In 1778 there had been very few American victories to raise the spirit of the Patriot cause. One bright spot was the American successes at sea. Privateers had become a serious threat to British shipping, and operated with impunity from the many hidden coves along the New Jersey coast. One notorious base was at Chestnut Neck, located at the mouth of the Mullica River in southern New Jersey.  Just a few miles up river were the iron works at Batsto, which had operated freely for three years, supplying both the Army and Navy with much needed ironware and munitions.

     British headquarters in New York City finally decided to act, and sent an amphibious raiding party of over 400 Redcoats and Loyalists to destroy both Chestnut Neck and Batsto. On October 6th, seven British warships sailed up the Mullica River, and surprised the privateers based there.  The town was burned to the ground, and troops landed to begin their march through the pine forest to Batsto.  Unknown to them, a detachment of Continental Army infantry, cavalry, artillery, and local militia awaited their arrival ...

The unit just keeps growing ... three new members (with families) at this event

The NEW 'Old' 11th Pennsylvania Regt.

Marge works the inkle loom as Steven looks on

Jerry prepares mortar charges

David and Rex prepare the mortar

David is ready to take on the Loyalists and Redcoats

The fife corp. just keeps growing

The ladies were driven out of the town by the enemy

The 11th advances beyond the other forces

Kristy and James (photo by Charles)

Donah celebrates her 29th birthday (AGAIN!)

Gene is the man with the refreshments

Laura and her Mom had a bang up time