Allen, Samuel
John M. McDonald interview — 1849-11-06
Samuel Allen (b.c.1794) tells a story that he heard from Abraham Hyatt regarding Luther Kennicutt, a double agent who was actually a spy for the Americans. To convince the British of his supposed devotion to their side, Kennicutt stole the horse of American General Alexander McDougall, took the horse behind British lines, and sold it. Because of this action, Kennicutt was able to pass as a trustworthy Loyalist.
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Transcription
- Hufeland Index Page 932 -
Novr. 6th Samuel Allen, of Chappequa: “Abraham Hyatt, an Adjt. in the American army, father of Joseph Hyatt, deceased, of Pinesbridge, told me that Kennicutt stole General McDougall’s horse, took him below and sold him. This was done for the purpose of inducing people to suppose him in the British interest. Abraham Hyatt didn’t hesitate to tell Kennicutt in his (Hyatt’s) house that he was a Skinner. He used to enumerate different instances of robbery perpetrated by Kennicutt, and then say: “You needn’t deny it Kennicutt – You know its true, &c.” – After the capture of McDougall’s horse he generally passed for a cowboy. If any of Captain Isaac Conklin’s family are living they will be able to relate a good many anecdotes of the Revolutionary war and about Westchester County.