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| This portion of the website features some of the
history of the Cannon Bluff area, which dates back to the American Revolution.
The following is the first in a series of historical accounts of
the Cannon Bluff area.
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Bacon Race History |
September
27, marks the opening of Wolf Run Shoals Road and ford that
crossed the Occoquan River at Wolf Run Shoals on September 27,
1781. The French Expeditionary forces lead by Rochambeau, and
the Revolutionary Forces lead by Washington decided in only
weeks before
strategy for defeat of the English forces, would be to have a
surprise attack at Yorktown, where English troops under
Cornwallis were assembled. Much of the revolutionary forces
under Washington were in New Jersey, where there was a plan to
attack the English in New York City. Rochambeau with the French
Expeditionary forces were mostly camped Rhode Island. Rochambeau
suggested, and Washington eventually agreed to the offensive at
Yorktown. Plans were made to move the troops, with some
remaining in New Jersey to make it appear that the New York
attack was still planned. The troops were to move down a route that roughly follows the present Route 1. There were ferries at Colchester for crossing of the Occoquan River, but these were not adequate for heavy equipment such as supply wagons and cannons. Washington and Rochambeau ordered the Virginia Militia to clear a road and prepare for the crossing of the wagons at Wolf Run. The order was given to Colonel Henry Lee (Lighthorse Harry) on September 10 to prepare the roads and crossings. Lee employed 285 Militia Men (on severe duty) so as to complete the road and crossing for the wagons and cannon to use on September 27, 1781. The rest is history, Cornwallis Surrendered, the English Prime Minister resigned, and soon after the Revolution had been accomplished. Recently the Historical Commission has erected a marker noting this accomplishment at the cul-de-sac, at the end of Wolf Run Shoals. September 27th marks what is probably the most exciting day in local history. Imaging what sights there must have been with the wagons supporting two armies came though our neighborhood for hours on that day, that were used in gaining the Independence of our country. Look for continuation of this series regarding local historic events, places and persons. |