American Revolutionary War Journal
A young, unknown New Hampshire militiaman kept this detailed log of his service under Brig. General William Whipple from 1777-1779, before and during the Battle of Rhode Island. It stands today as one of the earliest records of Citizen Soldiery in our nation's history.
Among the oldest and most unique artifacts in our collection, this remarkable firsthand account of military operations during the American Revolution also includes a list of daily expenditures and details on travel, along with musical scores and remembrances of friends and loved ones. This 24-page vintage journal measures four inches by three inches, and is housed in a custom chemise and full morocco clamshell case.
A page from the journal is on display in our permanent exhibit dedicated to the Citizen Soldier.
"Landed on Rhode Island the 9th of August 1778. Landed at Howland’s Ferry at about 5 o’clock in the morning, where we marched up to Butts’ Hill Fort. The enemy left the Fort the day before, a little before sunset, and marched into the town. In 3 or 4 days we marched down to the Lines, within about 3 miles of the Town, where we laid about 8 or 9 days, then retreated to the upper End of the Island where the Enemy followed."
Read the full transcript, courtesy Bauman Rare Books.
At the forefront of the Museum & Library's permanent display dedicated to the Citizen Soldier, this well-preserved soldier's notebook is among the oldest artifacts in our collection.
Best remembered as a signatory of the Declaration of Independence, New Hampshire politician and soldier William Whipple was a member of the Continental Congress and served as commander of the New Hampshire militia during the American Revolution.
The Museum & Library's permanent exhibit dedicated to the Citizen Soldier features artifacts from all eras of Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard history.
The Battle of Rhode Island was fought on August 29, 1778 on Aquidneck Island between U.S. forces under the command of General John Sullivan and their British counterparts. The battle also represented the first military involvement by France, a new American ally.
