John Glover Ferries An Army Across The Delaware
John Glover was in charge to the two most famous water-based events of the Revolutionary War.
John Glover
John Glover was a self-made man.
Rising from a poor family in Massachusetts, this onetime shoemaker became a fisherman, then a shipowner, then a rum trader. By the time the American Revolution began, Glover had established himself as a trusted leader in his community.
John was an early member of the Committee of Correspondence. After the Continental Association was signed, he became an Inspector who was responsible for making sure the boycott on British goods was upheld.
The Amphibious Regiment
A longtime militia member, John Glover was elected as a Colonel during the Siege of Boston. His men became known as the Amphibious Regiment as, like him, they were primarily sailors and fishermen.
Taking note of their aquatic experience, General Washington contracted Glover’s ship, Hannah, to be the first privateer in service of the Continental Army. It can be said that, as the original official vessel selected to work towards the Patriot Cause, Hannah was the first ship in the Continental Navy (though there are several other boats that can also make this claim).
Glover’s men transferred from Massachusetts Militia to Continental Army just before relocating to New York City. After the disastrous Battle of Long Island, the Amphibious Regiment oversaw the night time evacuation of troops to Manhattan..
The Crossing
When it came time to cross the Delaware River for a surprise attack on the enemy, John Glover was the obvious choice to take control.
With orders from General Washington, John’s men piloted the boats which ferried the Continental Army from Pennsylvania to New Jersey.
Unfortunately, Glover was only able to get about half the men across the icy, dangerous water. Still, the Americans were able to take Trenton anyway, giving the Continentals the aforementioned boost in confidence.
Brigadier General
A month later, Glover returned home to care for an ailing wife and personal business. During this time, he was promoted to Brigadier General by the Continental Congress on Washington’s recommendation.
Glover turned this honor down, saying “I Could wish myself Qualified, but when I Consider my owne inabilities, & inexperience, I Cannot think myself in any Degree Capable of doing the duty.”
Washington, not one for being denied, responded by complimenting John’s abilities but scolding him with the response, “Our enemies count upon the resignation of every officer of rank at this time, as a distrust of, and desertion from the cause, and rejoice accordingly.”
Glover promptly returned.
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If you want to learn more about the crossing of the Delaware, check out ‘Washingtons Crossing’.
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