The whole army moved
in three divisions toward the enemy, who were strongly posted at York, about twelve
miles distant. Their pickets and light troops retire. We encamped about three
miles off — change ground and take a position within one mile of York; rising
ground (covered with tall handsome pines) called Pigeon Hill, separates us from
a view of the town. Enemy keep possession of Pigeon Hill. York on a high, sandy
plain, on a deep navigable river of same name. Americans on the right; French
on the left, extending on both sides of the river; preparations for a siege.
One-third of the army on fatigue every day, engaged in various duties, making
gabions, fascines, saucissons, &c., and great exertions and labor in
getting on the heavy artillery. Strong covering parties (whole regiments) moved
from camp as soon as dark, and lay all night upon their arms between us and the
enemy. Our regiment, when on this duty, were under cover, and secured from the
shot by Pigeon Hill; now and then a heavy shot from the enemy's works reached
our camp. Our patrols, and those of the British, met occasionally in the dark,
sometimes a few shot were exchanged—would generally retire. Colonel Schamel,
adjutant-general to the army, with two or three attendants, on a party of
observation, ventured rather close; they were seen and intercepted by a few
smart horsemen from the British. Schamel forced his way through, and got back
to camp, but received a wound, of which he died next day. His death was
lamented, and noticed by the Commander-in-chief in his orders. Possession taken
of Pigeon Hill, and temporary work erected. Generals and engineers, in viewing
and surveying the ground, are always fired upon and sometimes pursued. Escorts
and covering parties stationed at convenient distances under cover of wood,
rising ground, &c., afford support. This business reminds me of a play
among the boys, called Prison-base. At length, everything in readiness, a
division of the army broke ground on the night of the 6th of October, and
opened the first parallel about six hundred yards from the works of the enemy.
Every exertion to annoy our men, who were necessarily obliged to be exposed
about the works; however, the business went on, and on the 9th our cannon and
mortars began to play. The scene viewed from the camp now was grand,
particularly after dark — a number of shells from the works of both parties passing
high in the air, and descending in a curve, each with a long train of fire,
exhibited a brilliant spectacle. Troops in three divisions manned the lines
alternately. We were two nights in camp and one in the lines; relieved about
ten o'clock. Passed and repassed by a covert way leading to the parallel.
SOURCE: J. B.
Lippincott & Co., Publisher, The Record of the Court at Upland, in
Pennsylvania. 1676 to 1681. And a Military Journal Kept by Major E. Denny, 1781
to 1795, p. 244-5
