by Steven Elliott
Norman: University of Oklahoma Press, 2021. Pp. x, 238.
Illus., plans, notes, biblio., index. $34.45. ISBN: 0806168587
How the Continental Army Learned to Shelter Itself
Reminding us that the armies of the Revolutionary War spent little time in battle, and much in camp, in this insightful book Dr. Elliott (Rutgers-Newark) discusses how the Continental Army learned to shelter itself.
In contrast to the British army, which had the resources and doctrine to properly encamp its troops, and in addition during all the winters of the war controlled cities (e.g., Boston, Philadelphia, New York, Charleston), while Washington’s army had to make do with improvised camps in rural areas near those cities, in order to keep an eye the Redcoats.
Early in the war, Patriot forces suffered privation, disease, and death while in winter quarters, such as at Valley Forge. But gradually, experience, the study of European military manuals, training by European officers, and – notably after the French alliance – improved supplies of arms, clothing, tenting, and other equipment, Continental officers began to learn how to properly lay out and manage winter quarters, which were essentially mini-cities.
A volume in the excellent Oklahoma Series “Campaigns and Commander”, Surviving the Winters is an essential read for anyone studying the Revolutionary War and for anyone with an interest in Eighteenth century military practice.
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