A firsthand view of a pivotal Revolutionary War moment, told through eye‑witness voices
This nonfiction collection gathers vivid excerpts that describe the September 6, 1781 attack on Groton and New London, led by Benedict Arnold. Through personal narratives, it sheds light on the brave defenders, the harsh experiences of prisoners, and the toll on families and towns.
Two long, connected narratives present artillery works, fort defenses, and the harrowing retreat to Fort Griswold. They reveal daily life under threat, the uncertainties of escape, and the raw courage of those who faced superior forces. The voices also reflect on the broader costs of war and the values that endured afterward.
What you’ll experience
- Eyewitness accounts from soldiers and volunteers at Fort Griswold and surrounding sites.
- Detailed descriptions of fortifications, battles, and the sequence of events on that day.
- Personal reflections on leadership, sacrifice, and the human costs of conflict.
- Contextual passages that connect battles to American ideals and memory.
Ideal for readers of Revolutionary War history, primary accounts, and readers seeking a grounded, human perspective on a defining moment in early American history. This edition offers a thoughtful introduction to the people and places that shaped New London and Groton’s legacy.