Prisoners of War in 1759

As a friend in captivity looks on, a wave of astonishment sweeps over the soldier upon learning of the death of one of his closest battalion mates. The shock is palpable, a solemn reminder of the harsh realities that accompany war—where loss is inevitable and grief, though expected, strikes with sudden and devastating force. (Jeffrey Campbell, Brothers in War, 2025)

Prisoners of War in 1759

A list of people returned from being prisoners in Canada, 15th Novr. 1759, read in the following three columns: 

Regt. or Province; Name; When and Where Taken

Artillery

Elizath. Dickson, Halfway Brook, 1758

Forbess's

John Anderson, Scortecock, 1759

Willm. Leggett, Ticonderoga, 1759

Inniskilling [27th Regiment]

Benjn. Porter, Fort Edward, Feby. 1757

William Scott, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1758

William Mealy, Halfway Brook, 1758

Royl Highlandrs. [42nd Regiment]

Serjt. Munro, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Corpl. McIntosh, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

John Cameron, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Alexr. McDonald, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Donald McLeod, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Geo: Munro, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Robt. Fraser, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Donald Munro, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Donald McLeay, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Donald McIntyre, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

John Chisolm, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

John McIntyre, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Malcolm McIntyre, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Archd. McFaile, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Alexr. McDonald, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Angus Wilkison, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Alexr. Stewart, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

John McKenzie, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Thos. McKenzie, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Robt. Smyth, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

William Grant, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1759

James Douglass, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1759

Finlay McKay, at Halfway Brook, 1758

Robt. Kennedy, at Halfway Brook, 1758

Peter McKinzie, at Halfway Brook, 1758

John McIntosh, at Halfway Brook, 1758

Dunc. McNiell, at Halfway Brook, 1758

Alexr. Norrie, at Halfway Brook, 1758

Prideauxs

Joseph Barnes, Near Crown Point, 1759

Jean Stewart, 1/2 way brook, 1758

Gages

Serjt. Lewis, Fort Chamble, Novr. 1759

Donald Young, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

James Ryan, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

William Smyth, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Thos. Brown, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

James Brown, Fort Chamble, Novr. 1759

John Hopps, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

Thoms. Cherry, Lake Champlain, Oct. 1759

John Humphrys. Taken wth. Capt. Kennedy, 1759

John Colly, La Galette, 22d Septr. 1759

Major Rogers Rangers

Gersham Flagg, Fort Edwr., 22d Decr. 1758

William Fannis, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Oliver Gauff, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Juda Bills, Lake George, 8th July 1759

William Walker, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Isaac Butterfield, Lake George 25th May 1759

Timothy Bowing, Lake George 25th May 1759

Abner Chace, Lake George 25th May 1759

John Ferrington, Lake George 25th May 1759

John Gray, Lake George 25th May 1759

Danl. Abbot, Near Fort Edward, 25 Aprl. 1759

Jams. Kennedy, Ticonderoga, 13th March 1758

Isaac Rice, Lake George 25th June 1758

Robt. Stewart, Near the royal Blockhouse, 1759

Littlefield Nash, Lake George, 25th June 1758

Serjt. Halkett, Near St. Johns, 27th Augst. 1759

Nichos. Brown, Lake George, 25th May 1759

John Buttler, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Ebenezr Tincomb, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Isaac McKay, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Isaac Burton, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Jams Moor, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Joseph Fisk, Lake George, 8th July 1759

John Boyd, Lake George, 8th July 1759

Joseph Davis, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Timothy Blake, Halfway Brook, 1st Novr. 1758

Timoy. Hopkinson, La Galette, 22d Septr 1759

Samuel Robertson, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Samuel Shepard, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Samuel Hall, Lake George, 25th May 1759

John Crown, Near Nutt Island, 4th Novr. 1759

John Adams, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Jabez Burrell, Near Nutt Island, 4th Novr. 1759

John Todd, Near Nutt Island, 4th Novr. 1759

Lemuel Goddart, Near Nutt Island, 4th Novr. 1759

Daniel Rose, Near Nutt Island, 4th Novr. 1759

John Jacobs, Near the Royl. Block House, 1759

Serjt. McKane, La Galette, 22d Sept. 1759

Joseph Bracey, Lake George, 25th May 1759

John Torry, 4 Mile Post, 28th July 1758

Jonathn. Clay, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Isaac Walker, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Geo. Shepperd, Lake George, 25th May 1759

John Dewey, Lake George, 25th May 1759

Jacob Hooper, Lake George, 25th May 1759

John Jacob, with Captain Kennedy, 1759

..... Abraham, with Captain Kennedy, 1759

Genl. Abercrombys

John Stevenson, Halfway Brook, 1758

John Langrell, Halfway Brook, 1758

John Wilkins, Halfway Brook, 1758

Mathew Howard, from Lake George, 1758

Genl. Murrays

William Gregory, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1758

John Glieve, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1758

Patrick Graham, Fort Stanwix, 29th May 1759

Genl. Hopsons

William Wedgewood, Taken Near Quebec, 1759

Genl. Webbs

John Todd, Taken Near Quebec, 1759

Genl. Braggs

John McLaughlin, Taken Near Quebec, 1759

Genl. Amhersts

Jams. Thoroughly, Taken Near Quebec, 1759

1st Battn. Rl. Americans [60th Regiment]

George Farrol, Fort Miller, 2d Aprill, 1759

James Gregg, Ticonderoga, 8th July 1758

Willm. Pendleton, Ticonderoga, 1759

2d. Bn. Rl. Amns. [60th Regiment]

Thoms. Middleton, Near Quebec

3d. Bn. Rl. Amns. [60th Regiment]

Jacob Dugan, Before Fort Edwd, May 1757

4th Bn. Rl. Amns. [60th Regiment]

..... McCormick, Fort Edward, Janry. 1759

Pepperills [51st Regiment]

Winthrop Howatt, at Oswego, August 1756

Benjn. Freeman, at Oswego, August 1756

Hugh McDugal, at Oswego, August 1756

John Williams, at Oswego, August 1756

John Davis, at Oswego, August 1756

Chapun Warren, at Oswego, March 1756

Willm. Strong, Bulls Fort, 1756

Willm. Maurill & Cathrin Maurill, Both in March 1756

Francis Maurill, [in March], [1756]

Moses Potter, Oswego, August 1756

Patrick Coyle, Oswego, August 1756

Peter Parker, Oswego, August 1756

Jams. Moor, Oswego, August 1756

Willm. English, Oswego, August 1756

Richd. Campbell, Oswego, August 1756

Shirleys [50th Regiment]

John Kennedy, Oswego, August 1756

Samuel Van Pelt, At Bulls Fort, March 1756

James Drake, At Bulls Fort, March 1756

Nathl. Moor, Oswego, Augst., 1756

John Swain, Oswego, Augst., 1756

Titus Price, Oswego, Augst., 1756

Violet Franklin, At Bulls Fort, March 1756

Thos. McCormick, At Fort Edward, Feby., 1758

Edward Ormand, At Oswego, Augst., 1756

Timoy. Higgans, Oswego, August 1756

John Pope, Oswego, August 1756

Darby McCarty, Oswego, August 1756

Jersey Regimt. [Jersey Blues]

Benjn. Moor, Oswego, August 1756

William Ester, Oswego, August 1756

John Parsall, Oswego, August 1756

Peter Jones, Oswego, August 1756

John Elwood, Oswego, August 1756

Jams. Drake, Oswego, August 1756

Jams. Reynolds, Lake George, 1759

Ebenezr. Eglinton, Lake George, 1759

Jacob Kiffock, Lake George, 1759

Andw. Ingle, Lake George, 1759

Benjn. Hawk, Lake George, 1759

Colo. Fitches

Elijah Bill, Taken, 1758

John Jones, Of Rogers Party, 4th Novr. 1759

David Dodge, 1755

Moses Squire, Teamster, 1758

Genl. Lymans

Ebenezr. Dodd, 1756

York Regimt.

Benjn. Petty, Oneida, 1759

Sailors

Jams. Windsor, Midshipman in the Squirrel Quebec, 1759

Alexr. Cumine, Do. Alcide, Do. 1759

Edwd. Davidson, Shrewsburry Man of War Do. 1759

Jams. Kingsborrough, Sea Horse, Do. Do. 1759

Marines

John Saunders, At Quebeck

James Lee, At Quebeck

Sailors

James Davis, Transport Ship Quebec, 1759

Isaac Gosley, Shrewsburry M of War Do.

Willm. Hemns, Sommerset, Do. Do.

Phillp. Robertson, Transport Ship, Do.

William Cullis, Somerset Man of War, Do.

Boston Forces

Aaron Cogdan, Near Fort Edward, 1756

Joel Grosby, Halfway Brook, 1758

William Cochrane

James Richards, Fort Wm. Henry, 1756

Noah Pratt

Jonathn. Farewell, Casco Bay, 1755

Joshua Taylor

Ebenezr. Pratt, Fort Wm. Henry, 1756

Ikobul Barnes, Saratogu, 1758

Jonathn. Bailey, Fort Willm. Henry, 1757

Nathl. Windslow, At Sea, 1758

Robt. Mason, Halfway brook, 1756

Isaac Forster. Fort Wm. Henry, Septr. 1756

Joseph McEvan

Virginians

Jams. Cheek & Jean Medley, Ft. du Quesne, 1758, at Tolpahoqus, 1758

Samuel Trentor, Hanah Megley [poss. Medley], Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Adam Air, Do., Loyl. Hannon, 1759

Fredrk. Trusell, Ft. Du Quesne, 1759

Alexr. Rankin, Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Jeremih. Saunders, Ohio, Febry. 1757

Ambros Sparks, Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Wm. Bryan, Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Pensylvanians

Fredk. Crislow, Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Arthur Mize, Loyl. Hannon, 1758

Arthur Irvin, Ft. Legonier, 1759

Jacob Henderick, Ft. Legonier, 1759

Battoe Men

Mathew Walner, Oswego, July 1756

Ikobut Bonny, Oswego, 1756

Talcot Dawson, Bulls Fort, 1756

Amos Allan, Saratoga, Aprl. 1756

Edwd. Van Bern

Inhabitants of the German Flatts

John Bellinger, Elizath. Bellinger, Both Flatts, 12th Novr. 1757

Jacob Hill, Chrisr. Bellinger, Both 12th Novr. 1757

Nathl. Ox, Margt. Bellinger, Sumer 1759, Novr. 1757

Henry Hart, Cath. Hart. Sr., Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Laurence Harder, Cath. Hart Jr., Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Tonnio Harder, Margt. Harder Sr., Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Nicholas Redman, Margt. Harder Jr., Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Frederk. Stoughts, Cath. Harder, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

George Hill, Elizth. Redman, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Adam Hilman Sr., Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Adam Hilman Jr., Marg. Beaver, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Peter Fowks, Elizth. Hill, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Andrew Bisnaw, Cath. Hill, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Amos Allan, Margt. Weaver, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Andre. Sizner, Ester Tranqin [Trangin?], Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Lewis Grott, Cath. Hilman, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Elisabth. Hillman, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Catro? Hillman, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Mary Hillman, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Cathrin Demoult, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Christr. Ambowsh, Flatts, Both Novr. 1757

Elizath. Rishman

Inhabitant of Hallifax

Barnaby Strochan, Taken near Halifax, 1756

Inhabt. in Virginia

Josh: Oliver, Taken 1756

Inhabts. of Pensylvania

John Stirley, Phebe Stirley, Both Taken at Sheppy, 1757

Inhabitt. of Maryland

Owen Davis, At Conagagee on the Potomach, 1757

Inhabits of the Jersey

Thomas Hunt, Taken 1756

Philip Stall, Ann Medlain, At Shaspero Town 1757, Virginia 1756

John Stall, Cathine. Harty, At Shaspero Town 1757, At Amelegal 1758

James Medlain, Mart Harty, At Alamin 1757, At Amelagal 1758

York Sutler

Donald McBean, Mohawk River, 1759

Mr. Sweetenham, A Volunteer at La Galette, 1759

Mr. Beech, Master of a Merchant Man

Abstract of the Prisoners Return'd 

Officers: 16

Regulas Soldiers & Rangers: 137

Provincial Soldiers: 48

Seamen: 12

Inhabitants: 26

Women: 31

Total: 270

Works Cited:

War Officer Records: Amherst Papers. Canada, Miscellaneous Papers and returns, 1759-1762. W.O. 34, vol. 8. LAC, Microfilm C-12838, images 540-547.

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2025.

Orders Providing Levy Money to the Highland Regiments, 1757

An 18th-century War Office in Westminster, London, steeped in history and quiet intrigue. Within, an aging secretary—his dignified grey hair swept back with care—labors diligently at a desk crowded with aged parchment and quill pens. The room is rich with the scent of pipe tobacco and candle wax, a faint haze still drifting from a recently extinguished pipe. (Jeffrey Campbell, Levy Money, 2025)

Orders Providing Levy Money to the Highland Regiments, 1757

War Office 13 January 1757

My Lord & Sir,
His Majesty having been pleased to order two Highland Battalions of Foot to be forthwith raised & sent to North America each Battalion to consist of 40 Serjeants 40 Corporals 20 Drummers and 1000 Private Men besides Commission Officers (their Establishment to commence from the 23 Decr. Last incl and to allow three pounds per Man Levy Money I have the Honour to acquaint you therewith, that you may be pleased to lay a Memorial before the Rt. Honble the Lords Commissioners of his Maty’s Treasury for the Money wanting for this Service.

I am
My Lord & Sir
Barrington

Lord Visct. Dupplin
& Thos. Potter Esqr. Paymaster Genl.

Copy

Works cited:

War Office Records: Out Letters: Secretary at War. General Letters, Dec. 1756 - Apr. 1757. LAC, W.O. 4, vol. 53 (selections).

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2020.

Gigantic Serjeant in Boston

Boston Harbor at the edge of an 18th-century evening, where the setting sun bathes the tranquil waters in a soft, golden light. The horizon blazes with hues of orange and violet, melting into the storied skyline. Tall-masted ships rest at anchor, their furled sails and weathered hulls aglow with amber reflections. In the foreground, a lone rowboat glides across the gentle swells, steered by a solitary figure in period dress. Along the lively wharf, men in tricorn hats and long coats go about their tasks—unloading crates, securing rigging, and preparing for nightfall. Lanterns flicker in the windows of nearby buildings, offering glimpses of warmth and life within. (Jeffrey Campbell, Boston Harbor, 2025)

The following is a series of contemporary correspondence related to General Amherst's visit to the city of Boston, Massachusetts, which included about 4,500 of his troops, all of whom arrived on September 13, 1758, on 35 transport ships after their victory at Louisbourg. Although alcohol was provided by the locals in plentiful quantities, a search of surviving historical records did not reveal any unlawful incidents among the civilian populace.

Boston Daily Advertiser

BOSTON September 18

Last Wednesday arrived in our Harbour from Louisbourg His Majesty's Ship the Captain, commanded by Capt. Amherst, in which came Major General Amherst, who had chief Command of His Majesty's Land-Forces, in the late successful Expedition against Cape-Breton: - He was received and congratulated upon his Arrival, with the Respect and Esteem due to so brave a Commander. - On this occasion, the Guns at Castle-William, those of the Batteries in this Town and at Charlestown, &c. were discharged, and the Bells of the Town were rung. - Between 30 and 40 Transports which came out with the Captain Man of War, having on board the 2d Battalion of Royal Scots, as also Forbe's, Lascells's and Webb's Regiments, with Fraser's Highlanders, are also arrived: The Troops are in good Health, and were disembarked the Day following, and encamped on the Common: On Saturday the General set out, with the whole of the Troops, & march'd from hence to the westward.

The first night the above troops encamped, the patrols being out, and meeting with a soldier at the south part of town, who not giving an answer when hailed, was fired at by one of the party and wounded in the shoulder, but it is said he was likely to recover.

We hear from Lake George, that Preparation were making there to cross the Lake again, and only waited arrival of the Troops which came lately from Louisbourg, in order to proceed.

Gigantic Serjeant in Boston

Worcester Feb. 11, 1759.

    I have been in this Town a Week this night. How much I have improved my Health by Exercise, or my mind by Study of Conversation, in this Space? I have exercised little, eat and drank and slept intemperately. Have inquired a little of Mr. Putnam and of Abel Willard, concerning some Points of Practice in Law. But dining once at Coll. Chandlers, once at Mr. Pains, once at the Doctors, drinking Tea once at Mr. Paines, once at the Drs. and spending one Evening at the Drs., one at Gardi[ner]s and several at Putnams in Company has wasted insensibly the greatest and best Part of my time since I have been in Town. Oh how I have fulfilled the vain Boast I made to Dr. Webb, of reading 12 Hours a day! What a fine scene of study in this office! a fine collection of Law, oratory, History, and Phylosophy, But I must not stay. I must return to Braintree. I must attend a long Superiour Court at Boston. How shall I pursue my Plan of Study?

    Bo[b] Paine acted a scene that happened on the Com[mon] when the Troops were reviewed by the Governor. People crouded very near the Troops, till a highland serjeant of a gigantic size, and accoutred with a Variety of Instruments of Curelty and Death, stalked out with his vast Halbert to drive them back. He brandished his Halbert and smote it on the Ground and cryed with a broad, Roaring voice, Sta ban, i.e. Stand Back. Sta. ba. His size, armour, Phyz, and Voise, frightned People so that they presd backwards and almost tramples on one another. But in the highest of his fury, he sprung onward, and shri[ek]ed out Sta, but then saw some Ladies before him, which softened him. At once, he drops his Halbert, takes off his Bonnet, and makes very complaisant Bow, pray Ladies, please to stand a little back, you will see a great deal better.

    Pain lifts up his Eyes and Hands to Heaven and cryes, of all Instruments of Defence, good Heavens, give me Beauty. It could soften the ferocity of your highland serjeant.

    Paine and Dr. Wendel took Katy Quincy and Polly Jackson, and led them into a retired Room and there laughed, and screamed, and kissed and hussled. They came out glowing like furnaces.

Source: 

Diary of John Adams, volume 1, Adams Papers Digital Edition online. Massachusetts Historical Society, https://www.masshist.org/publications/adams-papers/index.php/view/ADMS-01-01-02-0004-0002-0003#sn=0. Acc: 10 December 2024.

Namur, Louisbourg harbr. 31st Augt. 1758

Rd. & recd. 29 Sepr.

Sir,
    Agreeable to the Resolution agree on between Major General Amherst and myself on the 8th instant Sir Charles Hardy with the Royal William, Bedford, Vanguard, Devonshire, Lancaster, Pembroke, Kennington, Juno, & Etna, and ten transports with Brigadier Wolfe and the Regiments of Amherst, Brag, & Anstruthers, sailed for the River St. Lawrence on the 29th, and yesterday Major General Amherst with the Royals, Webbs, Lascelles, Frasers, and Forbes sailed for Boston, convoyed by the Captain & Tyloe; and at the same time sailed the Squirrel & Scarborough, to convoy Monckton's & Otway's to the Bay of Fundi, and Lawrence's for the Garrison of Halifax.
    The Trent is here down, & repaired of the Damages she sustained at Gabarus Bay when covering the Landing of the Troops, and will sail to cruize in the Streights of Bell Isle for a month, and then proceed to England; The Sutherland will also sail in two days to disturb the French Fishery to the north part of Newfoundland.
    [Inclosed I send you the State and Condition of the ships now here, the want of provision has kept many ships in this harbour]
                                            I am,
                                            Sir
                                            your most obedielt
                                            humble Servant
                                            Ed. Boscowan
John Cleveland Esqr.
Minute: 29 Septr.

Note: HMS Namur (1756) was a British ship that participated in the 1758 Siege of Louisbourg. The British captured Louisbourg in seven weeks after a massive attack of over 13,000 troops and 14,000 crew members on  over 100 ships.

Source: 

Admiralty and Secretariat: Papers: North America, Admirals Boscawen, Hardy, Holburne, Homes and Durel, 1755-1760, Adm. 1, vol. 481. LAC, Microfilm #12851, images 1106-07.

The Diary of Rev. Ebenezer Parkman

Extracts of 13-19 September 1758

Born in 1703 in Boston, Suffolk County, Reverend Parkman served as the first minister of Westborough, Massachusetts, from 1724 until his death in 1782. It appears the reverend had very limited time spent with the regiments as they passed through the various towns on their march through Massachusetts.

The original manuscript for the Diary entries is at the American Antiquarian Society (AAS) and the Massachusetts Historical Society. 

1758 September 13 (Wednesday). Deacon Tainter observably carefull to have me supplyed with fresh meat, etc.

1758 September 14 (Thursday). Day of public Prayer and Thanksgiving on Account of the Reduction of Cape Briton and its Dependencies; and the present Critical State of our publick affairs relating to the War. I preached on those words in Ps. 2.11 -- rejoice with trembling. Was not successfull in any of my Invitation or Endeavours to have Strangers or Widows dine with us. Mr. Ebenezer Rice, his wife and divers Children ill.

1758 September 15 (Friday). Visit Mr. E. Rice. N.B. a great Addition to his Trouble is Mr. Thomas Frost Cattle break in upon the Apples and Rowing. I went to him, and he promised to take effectual Care of them. P.M. Coll. Timothy Brigham was here and desires me to go with him to Mr. James Maynards on the Difficult Affair of the Difference between John and his wife but I did not think it wise to go. He returned at Night here, to me, Supped with me, and gave me Some Account of his Discourse with John: and what he (himself) proposed to do if John did not come to See him. P.M. Capt. Daniel Barns of Marlborough here in his Journey to Cornet Sherman who has been to the Lake lately (as aforesaid), Capt. Barns having two Sons in the Service. In the Evening Charles Brigham Esq. here, and I paid him 50£ old Tenor for the Mare I bought of him Feb. 20th and gave him a Note of 26/8 L.M. which was the remainder. N.B. I have Striven a great deal to get help in ploughing, mowing, rowing etc. but in Vain. Went to Mr. Williams’s this Evening to get help there, but in Vain. So it has pleased the Sovereign God.

1758 September 16 (Saturday). Jejun. and Prec. I perceived Some Company were come to See us. But I did not dare to go down to them lest the work of this important Day Should be obstructed. I afterwards perceived that they were Mrs. My wife’s Kinswomen, the widow Brigham and Miss Betty Gott. Abel Chase junior here at Evening with a Letter from Mr. Welman etc. desiring a Council.

1758 September 17 (Sunday). Mr. Martyn preached here on 2 Cor. 3.13-16. I for him on Joh. 14.[ blot] a. and p.m. We, both of us, returned at Eve. N.B. Capt. Bezaleal Eager delivered me a Letter from Mr. Bellamy with a packet -- containing [three Greek words], which I had lent him.

1758 September 18 (Monday). I Sent by Mr. Ephraim Bruce, to Lt. Rice and to Billy in the army. Mr. Bruce goes to bring home Jonas Bradish. I visited the Hows at each House -- and other where. P.M. I went [southward?] to raise a Team to plough the Field behind the Meeting House. Was at Monsieur LeBlanc’s, and at Joseph Bruce’s. Towards Eve I rode to Marlborough to See General Amhirst’s Army of 4500 -- they had pitched their Tents some Time before I got there; but I went to them and walked among them. Lodged at Mr. Smith’s, as did Mr. Buckminster. Likewise two field Officers, viz. Coll. Townshend (Son of L. Viscount Townshend) and Major Richardson. Heard the Sorrowfull News of the Death of Mr. Porter of Sherbourn and that he is to be buryed to Day.

1758 September 19 (Tuesday). We rose extreme early, waked by the Officers waiters. Mr. Smith, Buckminster and I, walked to the Camp before the Day broke: tarryed and saw them Striking their Tents and Marching. They were Rangers, advanced Guard of Royal Scotts, Royal, [Lascells?], Fraziers, and Webbs Regiments. Broke fast at Mr. Smiths. Mr. Humphrey of Poquaog came likewise. I returned home, and gave my Horse to Thomas and Sarah who rode up the Road to See the Army, as they march to Worcester. I walked to Mr. Joslins to Catechizing -- had a Number of Young Men and Young Women attending -- great and Small 35. At the Request of the more adult, and of the people of the House we sung. It was part of Ps. 34.11-16. Rode home on Mr. Joslyns Horse. Visited Father Bradish going and returning.

Works Cited:

The Diary of Rev. Ebenezer Parkman (part of the Ebenezer Parkman project online). https://diary.ebenezerparkman.org/diary-1751-1760-pdf. Acc: 10 December 2024.

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2025.

Scurvy Hits Fort Stanwix

Fort Stanwix, a vital 18th-century stronghold in New York, is cast in the rich amber light of sunset during the tense era of the French and Indian War. Its timber palisades and bastions glow in the fading sun, a resolute presence amid the encroaching wilderness. Within the walls, British soldiers in red coats and tricorn hats move with deliberate purpose—some manning artillery atop the ramparts, others patrolling the grounds below. (Jeffrey Campbell, Fort Stanwix, 2025)

Scurvy Hits Fort Stanwix

Albany March 3d. 1759

Sir

    I received your Favour from Schenectady with the Inclosures from Fort Stanwix and Sir Willm. Johnson. If no proof of ill designs can be made out against the Indian, I shall send him to the Jersys, as soon as the River opens.

    I have conversed with Mr. Monro on the subject of your scorbutick Men at Fort Stanwix, he tells me every man should be sent down the instant the smallest symptom of the scurvy is perceived, by detaining them longer, as there is no means at the Fort to cure this Disorder, it increases to a degree very difficult to be eradicated, and the man is soon rendered unable to march down the Country, which is the case of the twelve men mentioned in your Letter. He tells me likewise when any bad Symptoms appear on the men the sending them to Country Quarters will not answer, That they must at first be sent to General Hospital where proper medicines and food is prepared for them, and when the disorder is on the decline They may then be sent to the Farm Houses.

    The sending delay's for such of your men not able to march is certainly very right, and instead of twenty fresh men which you propose sending, I wish you would double that number, and I fear there will be occasion for them.

    I write to Major Clephane desiring his surgeon may frequently examine the men at least once a week. I am with great regard

                                                                                    yours &c

                                                                                                (sign'd) Thos. Gage

To Colo. Fraser        P.S.

Since finishing my letter I have heard from Genl. Amherst who approves of sending fresh men to relieve such as are affected wth. the scurvy at Fort Stanwix, & if there should be occasion even of changing the whole Garrison in that manner without any formal relief you will therefore not be sparring of your men, for, from the Experience I have had of this cursed disorder I shall not be surpriz'd if you should be obliged to bring down most of the Garrison of Fort Stanwix by the End of this month.

Albany March 5th 1759.

Sir

    I received your two Letters of the 24th & 26th February with Captn. Wendell's Muster Rolls &c. His Accot. is not exactly right, but I have got it rectified as well as I was able, from his Accot. and have granted a warrant for his money to 23d. February inclusive, which I hope he will receive by this opportunity. The Indian prisoner is arrived, He was certainly in the Jersey Regiment and taken at Lake George by the Enemy. The account he gives of his Travels after that incident may be true or false, but I shall soon know whether he belongs to the Jersey Indians. You will please to order the Three Men whose names are marked as unfit for service in Captain Wendell's Muster Rolls to be immediately discharged.

    I have talked with Doctor Monro on the Subject of your Scorbutick Men, who tells me every man should be sent down the Country the moment the smallest symptoms of the scurvy appears, as your surgeon has not what is proper to cure this disorder, if they are detained longer, it will encrease so fast and to such a degree as very soon to render the men unable to march; which I understand by Colonel Fraser is actually the case with those men mentioned in your last letters. You will therefore be pleased to order your Surgeon to Examine all the men of your Garrison very frequently, at least one every week, to prevent this Disorder getting any Head in your Garrison, as I know the consequences to be very fatal. I have wrote very fully on this matter to Colonel Fraser who proposed sending you Twenty fresh men, to relieve such as you were disordered, I have desired him to double the number & wish you may not have too much occasion for them, by the time they reach Fort Stanwix.

    Mr. Coventry shewed me your Return of Bedding &c. I am sorry it's so bad, particularly as I can send you no supply.

    I hope the fresh provisions will be some relief to your Garrison, whenever it's in my power, I shall sned you a further supply.

                                                                                            I am &c.

                                                                                                        (sign'd) Thos. Gage

To Major Clephane or offr.

commandg. at

Fort Edward Stanwix

Albany March 25th 1759

Dear Sir

    The Post arrived here yesterday and brought me your Favor of the 19th instant. Notice has been sent of the Number of Indians at Ticonderoga and the Probability of their Endeavours to revenge this last stroke of Rogers, to every Post in the communication, wt. repeated orders to be on their guard: no mischief has since happened, and I hope none will happen. Rogers & the Indian officer Lutteridge distinguished themselves most in this scout, The Regulars, as you will see in the accots. sent you, were made little use of. You will sometime or other have it in your power to reward Rogers, and as for Lutteridge and the Indians I think it best to leave them to Sr. Wm. Johnson.    

    I have ordered Lieut. Genl. Murrays Regimt. to relieve Frasers, and intend replacing them by Prideauxs Regiment from hence, and as soon as Frasers Regimt. is embarked to bring Abercromby's Regimt. into this Town Till I am free of Frasers, Abercromby's would fill us too full, so propose letting them lye in their cantonments till the other sails. This relief could not have happened more unseasonably, The Frost just breaking up, neither waggon or Slay can stirr, and the River so full of Ice as to stop the navigation. A messenger has been sent upwards to reconnoitre the River and if found practicable, Colo. Massey Marches wt. his Regimt. tomorrow, but it's the opinion of most, that it will not be possible for him to move these three or four days.

    As I shall not expect the Garrison of Fort Stanwix in less than fourteen days after General Murrays Regiment has actually Marched from Schenectady; I believe I shall be obliged to send Frasers Regiment down by piece=meal just as they arrive, as I am not willing to detain the Sloops here, which you will have occasion for below; and will likewise save demurrage.

    I recd. a Letter yesterday from Major Clephane of the 17th Inst. telling me of the Impossibility of sending down the worst of his sick from the badness of the Roads and fullness of the creeks; that a slay sent up to assist his sick had been lost and the Horses drowned, The Major sent me at the same time a Letter from his Indian Interpreter, which I send herewith; and seems to finish all Hopes of Intelligence from the long expected Scout from Swogathchi.

    Rogers is here and has fixed matters with Jacobs' who is set forward to raise his Company, the other Jacob's is also wrote to, as well as King Ungas of the Mohigons to raise two other Companys. 

    By a letter from Fort Edward of the 23d. inst. I find a Deserter had been just brought in from Ticonderoga, whom Colonel Haldimand says, confirms the former accots. of the Prisoners. He left the Enemy the 20th whom he says perceived that our party has Examined the Intrenchment, but had not discovered that any Person had been upon the Mountain. That they were in Trouble for a Scout of 30 Indians that had set out from Ticonderoga the second of this Month with 15 days provision, and not returned at the time of his Desertion. That another Party of 60 Indians were to set out from thence the 21st Tho' it's probable this Mans deserting may stop the Party, Colo. Haldimand has nevertheless sent advise of it to the several Posts. I believe the weather is not sufficient to stop all Partys for some time.

    Most of the Regimts. have some men to be recommended to Chelsea who were not in a condition to move when the rest sailed in the Kennington; would you have them collected, and sent down to be ready for the next Man of War or remain here sometime longer? I have ordered Murrays Regimt. to leave theirs behind.

    As the business relating to the Horses of the People of Half Moon concerned the Artillery only, I have employed Captain Martin and Mr. Wilson the Commissary to Examine into it; who have been to Half:Moon for this purpose: They report to me that Corry stirred up the Inhabitants to make these Demands, but that there is money justly due to them. Mr. Wilson knows a good deal of the affair, and says there were as many Horses used in the Artillery Service as set forth in both demands, but that the charge is too high, nothing being deducted for forrage. When Capt. Ord paid the first Demand, he thought he was quite clear of further claims, and no wonder he thought so from Corry's Receipt, Had he taken the trouble to find out the owners of the Horses, instead of Dealing wt. a Lawyer, the People would have been satisfied, and no further trouble given in the affair. I hope to have it settled in a few days.

    Thank you for the List of Promotions, I have no news but what you have heard. Mr. Boscawen & Sir Chas. Hardy not pleased. I am

                                                &c.

                                                        Thos. Gage

His Excy

Genl. Amherst

Works Cited:

"Letterbook of Thomas Gage, Albany, 1759 January 20-1760 May 5." In the digital collection Thomas Gage Papers, 1738-1807. https://quod.lib.umich.edu/g/gage/gage.7001.001. William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. Accessed December 2, 2024.

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2025.

Orders Providing Clothing and to Inspect Uniform Patterns, 1757

This richly detailed oil painting captures a young London clothier during the Seven Years’ War. He sits at a worn wooden table, head bowed in concentration, examining swatches of tartan fabric by candlelight. Clad in his Sunday best with a well-groomed goatee and round spectacles, the man embodies quiet precision. The warm, flickering light casts gentle shadows across his face, illuminating the soft textures of his coat, the wooden grain of the table, and the blooming plant on the window sill. Simple tools hang behind him, completing the tranquil atmosphere of practiced craftsmanship. (Jeffrey Campbell, Measured by Candlelight, 2025)

Did you know? During their deployment in Quebec through 1763, Colonel Fraser’s men of the 78th Regiment of Foot typically received their annual clothing allotment each April—except in 1760, when the shipment was intercepted en route from Halifax by the French frigate Le Machault. Winter clothing (foul weather gear, including moccasins) would have arrived in the fall season before the winter freeze.

 

Inspecting Uniform Patterns

War Office 13th January 1757

Sir,

His Majesty having been pleased to order Two Highland Battallions of Foot, to be forthwith Raised, under the Command of Lt. Col. Montgomery & Lt. Col. Fraser each Battallion to Consist of 40 Serjeants, 40 Corporals, 20 Drummers, and 1000 Effective private Men, besides Commission Officers; And as the Cloathing, & Accoutrements, &c for the said Battallions are to be immediately provided, I am Commanded to Signify to you, It is His Majesty's Pleasure, that you do forthwith Summon a Board of General Officers to Inspect the Patterns which shall be Exhibited, and do every thing else which shall be necessary, that the said Cloathing and Accoutrements &c may be immediately provided.

I am Sir

Your most obedient

humble Servant

Barrington

Copy

Robert Ince Esqr.

Works Cited:

War Office Records: Out Letters: Secretary at War. General Letters, Dec. 1756-Apr. 1757. LAC, W.O. 4, vol. 53 (Selections).

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2024.

Second Highland Battalion Recruiting Efforts

In the soft light of morning, a young colonial woman quietly sews, her careful labor reflecting resilience, duty, and endurance. Her modest surroundings and worn clothing speak to a life shaped by necessity and quiet strength. Recently visited by a recruiting officer, she learns her husband has joined Major James Clephane’s Second Highland Battalion, raised in 1757. This diverse volunteer force—composed of tradesmen and laborers—was assembled for service in North America. Drawn by a mix of obligation and opportunity, these men, including her husband, now face uncertain futures as their civilian skills are called to serve the British Empire abroad.(Jeffrey Campbell, By Candlelight and Thread, 2025)

Early Recruiting Efforts

As recruiting for the newly established Second Highland Battalion began in January 1757, Colonel Simon Fraser, Commanding Officer, informed Lord George Beauclerk, Commander of Scottish forces in North Britain, as to the status of his recruiting efforts. 

The War Office in London authorized funding for 1040 men, and the battalion appears to have met its initial recruiting goal in just about 45 days. The following is a transcribed copy of that correspondence.

Colonel Simon Fraser to Lord George Beauclerk

Copy of a Letter from Lieut. Colonel Fraser,

to Captain Stewart Secry. to the Rgt. Honble. 

Lord George Beauclerk dated, Inverness 

1st March 1757.

Sir,

    I must beg you will acquaint My Lord George Beauclerk that the Battalion which I have the Honour to Command is Compleat. The Returns I found here amounted to 582, what I pick'd up myself at Edinburgh and in the several Countrys I passed through 150, which, with 306 which I got in three Days in the Fraser Country makes the whole number 1038. Rank and File without including some subalterns who have as yet made no returns. As in such a number raised in a hurry there must necessarily be many Exceptionable Men, I have not stopt the Recruiting, but have desired them to be nicer than at first, and I hope to have as many supernumerary as will enable me to Discharge any exceptionable ones.

    I hope My Lord George will Excuse my not sending a Regular Return, which I cannot tale upon me to do till I have seen and approve the Men; and as My Lord has order'd me to march them to Glasgow I'm afraid I shan't be able to make any regular Return till the Regimt. is all there, and that will be some time first, as many of them are in the most remote parts of the Highlands where they have been recruited. I have wrote General Napier the State of the Battalion but have begged his Excuse also for making no Return till I have seen the men.

    In case it should make the officers here remiss, I have not informed any here except General Leighton, that the Regiment is compleat, and I submit to my Lord George if it will be improper to say nothing of it for a week or two, as I have Expectations from two or three Quarters for some fine fellows, which I shan't have unless they think I stand in great need.

    In obedience to Lord Georges Commands I shall march Four Companies for Glasgow next week. 

I am sir &c.

Signed S: Fraser

Works Cited: 

TNA, W.O. 1/974, pp. 365-6.

©  Jeffrey Campbell, Fraser's 78th Regiment of Foot, 2024.