Accused of Backwardness - James Scamman's Bunker Hill Court Martial
James Scamman led Patriot forced at the Battle of Bunker Hill and was thanked for his efforts by receiving a court martial.
James Scamman
In the aftermath of the Battle of Lexington and Concord, the colonies of New England scrambled to increase the number of militiamen in preparation for a fight.
Maine, then a part of Massachusetts, was no different.
Several units were assembled, including the 30th Regiment of Foot.
At its head was placed James Scamman.
Lechmere’s Point
Scamman took control of his men and headed south.
He arrived in time for the Battle of Bunker Hill, but things were pretty chaotic.
James brought his men to Lechmere’s Point in an effort to prevent the enemy from taking the shore.
Soon, John Whitcomb arrived and gave Scamman further instructions, but here the story becomes a bit unclear…
Hearsay
After Bunker Hill, Scamman would be given a court martial, with Whitcomb acting as the star witness for the prosecution.
According to Whitcomb, at Lechmere’s Point he instructed Scamman to go “where he could do the most service.”
James seems to have heard (as his men would also later testify) Whitcomb order him to a nearby hill. This is where he led his men.
Bunker Hill
After realizing there was little to do on this hill (which was about a mile from the fighting), Scamman sent some scouts to see if his help was needed elsewhere. He waited a brief time but when the scouts failed to return he decided to act.
James led his men to Bunker Hill, but it was too late. The Patriots were already retreating.
After a quick attempt to join the fight, Scamman also retreated.
Court Martial
About a month later, George Washington had taken over the Continental Army.
Scamman was accused of “Backwardness in the execution of his duty” and given the aforementioned court martial.
The verdict went in his favor, finding James not guilty of any wrongdoing.
Scamman would continue with the Continental Army through the end of the year, resigning his command at the end of 1775.
If you enjoyed this article, you might like these others which involve VERY OBSCURE FOUNDERS:
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