Bushy Run Blog 7: Chief Pontiac and Pontiac’s Rebellion
Upon discovering the Americas, Christopher Columbus encountered a peaceful and diverse race of people— the Native Americans. Evidence suggests that Native Americans arrived in America over 30,000 years ago, during the Ice Age, likely from Asia. They initially lived as mound builders and hunter-gatherers before transitioning to village life or tribal communities. By 1500, their influence had spread across the continent, leading to diverse ways of life shaped by the varied landscapes and climates. Prior to European arrival, Native Americans held stewardship of the land, valuing and respecting its every aspect. Out of all the Native Americans, arguably the most well-known is Chief Pontiac. Chief Pontiac, one of the most renowned Native Americans, gained fame for leading an uprising against the Europeans in 1763.
Chief Pontiac, an Ottawa war chief, was born around 1720 on the Maumee River in present-day Ohio. Originally named Obwandiyag, the English called him Pontiac. As chief of the Ottawa tribe, this tall Native American man, adorned with tattoos, led one of the most successful resistance efforts against the British in North American history in 1763. Although little is known about Pontiac’s early life, by 1755, he had risen to become the chief of a confederacy comprising the Ottawa, Potawatomi, and Ojibwa tribes. After assuming the mantle of war chief, he adopted the religious teachings of Neolin, a prophet among the Delaware tribe. Neolin urged his followers to reject all English goods and customs. Inspired by Neolin’s message, Pontiac and other Native American leaders encouraged tribes to rebel against the British. The resulting conflict, Pontiac’s Rebellion, began in May of 1763.
After gathering enough tribes to support his mission, Pontiac elected to try to capture Fort Detroit himself, and it is for this military action that he is mainly remembered. In May of 1763, Pontiac and his men started laying siege on Fort Detroit, and on July 31, 1763, Pontiac and his men won a significant victory at the Battle of Bloody Run. Despite this victory by Pontiac at Bloody Run, the besieged fort was never able to receive Native American reinforcements, and on October 30, 1763, Pontiac decided to retreat to the Maumee River. Even though Pontiac and fellow Native Americans were forced to retreat, Pontiac’s plan was still thriving. The Native American tribes that fought in Pontiac’s Rebellion attacked twelve British forts, and all but four of these forts had been captured and ransacked.
By 1764, the British, who were continuing military actions against the Native Americans, began to gain the upper hand against the Native American tribes involved. Following many defeats, the Native Americans ended up losing the war. In 1766, Pontiac finally agreed to a peace treaty, officially ending Pontiac’s Rebellion. After the war ended, Pontiac was bitterly resented and was even exiled from his own village. After exiting his village, Pontiac traveled to the St. Louis region. Three years after the war officially ended, while visiting the area of Illinois, by the most common account, the former war chief went out shopping and was clubbed, then stabbed from behind by a young Peoria, a nephew of the Native American known as Black Dog. After Pontiac was murdered, his body was taken to an unknown location, most likely near his home village in St. Louis. Still, to this day, the location of Chief Pontiac is unknown, and it may be a mystery for the rest of eternity.
Pontiac’s Rebellion is still important in the world today because it marked a significant moment in the 18th-century history of North America. It was a Native American uprising against British rule following the French and Indian War. The rebellion demonstrated the ongoing tensions between Native American tribes and European colonists, and it ultimately led to shifts in British policies and practices in dealing with indigenous peoples. Additionally, Pontiac’s Rebellion influenced future relations between Native Americans and European settlers, making it a critical event in understanding the early colonial history of the United States. In conclusion, Chief Pontiac’s legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and strategic diplomacy. His efforts during Pontiac’s Rebellion and his role in advocating for the rights of Native American tribes have left a lasting impact on the history of North America. Pontiac’s ability to unite various indigenous groups and effectively challenge European colonial powers highlights his significance as a key figure in the struggle for indigenous autonomy and sovereignty. His legacy continues to inspire discussions about the complexities of early colonial relations and the ongoing importance of recognizing and respecting the rights of indigenous peoples.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Blog 6: General John Forbes and the Birth of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a stunning city nestled in the southwestern part of the state where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet. Renowned for its prestigious sports teams, rich historical sites, expansive parks, and picturesque valleys, Pittsburgh is also famous for its 446 bridges, ranking second in the world for the most bridges in a city. Once an industrial hub, Pittsburgh’s origins lie in a different era before it evolved into the sprawling urban landscape it is today.
The area of Pittsburgh was initially home to the Algonquian and Iroquoian-speaking peoples. However, their presence was altered in 1758 when British Brigadier General John Forbes orchestrated a successful campaign to defeat the French at Fort Duquesne in present-day Pittsburgh. In recognition of this victory, the fort was rechristened as Fort Pitt, honoring British Prime Minister William Pitt. This renaming also marked the beginnings of the surrounding area as Pittsburgh. To this day, Pittsburgh pays homage to General John Forbes through numerous landmarks and places that bear his name, immortalizing his impactful legacy in the region.
Brigadier General John Forbes was born on September 5, 1707, in Scotland into a well-connected yet low-income family. Despite his humble beginnings, Forbes developed a passion for medicine and obtained a medical degree. Although he practiced medicine for seven years, his calling led him to embark on a military career. During that era, purchasing military rank was customary, and Forbes had to borrow funds from acquaintances to pursue his military aspirations.
Commencing as an Army Surgeon, he steadily rose through the ranks through unwavering diligence. Eventually, Forbes earned the esteemed rank of army general. Following his promotion, he was assigned the monumental task of constructing a new road spanning three hundred miles, now famously known as Forbes Road. This road, a testament to Forbes’s strategic vision and leadership, was to be built as an improved road of an older trading path that was previously there. Forbes Road had to follow the Native American hunting and trading routes closely, and this task was not very easy to accomplish. General Forbes had his troops construct the road connecting Philadelphia to Pittsburgh during the journey. The road that John Forbes and his men had to create was essential for the British as only Braddock’s road, and Forbes Road would be the two land routes for the British to cut through the mid-Atlantic. Forbes road had cut through the Appalachian Mountains, making the construction of this road very difficult. Throughout the challenging endeavor, Forbes fell ill but fostered alliances with Native Americans, who provided invaluable assistance. En route, Forbes and his units erected Fort Ligonier and Raystown Fort, crucial supply depots for the army. All in all, the construction of Forbes Road took John Forbes and his men a grueling one hundred and twenty-two days to complete. Following the completion of Forbes Road, Forbes’s health had markedly deteriorated.
Upon arriving in Pittsburgh and successfully defeating the French, John Forbes sadly succumbed to the illnesses he had endured during his challenging campaign. Forbes’s remarkable logistics, strategy, and bravery achievements were commemorated on an oak tree along Penn Avenue in present-day Pittsburgh for many years. Although the tree was later felled in 1907, Forbes’s legacy continues to be revered in Pittsburgh. Following the American Civil War, Pittsburgh experienced a dramatic surge in population due to the influx of European immigrants. By 1900, the city’s population had reached 321,616. This growth persisted as the city made significant economic progress. Today, Pittsburgh is home to over three hundred thousand people, a testament to the enduring impact of John Forbes’s remarkable achievements.
As one explores the vibrant city of Pittsburgh, the pervasive influence of Brigadier General John Forbes becomes evident at every turn. From the iconic Forbes Field to the renowned Forbes Hospital, his name resonates throughout the city, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy and profound impact. The next time you stroll through Pittsburgh, take a moment to reflect on General John Forbes’s life and his grueling task on the Forbes Road. His enduring legacy is a constant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on a city’s history and development. Without Brigadier General John Forbes, Pittsburgh would not be what it is today.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Blog 5: Lacrosse
The sport of lacrosse can be traced back to 1100 AD when the Haudenosaunee people, also known as the Iroquois, originated the game in what is now the state of New York. Lacrosse holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Haudenosaunee as they were the original players of the game, having played it for centuries. To them, lacrosse embodies far more than just a sport. Its global evolution has significantly influenced the cultural identity and traditions of Indigenous peoples.
Originally, lacrosse served as a means for the Haudenosaunee to connect with their Creator and the natural world. It was viewed as a gift from the Creator, designed to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The game was seen as a pathway to establish a connection with spiritual entities and to express gratitude for the Creator’s blessings. According to oral traditions passed down through generations, the first game of lacrosse was played by birds and mammals before being taught to the people as a form of medicine. This rich history underscores the profound spiritual and cultural significance of lacrosse for the Haudenosaunee and Indigenous communities worldwide.
The sport of lacrosse has undergone significant evolution since its inception with the Haudenosaunee ancestors. Early matches involved anywhere from one hundred to one thousand players, each using a small wooden stick, sometimes fitted with a net basket, and played with a ball crafted from deer hide. The absence of boundary lines allowed the game to sprawl across vast expanses, at times enduring for several days. Traditional lacrosse sticks were crafted by hand using various natural materials. The frame of the stick was usually made from hickory, ash, or other types of sturdy wood, with the netting consisting of rawhide of sinew.
In 1600, French missionaries were introduced to the Native American version of lacrosse for the first time. They noted that the game earned the name “lacrosse” due to the sticks’ resemblance to the bishop’s cross during religious ceremonies. As more Europeans observed lacrosse games, they introduced additional rules to make the game more accessible. Lacrosse ultimately gained official recognition in 1859 and was presented before Queen Victoria, who found it “very pretty to watch” and commended the energy of the game with the considerable amount of running involved. Consequently, lacrosse saw a marked surge in popularity as an official sport.
Lacrosse, originally a game and a means for conflict resolution among Native American communities, served as a nonviolent method for resolving disputes. The victorious group in a lacrosse game was considered the winner of the conflict. This practice exemplified the Native American people’s belief in the transformative and healing powers inherent in the game of lacrosse. Despite the game’s evolution over the years, the Haudenosaunee ancestors have preserved traditional values within the modernized version of lacrosse. Overall, lacrosse carries profound spiritual and cultural significance for Native Americans. As the game continues to evolve, Native American communities endeavor to uphold their cultural traditions while perpetuating cultural understanding and respect, all while safeguarding the sacred elements of this centuries-old game.
In the world today, the Haudenosaunee peoples are finally getting the attention they deserve in the world of lacrosse. Recognizing the Haudenosaunee people in the early 1980’s the Haudenosaunee were given their own national lacrosse team. Chief Oren Lyons founded the “Iroquois Nationals” after having a hall of fame career of his own. Now the “Iroquois National” team has the proper name of the Haudenosaunee National Team, after years of debate occurred around the name “Iroquois.” Today the Haudenosaunee National Team has many supporters from all around the world, and in 2028 at the Summer Olympics when lacrosse will make its debut as a sport in the Olympics, it looks promising that the Haudenosaunee National Team will be there, but the decision ultimately still comes down to the International Olympic Committee.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Battlefield Blog 4: Henry Bouquet
Henry Bouquet was born in Rolle, Switzerland, in 1719. A member of a prominent family, Bouquet began his military career at age 17 as a cadet in a Swiss regiment in the army of the Dutch Republic. Promoted to lieutenant during the War of Austrian Succession, the young Swiss soldier caught the eye of William IV, Prince of Orange and head of the Dutch Republic. The prince appointed Bouquet as lieutenant colonel of the Swiss Guards at The Hague.
While serving at The Hague in the United Provinces, Bouquet expanded his knowledge of mathematics and the sciences and polished his social skills. His intellectual and cultural interests eventually led to friendships with Benjamin Franklin and other notable social and philosophical figures in the American colonies.
Henry Bouquet was a distinguished military figure born in Rolle, Switzerland, in 1719. At the tender age of 17, he embarked on his military journey as a cadet in a Swiss regiment serving in the army of the Dutch Republic. His exceptional abilities and dedication to duty saw him rise through the ranks, ultimately earning the promotion to lieutenant during the War of Austrian Succession.
Notably, his outstanding performance caught the attention of William IV, Prince of Orange and the head of the Dutch Republic, who bestowed upon him the esteemed position of lieutenant colonel of the Swiss Guards at The Hague.
While stationed at The Hague in the United Provinces, Bouquet’s voracious appetite for knowledge led him to immerse himself in mathematics and the sciences, simultaneously honing his social graces. His intellectual pursuits and cultural endeavors widened his understanding and forged lasting friendships with eminent personalities like Benjamin Franklin and other distinguished figures within the social and intellectual spheres of the American colonies.
After the English suffered a significant defeat in 1755, the British government strengthened its military presence in America by recruiting German and Swiss settlers in New York, Pennsylvania, and the Carolinas to form the 60th (Royal American) Regiment of Foot. Sir Joseph York, the British Ambassador to The Hague, recommended Henry Bouquet to serve as one of the officers. Bouquet accepted a commission as a lieutenant colonel in the British army and sailed for North America in 1756.
After spending over a year recruiting for the Royal American Regiment, Bouquet was appointed second-in-command to Brigadier General John Forbes during his campaign against Fort Duquesne in 1758. Due to Forbes’ poor health, Bouquet had to take on the campaign’s responsibilities, including constructing the road that now bears Forbes’ name. The campaign ended in November 1758, with the French destroying and evacuating Fort Duquesne and the British gaining control of the fort. Bouquet stayed in western Pennsylvania for the remainder of the war to ensure British military power.
In 1763, after the end of the French and Indian War, Bouquet was tasked with reaching Fort Pitt and providing much-needed men and supplies. However, on the way to Fort Pitt, his forces encountered Native American groups at Bushy Run, near present-day Jeannette, Pennsylvania.
On August 5 and 6, 1763, Bouquet and his troops fought a two-day battle near Bushy Run Creek, 25 miles from Fort Pitt. The battle resulted in a significant British victory as Bouquet, using his skills and knowledge as a Colonel, defeated the Native Americans. Following this, Bouquet reached and aided Fort Pitt.
Bouquet was promoted to brigadier general after the Battle of Bushy Run and successfully supported Fort Pitt. Sadly, he passed away on September 2, 1765, due to yellow fever contracted while traveling to Pensacola, Florida.
The French and Indian War, also known as the Seven Years’ War, ensued as General Edward Braddock faced a significant defeat in 1755. The British government devised plans to reinforce its military presence in America in response. To this end, they recruited German and Swiss settlers in New York, Pennsylvania, and the Carolinas, establishing the 60th (Royal American) Regiment of Foot. Sir Joseph York, the British Ambassador to The Hague, advocated for the appointment of Henry Bouquet as one of the officers. Embracing this opportunity, Bouquet accepted a lieutenant colonel’s commission in the British army and commenced his journey to North America in 1756.
Following extensive recruitment activities for the Royal American Regiment, Bouquet assumed the role of second-in-command to Brigadier General John Forbes in the 1758 campaign against Fort Duquesne. Owing to Forbes’ declining health, Bouquet bore the campaign’s responsibilities, including constructing the eponymous road. The campaign culminated in November 1758 with the destruction and evacuation of Fort Duquesne by the French and the subsequent British occupation of the fort. Bouquet remained stationed in western Pennsylvania for the remainder of the war to ensure continued British military control of the region.
In 1763, after the closure of the French and Indian War, Bouquet received the crucial assignment of leading a mission to Fort Pitt to provide essential reinforcement and supplies. However, en route to Fort Pitt, Bouquet and his forces encountered Native American groups at Bushy Run in present-day Jeannette, Pennsylvania.
On August 5 and 6, 1763, Bouquet and his troops engaged the Native Americans in a two-day engagement in the densely wooded environs near Bushy Run Creek, 25 miles from Fort Pitt. The result was a resounding victory for the British forces, attributed to Bouquet’s strategic acumen and military expertise. After the Battle of Bushy Run, Bouquet successfully reached and supported Fort Pitt.
Following these valorous endeavors, Bouquet was promoted to brigadier general. Tragically, his passing occurred on September 2, 1765, as a consequence of contracting yellow fever during his travels to Pensacola, Florida.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Battlefield Blog 3: The Importance of the Battle of Bushy Run
During the events of August 6th, 1763, a significant turning point was witnessed in the conflict between British troops and Native American forces during Pontiac’s Rebellion. This pivotal moment unfolded at the Battle of Bushy Run, where the leadership of Henry Bouquet played a decisive role in securing a strategic triumph for the British forces. Bouquet’s adept command and tactical acumen notably influenced the course of the battle, particularly on the second day. Positioned at the apex of Edge Hill at Bushy Run, Bouquet orchestrated a calculated retreat, inducing the Native American forces to pursue the seemingly withdrawing British troops. This stratagem allowed the British forces to regroup and encircle the Native American warriors, subjecting them to sustained musket fire. Bouquet’s sagacious maneuvers ultimately resulted in the defeat of the Native Americans at Bushy Run. Subsequent to their victory, Henry Bouquet and his contingent advanced to Fort Pitt to furnish the fort with aid and provisions.
After Henry Bouquet and the British secured a decisive victory at the Battle of Bushy Run, the Native American tribes never managed to regain their status as independent sovereign nations. This pivotal clash, occurring during Pontiac’s Rebellion, marked the last major planned Native American assault of the conflict. Had the outcome of the Battle of Bushy Run been different, the course of history could have been significantly altered.
Renowned frontier historian Francis Parkman labeled the Battle of Bushy Run as “one of the best-contested actions ever fought between white men and Indians.” The strategic implications of this engagement were immense, shaping the dynamics between the Native American tribes and the British forces.
Following their victory at Bushy Run, Bouquet and his men provided vital assistance to Fort Pitt by delivering much-needed supplies. However, it is essential to note that had the Native Americans emerged triumphant at Bushy Run, Fort Pitt would have been vulnerable to being besieged, potentially tilting the balance of power in favor of the Native Americans in their struggle against the British.
Before the Battle of Bushy Run in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, the communication line between the frontier and eastern settlements in America had been severed due to Native American control of the region. However, following the British victory at Bushy Run, led by Colonel Bouquet and his troops, the communication lines were restored. This triumph not only marked a significant turning point but also granted the British control over the land, enabling seamless communication between the frontier of America and the easternmost settlements. Bouquet’s victory on August 6th, 1763, held immense strategic importance as it ensured that the “gateway to western expansion” remained open for the British in America.
The defeat at Bushy Run resulted in the relief of Fort Pitt. The following year, Bouquet traveled to Illinois and negotiated a settlement with Indian leaders there. The defeat at Bushy Run likely prevented the success of Pontiac and Neolin. The failure of Pontiac and Neolin to achieve Native goals would lead to more Anglo-American settlement in the modern Midwest. Though other issues were also at play, the efforts put forth by Native warriors would influence the British decision to issue the Proclamation of 1763, and as a result, attempt to limit westward expansion. Pontiac’s War and Bushy Run set the stage for future Indian-Anglo conflicts and European-American conflicts.
The Battle of Bushy Run holds immense historical significance, as it not only influenced the outcome of Pontiac’s Rebellion but also helped to shape the contemporary world.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Battlefield Blog 2: Pontiac’s Rebellion
The Origins:
In the spring of 1763, following the conclusion of the French and Indian War, the peace established by the Treaty of Paris was disrupted by a significant event known as Pontiac’s Rebellion or Pontiac’s War. This uprising was a response to the aftermath of the British victory in the war. In 1763, the governor-general in North America decided to halt trading with the Native Americans. This action created a sense of betrayal among the Native American tribes and was perceived as severing any potential future alliances between the two groups. Governor General Jeffery Amherst’s disdainful remark about the Native Americans as “the vilest race of beings that ever infested the Earth” added further fuel to the already brewing tensions.
Around the same time, a pivotal religious figure among the Native Americans, Neolin, experienced a profound vision. In this significant vision, Neolin conversed with the Master of Life, who emphasized the importance of rejecting colonial societies and returning to the traditional native way of living. This spiritual message had a profound impact on an Ottawa chief, Pontiac. Inspired by Neolin’s vision, Pontiac took a momentous step and formed a Native American coalition, joining forces with nearby tribes in a united front against the encroaching British authority.
Pontiac Begins his Siege:
In the second week of May 1763, Pontiac, an Ottawa war chief, spearheaded a coalition of Native American warriors in a series of synchronized sieges against the British forts in the Ohio River Valley. This offensive included Pontiac’s siege of Fort Detroit, along with coordinated attacks by other warrior groups that extended into Western Pennsylvania, reaching beyond the Alleghenies.
The initial phase of these assaults yielded considerable success for the Native American warriors, inflicting substantial casualties on the British forces and putting General Jeffrey Amherst on the defensive. Pontiac’s forces’ coordinated tactics posed a formidable challenge to the British presence in the region.
However, as the summer of 1763 progressed, the impetus of the Native American campaign began to diminish. On August 5th and 6th of that year, a contingent comprising Shawnee, Delaware, Mingo, Huron, and Ottawa forces ambushed Colonel Henry Bouquet at Bushy Run. This resulted in a two-day conflict at Bushy Run, culminating in the successful breach of the Native American garrison by Bouquet and his troops. Following the Battle of Bushy Run, Colonel Bouquet and his contingent proceeded to Fort Pitt, delivering vital provisions to the impoverished civilians.
The Battle of Bushy Run is recognized as the culminating engagement between the British and Native Americans during Pontiac’s Rebellion, marking the conclusion of a significant phase in the conflict.
The End of Pontiac’s Rebellion:
After significant defeats at the hands of the British at Bushy Run, the situation at Fort Detroit in Michigan shifted for Pontiac and his allies. Pontiac faced numerous challenges in maintaining cohesion within his coalition, ultimately leading him to abandon the siege and withdraw with his men. Following the abandonment of Fort Detroit, Jeffery Amherst dispatched Colonel Henry Bouquet and Colonel John Bradstreet in the fall of 1764 to initiate peace negotiations with the Native American tribes. These diplomatic efforts successfully ended Pontiac’s Rebellion and its repercussions.
Five years after the conclusion of the Pontiac Rebellion, a significant event in Native American and colonial history, Pontiac, a prominent leader of the Ottawa people, was tragically assassinated by a Peoria brave in the Illinois Country. Despite his efforts to distance himself from the British following the rebellion, Pontiac’s life ended merely a few years after the uprising concluded.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University
Bushy Run Battlefield Blog: Andrew Byerly
The history of the Bushy Run Battlefield is deeply intertwined with the story of Andrew Byerly. He was born in Germany in 1715 and later became the owner of Bushy Run Station. This station played a crucial role in the events leading up to the Battle of Bushy Run. When Colonel Henry Bouquet and his four hundred men were en route to Fort Pitt, they sought rest and provisions at Bushy Run Station, located just a mile away from where the famous battle took place.
On August 5th and 6th, 1763, the Byerly family had a remarkable encounter with a friendly Native American. This encounter proved to be a pivotal moment as the Native American warned Mrs. Byerly about the impending danger of an attack. This warning prompted Mrs. Byerly to evacuate her family from their home, ultimately ensuring their safety amidst the tumultuous times. Andrew Byerly’s legacy and the crucial role his family played in this historic event continue to be remembered and honored for generations to come.
August 1st, 1763: The Warning
On the morning of August 1st, 1763, Andrew Byerly awoke in his home at Bushy Run Station to the sight of a small group of Native Americans quietly approaching. Three members of the group politely requested Andrew’s assistance in burying a deceased member of their tribe. Without hesitation, Andrew agreed to help them, and together they solemnly laid their companion to rest.
Following Andrew’s previous encounter, another member of the indigenous group, who had built a strong rapport with the Byerly family through trade and shared experiences, visited the Byerly home. The purpose of the visit was to urgently warn Andrew’s wife, Phoebe Byerly, about an impending threat. This friendly Native American, with whom the Byerly family had established a bond through the exchange of goods and warm gestures, felt a deep sense of responsibility to inform them of the danger.
Given the grave nature of the warning and her recent childbirth, Phoebe was deeply troubled about the safety of her children and herself. After careful consideration, she made the challenging decision to swiftly depart for the protective refuge of Fort Ligonier. Before leaving, she penned a poignant note for Andrew, expressing her earnest desire for his safe return and their eventual reunion.
Returning home from assisting the friendly Native Americans, Andrew was shocked to find his family gone and a note left on the door. Determined to protect his home and loved ones, Andrew quickly joined forces with Colonel Henry Bouquet and his men to face the impending danger and defend their land in the intense Battle of Bushy Run.
August 5th, 1763: The First Day of Battle
Following a grueling day of conflict with Native Americans at Bushy Run Battlefield, located a mere mile away from the Bushy Run way station, the British troops regrouped and retreated to the summit of Edge Hill. There, amidst the turmoil, they hastily established a semicircular fort made of flour bags to safeguard themselves. Perched atop Edge Hill, Henry Bouquet’s men, weary from the day’s intense battles and long journey, faced a pressing shortage of water. Unfamiliar with the area, many were unsure of where to find water without risking another attack from the Native Americans. This dire situation took a turn for the better when one of the men, Andrew Byerly, revealed his deep familiarity with the terrain around Bushy Run. Later that fateful night, as the troops grappled with a critical shortage of water, Andrew Byerly exhibited remarkable courage by braving the perilous surroundings. He embarked on a dangerous mission, skillfully evading any potential threats from the Native Americans to reach a nearby stream. There, in an extraordinary display of resourcefulness, he used his hat to collect much-needed water, which he then carried back to Edge Hill to aid the wounded soldiers at Bushy Run. The spring from which Andrew Byerly sourced the water is now officially recognized on maps as Byerly Spring, serving as a lasting tribute to his extraordinary courage and selflessness on August 5th, 1763.
August 6th, 1763: The Second Day of Battle
On the morning of August 6th, 1763, during the Battle of Bushy Run, the Native Americans launched a fierce attack on Henry Bouquet and his men. The assaults commenced at dawn and continued throughout the day, escalating into a brutal and relentless battle. Initially, the Natives seemed to gain the upper hand, posing a significant threat to Bouquet’s forces. However, amidst the chaos of battle, Henry Bouquet devised a brilliant and critical plan to outmaneuver the Native Americans.
Bouquet strategically arranged his men into two lines, giving the appearance of a tactical retreat, luring the Native Americans into pursuit. Once the Natives were drawn into the chase, Bouquet’s hidden third line of men swiftly executed a devastating crossfire, followed by a decisive counter-charge wielding bayonets. This surprise maneuver caught the Natives off guard and resulted in a swift shift of the momentum in favor of Bouquet’s forces. The precision and execution of Bouquet’s tactical plan proved to be highly effective, forcing the Native Americans to retreat into the woods, marking the end of the Battle of Bushy Run.
Henry Bouquet’s exceptional leadership, ingenuity, and strategic prowess during this pivotal battle exemplify his remarkable skill as a military commander.
Byerly after Bushy Run:
After the Battle of Bushy Run, Andrew Byerly returned to his land at Bushy Run and undertook the arduous task of rebuilding his home, which had been intentionally burnt down prior to the Battle. Despite being born in Germany, Andrew Byerly’s life was marked by extensive travels, reflecting a spirit of adventure and curiosity. Tragically, while on his way to Lancaster, Pennsylvania, he succumbed to illness and passed away. The Byerly family continued to reside at the restored Bushy Run home until the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Even in Andrew Byerly’s absence, his legacy and contributions continue to be honored at the historic Bushy Run Battlefield.
Written by Michael McCready
Museum Intern
Waynesburg University