Yorktown Campaign > Skirmish at Water's Creek

Skirmish at Water's Creek

Background

The Skirmish at Waters Creek, also known as the Battle of Great Bridge, occurred on December 9, 1775, in the early stages of the American Revolutionary War. This engagement took place near Great Bridge, Virginia, and was a decisive conflict between the Virginia militia and British forces. The skirmish was significant in securing the colony of Virginia for the American cause and demonstrated the growing effectiveness of the colonial militias.

Background:

• Strategic Importance: The Great Bridge was a critical point on the road to Norfolk, Virginia, a major port and strategic location. Control of this bridge was essential for both British and American forces.
• British Objectives: British Governor Lord Dunmore sought to maintain control over Virginia and suppress the growing rebellion. He fortified a position at Great Bridge to control access and prevent rebel forces from advancing.
• American Objectives: The Virginia militia, under the command of Colonel William Woodford, aimed to dislodge the British forces from their fortified position and open the route to Norfolk.

The Skirmish:

1. British Fortifications:

   • The British forces, numbering around 600 troops, fortified a position on the north side of the Elizabeth River near Great Bridge. They constructed earthworks and blockades to defend the bridge.

2. American Strategy:

   • Colonel Woodford and his militia, numbering about 900, camped on the south side of the bridge. They planned a surprise attack to overrun the British defenses and gain control of the bridge.

3. The Battle:

   • On the morning of December 9, 1775, the American forces launched their attack. The British forces, under the command of Captain Samuel Leslie, were initially unaware of the strength and position of the American militia.
   • The American troops advanced across the causeway and engaged the British forces. Despite being outnumbered, the British put up a strong defense but were ultimately overwhelmed by the determined American assault.

4. Outcome:

   • The skirmish resulted in a decisive victory for the American forces. British casualties included several killed, wounded, and captured, while American losses were minimal.
   • The victory at Great Bridge forced Governor Dunmore and the British troops to retreat to Norfolk, abandoning their fortified position.

Aftermath and Significance:

• Strategic Victory: The American victory at Great Bridge secured the southern route to Norfolk, allowing the Continental Army to exert greater control over Virginia.
• Boost to Morale: The successful engagement boosted the morale of the American forces and demonstrated the capability of the colonial militias to defeat British regulars in battle.
• British Retreat: The British retreat from Great Bridge marked a significant turning point in the struggle for control of Virginia. It ultimately led to the abandonment of Norfolk by British forces and their naval bombardment of the city in January 1776.

The Skirmish at Waters Creek, though relatively small in scale, was a pivotal early victory for the American forces in the Revolutionary War. It helped solidify support for the revolutionary cause in Virginia and set the stage for further American successes in the conflict.

Yorktown Campaign Battles

• Battle of Blandford
• Battle of Cape Henry
• Battle of Green Spring
• Battle of Spencer's Ordinary
• Battle of the Chesapeake
• Francisco's Fight
• Raid on Richmond
• Siege of Yorktown
• Skirmish at Waters Creek

Sources

Primary Sources

Secondary Sources