The Sutler & Alcohol Consumption During the American War for Independence

A Sutler Poem by Obadiah Harris August, 1758

Now we begin to live again The butter, it Is come, And for our money we can have Our bottles filled with Rum. Yet some of us, they do complain, Are all filled up with evil; For of (their) money they do spend, And the Dutch they beat the d---l. Their sauce unto us they will sell, Their price, it Is so bad, For squash and beans and pursley, too, Which makes us very mad. The sutler he will !tend full fast And for our wages call: When we get home, we shall have none For we shall spend it all.

An Early Sutler Booth

Sutler Booth by Francis Vivares 1739 (The British Museum)

Officer Tents
Liquor & Recruiting

Liquor & Sutlers

For most parts of 18th century society, the consumption of alcoholic beverages was considered widely acceptable. Taverns were present in nearly every town throughout the British Isles and North America. Not only were they a source of drink and entertainment, they were also the primary center for social interaction and the exchange of news within a community. In the tavern, one could encounter people from all walks of life; from the most affluent, to the most downtrodden. Throughout the course of history, whenever people get together, it is not unusual for politics to enter into the discussion. As such, taverns often became the meeting place for political debate. Dare it be said that the American Revolution was conceived in the taverns of Boston, and born with the blood shed of her patriots. In the 18th century, taverns were also an important recruiting site for the British Army. Taking advantage of large gatherings of people, especially those under the influence of alcohol, these establishments were a tremendous resource for recruiting officers with quotas to fill. It should come to no surprise that the British soldier was therefore quite familiar with the consumption of alcohol long before he took the Kings shilling.

Liquor & Recruiting

Liquor & Sutlers

Liquor & Recruiting

RECRUITS. by Henry Bunbury The Old Fortune Army Veteren

Liquor & Sutlers

The Manchester Hero A Tavern Keepers Recruited into His Majestys Service

Liquor & Recruiting

Stoneware Mug by Hammersmith & Fulham London c.1701 - 1710 (Museum of London)

Liquor & Sutlers

Liquor & Recruiting

BEATING UP FOR RECRUITS by Robert Sayer c. 1780

Officer Dram Shops Tippling Houses Tents

Dram Shops or Tippling Houses

During the American War for Independence, one of the issues the British command had to deal with was the practice of soldiers visiting small unregulated drinking establishments located along the outskirts of an encampment or nearby town. Commonly known as tippling or dram houses, these shoddy little dens sold liquor at discount rates. In many cases, they were run by by the wife of a soldier. Since they were completely unregulated, these women often sold products that were unfit for human consumption. Many soldiers became intoxicated or sick after drinking their swill.

18th Century Horn Cups (Tom Wnuck Estate, Rochester, New York)

The Army Serving Dram Shops His Britannic or Tippling Majesty, Houses King George III

General Orders, W.O. London Undated (probably February, 1775)

When soldiers are found frequenting houses occupied by soldier"s wives who sell liquor without a license, from whence the greatest irregularities proceed, and the liquor sold in such houses proves fatal to many soldiers. The commanding officers will direct such persons to be carried before a Magistrate with proper witnesses who will order them to be fined, and proceeded against in other respects according to the law

Dram Shops or Tippling Houses

Diary of Lt. Frederick Mackenzie, H.M. 23rd Regiment of Foot Boston 1775, Rhode Island 1776 - 1778, New York 1781 Boston 2 February 1775
Notwithstanding the pains which have been taken to prevent Spirituous liquors from being sold to the Soldiers, Soldiers wives and others find means to dispose of the New England Rum to them in such quantities, and at so cheap a rate, that numbers of them are intoxicated daily"

The Army Serving Dram Shops His Britannic or Tippling Majesty, Houses King George III

General, Sir William Howe!s Orders 23 January, 1776

The Commanding Officers of Corps to Suppress all Dram Shops in their Respective Districts that are not licensed by Brig.-Gen. Robertson.

The Army Serving Dram Shops His Britannic or Tippling Majesty, Houses King George III

General Orders War Office Rhode Island 11 December, 1777

Whereas the great Drunkenness that prevails among the Soldiers, proceeds from the Soldiers wives being allowed to keep little shops out of the districts of their Regiments, the Commanding Officers will give directions that they are not permitted to live out of the quarters of the Regiment they belong to.

Officer Alcohol Overindulgence Tents

The Army Serving Alcohol His Britannic Overindulgence Majesty, King George III

In order to function to the best of his ability, a soldier must first and foremost maintain his health. In addition to eating well, he was also expected to stay sober. Unfortunately, achieving this ideal was a difficult task for the British army. When a soldier had extra money in his pocket, he often sought to spend it. With few alternatives to choose from, he frequently did so on gambling and alcohol.

Glass Tumblers Commonly Found on North American Military Sites (London Museum) (Excavated at Independence Hall, Philadelphia)

The Army Serving Alcohol His Britannic Overindulgence Majesty, King George III

An Order Read to the 37th Regiment of Foot 1774 Drunkenness is a Vice of all others, the most brutal in its Nature, the most Ruinous in its Consequences, and unfits a man for every sta-tion and duty, it is the source of every irregularity, from it Proceeds idleness, slovenliness, neglect of orders, and a total loss of all Military appearance, and character. It breeds disobedience, creates Mutiny, ruins health, and is destructive to the constitutions of men... it is the source of almost every crime the Soldier dose in generall Committ. Were there no Drunkenness there wd. be but few Courts Martial in the Regiment. The Lieutenant Colo. holds in such abhorrence and detestation this unsoldierlike unmanly Vice, That he solemnly assures the Regiment he will never give his Pardon to any Person who may hereafter be convicted of it.

The Army Serving Alcohol His Britannic Overindulgence Majesty, King George III

Standing Orders H.M. 71st Regiment of Foot 15 August, 1778

Whereas the great Drunkenness that p re v a i l s a m o n g t h e S o l d i e r s , proceeds from the Soldiers wives being allowed to keep little shops out of the districts of their Regiments, the Commanding Officers will give directions that they are not permitted to live out of the quarters of the Regiment they belong to.
Lieutenant Colonel Archibald Campbell 2nd Battalion, 71st Regiment of Foot

Alcohol Overindulgence

This battle of intoxication would continue to be fought throughout the war. Alcohol was simply too available. At times, the British command attempted to disarm this issue by paying the men more frequently. Theoretically, having less money in a soldiers pocket limited his ability to overindulge (even after his stoppages were deducted from his pay of 8 pence a day). To Remove this infatuation (of alcohol) & to Establish more order and Consistancy in their payments, the 71st Regiment of Foot began spreading a soldiers pay 9 ways over the summer of 1778 in order for one proportional part only to be paid to the soldier weekly as pocquet money

Officer Sutlers Tents

Sutlers

In order to offset the consumption of these hazardous spirits from outside sources, the British army frequently licensed civilian merchants to sell liquor as well as other nonmilitary provisions (such as victuals, soap, tobacco and other necessaries of life) to the regiments under its command. These individuals were collectively known as Sutlers. Depending on the quantity and variety of goods they offered for sale, sutlers were labeled either Grand or Petty. A Petty sutler was an individual who sold goods in limited numbers. On occasion, a soldiers wife held this title if she was granted a license to legally sell spirits. It is very likely she transported her goods in a simple basket, cart or wheelbarrow. Sutlers would follow the army depending on whether it was in the field or stationed in quarters. Depending on the circumstance, they sold their wares in a variety of structures, all of which were collectively known as Canteens.

Sutlers

If the British army went on campaign, a sutler packed up his belongings and sold his products out of a wagon, cart, or makeshift covering of canvas or wood. During those occasions when the British army was quartered or encamped in a permanent or semi-permanent location, sutlers often set up their establishments in more elaborate booths, stalls, or tents. These structures could vary in complexity. In Paul Sandbys contemporary illustrations of the semi-permanent British encampment during the 1780 Gordon Riots in London, we can see that these establishments were very elaborate structures. While we cannot assume that these same canvas structures were present in North America during the American War for Independence, they can, nonetheless, give us some insight as to their possible appearance. That said, we have to take into account that these booths were set up in a semi-permanent encampment in downtown London where goods and furniture were readily accessible. Taking into consideration that a sutler had to purchase and transport his own property, it is quite likely that he tried conduct his business with as little baggage as possible. Sutler booths were generally located to the rear of an encampment. We can determine their placement in Lewis Lochees An Essay on Castremetation (London, 1778)

An Essay on Castremetation Lewis Lochee 1778

Distribution of the Depth of the Camp of a Battalion of Ten companies of 60 Men each, which is 253Yards
From the second row of the batmen!s tents, to the front of the grand sutler From the front of the grand sutler, to the center of the kitchens From the center of the kitchens, to the front of the petty sutlers! 10 15 15 -------238 The grand sutler, for the sake of convenience, is placed in the rear of the colonel!s tent. Of the Camp of Cavalry From the front of the colonel!s tent, to the front of the staff officers! tents From the front of the staff officers! tents,to the front of the grand sutler!s From the front of the grand sutler!s, to the center of the kitchens From the center of the kitchens, to the front of the petty sutler!s From the front of the petty sutlers, to the center of the bells of arms of the rear guard 14 15 20 15 15 --------220

Sutlers

During the American War for Independence, sutlers were allowed to sell their goods if, and only if, they complied with a series of very strict regulations set before them by the British Command. Those sutlers who did not comply to these demands faced a courts marshal. This usually resulted in the revocation of their license and the confiscation, or destruction, of their goods. Essentially, it was fiscally irresponsible for a sutler to sell his liquor outside the law. In the British Army, these requirements of operation were clearly stated in the Rules and Articles for the Better Government of His Majesty!s Horse and Foot Guards, and all other His Majesty!s Forces in Great Britain and Ireland, Dominions beyond the Seas, and Foreign Parts, from the 24th day of March, 1778

Rules and Articles for the Better Government of His Majesty!s Horse and Foot Guards, and all other His Majesty!s Forces in Great Britain and Ireland, Dominions beyond the Seas, and Foreign Parts, from the 24th day of March, 1778 Section. VIII. (page 20)

ARTICLE I. No Sutler shall be permitted to sell any Kind of Liquor or Victuals, or keep their Houses or shops open, for the Entertain- ment of Soldiers, after Nine at Night, or before the Beating of the reveiles, or upon Sundays, during Divine Service or Sermon, on the Penalty of being dismissed from all future Suttling. ARTICLE II. All Officers, Soldiers, and Sut-tlers, shall have full Liberty to bring into any of Our Forts or Garrisons, any Quantity or Species of Provisions, eatable or drinkable, except where any Contract or Con-tracts are or shall be entered into by us, or by Our Order, for furnishing such Provisions, and with respect only to the Species of Provisions so contracted for.

Rules and Articles for the Better Government of His Majesty!s Horse and Foot Guards, and all other His Majesty!s Forces in Great Britain and Ireland, Dominions beyond the Seas, and Foreign Parts, from the 24th day of March, 1778 Section. VIII. (page 20)
ARTICLE III. All Governors. Lieutenant Governors, and Officers commanding Our Forts, Barracks, or Garrisons, are hereby required to see that the Persons permitted to suttle shall supply the Soldiers with good and wholesome Provisions, at the Market Price, as they shall be answerable to Us for their Neglect. ARTICLE IV. !No Governors, or Officers, commanding any of Our Garrisons, Forts, or Barracks, shall either themselves exact exorbitant prices for houses or Stalls let out to Sutlers, or shall connive at the Exactions in others; nor by their own authority, and for their private Advantage, shall they lay any Duty or Imposition upon, or be interested in, the Sale of such Victuals, Liquors, or other Necessaries of Life, which are brought into the Garrison, Fort, or Barracks, for the Use of the Soldiers. on the Penalty of being discharged from Our Service.

Sutlers

A sutler was licensed to a specific regiment or battalion. He was not allowed to sell his liquor without a license or to anyone outside his corps.. In order to maintain the proper function of the army, sutler booths could not operate before reveille or after 9:00 at night. They were also closed on Sundays and during the times of Divine Service. A sutler had to see that the men patronizing his establishment maintained a state of sobriety at all times. The goods he sold were required to meet certain standards of quality or they would be destroyed. In addition, a sutler had to sell his products at a fair, yet equitable, market price. He also had to accept payment from any soldier wishing to purchase his goods. By far, the most common product sold by a sutler during the American War for Independence was alcohol. Rum and whiskey topped the list of these liquors, but other spirits, such as flavored brandies and gin, were also available. On occasion, beer and the fortified wines, Port and Madeira, were also placed on the menu. In addition to liquor, sutlers also sold other goods as they became available. This included such items as produce, sugar, coffee, and chocolate. They also carried what was referred to as the necessities of life. This included such items as tobacco, soap, spices, and, on occasion, limited articles of clothing.

Sutlers

Sutlers

Johnson, Samuel A Dictionary of the English Language London, 1755

SUTLER: N,f. (soetler, Dutch; sudler, German): A man that sells provisions and liquor in Camp. PUBLICAN: A man that keeps a House of General Entertainment.

Sutlers

Smith, George An Universal Military Dictionary London, 1779

SUTLER: In War, one who follows the army, and furnishes provision for the Troops. They pitch their tents, or build their huts, in the rear of each Regiment, and about Headquarters. PROVISIONS: In a military sense in prize all manner of eatables, food, or provender used in an army, both for man and beast. PROVENDER: Dry food for Brutes; hay or corn.

Sutlers
Grose, Captain Frances A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue 1785
SUTLER: A camp Publican; also one that pilfers gloves, tobacco boxes, and such Small moveables (Former in Shakespeare (O), and good English) TIPPLE: Liquor. (Both noun and verb are very old; tippler originally meant an Alehouse-keeper.W.) TIPPLERS: Sots who are continually sipping TIPSEY: Almost drunk (From tip, to upset, tilt up.W.- From ca. 1570.OD.) SOT WEED: Tobacco. The Whirligig, used for the punishment of petit sutlers, jews, brawling women, and such persons was a kind of circular wooden cage, which turn"d on a pivot; and when set in motion, whirled round with amazing velocity, that the delinquent became sick, and commonly emptied his or her body through every aperature.

Officer Sutler Accounts H.M. Forces Tents

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General Orders, America London Undated (probably January, 1775)

Altho" canteens have been allowed the several Regiments for the convenience of the soldiers, there are notwithstanding still complaints of soldiers wives keeping dram shops in the different parts of the town, where men get intoxicated in a very extraordinary manner, and two soldiers have been killed (with the poisonous liquors they sell) in one night. The Commanding officers will make enquiery amongst their Regiments, and give in return such women as hire rooms in the town to sell drams, where they live, and from whom they hire rooms.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General Orders, W.O. Boston 22 June, 1775 (5 Days After the Battle of Breeds Hill)
All persons belonging to, or followers of the Army, are forbid to sell spiritous liquors, excepting at the regimental Canteens, one and only one of them is allowed for each Regiment subject to the regulation of the Officer Commanding it; and as the appointment of the Sutler depends on the commanding Officer of the Corps, it is expected hence-forward they will be answerable for the sobriety of the Soldiers under their Command, all other sources for Spiritous liquors but that of the Canteen, being effectually stopped up from the A G Officers and Soldiers by the Proclamation

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General Orders, W.O. Boston 14 October, 1775

The Commanding Officers of Corps not to allow their Sutlers to sell liquors to Soldiers, or any other persons who do not belong to their respective Corps; Upon a conviction of a disobedience of this order, the liquors will be destroyed, and the delinquent not have leave to sell any in the future. Women belonging to the Army convicted of selling Spiritous liquors, will be confined in the Provosts till there is an opportunity of sending them from hence."

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General, Sir William Howe General Orders 23 January, 1776

The Commanding Officers of Corps to Suppress all Dram Shops in their Respective Districts that are not licensed by Brig.-Gen. Robertson.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General Orders, W.O. Rhode Island 23 December, 1776

No soldiers wife is upon any account to keep a shop, without permission in writing signed by the commandant, or Deputy Com-mandant of the Town, for which they must be recommended by the Officer Commanding the Corps to which they belong. The General is concerned that no recommendation will be given to any woman without a certainty she will not make bad use of it, by selling spiritous Liquors.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

General Orders, W.O. White Plains, New York 26 November, 1776

No follower of the Army can be allowed a Horse Except the Sutler of each Regiment.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

The Recreated Sutler Booth of John Inglis Sutler to the 1st Battalion of Light Infantry 1777

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

The Recreated Sutler Booth of John Inglis Sutler to the 1st Battalion of Light Infantry 1777

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Orderly Book H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot Camp at River Bouquet 16 June, 1777
The Sutlers are not on any pretence to sell Rum or any other Spirits to the Men without a Written Order from a Commissiond Officer and never in less Quantity than a Quart

According to the Orderly Book of H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot, Grenadier Company, a Board of Officers established prices on the Inventory of a Mr. White who was appointed Advanced Brigade Sutler during the 1777 Saratoga Campaign. Through this account, we can gain an understanding on the types of goods sold by sutlers licensed to the British army.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

The Inventory of Mr. White, Advanced Brigade Sutler Orderly Book, H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot

Article
Madeira per Gallon
Claret (Wine) per Dozen

Pounds Sterling

Shillings
16 8 8 10 8 4 1 1

Pence
0 0 0 0 0 0 8 8

Spirits per Gallon

West Indian Rum per Gallon
New England Rum per Gallon

Porter per Gallon

Hams per Pound

Cheese per Pound
Brown Sugar per Pound

0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0

1 1 1

8 6 4

Bohea Tea per Pound

Soap per Pound

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Grenadier Battalion Orderly Book Saratoga, New York

Wednesday Camp at Three Mile Point 2d. July 1777 Morning Brigade Orders 6 OClock As much evil is like to Arise from the Intemperance and irregularity of Savages, it is positively Ordered that no Officer should give them Liquor, and that no soldier, Soldiers Wife, Suttler, or follower of the Army should presume to sell them any Captns. of Companys are immediately to see if their be any improper Quantity of Liquor in possession of the women of their respective Companys and if any such quantitys are found in Kegs or other Vessells they will give directions for breaking and Staveing the same instantly, it is expected that the Captains will carefully see these Orders carried into Execution and that they will strike off the provision Returns all women who may be discovered harbouring such and have them sent back to Canada by the firts OpportunityCommandg. Officers of Battalions will appoint as soon as they think proper three petty Suttlers p Battalion who are to be allowed to vend Rum to the Men under precise regulations and no others; no Tents to be pitched near the Batteaux except those of the Guards thereof---

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Orderly Book General John Burgoyne Camp at Skeinesborough House 23 July, 1777
Lieut. Atherton is appointed to act as Provost to this Army... Besides Patroles of the Provost to be made daily, and occasionally at night, to preserve the regularity and cleanliness of the Camp, he has Orders to enforces in the strictest manner, the Regulation of the 18th Inst. relative to the vending of Spirituous Liquors by the Sutlers or any other followers of the Army. For this purpose he is directed diligently to examine all Huts, Tents, or other abodes in the rear of the Encampment, and wherever any Person shall be found trafficking without a permit from the Adjutant General, or (having such a permit) of retailing spirituous Liquors to Soldiers, Women or Savages, or presuming to sell such liquors to Servants of Officers or other Persons whatsoever without a Certificate in writing signed by a Commission Officer, the Provost is instantly to make the Offender Prisoner, to have all the Liquors belonging to him or her destroyed, and burn the dwelling. The Army to be Victualled to the first of August.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Orderly Book H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot 4 September, 1777

[Memorandum] 4 [September 1777] Jno Grant Suttler at Fort George has the following articles to sellTea, Sugar, Chocolate, Rum, Spirits of all sorts, Port & Merchandize of Do [all sorts].

Enlisted Man, H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot c. 1777 After Friedrich Konstantin von Germann

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

During the American War for Independence, Ann Bates, wife of Joseph Bates, a former Armourer in the Royal Train of Artillery under the command of Major Trail, was employed by the British army as a spy for bringing and Conveying Intelligence from the Rebel Camps in America under the Command of General Washington. Setting up a plan with an officer of H.M. 8th Regiment of Foot, she stated that: the Next morning the 28th June [1778] Mr Cragge brought me five Guineas to Furnish me with Necessaries for my Journey; with this Money I Purchased Rhuberb, Thread, Needles, Combs, Knives &c., to sell in the Rebel Camp, Which his Excellency Sr Heny Clinton approvd very much of when acquainted with my Proceedings. After she reached the Rebel encampment, she: Divided my little Stock in Different lots as near as I could form an Idea of their Number of Brigades allowing one lot for Sale in Each Brigade, by which means I had the Opportunity of going through their whole Army remarking at the same time the strength & Situation of each Brigade, & the Number of Cannon with their Situation and weight of Ball each cannon was charged with
The National Archives, T1/611/193 - T1/611/206. Inventory of Anne Bates Sutlery T1/611/199.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

A Recreated Petty Sutler

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Orderly Book of the 1st Battalion Light Infantry August 4 - October 13, 1778
"any Woman detected in Bringing Rum into Camp is immediately to be sent to Provost."
Presidential Papers of George Washington, Series 6B Vol. 6, Library of Congress. Mss. p.83.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Simes, Thomas The Regulator - Of the Colonel and His Duties London, 1780
No non-commissioned officer"s or soldier"s wife is to suttle or sell liquors without permission; and leave will be granted to such as are particularly recommended by commanding officers of companies, and who will pay due attention to all orders concerning them. That no sutler off to harbor any body in the line of the regiment without the Major"s leave. No more than one grand sutler and five petty ones will be allowed; and any sutler who refuses to change the men"s money, or ask reward, shall be drummed out of camp.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Letter of General Pattison To Colonel de Bishausen New York May 28, 1780.
Sir, Complaint having been made to the Commandant that the Licensed Publick Houses in this City, encouraged the Convalescent Soldiers in the different Hospitals to purchase Spirituous Liquors, and absolutely (sold) them to them, the General took the Precaution of Ordering all Soldiers, who came under that Description to wear an H upon each arm and to forbid all Tavern Keepers from Harbouring or selling Liquor to such as bore this Badge. This has driven them from Town, and a number were detected the other day at a Tent Kept on the Greenwich Road, by one of the Musicians of the Regiment de Bose who has no License from the Magistrates of Police. As this is contrary to the Arrangements established for the Garrison, the Commandant requests that you will be pleased to give directions for this disorder and irregularity being immediately suppressed. I have, & S.P.A. (Captain S. P. Adye, General Pattison's A.D.C.)

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Letter of General Pattison To Colonel de Seybothen New York May 30, 1780.
Sir, In consequence of a Report made to me that the Convalescent Soldiers in the General Hospital had evaded the Regulations I established, to prevent their getting Spirituous Liquors, by Going to Suttling Tents, on the North River, My Aide-dcCamp, by my direction ordered the Provost Martial, to make enquiry by whom these Tents were Kept.----Upon his Report that one of them was Kept by a Soldier of the Regiment of Bose, without Licence from the Magistrates of Police, I desired Capt. Adye to write to Col. Bishausen Commanding that Regiment to order a stop to be put to such Irregularities and liquors being sold to the British Soldiery. The Provost

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Martial in making his Rounds discovered also a House on the North River, Known by the sign of the Cagg, the owner of which had no Licence from the Police, as also a Suttling Tent, the owner of which said he was particularly authorized by you, --All the Liquor in the former the Provost Martial with-out Ceremony, and consequent to a Standing order destroyed; but his Respect, as he Assures me, to your authority prevented his taking any other steps with Regard to the latter than merely Reporting the circumstance and upon that Report the same request was intended to made to you, as had been upon the same Occasion to Col. Bishausen; The Provost Martial having repaired to this Tent, with a Body of Armed Men, was a Casual Matter : The provost Martial being Ordered Occasionally to patrole with a Party of this Sort, to suppress Irregularities. The Provost Martial Is ordered to wait upon you with This Letter, and to explain to you the Causes of his Behavior, should This not be thought satisfactory he shall be brought to a Court-Martial, to answer for his conduct. I have, &~ J.P.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

Diary of John Peebles! American War, H.M. 42nd Regiment of Foot 2nd Battalion of Grenadiers 1776 - 1782 Brooklyn, 19 Aug 1781
The Two Battns Encamp"d in a line with a little space between them for the QrMr & Suttlers

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

The Description of Capt. Hayden 1st Battalion, King!s American Rangers (formerly of the 4th Battalion N. Jersey Volunteers) Walter Patterson, Governor of St. John, Nova Scotia, to Lord Sydney October 1, 1784
Captain Hayden, when he first got the Command, shewed a disposition to be useful, and in hopes of confirming him in such sentiments; without waiting to know his real Character, I appointed him one of the Council. But I very soon discovered him to be a Tyrant where he had power. Avericious and mean. He Sutled to his men in the lowest manner, and when they offended himself, he had them punished severely; often by his single authority: when at the same time he would screen public Robbers. I could not be on good terms with such a Character, for which reason he embraced every opportunity and occasion which Malice could invent to injure me.

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

He even obliged by threats of punishment one of his Men, to give false evidence against me, nevertheless, I continued him in the Council for sake of Peace. After the reduction of the Troops, the stories which were told of him, were so many, and so scandalous, I was ashamed of sitting at the same Board with him. He was charged with defrauding the Men, with Coining of Money, with drawing the King"s Bounties for the disbanded men, and with appropriating the whole to his own use. I discovered myself he had made a false return, which I have had the honor to take notice of in a former Dispatch. He was bred a Watchmaker and has again taken up his Trade. The above, and many other reasons, at least obliged me to vacate his Seat as Member of the Council. And I shall hope the measure will be honored with your Lordship"s approbation.
Great Britain Public Records Office, Colonial Class Vol. 8 folios 108-109

Officer Sutler Booths inTents London

The Army Serving His Britannic Majesty, King George III

The following illustrations by Paul Sandby and others depict British Army Sutler Booths as they appeared in London, mostly during the wake of the Gordon Riots. As these encampments were semi-permanent living quarters in a large metropolitan city, these booths do not necessarily represent the appearance of those sutler booths which saw service during the American War for Independence.

The Encampment in Hyde Park MDCCLXXXX Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 Pooles Butt (Keg) Beer, Fine Ale & Amber. Note the Woman Selling Pears and Cakes (The British Museum)

The Encampment in Hyde Park MDCCLXXXX Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 Pooles Butt (Keg) Beer, Fine Ale & Amber. Note the Woman Selling Pears and Cakes (The British Museum)

View of St. Georges Row from Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booth (Note the Soldier Urinating on the Left) in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

View of St. Georges Row from Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booth (Note the Soldier Urinating on the Left) in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

A Camp Kitchen in Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booths (to the Left) in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

A Camp Kitchen in Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booths (to the Left) in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

A Camp Kitchen in Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booths (to the Left) in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

Ten Views of ENCAMPMENTS in HYDE - PARK and BLACK HEATH Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

Ten Views of ENCAMPMENTS in HYDE - PARK and BLACK HEATH Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

Study for The Gunsmith on Blackheath 1780 Petty Sutler Selling their Wares out of Baskets by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Gunsmith on Blackheath 1780 Petty Sutler Selling their Wares out of Baskets by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Gunsmith on Blackheath 1780 Petty Sutler Selling their Wares out of Baskets by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Butcher and Sutler in Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

Provision for the Camp &c. in Hyde Park 1780 by Paul Sandby (The British Museum)

 A Sutlers Tent near the Serpentine River , Hyde Park , 1780 An Old Carriage and Canvas Tents Used for Sutler Booths by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 A Sutlers Tent near the Serpentine River , Hyde Park , 1780 An Old Carriage and Canvas Tents Used for Sutler Booths by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Filbert Merchant in Hyde Park , 1780 A Canvas Sutler Booth and Pack Mule Petty Sutler by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Filbert Merchant in Hyde Park , 1780 A Canvas Sutler Booth and Pack Mule Petty Sutler by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Filbert Merchant in Hyde Park By James Malton after Paul Sandby 1785 (The British Museum)

A Camp Kitchen in Hyde Park by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

The Amusements of Men and Children in Hyde Park 1780 A Sutler Booth by Paul Sandby (The British Museum)

A Prostitute Drumd out of the Camp in Hyde Park 1780 A Sutler Booth by Paul Sandby (The British Museum)

The Jolly Landlady in Hyde Park 1780 A Female Sutler Booth by Paul Sandby (The British Museum)

The Jolly Landlady in Hyde Park 1780 A Female Sutler Booth by Paul Sandby (The Royal Collection)

The Jolly Landlady in Hyde Park 1780 A Female Sutler Booth by Paul Sandby (The Royal Collection)

The Jolly Landlady in Hyde Park 1780 A Petty Sutler Sells His Wares from a Pack Mule by Paul Sandby (The Royal Collection)

The Butcher and Sutler in Hyde Park 1780 Sutler Booth in a Semi-Permanent London Encampment by Paul Sandby, 1780 (The British Museum)

THE ENCAMPMENT AT BLACKHEATH MDCCLXXXX A Petty Sutler Playing Cards Has His Pack Mule Baskets Robbed Behind Him by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

THE ENCAMPMENT AT BLACKHEATH MDCCLXXXX Petty Sutlers Selling out of a Wagon by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

Lidded Tin Kettle

THE ENCAMPMENT AT BLACKHEATH MDCCLXXXX A Petty Sutler Playing Cards Has His Pack Mule Baskets Robbed Behind Him by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 View near the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, during the Encampment of 1780 A Sutler Sells Liquor, Likely Beer, Off the Back of a Wagon, by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 View near the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, during the Encampment of 1780 A Sutler Sells Liquor, Likely Beer, Off the Back of a Wagon, by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 View near the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, during the Encampment of 1780 A Sutler Sells Liquor, Likely Beer, Off the Back of a Wagon, by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 View near the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, during the Encampment of 1780 A Petty Sutler or Market Girl Sells Produce in Camp, by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

 View near the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, during the Encampment of 1780 A Petty Sutler or Market Girl Sells Produce in Camp, by Paul Sandby 1780 (The British Museum)

A Sutlers Camp Park Encampment Attributed to James Malton (Who Worked with Paul Sandby & Francis Wheatley) c. 1780 (Huntington Library)

Sutler Stall

A Perspective VIEW of an ENCAMPMENT by Bowles & Carver 1780 Possible Wooden Sutler Booth or Stall in the Rear of the Encampment (Ann S.K. Brown Collection, Brown University)

Officer Sutler Accounts Continental Forces Tents

The Continental Army

The Pennsylvania Gazette Bucks County, Pennsylvania July 10, 1776

***No person will be allowed to attend the encampment of troops from this province in the character of a sutler, but such as obtain a certificate in writing from the commanding officer of any battalion of their appointment; nor will more than one sutler be allowed to a battalion. By order of Brigadier General ROBERDEAU, WILLIAM BRADFORD, jun. Brigade Major.

The Continental Army

Israel Shreve to His Brother in Law, Thomas Curtis Mount Independence Opposite Ticonderoga August 26, 1776
Dear Brother ...provisions plenty, Good pork & fresh beef, Bread. No Sauce for the men. Col. Maxwell and myself each purchased a Cow which Gives us plenty of Milk, our Captain has 2 more, pasture plenty; there Is three Scotch farms within about 1 1/2 miles of us, where we Git some peas, potatoes and Roasting ears of corn - these Articles a Rarity among us. Good West India rum here Is 6 (?) New England Do. (12/0 or 16/1), Brandy 18/, Gin 22/, Wine that Is Madairy 30/ p Gallon, Chocolate 2/6, and hard Soap 2/0 per pound. If you had all the Cheese here you make in one Season, you might sell it at 2/6 York (currency) in 10 days for cash.

The Continental Army

A few Days ago I set down and calculated the cost of Transporting Cheese from your house to this place, provided the North River was Clear, and I think It would not Cost a penny half penny p. pound. Now Reckon the profit I would Advise you to keep this years Cheese over Winter and try it next Campain when you would clear 1/6 p pound that Is ... 75. (Pounds) for every thousand Weight - now throw away one third for the Risks and Accidents. Bring 6000 Weight, the Clear profits would amount to three Hundred pounds of New Jersey, this may all be depended upon and I believe that Quantity might be sold here at this time in one Week for Cash, a number of Settlers will make small fortunes here this Campaign, Shugars, Chocolate, Coffee, Pepper, Shoes, Shirts fit for officers, Stockings, Do. Dimity or any thing fit for officers summer Vests & Breeches would answer Extremely Well the time to Come would be Just after harvest or a month sooner only that would not (?) by this time the officers Stores Is Gone. I have give half a Dollar a Quart for Common Good Cider Vinegar and Glad to get it to; no more.
The Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, vol. 28 (1904), pp. 114-116.

The Continental Army

The New York Gazette The Weekly Mercury 28 April, 1777

Last Monday about 50 of the Royal Bergen Volunteers under the Command of Capt. Van Allen, went in quest of a Party of Rebels that infested Clouster, who, on hearing of their Approach made off, but in pursuing them smartly some miles, they took three Rebel Suttlers, with their stores of Rum, Sugar, Coffee, Chocolate, etc. to the Amount of Seven Wagon Loads, without losing a man. One of the Suttlers is named David Phillips, who formerly kept a Beer house at the Sign of the Horse and Cart in this City.

The Continental Army

Thomas Wharton to Henry Laurens 3 November, 1777

"By the quantity of cloathing delivered to the army, by the clothier General, within a few months, and the wants which are now evident there Is too much reason to fear that the attention of the officers hath not prevented the soldiers from selling their cloathing, perhaps for the purpose of purchasing whiskey, which at an enormous price it Is now sold by the sutlers at camp, Is alone sufficient in a few weeks to strip a soldier to the skin.
(The Papers of the Continental Congress 1774-1789, National Archives Microfilm Publications M247, (Washington, DC, 1958), reel 83, p. 429.)

The Continental Army

A Whitemarsh Orderly Book 24 November, 1777

Head Quarters Whitemarsh November 24th. 1777 Information Having been given that Divers of the Late Sutlers and some of the Inhabitants have opened Tiplinghouses within and adjacent to the Encampment of the army, by which the Design of Banishing the Sutlers from the army Is a Great Measure frustrated the deputy Quartermaster Genl. Is Required forthwith to make Diligent Enquiry and Examination for Discovering such Houses and supressing them and to assure all who are Driving this Pernissous trade that if Continued any Longer their Liquors shall be siezed. and they expelld from the Neighbourhood of the Army on Pain of the Severest Punishment if they Return.
Pennsylvania Magazine of History & Biography, vol. 45, no. 3 (1921), pp. 211-212.

The Continental Army

Orderly Book General Edward Hand Valley Forge, Pennsylvania January - May, 1778 26 January, 1778
"HEAD QUARTERS, ...A Board of General Officers having recommended that a suttler be appointed in each Brigade whose Liquor shall be inspected by two officers appointed by the Brigadier for that purpose, and those Liquors sold under such restrictions as shall be thought reasonable, the Commander-in-Chief is pleased to approve of the recommendation and to order that such Brigade Suttlers be appointed and Liquors sold at the following prices and under the following regulations: Peach Brandy by the Quart 7/6, by the pint 4/, by the Gill 1/3; Whiskey and apple Brandy at 6/ quart and 3/6 pint and 1/ by the Gill; Cider at 1/3 by the quart; Strong beer 2/6 by the quart; Common beer 1/ by the quart; vinegar 2/6 by the quart.

The Continental Army

Any Suttler who shall be convicted before a Brigade Court Martial of having demanded more than the above rates, of having adulterated his Liquors or made use of deficient measures shall forfeit any quantity of his Liquors not exceeding Thirty gallons or the Value thereof, at the foregoing rates the fourth part of the Liquor or the Value thereof so forfeited to be applied to the benefit of the Informer and the remainder of the Liquor to be put in the hands of a person appointed by the Brigadier, who shall deliver it out to the Non Commissioned Officers and privates of the Brigade at one Gill per Man per day, if money the and privates of the Brigade and distributed in due and equal proportion; the Brigade same to be laid out in Liquors or necessaries for the Non Commissioned Officers Suttler is also at Liberty to sell leaf Tobacco at 4/ Pound, Pigtail at One Dollar Pound, and hard soap 2/ pound, but no other Articles rated for the public Market shall be sold by him or any person acting under him on any pretence whatever..."

The Continental Army

Ord 26 May 1778 HEAD QUARTERS VALLEY FORGE, A sub., serjt corpl & eight men with the Commissary from each brigade, are to be sent immediatly into vicinity of their respective Brigades to seize the Liquors they may find in the unlicenced tipling houses; the Commissarys will give Recpts for the liquor they may seize and notefy the inhabitants or persons living In the vicinity of the Camp, that unconditional seizure shall be made of all Liqurs they shall presume to sell in future..."
Edward Hand, "Orderly Book of General Edward Hand, Valley Forge, January, 1778" (edited by William R. Read, Esq.), Pennsylvania Magazine of History & Biography (41-1917) Pgs. 460-46.

The Continental Army

Orderly Book Second Pennsylvania Regiment of the Continental Line Colonel Henry Bicker Valley Forge, Pennsylvania April and May, 1778 16 April, 1778
"HEAD QUARTERS VALLEY FORGE, The Commander-in-Chief directs, that only one Sutler be allowed to each Brigade, who shall have a Sutileing Booth, within the limits of the Brigade and shall sell Liquors to no others but the Brigade he belongs to; he shall sell his Liquors at the following prices, to the Officers and men of the brigade to which he belongs and on no pretence to any other, under penalty of having his whole stock seized, and rendered incapible of ever serving as a Sutler in the Army:-Gin: Whiskey: Peach Brandy: Apple Brandy: Cordials of all kinds: and any other homemade spirits at 15 per Gallon, pr Quart 4; pr pint 2 pr half pint 1: 3d West India full proof 15 pr Quart a bowl of Toddy containing half a pint of Spirits 7.6d And no persons besides such Sutlers or Commissarys sent by particular

The Continental Army

States shall sell any kind of Liquors in Camp or within 7 miles of Camp under penalty of having their stock seized. Except that the Quartermaster Genl Is authorised to allow one or more houses Of entertainment to accomodate strangers or travilers, which must necessarily be in the vicinity of the Camp, the persons receiving their licence for that purpose giving sufficient security, not to vend their liquors to any persons to the Army; the Brigadier's and Officers commanding Brigades are to report the Name of the Sutlers belonging to the respective Brigades, to the Adj. Genl. And where any change happens they are to report it accordingly."

15 May 1778 HEAD QUARTERS VALLEY FORGE ...No sutlers or soldiers are to give or sell, any rum or liqures to the Indians on any pretence what ever; A breech of theis order will be severely noticed..."
Henry Bicker, "Orderly Book of the Second Pennsylvania Continental Line, Col. Henry Bicker" (edited by John W. Jordan), Pennsylvania Magazine of History & Biography (36-1912) Pg. 247-248

The Continental Army

Orderly Book Brigadier General Peter Muhlenberg!s Virginia Brigade 16 April, 1778
Head Quarters (Valley Forge) Ap"l 16, 1778 (General Orders) The Commander in Chief directs that only one Suttler be allowed to each Brigade who shall have one Suttling Booth within the limits of the Brigade (& shall sell liquor at no other) where he shall sell his liquors at the following prices to the Officers and Men of the Brigade to which he belongs and on no Pretence to any others under penalty of having his whole Stock Seized and being rendered incapable of ever serving as a suttler in the Army again -- Whiskey, Peach Brandy, Apple Brandy Cordials of all kinds and any other home made Spirits at 15/p Gallon, p Quart 4/, p half pint 1/3, West India Spirits full proof p Quart 15/, a bowl of toddy Containing half a pint of Spirits 7/6, no persons

The Continental Army

whatsoever besides such licenced Suttlers or Commissary sent by particular States shall sell liquors of any kind in Camp or within Seven Miles of Camp under penalty of having their whole Stock seized without payment for the use of the Army, except that the Quarter Master Gen"l Is authorised to allow one or more houses of Entertainment to accommodate Travellers and Strangers who must necessarily be in the Vicinity of the Camp. The person receiving their License for that purpose giving sufficient Security not to sell their Liquors to any person belonging to the army The Brigadier and Officers Commanding Brigade are to report the Adjutant General (Alexander Scammell) the name of the Suttlers of their respective Brigades, and when any change happens they are to report it immediately...

The Pistols of Brigadier General John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg (Museum of the American Revolution)

The Continental Army

Fort Arnold Fri 03 Jul 1778 Garrison BG Glover

"Commissary Elderkin will serve but two days' Provisions at a time, while the hot weather continues. One day salt (if he has it) and one day fresh." Permission to Suttle at 25% Profit

The Continental Army

Fort Arnold Wed 08 Jul 1778 Garrison BG Glover

"Jeremiah Jones & Nath. Brown Torey are Appointed Sutlers to the Massachsuetts forces at this post, they are to give in an Invoice of the Articles they have to Sell, on which they will be Allowd twenty five pr Cent Advance they are to be Subject to the Orders of the 6th, for the Regulation of Sutlers----" "Mrs. Warren wife of Josiah Warren has permission to Suttle to the detachment under Capt flowers at Fort Constitution, she Conforming herself to the Regulations--"

The Continental Army

West Point Sun 02 Aug 1778 Garrison COL Wm Malcolm

"No person is allowed to bring Spiritous Liquor in to the Garrison For Sale but such as also bring an assortment of Provisions and other Articles Necessary for the troops, the price of Rum is limited for the present 1/3 of D pr Jill, Disobediance of this order the future of the property, & the Q. Masters of the Garrison must answer for it . "

The Continental Army

The Pennsylvania Packet Trenton, New Jersey 15 August, 1778

WE hear that on Thursday the ship Love and Unity from Bristol, with 80 hogsheads of loaf sugar, several hundred thousand bottles of London porter, a large quantity of Bristol beer and ale, beside many other very valuable articles, was designedly run on shore near Tomriver; since which, by the assistance of some of our militia, she has been brought into a safe port, and her cargo properly taken care of.

The Continental Army

Orderly Book of the Eighth Pennsylvania Regiment October, 1778 - May, 1780
11 Oct 1778 HEAD QUARTERS, FORT McINTOSH, As some narrow-minded persons, who not regarding the good of their country, nor yet the rules of common honesty, have presumed to approach this camp, and in defiance of all order & regularity, without license, at the most exhorbitant price sold liquor to soldiers: Therefore in order to deter all persons from committing the like abuses for the future: the Col. Commt doth direct that no person whatever shall presume to sell liquor to either officer or soldier without first having obtained leave from the Commanding Officer present, or from the General...the Col. Commt doth promise to give reward of 5s pr gallon to any soldier who shall give the earliest notice of such trespassers, & the liquor so seized shall be issued to the troops."
"Orderly Book of the Eighth Pennsylvania Regiment" in Frontier Retreat on the Upper Ohio 1779-1780 (Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison), Appendix pages 431-459 [2NN109-178]. (Numbers in [ ] refer to specific document numbers within the Draper Manuscript Collection.)

The Continental Army

Orderly Book of the Eighth Pennsylvania Regiment October, 1778 - May, 1780
22 May 1780 HEAD QUARTERS, PITTSBURGH, ...Whereas it has been represented to the Commandant, that soldiers are frequently found among the inhabitants of Pittsburgh much disguised in liquor, even after tatoo beating; he therefore directs that officers of the day do take with them at least two files of men from the fort guard, & at least twice a night patrol the streets & make prisoners of the soldiers found absent from their quarters after beating the tatoo - except where such soldiers have permission in writing from a field officer commandg a regt, to remain at their quarters in town & are not found in abuse of the indulgence. ...The officers of the day are to sieze all liquors in the possession of persons vending them to the troops or others, agreeably to form orders, & report their names in order that those tippling houses may be pulled down & destroyed."
"Orderly Book of the Eighth Pennsylvania Regiment" in Frontier Retreat on the Upper Ohio 1779-1780 (Wisconsin Historical Society, Madison), Appendix pages 431-459 [2NN109-178]. (Numbers in [ ] refer to specific document numbers within the Draper Manuscript Collection.)

The Continental Army

A Sutler!s License 8-9 October, 1781

To Mr. . . . of . . . . You are hereby permitted to exercise the functions of a sutler in the American army now laying before York; conforming yourself to the Rules and regulations of the army; & particularly to such as are or Shall be made respecting sutlers. Given under my hand in camp before York the . . . day of . . . 1781 T. Pickering QMG License form, 8-9 October 1781

The Continental Army

Orderly Book General William Irvine, Commander Western Department 7 December, 1781
"PITTSBURGH, ...The general expects that officers of every rank will exert themselves to prevent unnecessary destruction or embezzlement of arms, ammunition, clothing and public property of every kind. He is sorry to observe that so little progress has been made in the mode proposed in altering and enlarging the soldiers' clothes and for repairing the barracks so as to make the quarters comfortable. It is in vain for the men to allege, in excuse, that they have not money to purchase thread, needles, etc., or to pay taylors, when it is evident that their credit is large with vendors of whiskey..."
C. W. Butterfield, Washington-Irvine Correspondence (Madison, WI 1882) Pg. 85, note 2.

The Continental Army

Regulations for the Government of Sutlers 8 September, 1782

1st All the liquors and provisions which a sutler shall expose to Sale shall be of good and wholesome quality & for this reason subjected to the Inspection of the quarter master general, or such officer as he shall appoint for the purpose. 2d The prices of the articles shall be reasonable, and to prevent imposition, a list of the prices shall be posted up at his quarters. 3d For Liquors and other articles sold to non commissioned officers & soldiers, artificers & waggoners, nothing shall be taken in payment but money.

The Continental Army

4th No soldier or others described in the 3d Article are to be suffered to remain Tipling about a sutler"s quarters. 5th. At the beating of the tattoo, each sutler Is to shut up his stores, and sell nothing more until after Reveillee the next morning. 6th. Each sutler Is without delay to report to the quarter master general the place where he fixes his quarters. 7th. These regulations are to be posted up by each sutler in a conspicuous place at his quarters Camp Sept 8, 1782 Tim. Pickering QMG Timothy Pickering, Regulations for the Government of Sutlers, 8 September 1782, National Archives, Numbered Record Books, vol. 84, reel 27, pp 96-97

The Continental Army

General Orders Newburgh, New York 13 May, 1782

Head Quarters, Newburgh, Monday, May 13, 1782. Mr. Nathaniel Sackett has obtained permission from the Commander in Chief to suttle to the Army untill further orders, upon conforming to the regulations for Conducting that business which will be pointed out to him by the Quarter Master General
The Writings of George Washington from the Original Manuscript Sources 1745-1799, vol. 24 (Washington, DC, 1938), p.250

The Continental Army

Sutler!s License Camp at Verplanks Point 8 September, 1782

To whom it may concern Camp at Verplanks point Septr 8th 1782 Mr. Joel Abbot being duly recommended, Is hereby licensed as a sutler with the main army; he conforming to the regulations which shall be made for their government. Timothy Pickering QMG
Numbered Record Books Concerning Military Operations and Service, Pay and Settlement of Accounts, and Supplies in the War Department Collection of Revolutionary War Records, Record Group 93, National Archives Microfilm Publication M853, vol. 84, reel 27, p. 96

The Continental Army

Joseph Plumb Martin December, 1778

I had often heard of some of the lowbred Europeans, especially Irishmen, boxing with each other in good fellowship, as they termed it, but I could not believe it till I was convinced by actual demonstration. While we tarried here, I was one day at a sutler's tent, or hut, where were a number of what we Yankees call "Old Countrymen." Soon after entering the hut, I observed one who was, to appearance, "pretty well over the bay." Directly there came in another who, it appeared, was an old acquaintance of the former's. They seemed exceeding glad to see each other, and so must take a drop of "the cratur" together; they then entered into conversation about former times. The first-mentioned was a stout athletic fellow; the other was a much smaller man. All of a sudden the first says, "Faith, Jammy, will you take a box?" "Aye, and thank ye, too," replied the other. No sooner said than done, out they went, and all followed to see t he sport, as they thought it, I .

The Continental Army

suppose. It was a cold, frosty day in the month of December; the ground all around the place was ploughed and frozen as hard as pavement. They immediately stripped to the buff, and a broad ring was directly formed for the combatants (and they needed a broad one), when they prepared for the battle. The first pass they made at each other, their arms drawing their bodies forward, they passed without even touching either. The first that picked them up was the frozen ground, which made the claret, as they called the blood, flow plentifully. They, however, with considerable difficulty, put themselves into position for a second bout, when they made the same pass-by as the first. The little fellow, after getting upon his feet again, as well as he could, cried out, "I am too drunk to fight," and crawled off as fast as he was able, to the sutler's hut again; the other followed, both as bloody as butchers, to drink friends again, where no friendship had been lost. And there I left them and went to my tent, thankful that the Yankees, with all their follies, lacked such a refined folly as this.

Officer Native Americans Tents

Native Americans

During the Northern Campaign in Canada and New York, the British Command often had to deal with the sale, trade or consumption of alcoholic beverages to their native American allies.

The Journal and Orderly Books of Lieutenant James M. Hadden Royal Artillery Montreal, 24 June, 1776
Any non-commissioned Officer or Soldier detected in trafficking with the Indians in Rum, or anything else is to be punished in the severest manner.

The Journal and Orderly Books of Lieutenant James M. Hadden Royal Artillery St. Johns, 13 September, 1776
There being reason to suspect that some of the Soldiers sell their Allowance of Rum to the Indians, it is ordered that all Rum, drawn for Soldiers in Camp, be mixed with Water, under the Inspection of an Officer before they receive it.

Native Americans

Orderly Book Royal Regiment of Artillery Montreal, 1 May, 1777

It is most strictly forbid for any person to sell or exchange Rum with the savages for Trinkets or anything else. Any Non Commissioned Officer found guilty of disobeying this order will be immediately broke, if a private severely punished and if a follower of the army not only punished but application will be made to his Excellency the Governor that he be bannished the province.

Native Americans

Orderly Book H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot Grenadier Company Camp at River Bouquet, 13 June, 1777
After Brigade Orders The Men are not to be allowed to cross the River to the Indian Encampment nor is any Soldier or others, on any pretence whatever to be suffered to sell Spirits or other Liquors to the Indians, or exchange Rum for Belts or other Sorts of Goods with them.

Native Americans

Orderly Book, General John Burgoyne Camp at Skeinesborough House 18 July, 1777
All persons desirous of establishing Huts or Tents, in the rear of the Army, for the sale of useful Commodities, are to apply to the Adjutant General, in order that their characters, and the nature of their Traffick may be inquired into; and any person presuming to Traffick with Troops without a proper permit in writing, or who shall abuse such permit by retailing Liquors to Soldiers or Indians, will be punished with severity. The Disturbance of the 16th Inst. between some British and German Soldiers, was occasioned by Liquor, and one of the greatest principles of Military Order was so far forgot by some British Soldiers that a Guard was indulted.

Native Americans

Orderly Book, H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot, Grenadier Company Camp at River Bouquet, 20 June, 1777
Evening Brigade Quarters. Notwithstanding the Brigade Orders of the 13th Inst. The Brigadier General is extremely mortified to find that Liquor has been Sold and distributed among the Savages so as to make them disorderly & Riotous in Camp. Tis painful to him to repeat it once more that the Soldiers and Women are strictly prohibited selling or giving any kind of Spirits to the Indians should any woman be discovered vending Liquor to them she will be immediately brought to the head of the Battalion which she follows, Drummed out of Camp; and never more Suffered to appear in it. The Officers are relied on not to infringe this Order by giving the smallest Quantity of Rum or other Spirits to the Savages, or exchanging any kind of Liquor with them for their Trinckets &c.

Native Americans

Orderly Book, H.M. 47th Regiment of Foot, Grenadier Company Camp at Three Mile Point on Lake Champlain, 2 July, 1777
Morning Brigade Orders. As much evil is like to Arise from the Intemperance and irregularity of Savages, it is positively Ordered that no Officer should give them Liquor, and that no soldiers, Soldiers Wife, Suttler or follower of the Army should presume to sell them any- Captains of Companys are immediately to see if there be any improper Quantity of Liquor in possession of the women of their respective Companys and if any such quantitys are found in Kegs or other Vessells they will give directions for breaking and Staving the same instantly. It is expected that the Captains will carefully see these Orders carried into Execution and that they will strike off the provision Returns all women who may be discovered harbouring such and have them sent back to Canada by the first opportunity.

Native Americans

Orderly Book, General John Burgoyne Camp near Ticonderoga, 3 July, 1777
It being apparent that Liquor is sold or given to the Savages, notwithstanding the positive and repeated Orders to the Contrary, the Commanding Officers are to assemble the Sutlers and Women of the respective Regiments, and inform them that the first person found guilty of disobedience shall instantly have their liquors and sutling stores destroyed and turned out of Camp, besides receiving such Corporal Punishment as a Court Martial shall inflict. All Officers are also to communicate to their men this prohibition of supplying the Savages with Spirituous Liquors. And it is expected that Officers, instead of screening Offenders, will be the first to bring them to condign punishment; and to give further force to this prohibition, ten Dollars will be paid by the Adjutant General to the first person who shall discover an Offender, upon Conviction of such Offender before a Court Martial. Till further Order the Regiments are never to be without two days Provisions ready cooked.

Native Americans

Diary of Julius Friedrich Wasmus Company Surgeon Braunschweig Dragoon Regiment 3 July, 1777 Camp before Ticonderoga
Orders were given today that no sutler was to sell rum to the Savages. Whoever sells rum o the Savages will receive corporal punishment and be chased from the army. Every informer will receive 10 piasters. This is very good, for when the Savages are drunk, they scalp both friend and foe.

Officer Material Culture Tents

Material Culture

Wood Keg with Iron Hoops 18th Century (Guilford Courthouse National Military Park)

Material Culture

Wood Keg with Iron Hoops 18th Century (Private Collection)

Material Culture

Fragment of a Brass Spigot or Cock c.1760 - 1783

Found in the British & Hessian hut encampment built by the Continental Army in 1776 on the Dyckman Farm near Fort Washington in New York City. After the fall of the fort on November 16, 1776, His Majestys forces occupied the huts until the evacuation of New York in 1783. Artifact excavated by Reginald P. Bolton & Co. in 1913. (New York Historical Society)

Material Culture

Brass Spigots or Cocks c. 1760 - 1783 Similar to that found in Hut built for by the army on the Dyckman Farm in New York after the fall of Fort Washington.

Material Culture

Brass Cock & Glass Tumber Recovered from Fort Michilimackinac c. 1760 - 1781 (Fort Michilimackinac)

Material Culture

English Wine Bottles c. 1770 - 1783 Found in a hut built on the Dyckman Farm near Fort Washington, New York City, that was occupied by H.M. 17th Regiment of Foot. Excavated by Reginald P. Bolton & Co. in 1913. (New York Historical Society)

Material Culture

English Onion Bottle (c. 1700 - 1730) & Mallet Bottle (1741 - 1760) (Museum of London)

Material Culture

Twist Stem Drinking Glass Fragment c.1760 - 1783 Found in the British & Hessian hut encampment built on the Dyckman Farm around Fort Washington in New York City. After the fall of the fort on November 16, 1776, His Majestys forces occupied the huts until the evacuation of New York in 1783. Artifact excavated by Reginald P. Bolton & Co. in 1913. (New York Historical Society)

Material Culture

English Twist Stem Drinking Glass and Firing Glass c.1760 - 1775 Similar to that found in the British & Hessian hut encampment built on the Dyckman Farm around Fort Washington in New York City. (Private Collection)

Material Culture

Flatbow Corkscrew Fragment c.1750 - 1783 Found in the British & Hessian hut encampment built on the Dyckman Farm around Fort Washington in New York City. After the fall of the fort on November 16, 1776, His Majestys forces occupied the huts until the evacuation of New York in 1783. Artifact excavated by Reginald P. Bolton & Co. in 1913. (New York Historical Society)

Material Culture

Mid 18th Century Flat Bow Corkscrews Similar to that found in the British & Hessian Encampment around Fort Washington, New York City (Private Collection)

Material Culture

Tin Cup Excavated from Fort Ligonier c. 1758 From A Soldier-Like Way by R.R. Gale (Fort Ligonier Collection)

Material Culture

Tin Cup from the British Encampment of New York c. 1776 - 1783

Material Culture

Tin Cup from the Continental Army Encampment Ephrata Cloister, Pennsylvania (B.R. Howard & Associates)