The echoing cry attributed to General John Stark – “There are the redcoats and they are ours, or this night Molly Stark sleeps a widow!” – became a pivotal moment in American Revolutionary War history, defying the expectations of many on that fateful August day in 1777. This dramatic historical assertion perfectly encapsulates the high stakes and fierce determination that characterized the Battle of Bennington, an engagement often overshadowed but undeniably crucial.
Indeed, on August 16, 1777, Molly Stark did not become a widow; instead, her husband, General John Stark, masterfully led American forces to repel a determined advance by British and Hessian troops, alongside their Loyalist and indigenous allies. These forces sought vital supplies and munitions in Bennington, a strategic objective near the present-day battle monument. The intensity of this skirmish turned the tide for the nascent colonial forces against a well-equipped enemy.
Historians widely regard the Battle of Bennington as a significant turning point within the broader Revolutionary War. Its outcome severely hampered General John Burgoyne’s campaign, which aimed to split the struggling American colonies by driving south through the Champlain Valley. The victory at Bennington not only inflicted heavy casualties on Burgoyne’s forces but also critically contributed to the subsequent and more widely recognized American triumph at Saratoga, fundamentally altering the course of the revolution.
Bringing this compelling chapter of Vermont history to life, esteemed historian Howard Coffin is slated to deliver a comprehensive talk on the Battle of Bennington. Coffin’s presentation promises to delve deep into the battle’s immediate ramifications for Burgoyne’s efforts and its enduring impact on the overall Revolutionary cause, offering fresh perspectives and detailed analysis for history enthusiasts.
A seventh-generation Vermonter with ancestral ties to the Civil War, Howard Coffin is renowned for his extensive scholarship, particularly his highly regarded books on Vermont’s integral role in the 1861-65 conflict. His lifelong dedication to preserving and interpreting historical events, stemming even from his early days covering the battle’s bicentennial, positions him as an authoritative voice on these pivotal moments in American history.
As the nation anticipates the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary War in 2027, events like Coffin’s talk are vital components of the ongoing commemorations, which commenced with the expedition to Fort Ticonderoga led by Ethan Allen. These historical society events serve to educate and engage the public, ensuring that the sacrifices and triumphs of the colonial period are remembered and understood by new generations.
Sponsored by the Manchester Historical Society, Coffin’s upcoming talk is a highlight within the Manchester Community Library’s programming, part of a larger initiative celebrating the Vermont 250 commemoration. Paige Vignola, the library’s assistant director, emphasized Coffin’s unique ability to merge meticulous research with engaging storytelling, making complex historical narratives accessible and captivating for audiences.
This insightful exploration into the Battle of Bennington will commence at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 9, at the MCL. Those eager to deepen their understanding of this critical event and its enduring legacy in American and Vermont history are encouraged to attend and witness history brought vividly to life by an expert.
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