New York & New Jersey Campaign > Battle of the Assunpink Creek

Battle of the Assunpink Creek

Background

The Battle of the Assunpink Creek, also known as the Second Battle of Trenton, took place on January 2, 1777, during the American Revolutionary War. This engagement occurred in Trenton, New Jersey, and was part of the campaign that followed General George Washington's victory at the Battle of Trenton on December 26, 1776. The battle resulted in a successful defensive action by the Continental Army, setting the stage for the subsequent American victory at the Battle of Princeton.

Background:

1. Strategic Context:

   • After the surprise victory at Trenton, General George Washington's Continental Army sought to maintain the momentum and secure further successes against the British forces.
   • The British, under General Lord Cornwallis, aimed to retaliate and recapture Trenton. Cornwallis led a force of approximately 8,000 men from Princeton towards Trenton to engage Washington's army.

2. American Forces:

   • Washington's army, numbering around 5,000 men, was positioned in Trenton. Following the victory at Trenton, Washington fortified his position and prepared to defend against the anticipated British counterattack.
   • The Americans fortified the area south of Trenton along Assunpink Creek, a strategic defensive position with natural barriers and prepared fortifications.

The Battle:

1. British Advance:

   • On January 2, 1777, Cornwallis's forces advanced from Princeton towards Trenton. The British encountered American skirmishers along the way, resulting in several minor engagements that delayed their progress.
   • By late afternoon, Cornwallis's main force reached the outskirts of Trenton and launched an attack on the American positions.

2. American Defensive Line:

   • Washington had established a strong defensive line along Assunpink Creek, with bridges and fords heavily guarded. The creek provided a natural defensive barrier, and the American troops were well-positioned behind fortifications.
   • As the British approached, American artillery and musket fire repelled their initial assaults. The British made repeated attempts to cross the creek and dislodge the American defenders.

3. Fierce Fighting:

   • The fighting was intense and lasted for several hours. British troops launched multiple assaults on the American positions, focusing on key crossing points along the creek.
   • Each British attack was met with determined resistance from the American defenders, who utilized their fortified positions and artillery to inflict heavy casualties on the attackers.

4. Nightfall and British Withdrawal:

   • As night fell, the British were unable to break through the American defenses. Cornwallis decided to halt the attacks and planned to renew the assault the following morning.
   • The British withdrew to a nearby position to rest and regroup, giving Washington a critical opportunity to act.

Aftermath and Impact:

1. Casualties:

   • American casualties were relatively light, with estimates of around 20 to 30 killed and wounded. British casualties were higher, with several hundred killed, wounded, or captured, reflecting the heavy fighting and determined American defense.

2. Washington's Decision:

   • During the night, Washington held a council of war and decided to execute a bold maneuver to avoid a renewed British attack and take the initiative. He planned a surprise march to Princeton, aiming to attack the British garrison there.
   • The American forces quietly withdrew from their positions along Assunpink Creek, leaving behind campfires to deceive the British into believing they were still in place.

3. Strategic Consequences:

   • The successful defense at Assunpink Creek delayed Cornwallis and prevented him from advancing further, allowing Washington to carry out his plan to attack Princeton.
   • The subsequent Battle of Princeton on January 3, 1777, resulted in another significant American victory, further boosting morale and securing strategic advantages in New Jersey.

Significance:

• Defensive Success: The Battle of the Assunpink Creek demonstrated the Continental Army's ability to conduct effective defensive operations against a larger and better-equipped British force. The defense was crucial in delaying the British advance and setting the stage for further American successes.
• Washington's Leadership: Washington's leadership and strategic decision-making were key factors in the battle's outcome. His ability to inspire his troops and make bold decisions under pressure contributed to the successful defense and the subsequent victory at Princeton.
• Boost to Morale: The successful defense at Assunpink Creek and the subsequent victory at Princeton provided a significant boost to American morale, encouraging re-enlistments and new recruits to join the Continental Army.
• Turning Point: The battles of Trenton, Assunpink Creek, and Princeton marked a turning point in the Revolutionary War, demonstrating the resilience and capability of the Continental Army and revitalizing the American cause.

The Battle of the Assunpink Creek, though often overshadowed by the battles of Trenton and Princeton, was a critical engagement that showcased the strategic acumen of the American leadership and the determination of the Continental Army. It played a key role in the broader campaign that helped to sustain the American Revolution during a pivotal period.

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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