Battle Description

The Battle of Hubbardton was the only Revolutionary War battle fought entirely on Vermont soil. It occurred during the American retreat from Fort Ticonderoga after its evacuation on July 5–6, 1777. The rear guard of the Continental Army, commanded by Colonel Seth Warner, Colonel Ebenezer Francis, and Colonel Nathan Hale (not the spy), paused at Hubbardton to rest.

On July 7, British forces under General Simon Fraser and German troops led by Baron Riedesel caught up with the Americans and launched a surprise attack. The battle was fierce and chaotic, with both sides suffering significant casualties. Despite being forced to retreat, the Americans inflicted enough damage to slow the British pursuit.

Outcome

• Outcome: British tactical victory; American rear guard retreated.
• Casualties:
  • American: ~300 killed, wounded, or captured
  • British/German: ~200 killed or wounded

Significance on the Revolution

Though a tactical defeat, the Battle of Hubbardton allowed the main body of the Continental Army to escape intact and regroup. The stubborn resistance of the American rear guard delayed British momentum and contributed to the eventual failure of General Burgoyne’s campaign. The battle also demonstrated the growing tenacity and discipline of Patriot forces in the face of professional European troops.