts “USA” in high relief intertwined letters. Above is the Letter, “N” for North, and below is the letter, “C” for Carolina.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

3rd North Carolina Regiment

 The 3rd North Carolina Regt. was raised in January of 1776. They first served in Charleston, South Carolina, Florida, and parts of North Carolina until 1777. Afterwards they went to be reorganized under the main Continental Army.  Their record of duty included Monmouth, Philadelphia, and service Hudson Highlands until December of 1778. In 1779, they were at Halifax, North Carolina and in May of 1780 they took part in the siege of Charleston South Carolina.In January of 1783, they officially disbanded. 

 

3rd NORTH CAROLINA REGIMENT of 1776

Color: Pewter Gray.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 25mm.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the large size enlisted man’s coat button. It is the unlisted Dome version with Serifs. The button’s pattern depicts the initials for North Carolina, “NC” over the Arabic number “3” in the center. This is encompassed by a raised triple ring edge border. This regiment was raised in January of 1776, and served in Charleston, Florida, and North Carolina until February of 1777. Then it was sent to re-enforce the Maine Army. Served in the Philadelphia Campaign, and was present at Monmouth Courthouse. After the Hudson Highlands in 1778, they went to Halifax North Carolina in 1779, and then was captured at the siege of Charleston, S.C. in May of 1780. Officially disbanded in Spring of 1783.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, but bent over.

Excavated in Camp Ponpon, east of the Edisto River in 2012.
The Chris Caroll Collection. 

 

 

 

 

 

*

The Province of New Hampshire

************ 1st Colony to Establish an Independent Government ***********

There were no battles fought on New Hampshire’s soil, but the contributions made by the men and women of New Hampshire made a big difference in the American War for Independence.

The USS Ranger and the USS Raleigh, led by John Paul Jones (pictured here), were both built in Portsmouth. They were used in the Continental Navy to hunt down British merchant ships. In December 1774, Paul Revere rode to Portsmouth to warn the people that the British were heading towards Fort William and Mary, in a journey commonly known as the Portsmouth Alarm.Four-hundred Sons of Liberty, led by John Sullivan of Durham, went to Fort William and Mary in 1774 to remove five tons of gunpowder and 15 pieces of cannon, and hid them in the countryside. British warships arrived in Portsmouth the next day.The historic attack on Fort William and Mary (now known as Fort Constitution) in Newcastle helped supply the cannons and ammunition for the Continental Army, who later fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill in Boston in the following months Patriot John Sullivan of Durham led the Sons of Liberty on the raid of Fort William and Mary. Sullivan served as a major general in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He was captured by the British and following his release, he joined George Washington in the crossing of the Delaware River.In January 1776, New Hampshire became the first colony to establish an independent government and form a constitution.Later that year, New Hampshire passed around the communities an “Association Test” to see who would be willing to fight against the British. Those who refused to fight were threatened their right to bear arms.Portsmouth, the provincial capital of New Hampshire, was the major seaport of NH, making it the center of its trade economy. The port was constantly under threat of British warships once the war had started.

 

 

 

3rd New Hampshire Regiment 

     There are only small size pewter buttons found for each of the three New Hampshire regiments. All three regiments are scarce and come from the Hudson highlands around New Windsor and West Point area. This is the only distinctive pattern that is directly associated directly with New Hampshire’s 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Regiments. These buttons along with USA intertwined Coat and Massachusetts Ordnance buttons were found at “Hampshire Huts” from their 1781 winter encampment.  The 3rd New Hampshire Regiment along with the 1st & 2nd New Hampshire, and the 10th Massachusetts, comprised all of the defenses around West Point. This was most likely a deterrent position from the British control of NYC and harbor. In 1782, the 3rd New Hampshire Regiment was re-stationed in Albany, New York. 

 

 

1781-1783 3rd New Hampshire Regiment

Color: A Dark Gray with Orange Rust Patches.
Metal: Cast Pewter.
Size: 17mm. Hat Button.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Fair Planchet Condition, A Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the small size regimental button for a hat or cuff. The button’s pattern depicts a large raised Arabic number “3” in the center. The high relief number is set on a plain flat field. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

Excavated around West Point, New York.~
The RJ Silverstein Collection. 

 

Pennsylvania 

     The Congressional resolution of June 14, 1775, authorized ten companies of expert riflemen to be raised for one-year enlistments as Continental troops under General George Washington. Pennsylvania was to raise 6 companies, and Maryland and Virginia were to raise two companies each. The Pennsylvania frontiersman were so eager to participate in the Revolution that on June 22 1775, Pennsylvania increased its quota to eight companies. Originally, they were organized as a regiment known as the “Pennsylvania Rifle Regiment.” A ninth company was soon added to the regiment by mid-July. All thirteen companies were sent to Washington’s army at Boston for use as light infantry and then later used as special reserve forces.The 1st Pennsylvania Regiment originally mustered as the 1st Pennsylvania Rifles; also known as the 1st Continental Line and 1st Continental Regiment.  The regiment was raised under the command of Colonel William Thompson for service in the Continental Army. 

 

 

1st PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1775

Color: Silver & Charcoal
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 17mm Cuff Size
Troiani: A1BP.d
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong Raised Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes:
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece loop shank. The Shank is original and intact.

 

Pennsylvania Recessed Center Number Buttons 

 

1777-78 Pennsylvania Recessed-Center Buttons

Color: Pewter Gray.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Impressed Center W/Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 24mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.

Isabela’s Notes: This button is attributed to the Pennsylvania Line and have been found at Valley Forge, N.J. and also Putnam’s New England Division in West Hartford, Connecticut. It is believed they were issued sometime in 1777, and then replaced with the French Lottery coat issues in 1778. This is an enlisted man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic number “2” in a Recessed Center. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact. There is some metal loss or chipping near the edge.

The William Leigh Collection.

 

Pennsylvania State Regiment 

 

 

PENNSYLVANIA STATE RIFLE REGIMENT

 1776

Color: Milk Chocolate Brown with Orange Undertones.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 24mm.
Troiani: APSR.a
Present Condition: An Excavated Example, Good Planchet, Good High Relief Pattern.

Isabela’s Notes: This button could possibly be a very early reproduction. There seems to be some conflict between the experts who have studied the photo’s, and the ones that studied it in hand. Since the people who studied it in hand said it was, I will graciously give it the benefit. Originally organized at Marcus Hook on March 6th, 1776 as the Pennsylvania Rifle Regiment. Consolidated later with the Pennsylvania Musketry Battalion and was re-designated as the Pennsylvania State Regiment of Foot in 1777. In 1778 it merged with the 2nd Regiment. Engaged in the New York Campaign in 1776, and in 1777 involved in the Trenton-Princeton campaign, and then the Philadelphia Campaign including Brandywine. This button is in exceptional condition for it’s age. The face shows a scalloped border that surrounds raised block letters.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact. There is some metal loss or chipping near the edge.

Library Records Has Limited Information on R-24:

History:       Yes            Recorded Sales Price:    Yes

Current Button Owner and Location: ~ Pennsylvania ~



Excavated in Charlestown, Pennsylvania in August 2011.

The B. Hanisco Collection.

 

2nd Pennsylvania Battalion 

 

 

 

2nd PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1775

Color: A Rusty Orange over a Brown Undertone.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 17mm Cuff Size
Troiani: A2BP.c
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, Fair Raised Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: In 1775-1776 this unit served around Canada and the Lake Champlain area. They were re-assigned to the main army in November of 1776.  Redesigned the 3rd Pennsylvania Regt. in January of 1777. This is the Enlisted man’s smaller cuff version. The button depicts the raised initials of Pennsylvania’s 2nd Battalion, “2.B” over P. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a raised stipple edge border.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The Shank is original and intact, but crushed inward. 

Library Records Has Limited Information on R-24:A
History:       Yes             Recorded Sales Price:      Yes

Current Button Owner and Location: ~ Virginia ~ 

 

3rd Pennsylvania Battalion

 

 

3rd PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1776

Color: A Two-Tone Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 18mm Believed 
Troiani: A3BP.a
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Poor Planchet Condition, Fair Raised Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: First organized in March of 1776, and then immediately served with the Main Army in the New York Campaign. Part of the regt. was captured at Fort Washington in November of 1776. By January of 1777, they were reorganized as the 4th Pennsylvania Regt. The button’s pattern depicts a raised number, “3” next to the initial for Battalion, “B”. This is over a raised “P” for Pennsylvania. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field with no edge border. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. 

Library Records Has Limited Information on R-24:B
History:    No                     Recorded Sales Price:    No
Current Button Owner and Location:            No

 

4th Pennsylvania Battalion

 

 

 The 4th Pennsylvania Regiment was organized in January and February of 1776, in Philadelphia, PA for service with the Continental Army. The regiment was assigned to Thomas Mifflin’s brigade in the main army on June 26th, 1776. Records indicate they entered Valley Forge with 201 men assigned and 149 fit for duty. They left Valley Forge with 222 assigned with 157 fit for duty. Part of the unit was captured at Fort Washington on November 16, 1776. The 4th fought at Brandywine, Paoli, Germantown, Monmouth, Lake Champlain, the Sullivan Expedition, and at fort Ticonderoga. They were reorganized as the 5th Pennsylvania Regiment on January 1st, 1777. The regiment was furloughed on January 17, 1781 at Trenton New Jersey and finally disbanded on January 1st, 1783. 

 

4th PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1776

Color: A Muddy Brown.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 19.7mm Coat Size.
Troiani: A4BP.e.
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This regiment was organized in Chester PA in 1776, and this button was found in Chester…. hmm. There appears to be 6 known sizes with slight design variations for the 4th. All variants use the same basic design, but have minor height differences to the number 4 and P initial. This specimen is a medium size coat button. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic number “4” in-conjunction with the initial “B” for Battalion above initial, “P” for the state of Pennsylvania. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a thin raised scalloped edge.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The loop shank is original and intact.

Dug in Chester, Pennsylvania near Valley forge.
Previously the Deborah Sprouse Collection
The Robert J. Silverstein Collection.

 

 

 

4th PENNSYLVANIA BATTALION of 1776

Color: A Grayish Blue.
Metal: Flat, 1-Piece, Raised Design, Cast Pewter.
Size: 19mm Coat Size.
Troiani: A4BP.c
Present Condition: A Dug Specimen, Fair Planchet Condition, Fair High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the medium size coat button for the PA 4th Battalion. The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic number “4” in-conjunction with the Battalions initial “B” above the State of Pennsylvania’s initial, “P”. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a thin raised edge. This unit was originally organized in January of 1776, in Chester Pennsylvania. They served in the Northern dept. from March to December of that year. there service included posts at Fort Ticonderoga, and the Lake Champlain Valley. By the following year in January 1777, they were reorganized and redesigned the 5th Pennsylvania Regiment.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. 

 

South Carolina

 

1st South Carolina Regiment 

The 1st South Carolina Regiment was assembled on June 6th 1775 at Charleston South Carolina for service with the Continental Army. They were at the defense on the first British attack on Charleston, S.C. in 1776. The regiment also partook action at the siege of Savannah, Georgia. Details were also in Florida in 1778. In February of 1780, the 1st merged with the 5th South Carolina regt. On May 12th 1780, the regiment was captured with the rest of the Southern Department at the fall of Charleston. The 1st was reorgnaized on December 11, 1782, and furloughed on May 14, 1783. By November 15th 1783, they were disbanded completely. 

 

1st SOUTH CAROLINA REGIMENT of 1775-1783

Color: Desert Clay.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 21mm.
Troiani: A1SC.a
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the large size enlisted man’s coat button. This is the most common button found for South Carolina. The button’s pattern depicts a raised, “Leg Bone” numeral style number one. This variant is the thinner Style One. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a raised rim.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is missing.

 

 

1st South CAROLINA REGIMENT of 1775-1783

Color: Rusty Orange.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 21mm.
Troiani: A1SC.b
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the large size enlisted man’s coat button. This is the most common button found for South Carolina. The button’s pattern depicts a Stoutly Sized raised, “Leg Bone” numeral style number one. This variant is the Thicker Style numeral one. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a raised rim. Unfortunately, this rim is all chipped off.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is missing.

This was Dug on John’s Island, South Carolina.
The RJ. Silverstein Collection. 

 

1st South CAROLINA REGIMENT of 1775

Color: Rusty Orange.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 18mm.
Troiani: A1SC.c
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is the South Carolina Leg Bone button. This specimen has a nice bold face, but unfortunately has some edge chipping. This button was excavated at the Battlegrounds of Parker’s Ferry, South Carolina. This was worn by one of Francis Marion’s men. South Carolina sent General Francis Marion with 400 men on August 30,1781 to set up an ambush of 540 Hessians along the road about 1 mile from the ferry. They surprised the Hessians and they suffered heavy losses. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

This was dug at Parker’s Ferry, South Carolina.
The Robert J. Silverstein Collection.
Previously the Micheal Mancuso Collection. 

 

2nd South Carolina Regiment 

 

1775-1780 2nd South Carolina Regiment

Color: An Earth Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 25mm.
Troiani: A2SC.f.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This regiment was raised in Charlestown, South Carolina in 1775. Stationed at Charleston from 1775 to 1776, and then back in 1780. Served in Savanah and also had a detachment in Florida. This is the Large Size Enlisted man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts a raised, “SC” over an Arabic number, “2”. The high relief pattern is set on a plain field with a raised Double Concentric Ring edge border. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

Dug near the Estido River in January 2010.
The Bill Cross Collection. 

 

The 3rd South Carolina Regiment “The Liberty Caps”

 The 3rd South Carolina Regiment was first organized in the summer of 1775, as a “Mounted Rangers” infantry unit. These “Rangers” patrolled the backwoods and vast countryside of North Carolina. They were originally issued a blue uniform that sported a white face which had white metal buttons. To their Loyalist opponents they were known as, “The Liberty Caps.” This is because they wore an engraved cap plate that was inscribed, “Liberty or Death.” The officer’s were known to where gorgets that had an engraved Rattlesnake that was coiled and ready to strike. The 3rd South Carolina Regiment served in Charleston, South Carolina in 1775 to 1776, Savannah, Georgia, and the Southern Highlands. A detachment also fought against the Cherokee Indians in 1776. In 1778, the 3rd had operations in Florida. The regiment was captured by the British in South Carolina in May of 1780. 

 

 

1776-1781 3rd South Carolina Mounted Rangers 

Color: A Charcoal Gray.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 23.01mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Good Planchet Condition, A Good High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This is a large size enlisted man’s pattern. The button’s pattern depicts a large Arabic number “3” in the center. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field. 
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank.

The RJ. Silverstein Collection.

 

 

4th South Carolina Regiment (Possibly Federal Period Post-Revolution)

Color: Pewter Silver.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 24mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Exceptional Planchet Condition, An Exceptional High Relief Pattern Remains.
Robert’s Notes: The button’s pattern depicts an Arabic number “4” to identify the regt. designation. The high relief pattern is set on a plain flat field.
Reverse Buttons Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. The shank is original, straight, and intact.

 

 

 

 

 

 

1776-1780 5th South Carolina Regiment

Color: A Dark Pewtery Brown.
Metal: Pewter.
Size: 21mm. Coat Size.
Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, A Good Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
Isabela’s Notes: This regiment served in Charlestown 1775-1776. There was a detachment in Savannah and Florida. Merged with the 1st Regt. in February 1780. This is the large size enlisted man’s coat button. The button’s pattern depicts a raised “S . C” above the Arabic number 5. A Double Concentric Ring Border around the periphery.
Reverse Button Analysis: This is a one-piece casting for the reverse shank. 

 

Robert’s Guide to Militia Units that served during the Revolutionary War

 When the colonists declared their independence from Britain all of the thirteen colonies organized their own militia units to fight for what was known as, “The Cause.” The colonists were fortunate because they did have working models provided by the British; Who used Provincial and militia forces instead of having to rely on expensive regular British Army troops. After the French and Indian War the British only kept a few regulars garrisoned in the colonies. England relied on the royal governors of the colonies to provide for their own militia forces to deal with local conflicts, or serve as a barrier to unfriendly Native Americans. Militia forces would culminate in importance into real effective fighting forces 20 years earlier during the French and Indian War.

     When the American War of Independence broke-out, revolutionaries took control of the militia system, which was put in place by the colonies Royal governors. Formal regulation of the militia forces would soon be codified by the Second Continental Congress within the Articles of Confederation. In addition, to the colony’s militia system, a regular standing Army would have to be called into being after formally ratifying the Declaration of Independence from Britain. The Continental Army was established on July 14th 1775. The need for a regular standing army by revolutionaries was mainly due to the foreknowledge of the tear in public sentiment, which would create enlistment shortages. This in all intense purpose would be America’s first Civl War between the Patriots and the Loyalists. Other European countries would not immediately come to the revolutionaries aid because they saw this as a “British Civil War.” This was viewed as an internal British governance problem.

     George Washington would become Commander in Chief the very next day on July 15th 1775, after the Continental Army was established. The state militia role would be secondary in nature and play a supportive role to the regular full-time army in the field throughout the war. Meaning, their usage would be used to either meet or prepare to engage a specific threat and for only a short periods of time. The regular army would serve for a fixed time; Usually a year’s enlistment was standard. Unlike the regular army, militia volunteers were expected to provide their own weapons, equipment, and supplies. Below I was able to link every unit to their individual history for button collectors to understand the buttons they are collecting and the reasons why these regiments stand-out. Have fun, and enjoy!

Connecticut

Revolutionary War Units:

Delaware

Revolutionary War Units:

• 1st Battalion, New Castle County, 1777
• 2nd Regiment, New Castle County, 1778–81
• 2nd Battalion of Militia, 1776
• 2nd Regiment of Militia, 1780
• 7th Regiment of Militia, 1782
• Flying Camp Battalion, 1776
• Kent County Militia
• Latimer’s Independent Company, 1776

Georgia

Revolutionary War units:

• Emanuel’s Regiment of Militia, 1781–82
• Georgia Hussars, 1736
• Liberty Independent Troop, 1776
• 1st Brigade Georgia Militia
• 1st Regiment Georgia Militia, Light Horse Troop

Maryland

• Gale’s Independent Company of Artillery, 1779–80
• Smith’s Artillery, 2nd and 3rd Companies, 1783
• 34th Battalion of Militia, 1776
• 37th Battalion of Militia, 1777
• Extraordinary Regiment, 1780
• Flying Camp Regiment (Ewing’s), 1776
• Flying Camp Regiment (Griffith’s), 1776
• Flying Camp Regiment (Richardson’s), 1776
• Lansdale’s Detachment, 1783
• Marbury’s Detachment, 1784
• Washington County Militia Company, 1777

Massachusetts

Revolutionary War units:

New Hampshire

Revolutionary War units:

New Jersey

Revolutionary War units:

New York

North Carolina

Rhode Island

Revolutionary War units:

South Carolina

• Beaufort District Regiment, 1778
• Berkeley County Regiment, 1775
• Camden District Regiment, 1775
• Casey’s Regiment, 1782
• Catawba Indian Company of Rovers, 1775–1776
• Cheraws District Regiment, 1775
• Charles Town Artillery Company, 1775
• Charles Town District Regiment, 1775
• Colleton County Regiment, 1775
• Craven County Regiment, 1775–1775
• Lower Craven County Regiment, 1775
• Upper Craven County Regiment, 1775
• Fairfield Regiment, 1777
• Forks of Saluda District Regiment, 1775
• Georgetown District Regiment, 1775
• Graville County Regiment, 1775–1780
• Lower Granville County Regiment, 1775
• Upper Graville County Regiment, 1775
• Lower District Regiment (aka Dutch Fork Regiment), 1776
• German Fusiliers of Charleston, 1775
• Horse Guards, 1753
• Polk’s regiment of light dragoons was transferred to the South Carolina State troops in 1781

Vermont

Revolutionary War units:

• 6th Regiment of militia, 1780–1781
• 7th Regiment of militia, 1782
• Abbott’s Regiment of militia, 1781
• Clark’s Company of militia, 1778–1780
• Durkee’s Company of militia, 1780–1781
• Green Mountain Boys, 1777
• Herrick’s Regiment, 1775–83
• Hoar’s Company of militia, 1780
• Marsh’s Regiment, 1777
• Mattison’s Company of militia, 1782
• Mead’s Regiment of militia, 1777
• Robbinson’s Regiment of militia, 1776–1777
• Weld’s Company of militia, 1780
• White’s Company of militia, 1781

Virginia

Revolutionary War Units:

• Culpeper Minutemen of 1775–1776
• Dabney’s State Legion
• Ford’s Company of militia, 1777
• Frederick County Militia, 1777
• Fluvanna County militia, 1781
• Gaskin’s Virginia Battalion, 1781
• Illinois Regiment of Virginia Volunteers, 1783–84
• Captain Johnson’s Company of Mounted Militia of Augusta County 1780
• Monongalia County Militia, 1777
• Pendleton’s Regiment of Militia, 1777
• Taylor’s Regiment of Militia (Albemarle County), 1779
• Virginia Legion
• Virginia State Regiment, 1775–83
• Western Battalion, 1781–82My notes:
  

  The Continental Army U.S.A Pattern Buttons

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  1780-84 Continental Army Satchel Button (American Lathe Turned – French Design)

  Color: A Dull Gray.
  Metal: White Metal.
  Size: 34.05mm.   9.68 Grns.   Satchel or Cape Size
  Present Condition: An Excavated Specimen, Strong Planchet Condition, A Strong High Relief Pattern Remains.
  Robert’s Notes: This USA button is an unusually large size. The maker most likely designed it for a top cape button or possibly a satchel. The button was most likely made by a Patriot instead of a skilled engraver. The button appears to lathe turned with hand carved lettering. The letters lines in this specimen just lack the straight lines that a guild’s craftsman would make for a special order. The pattern depicts the french style overlaid U.S.A. pattern. The pattern is in high relief on a plain flat field without any raised edge border. This unique pattern mirrored Lafayette’s French made belt plates, and infantry hangers. This is a dug representation and I would like to know where it was dug to try to get some provenance to a geographical area. 
  Reverse Button Analysis: This button is a one-piece button with a loop shank set in a boss. (Tombac Style).

   

  

  USA SCRIPT PATTERN

  This USA Script mold treasure was found in the vicinity of Fort Ligonier, Pennsylvania.
  The field mold is Approx. 4 1/8″ long and able to cast two buttons a coat 21mm. and a
  cuff 18mm. in one pouring. Only 2 USA field molds are thought to survive.

  Unfortunately, there have been no specimens dug of this pattern that have surfaced at forts, campsites or battlefields. My conclusion is that this mold was made toward the tail’s end of the war and a few were made for a specific regt., and hence, has vanished over time. The only clue is a regt. connection with Pennsylvania and Ohio.
  Theory 1. Since, the gang mold’s design is of the highest quality, and has a single coat and cuff it could have been specifically created for the specific purpose of an officer’s dress uniform?
  Theory 2. My other theory is it was created to make quick replacements in the field, but the war ended and it was discarded.

  Fort Ligonier was a British fortification from the French and Indian War that is located in Ligonier, PA. The fort served as a staging area for the Forbes expedition in 1758. During the eight years of its existence as a garrison it was never taken by an enemy. It served as a post of passage to the new Fort Pitt, and during the Patomic War of 1763, was a vital link in the British communication and supply lines. It was attacked twice and besieged by Native Americans. the fort was decommissioned from active service in 1766. This is a nice website in the link below.

  www.fortligonier.org 

   

  The Continental Regiments of 1776

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