Peterson, John
John M. McDonald interview — 1845-10-30
John Patterson (1746-1850), an African American soldier of the Revolutionary War, is usually referred to as John Peterson. Peterson discusses his own military service during this interview, and notes that General Philip Van Cortlandt helped secure him a pension. The interview focuses mostly on Mosier’s Fight, which took place in present-day Rye Brook on December 2, 1781. During this skirmish, a force of American militia commanded by Lieutenant William Mosier successfully repulsed attacks by British and Loyalist cavalry. Peterson notes that Mosier was surprised while shaving, and that he himself was recognized by Loyalist officer Samuel Kipp, who had seen him previously while he had been imprisoned in Manhattan.
Manuscript page facsimiles
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Transcription
- Hufeland Index Page 231 -
October 30th. John Patterson born in New Jersey, commonly called Jack Patterson – one of Mosier’s men – nine months Levies – 18 all told – “Holmes fired, and Mosier then bade some of his men to fire – Strang (Sylvanns) killed –Sacket taken prisoner and his brother James Slater Sacket. Daniel Slater, a sergeant, and one Jonas also a sergeant, both deserters from the British Army. They addressed Slater: ‘What are you doing here with the rebels?’ – Mosier made Holmes return his pistol, ‘or, you are a dead man!’ and Holmes then ordered his men to fire. He, Mosier, was by trade a mason, and in stature a short man. I belonged to Van Courtlands and served in the Continental Army three years and then in the Nine Months Levies
- Hufeland Index Page 232 -
Went out with twenty and two were taken prisoners – that is, Sacket and his brother. Christian Voight, one of Mosier’s men – Mosier shaving one half of beard off – retreated through the fields – fight near the road – Mosier and Slater fit to command an army. – (Mosier of descent) Kipp insulted me. ‘There’s another black rascal who has been a prisoner.’ I then left my ranks and bayoneted him which I am was much blamed. I got back to the ranks safe. – I was taken prisoner with Job Sherwood (below Sing Sing) and two others taken at the same time above – One of them Abraham Orser –André took breakfast at John Barratts. – I was under Captain Bell at Saratoga where we were much cut up.
- Hufeland Index Page 233 -
General Van Courtland got me a pension. Mosier carried a musquet and bayonet. We were not encamped but scouting about the country and living in the woods. Mosier harangued and told us not to fire without his orders.