New York & New Jersey Campaign > Battle of Fort Lee

Battle of Fort Lee

Background

The Battle of Fort Lee, also known as the fall of Fort Lee, took place on November 20, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War. This engagement was part of the larger New York and New Jersey campaign, and it followed the British capture of Fort Washington. The battle resulted in the American evacuation of Fort Lee and a British victory, forcing the Continental Army into a retreat across New Jersey.

Background:

1. Strategic Context:

   • After the British captured New York City in the summer of 1776, General George Washington positioned American forces to defend the Hudson River. Fort Washington on the New York side and Fort Lee on the New Jersey side were crucial for controlling river access and communication.
   • The fall of Fort Washington on November 16, 1776, dealt a significant blow to the Continental Army. General William Howe, the British commander, then turned his attention to Fort Lee, aiming to clear the Hudson River of American defenses and push Washington's forces further back.

2. American Forces:

   • Fort Lee, commanded by General Nathanael Greene, was garrisoned by approximately 2,000 Continental Army soldiers. The fort's position on high ground provided strategic advantage points, but it was vulnerable due to its proximity to British forces.

3. British Forces:

   • General Howe planned a coordinated assault to capture Fort Lee. He deployed a force of around 5,000 men, including British regulars and Hessian mercenaries, led by Lord Charles Cornwallis. They aimed to surprise and overwhelm the American defenders.

The Battle:

1. British Advance:

   • On the night of November 19-20, 1776, Cornwallis's forces crossed the Hudson River at Lower Closter Landing (now Alpine, New Jersey), aiming to advance rapidly and trap the American forces at Fort Lee.
   • The British moved swiftly, utilizing a less-guarded route and managing to avoid detection until they were near the fort.

2. American Evacuation:

   • Early on November 20, American sentries detected the advancing British forces. Recognizing the imminent threat, General Greene and Washington decided to evacuate Fort Lee to avoid capture and preserve their troops.
   • The Americans conducted a hasty but organized retreat, abandoning artillery, supplies, and equipment in their rush to escape. The retreat moved westward across the Hackensack River and then southward.

3. Capture of Fort Lee:

   • The British forces entered Fort Lee with little resistance, capturing the fort and the valuable supplies left behind by the Americans. The capture was a significant logistical gain for the British, who secured a substantial amount of cannon, ammunition, and provisions.

Aftermath and Impact:

1. Casualties:

   • The battle resulted in minimal casualties due to the American decision to evacuate rather than engage in a prolonged defense. A few American soldiers were captured, but most of the garrison escaped.

2. Strategic Consequences:

   • The loss of Fort Lee forced Washington's army into a retreat across New Jersey, marking the beginning of the famous "Ten Crucial Days" that included the battles of Trenton and Princeton.
   • The British pursuit added pressure on the Continental Army, but Washington managed to maintain his force's cohesion and morale during the retreat.

3. Impact on American Morale:

   • The fall of Fort Lee, following the loss of Fort Washington, was a severe blow to American morale. It highlighted the challenges faced by the Continental Army in defending fixed positions against a well-equipped and professional British force.
   • Despite these setbacks, the successful retreat demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of Washington and his commanders, setting the stage for future victories.

Significance:

• Tactical Withdrawal: The Battle of Fort Lee exemplifies a successful tactical withdrawal in the face of superior enemy forces. Washington's decision to evacuate preserved his army for future engagements.
• Logistical Impact: The loss of supplies at Fort Lee was a logistical setback for the Americans but underscored the importance of mobility and the ability to adapt to changing battlefield conditions.
• Prelude to Future Victories: The retreat from Fort Lee and the subsequent maneuvering across New Jersey allowed Washington to regroup and strike back at the British with surprise victories at Trenton and Princeton, which were pivotal in revitalizing the American war effort.

The Battle of Fort Lee, while a tactical defeat, showcased the strategic acumen of American leadership and the resilience of the Continental Army, laying the groundwork for future successes in the Revolutionary War.

New York & New Jersey Campaign Battles

• Ambush of Geary
• Battle of Fort Lee
• Fort Washington
• Battle of Harlem Heights
• Battle of Iron Works Hill
• Battle of Long Island
• Battle of Millstone
• Battle of Pell's Point
• Battle of Princeton
• Battle of the Assunpink Creek
• Battle of Trenton
• Battle of White Plains
• Crossing the Delaware River
• Forage War
• Great Fire of New York
• Landing at Kips Bay
• Staten Island Peace Conference

Sources

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