The Battle of Bennington

In the summer of 1777, an invading army under British General Burgoyne threatened to capture Albany and to isolate New England from the other rebellious colonies. Challenged by the logistics of continuing his advance, Burgoyne sent a detachment commanded by Lt. Col. Friedrich Baum to procure supplies in a newly independent Vermont. Expecting little in the way of resistance, Crown Forces instead were delivered a decisive check by General John Stark, who commanded a collection of Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire state militias in two fierce engagements. Victory at Bennington paved the way for victory in the Battles of Saratoga and ultimately in the war itself. Historic Site Assistant David Pitlyk will deliver a presentation on the history of the Battle of Bennington, drawing from contemporary source material and archaeological findings. The presentation will also touch on how the battle has been commemorated and interpreted over time, both in New York and Vermont.

About the Presenter:
David Pitlyk has served as the Historic Site Assistant for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation at Bennington Battlefield since 2015. He previously worked as the Interpretation Coordinator for the Destroyer Escort Historical Museum (USS SLATER) and graduated from The University at Albany with degrees in history and education.

*The Battle of Bennington, August 16, 1777. Oil on canvas, by Alonzo Chappel.