The Battle of the Clouds - A Fight That Got Rained Out
The Battle of the Clouds should have been a major conflict of the Revolutionary War, but it was cancelled due to rain.
Post Brandywine
In the aftermath of the Battle of Brandywine, the British Army was intent on destroying the Patriots.
When General Howe learned that General Washington was less than ten miles away, he decided to strike.
Although his goal was to attack suddenly, he did not necessarily expect the element of surprise. This was wise because the Americans knew he was coming.
The British Are Coming
On August 16, 1777, General Casimir Pulaski arrived to warn Washington of the approaching Redcoats.
Instead of retreating uphill to better fortify his defenses, Washington determined to meet the enemy head on.
The Patriots moved south, with Anthony Wayne bringing his unit ahead to slow the British’s progress.
Nor’easter
Eventually, the two armies met about twenty miles outside of Philadelphia.
They prepared to fight but suddenly...rain.
Heavy rain.
Rain so thick one could barely see.
Also, really loud, scary lightning and thunder.
So…Call It?
Between soaking wet gunpowder and saturated ammunition cartridges, these armies simply couldn’t fight.
Sure, the Brits attempted to use swords and bayonets, but this was a particularly heavy rain and even that was impossible.
Instead, Washington retreated.
Howe just kind of let him go.
There was really nothing to be done.
In the end, this fight has one of the most appropriate names in all of military history...The Battle of the Clouds.
We spoke about General Pulaski today.
Maybe you’d like to learn about more FOREIGN FOUNDERS:
Steuben’s Valley - Forging an Army
Recruiting Canada - Fleury Mesplet’s French Canadian American Revolution
Before the Capital - L’Enfant at War
While there is no book dedicated just to The Battle of the Clouds, there are several that discuss Brandywine and its aftermath.
Personally, I like the ’Battle That Lost Philadelphia But Saved America’
If you’d like a copy you can get one through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
Want to get fun American Revolution articles straight to your inbox every morning?
Subscribe to my email list here.
You can also support this site on Patreon by clicking here.
Thanks for your support!
