ACADIAN DEPORTATION 18TH CENTURY NEWSPAPERS: Acadian & French Canadian Ancestral Home

Colonial and Early American Newspaper Articles

The following articles are only a portion of what has yet to be posted. So stay tuned and please come back. Until I began to look into 18th Century newspapers, I did not realize that there were so many newspapers in the 1600 and 1700s that had been preserved. What has been found was written and published as the events were happening, these articles are historical in content for anyone who wants to understand how the Deportation came about and that the removal of the Acadians from their lands would come to pass no matter what. Some articles give a clear picture of the cruelty our Ancestors endured; they also reveal how some Acadians fought back and tried to retain their right to live in a place their families had called home for over one hundred years. One cannot help but feel the loss and frustration our Ancestors were subjected to when reading these articles - some will move you to tears as you read how homes, barns and Mass Houses were burned to the ground; livestock taken or slaughtered; nothing but devastation, destruction and exile or imprisonment.

1750
April 30, 1750
Boston Post Boy
Boston, Extract of A letter from a Gentleman at Halifax, Nova-Scotia, to His Friend in Boston, Dated April, 12, 1750
BOSTON.
Extract of A letter from a Gentleman at Halifax, Nova-Scotia, to His Friend in Boston, Dated April, 12, 1750 SIR, In my last, you had an Account of the Expedition intended against the French and Indians at Chegnecto: Since which, on Thursday last, Maj. Lawrence with a Party of a Hundred and Fifty Gentlemen Volunteers and Soldiers, were transported to Sackville-Fort at the Head of the Bason; from whence they cross'd the Country to Minas, and are to be join'd by Capt. Rous in the Albany, attended with several armed Vessels : The Major will command about four Hundred Men on this Occasion, exclusive of those in the Sloops, who are to act on Board or ashore as the Service may require : The Forces are (it is said) to be landed on the North Side of Minas Bay, and are to proceed by Land to Chegnecto : The principal Officers with him are Capt. St. Loc, Capt. Bartelo, who commands all the Rangers, Capt. Scott, Capt. Clapham, Lieutenants Gorham, Pateshall, Winslow, Watmaugh, Arburthnot, Mr. Mitchel, and some other Officers of Col. Warlburton's, and Gentlemen on the half Pay List, whose Names I do not recollect. The French Inhabitants, except a small Number, seem determined to leave the Province rather to than to take the Oaths to His Majesty : and it is come nearly to a Crises that must determine the Point with them : It is probably that the French Missionaries, as well as the principal Officers at Canada and Cape-Breton have encouraged a Defection of this Kind, as they find the British Ministry resolved to protect and secure so valuable a Country. Altho' the Bigotry of these Nova-Scotians alone is a most a sufficient Motive to carry them from a Place where their Religion has not the chief Countenance and Protection of the Civil Government. If they actually leave us, their Improvements are so considerable as to make a Number of fine Settlements for those who succeed them : but how they are (in that Case) to be disposed of, it is not very easy to determine; but as his Excellency Governour Cornwallis has always his Capacity of turning every Occurrence to a good Account and will undoubtedly improve this for the publick Advantage of his prudent Administration.
Headline: Boston, Extract of A letter from a Gentleman at Halifax, Nova-Scotia, to His Friend in Boston, Dated April, 12, 1750;
Paper: Boston Post Boy; Date: 1750-04-30; Iss: 803; Page: [2];
May 17, 1750
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
Boston.
We also hear from Halifax, that his Excellency Governour Cornwallis had sent home the Sloop New-Casco, Master Taggart, with an Express relating to the French Neutrals destroying their Habitations, and entrenching themselves at Chignecto, as mention'd in our last; the Ship Beaufort was also to sail with an Express on Thursday last.
And from Annapolis-Royal we hear, that the French inhabiting those Parts, had received Orders from the Governor of Canada, to leave their Habitations, and come and settle there, which some of them had done, and others preparing to follow.
Headline: Boston;
Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1750-05-17; Iss: 2505; Page: [2];
November 1, 1750
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, October 22.
By a Letter from Halifax we have Advice, that about a Fortnight ago, Capt. Rous in his Majesty's Sloop Albany, met with a Brigt. and a Schooner in the Bay of Fundy, the first of which he hail'd, to know who she was, and whiter bound, but not having a satisfactory Answer, he fired a Gun, upon which Monsieur hoisted French Colours, but returned no Answer: Then Capt. Rous fired a Shot across her Fore foot, which the Brig return'd with a Broad side, by which a Midshipman of Capt. Rous's was kill'd, and another wounded. Upon this a smart Engagement ensued, which continued about 3 Hours, when the Frenchman surrendered. Capt. Rous had two Men kill'd, and the French six, and several were wounded on both Sides. During the Engagement the French Schooner stood out to Sea, and escaped. They both came from Canada, and were bound to St. John's with Provisions and warlike Stores for a new French Settlement there. The Brig was a vessel of War, and serv'd as a Convoy to the Schooner. 'Tis said the Brig had commonly on board for some of the French Neutrals, as they are commonly (tho' improperly) called. Capt. Rous arrived at Halifax, a few Hours before the Vessel sail'd, by which we have this Intelligence.
Extract of Letter from a Gentleman, dated at Chignecto, Oct. 4.
"We have the most treacherous Enemy in the World to deal with: Since our being here we have had a great many Conferences by Flaggs of Truce, with both the French and Indians: Captain How was the Person who always went, as he understood their Language best, and sometimes he convers'd with them above an Hour; and there generally went with him Ten or Twenty Officers near the Place where they held their Conferences: ---But this Day, even within his fatal Hour, he went to answer their Flagg with only the Drum who carries our Flagg, and had half an Hour's Conversation with a French Officer; during which time their Dykes were full of either French or Indians under Cover; and as soon as Capt. How had finished his Conversation with the rascally French Man, and turn'd his Back to go to the Fort, the Villians from behind the Dykes rose up and fired a Volley at him and the Drum; one Ball proved fatal to him, which I believe went thro' his Heart. -----As soon as we saw the Fire of the Enemy, we sent a Party down to the Marsh to bring him off; but tho' they effected that, 'twas too late to bring him alive: The Drum was not hurt.---The Villains as soon as they saw our Men approach, altho' they were on the other Side of the River, which we could not get over, and were entrench'd up to the Chin, yet they ran like so many Dogs, and now and then fir'd a Piece. ---What Behaviour is this? That even Flaggs of Truce (which have ever been sacred) should be cut off in the midst of a Parley, by the base Treachery of worse than savage Brutes! But poor Capt. How was a Person they have always been afraid of; and one whom they all knew very well, and that he was a most serviceable Man among us, and had almost the chief Management of Things in his own Hands; and his Death they have try'd to accomplish these several Days, which he had Information of; but was too too confident of the Honour of M. Le Corne, by which poor Man he lost his Life."
By a Letter from Portsmouth, in New Hampshire, we have the following Particulars by Capt. Foss, who was within 100 Yards of Capt. How during the whole Time of the Conference, viz. That Capt. How first receiv'd a Wound in the Thigh, upon which he fell, and by the Marks of his Body in the Mud, it appear'd he crawl'd 30 Yards, but they keeping a constant Fire, he was thereupon observ'd to stop, which when they perceiv'd they ceased firing. He was afterwards taken up, and it appear'd he had a Ball through his Heart. Thus fell that brave Officer. Two or three Days before, Capt. Robinson, who now commands the Fair Lady, sent his Mate with four Hands for Water, and as they were going ashore at Gallop's Creek, opposite the Dykes, was discover'd by the French, about 30 of whom came down to the Water side, and fired upon the Boat, kill'd one Man, wounded three, and the other seeing no Hopes of Mercy, row'd ashore to them; they carried him to the Dykes, and placed him that Night amongst a Number of Indians, who all falling asleep, he made his Escape, and swam over two narrow Creeks, and got to our Army; and he says that of the whole that took him, there appear'd to be but one Indian among them. Capt. Foss also informs, that our Army had almost compleated a fine Fort there: That the Beginning of the Month there were 200 of the French regular Troops come from Canada; that between 3 and 400 of the neutral Men had join'd them. That vast Quantities of Wheat, Potatoes, and Turnips are left behind by the Neutrals: That Capt. How offer'd L 300 Sterling to release the Captives among the French, among which is Mr. Winnier, but to no Purpose.
June 20, 1751
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, June 10.
By a Vessel from Chignecto we have Advice, that Col. Lawrence who commands our Troops posted there, having receiv a Reinforcement of Men from Halifax, was preparing to attack the French and Indians in their Camp at a small Distance from him.
July 18, 1751
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, July 8.
By a Vessel from Chignecto we have Advice, that the French are busy at Work in building a large and strong Fort within a Mile and a Half of ours, and that they had fired several Shot from it at his Majesty’s Sloop Dove, as she lay at Anchor in a Creek near our Fort: And, that the French Man of War seen some Weeks ago standing up the Bay of Fundy, was arrived at St. John River.
August 1, 1751
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, July 22.
Last Saturday Night arrived here Capt. Sohier, late Master of a Brigantine that sailfrom hence about four Weeks ago for Chignecto, laden with Provision and stores for our Forces there, and informs, that having got with a Mile or two of the Fort, a most violent Gale of Wind came up, in which he parted his Cables, and was drove ashore, where the Vessel was immediately seized by the Indians, who took out the Cargo, and then set the Vessel on Fire. They treated the People with more Humanity than usual, and conducted them to the English Fort: And while Capt. Sohier was there, an Indian came in with a Flag of Truce, to propose Terms of Peace, and affirmed to the Commander, that is was the sincere Desire of his Brethren to live in Peace with the English. He was well treated, and new cloathed, and dismissed with a suitable Present, and promised to return at a certain Day, to treat further of Peace, when he had consulted his Brethren. --- There are about 500 Indians, who keep in a Body near the French Camp, from whence they send out Parties of about 50 Men, to make Excursions, and it was one of these Parties that lately fell upon Dartmouth, near Halifax, in the Attack of which Place they had two of their principal Leaders killed, as they themselves own.
By the latest intelligence we have from Louisbourg, we learn, that there were but two French Ships of War in that Harbour, and not five, as had been reported and published here: One of the Ships, mounts 74 Guns, the other 36: The latter is supposed to be the same that Capt. Snow met and spoke with, as lately mention.
September 5, 1751
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, August 26.
By a Vessel from Chignecto , we are informed, That the Indians are all drawn off from the French Camp near that Place, some of whom are gone to Canada, and the rest to Bay Vert, to receive the French KingPresents, lately arrived there, where they are making some Kind of Settlement. --- That Major Luttrel, Commander of the British Troops, had lately sent several Parties, and cut down all the Dykes on the French Side, from whence the Indians used to annoy our Shipping; so that there is not now the least Danger in going up the River; --- That the French Troops desert daily to our Garrison, thirteen of whom came over in two Days.
We likewise gear, that they daily expected a Number of Families at Chignecto from Halifax, to settle there, and they are constantly at work on the Fort, which in a short Time will be so strong, as to defy all the Force that can come against it. --- That the Place is very healthy, and the People in high Spirits, and they hope soon to see a flourishing Settlement; especially as they have the greatest Reason to believe the Indians are desirous of a Peace.
December 20, 1753
The Pennsylvania Gazette
An Extract of a Letter from a Gentleman at Halifax, in Nova Scotia, to his Friend in London, dated July 31, 1753.
"Agreeable to my Promise, by here send you a short Account of the Transactions of our New World. I do suppose, that few People in Old England know the Extent or Boundaries of this Country. The Province of Nova Scotia, is as large as England, Scotland, and Wales, put together. It reaches within seven Leagues of Quebec; and the Kenebec River parts the New England Government from us: So that the Extent of Land, agreeable to CharlevoixHistory, and the ancient Boundaries, is very large; but the French claim at least one Half of this Country as their own, and have carried the Point so far as to erect Forts and Garrisons at two several Places, which are very important Places for them: The one is at Chignecto , at the Head of Funday Bay; the other at the River of St. John, which River runs up, by the best Accounts I can get, within a few Leagues of Quebec; and will be of the utmost Consequence to them, as they will be people to send up by it all their Goods, and consequently secure all the valuable Branch of the Fur Trade, and also bring all their valuable Goods down the said River, avoiding the dangerous Navigation of the River of St. Lawrence, by which they suffer much through the Loss of many of their Ships, in going up, and coming down. If your Government suffer this, it will be of fatal Consequence to the Eastern Parts of New England, as well as the Province of Nova Scotia. In short, if the French are allowed to keep this Post, it will be more dangerous to these Parts, than a Dunkirk would be to your Trade in Time of War. I know proper Accounts have been sent of this to your leading Men, but how it happens that nothing has been done, is to me very astonishing. How absurd is it to make Representations to the Court of France, and send Commissaries to treat for two or three Years, while the French in the mean Time fortify themselves, and so laugh at you? Poor England! How degenerate art thou grown? Why not send your Wooden Castles, and beat their Works about their Ears, and then let them complain? Donsuffer yourselves to be disposed and made the laughing stock of all the Powers in Europe: Where is old English Courage? Is nothing else to be minded, but the securing a Majority at the next Election? What shall we dwindle to at last? Sure there will be and End to the Lethargy you have got into. In short, if you don sell the Boundaries of this Country on your Side of the Water, and put Things on a better Footing in this Province, I believe there will be a little Occasion for us here, for when I tell you there are 30000 French Inhabitants here, you will hardly believe me; but you may depend on it for Truth; and not one single one of them a Protestant. How the English Government could suffer such a Number of People to live in one of their Provinces without Government or Laws is amazing to me. The French want to tire us out from settling in this Colony, as it is so advantageously situated for us, and can so greatly annoy them in Time of War.
"The Town of Halifax is greatly improved in its Buildings, but by some Mismanagement the Trained People are very much displeased. The regular Troops were sent here to protect them, but I dare speak my Mind, they will drive away the other Inhabitants, unless the latter be left to govern themselves, as they must necessarily know their Business better than such as have been brought up, in the Military Way. I am a Friend to Trade, and love my Country, and hope I shall be able to give you a more pleasing Account in high next."

October 24, 1754
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, October 14.
Part of a Letter from Nova Scotia, to a Gentleman in New England, September 29, 1754.
"I long ago acquainted you that this Province was in utmost Danger upon the first Rupture between the Crowns of falling into the Hands of the French, who had (according to their usual Manner of gaining more upon their Neighbours in the Time of Peace than War) contrary to the most solemn Treaties, seized upon Bay Vert, and built a Fort there, to maintain a Communication by Sea with Louisburg and Canada; That they had built another Fort within Sight of ours, to command the Isthmus of the Peninsula, and a Communication with the Bay of Fundy and St. John River, and that they had Possession of St. John River, and built a Fort near the Mouth of it, and another higher up the River; and were Masters of all the Furr Trade of that River, which before the late Peace was carried on wholly by the English: From all which, together with the known Disposition of the French Inhabitants, you will easily believe, that upon the first Appearance of any considerable Force from France, this Province must unavoidably fall into their Hands, there being no Place that is capable of holding out, even for one Day, but Annapolis Royal: And if this should be the Case, which it probably will very soon, you know better than I can tell you, the fatal Consequences to all the rest of the British Colonies in North America, not to mention, to Great Britain herself: Yet the French are still suffered to remain unmolested in these unjustifiable Encroachments: Encouraged by that they have lately (and no wonder at it) behaved in the following insolent Manner: Capt. Rouse went with Capt. Kinsey to St. JohnRiver; the Wind was contrary, and prevented their entering it, but they sent their Boats near to the Fort, the French fired upon them from the Fort and from the Vessels near it, which they returned, and staytill they took a Sketch of it. Capt. Rouse threatens that he will return in the Spring and knock it down. I suppose he means, he hopes by that Time to have sufficient Orders to justify him in such an Action, for I believe, from his known Character, if he had had Orders that would have bore him out in doing it now, he would hardly have Patience to stay till the Spring: At the same Time the French are behaving in this insolent perfidious Manner, the Battery at Annapolis Royal, the only Place capable of making any Defence, is Dismounted, and the Guns carried to Halifax, as if we were determined to make the Whole an easier Prey to the French. Tremble then not only for our Fate, but your own likewise in its Turn."

1755
Extract of a Letter from Charles Town, in South Carolina, dated March 20, 1755.
"Just now arrived a Vessel in a short Passage from Bristol; all the Letters by her assure us, that a War with France is not very distant, great military Preparations being made both in England and France. Two Men of War, with Forces on board, will sail early in the Spring, for Nova Scotia; and a great Number of Ships of War are put into Commission, orderto be mann, and fitted out for Sea, with the utmost Expedition."

April 3, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
PHILADELPHIA, April 3.
Extracts from three different Letters from Lisbon, dated February 12, 1755.
"A Packet which is just arrived, brings News, that in England they are fitting out all the Men of War in great Haste; that a French War is expected. It is said the French, in the East Indies, have taken Fort St. George from us; and it is certain the East India Company do not but Silver as usual, which makes us think it true."
"By a Packet which arrived here from England, we have Advice of a great many Men of War being put into Commission, and of a violent Press for Seamen in all the Sea ports. It is currently reported, that Madrass in the East Indies, is taken by the French, and we are in daily Expectation of hearing of War being declared against France."
"We have a strong Report here of a speedy War with France, they having again attacked and taken Madrass, in the East Indies, our Letters from England mention a very hot Press, in order to man 20 Ships of the Line, that were getting ready with all Expedition."

June 23, 1755
Boston Gazette
Extract of a Letter from Rhode-Island, dated June 15, 1755.
Last Thursday Morning arrived here in three days from Halifax, Captain Homer, who advises, that a French Flag of Truce was arrived there from Louisbourg, for the Men that were taken on board a French Schooner, bound up the Bay: That by said Flag of Truce, they learnt that a French Man of War of 64 guns, and a Frigate of 36, were arrived there from France; that it was given out at Louisbourg, they intended to erect a strong Fortificataion at Capperouge [Cap Rouge]: And that the Inhabitants were in a distress'd Condition for Want of Provisions.
We also learn, that a Party of Men went to Halifax to Pisguit [Pisiguit], and disarm'd the French Neutrals of about 300 Fire-Arms.
Rhode Island in 1755 - Boston Gazette Date: 1755-06-23 Iss: 12 page 3
June 30, 1755
The Boston Gazette
Tuesday; Town Major Bourn; Camp; English; Chegnecto; Monckton; Excellency Governor
On Tuesday last arrived in Town Major Bourn who left the English Camp near Chegnecto the 18th Instant, charged with Dispatches from the Hon. Col. Monckton to His Excellency Governor Shirley, and brings us the agreeable News, that on the first Day of this Instant in the Evening, His Excellency Governour Shirley's two New-England Regiments of 2000 arrived at Chignecto, in the Bay of Funda, and on the 2d landed and join'd His Majesty's regular Forces there of 300, near Fort Lawrence; that the Troops march'd the 4th, and invested the French Fort of Beeausejour (now called Fort Cumberland) in the Evening, and in their Way took Possession of Pont de Buott, where the French had a Battery of 4 small Pieces of Cannon and a Block House, and had posted 400 Men to oppose their Passage, who soon retired when closely attack'd, and left their Block House, and sundry adjacent Houses in Flames : Our Forces began to bombard the French Fort from Batteries advanced within 500 Yards of it, on the 13th, which by a constant Fire obliged the French to surrender before our Gun-Batteries were finished, on the 16th Instant. The Fort is a regular-built Pentagon, with 26 Pieces of Cannon, mounted chiefly with 9, 12, and 6 Pounders, and one 10 Inch Mortar, was garrison'd with 150 regular Troops and 400 Peasants, commanded by Monsieur Du Chambon, was plentifully furnished with Provisions, as well as all other Kind of Stores.
Headline: [Tuesday; Town Major Bourn; Camp; English; Chegnecto; Monckton; Excellency Governor]; Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-06-30; Iss: 13; Page: [2];
June 20, 1755
The Boston Evening Post
Extract of a Letter from an Officer in Our Army in Nova-Scotia. from the Camp before Beausejour, June 11. 1755
We had a very pleasant Passage of four days from Boston to Annapolis, where we all arrived safe on Monday the 26th of May; we remained there till Sunday the 1st of June, when we all sailed and got up here the same Night, but did not land 'till Monday. We were not a little pleased to learn on our arrival, that the French had received no Reinforcement from Louisbourg, as we heard at Boston, nor were they apprized of our Design, till we got here. The Troops were quartered the Night we arrived, upon the Settlers and Inhabitants, and Tuesday encamped near our Fort, which Day was employed in preparing to march to French Side on the next Day: Accordingly on the 4th of June, (being the Prince of Wales's Birth-Day) at break of Day, the Troops were under Arms, and joined by all the Regulars of our Garrison, both officers and Soldiers, except Capt. Hamilton, who was left to command Fort Lawrence, with whom we left Capt. Brintnal, and about 80 New-England Troops. At 7 o'Clock, the whole Army being about 2450 Men, marched with four Field-Pieces in the Front: As soon as they arrived at the Carrying-Place, where was a Log-House, with some Swivel Guns, and a Detachment of French Troops, they fired upon us, which was soon returned, and they'd drive from their Post, which they set Fire to, as they did in their Retreat to all the Houses between them and the French Fort; and before Night, almost every House at Beausejour, together with their large new Mass-House, the Priest's House, Hospital, Barns, &c. to the Number of about 60, were burnt down to the Ground. This Step, they took that we might not be sheltered by them in our Approach, or benefited thereby, in Case they were obliged to surrender, as they undoubtedly expected they must. We had only one Man killed, (a serjeant of our Garrison) and eleven wounded, one of which is since dead; the French had five or six killed, and we suppose more, how many wounded, we can't tell. Our Troops traversed the Ground on their Side, and reconnoitred, the Fort pretty near, without being fired at; their People were employed in strengthening their Fort, by a Glacis and Covered Way, as if they did not intend to surrender with a Dispute, but turned their Defence chiefly against an Assault, Sword in Hand, expecting we should Storm the Garrison, as they did not apprehend we had any Artillery, except our Field Pieces, and some Cohorns. They have since taken off the Roofs from their Houses, and pulled down the Chimnies, to prevent the ill Consequences of our Cannonading, as they are now satisfied we have Battering Cannon, and 13 Inch Shells.
We have landed our Cannon and Mortars, and the Troops have been employed in clearing a Road for transporting them to the Place where we design to open our Battery, (which we hope will be effected this Night) within 300 Yards of their Ramparts. We had reconnoitering Parties frequently out within half Musket Shot of the Fort, which they sometimes Fire at, but have not as yet, hurt us a Man. They have in the Fort about 150 Regulars, and as many of the Inhabitants, the Remainder, with the Women and Children are gone off to the Bay Verte, and other distant Places. We have not lost one of the Men we brought from New-England, either by the Enemy or Sickness; and have only three slightly wounded. An Officer of our Garrison was surprized by a Party of Indians, who were lurking in a Cops of Wood on our Side, and taken Prisoner, as he was returning (alone) from our Garrison to the Camp, early in the Morning a few Days ago. A Flag of Truce was sent to Col. Monckton from the French Commandant, the same Day, with Letters from the Officer to acquaint the Colonel of his Misfortune, and that he was well dealt by. The same Day we took one of their Garrison Prisoner, by whom we learnt, that they expect a Reinforcement from St. John's, and Louisbourg; but I am in Hopes, they will arrive too late.
Headline: Extract of a Letter from an Officer in Our Army in Nova-Scotia. from the Camp before Beausejour, June 11. 1755;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1755-06-30; Iss: 1035; Page: [2];
June 30, 1755
Boston Evening Post
Fort Cumberland, June 18, 1755.
I have now the Pleasure to congratulate you upon the Surrender of the French Fort, which we have named as above. - I have not Time to write you the Particulars. - The Forts at Bay Verte and Gaspereau have surrendered upon Terms, and Co. Winslow is gone there this Morning to take Possession; we have lost but one of our New-England Troops, killed in opening the Trenches, and about a Dozen wounded, who are like to do well : We began to Fire some small shells the 13th, some larger ones the 14th, the 15th with a few of 13 Inch, and the 16th they desired to capitulate; the Terms being agreed upon, Col. Scot, who commanded in the Trenches, marched in the same Evening, took Possession and struck the Colours Yesterday, the memorable 17th of June, the same Day that Louisbourg surrendered to us. The English Flag was hoisted, and saluted by all the Guns in the Fort. We found 24 Cannon, the largest 12 Pounders, one 10 Inch Mortar, plenty of Ammunition and Provisions enough to have held out a long Siege. - I heartily wish our Army at the Southward, may meet with the same Success as we have. I doubt not but our Acquisition will give them great Spirits, as well as give you all in Boston a sensible Pleasure. I believe there never was so considerable a Conquest with so little Loss. We had not a Man hurt by all their Cannon and Shells, and I suppose at a moderate Computation they fired 500 Shot, and 60 or 80 Shells.
Extract from another Letter.
We did not expect, by their Preparations, they would have surrendered so soon, and it was chiefly occasion'd by a Shell, which broke thro' one of their Casemates, where by four Officers were kill'd and several wounded: Among those kill'd was Mr. Hay, an Ensign in ours in Warburton's Regiment, who had been taken a Week before by some skulking Indians, as he was passing from our Fort to the Camp. -
And we learn by other Letters, that the New-England Troops behav'd to the Satisfaction of every Body. - That the only New-England Man kill'd, was Joseph Pike, whose Friends belong to Newbury. - That Col. Prebble received a slight Wound in the Thigh. - That the French have left in all 8 Officers and 51 private Men. - As also, That 3 Indians were kill'd, one of which was a Sachem of the Mickmac's, a stout Fellow six Feet and half high, about 40 years old.
Headline: Fort Cumberland, June 18, 1755;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1755-06-30; Iss: 1035; Page: [2];
July 7, 1755
Boston Evening Post
Thursday; Days; Sloop; June; Majesty's Ships; War; Success; Mermaid; Syrene
Thursday last a Sloop arrived here in 4 Days from Annapolis Royal and by her we have Advice, that on the 26th of June past, 3 of her Majesty's Ships of War, viz. the Success, Mermaid, and Syrene, with some of the Transports with Soldiers, came down the Bay, and sail'd for St. John's River; and that the Vulture Sloop of War, with some other Vessels, having on board the French Garrison of Fort Beausejour, had sailed for Louisbourg, to deliver them there, according to Capitulation.
Headline: [Thursday; Days; Sloop; June; Majesty's Ships; War; Success; Mermaid; Syrene];
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1755-07-07; Iss: 1036; Page: [4];
July 14, 1755
Boston Evening Post
From the Halifax Gazette, June 28.
We hear, that a Letter from a Jesuit, directed to the French Inhabitants of Nova-Scotia, has been intercepted, and in it he conjures them to not to come to any Agreement with the English, but to continue faithful Subjects to their lawful Prince; assuring them, that the Men of War and Troops (then expected) from France, were designed for their Protection, and would soon recover the whole Province out of the Hands of the English. -
'Tis said the Flag of Truce lately sent to Louisbourg with the Garrison of the Forts at Chegnecto, &c. was returned, and reported, that the People at Louisbourg were in great want of Provisions; and that the St. John's Indians had given the same Account of their Wants at Quebeck.
By Letters from Halifax we are told, that Governor Lawrence had caused a great Number of Cattle to be taken from the French Inhabitants, an hundred Head of which were arrived at Halifax, and more expected: These were all fatted and designed for the French Fleet on its Arrival. - And that Fifty Thousand Louis de Ors, (about the Value of our Guineas) had been found on board the Lys Prize.
A few Days ago Capt. Cargill, Commander of a Company of Volunteers against the Indian Enemy, brought to Town 12 Scalps, viz. 4 Men's 6 Women's and 2 Children's, and expected the Bounty; but on Examination before his Majesty's Council, and View of his Journal, it was found that of the Indians killed were of the Penobscot Tribe, who were exempted by Law, and his Excellency's Proclamation, and who were then actually in Treaty with this Government, and 2 of the Tribe then in Boston for that Purpose: And after mature Consideration his Offence, he was committed to Goal.
Headline: From the Halifax Gazette, June 28;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1755-07-14; Iss: 1037; Page: [1];
Boston, July 14, 1755.
To the Publishers of the Boston Gazette, &c.
Please to insert the following in your next, whereby you will oblige Your humble Servant, &c.
WHILST we are rejoicing in the Success of his MajestyArms in the Reduction Of the French Forts at Chiegnecto,"it is a Pity any Occasion should be given for contesting, to whom the Credit of this Success, under Providence, chiefly belongs. But there seems to be just Occasion given for this, if the Point will bear contesting, by the extraordinary Address of the Merchants, Traders, &c. of Halifax, to Lieutenant Governor Lawrence, published their into in the Gazette of June 28th. A Person, not sufficiently acquainted with this Affair, would naturally conclude from that Address, that these Forts were not reduced by Troops raised in New England, under New England Officers, but by his Majestyregular Troops in Nova Scotia; though not wholly without the "Countenance and Assistance of his Excellency Governor Shirley."This is the Idea which the Language of the Address naturally conveys; in which Respect, it must the confess, the Substance of it corresponds very well to the introductory Part, wherein they beg Leave to offer their Compliments, "&c. For there is really so little of Truth or Justice in this Representation, that the Address can hardly be looked upon as any Thing more, or better, than a Compliment. The Answer of both our Houses of Assembly to Governor ShirleySpeeches of the 28th of March, and the 2d of April, 1754, is alone sufficient to show how much the Province of the Massachusetts Bay has interested itself in the Welfare of Nova Scotia. An Extract of that Answer is as follows, "We therefore desire your Excellency to represent to his Majesty the esposed hazardous State of these his Governments; and humbly to pray, that he would be pleased to cause the most effectual Measures to be taken for the Removal of any French Forts or Settlements that are or may be made in any Part of his Territories on this Continent; and in PARTICULAR, that the Subjects of the French King may be compelled to quit the Province of NOVA SCOTIA, where, in direct Violation of the most express Agreement to the contrary, they are daily increasing and fortifying themselves,"&c. It was, I humbly conceive, chiefly owing to Governor Shirleyrepresenting and pressing this Matter at Home, agreeable to the Request of our General Assembly, that those vigorous Measures were entered upon for the Security of Nova Scotia, which have already happily succeeded in Part; and which are still in Prosecution by his MajestyNew England irregular Troopes, in Conjunction with a few of the Regulars of that Province. I have no Inclination to detract from the acknowledged Merit of Governor Lawrence; nor do I now dispute the "Vigilance, Activity and military Accomplishments of the Hon. Col. Monckton,"he gave one Proof of his Activity and military Accomplishments, while he was here at Boston. But the Part which Governor Shirley, Col. Winslow, and the Province of the Massachusetts, had in this Affair, could not, I think, with any Propriety or Decency, be passed over with the slight general Acknowledgment of some "Countenance and Assistance." The Troopes employed in this Expedition, irregular as well as regular, are, we know, in his MajestyPay: But the Expedition was, at least, as much Governor Shirley, as Governor Lawrence. Nay, it might, with much more Propriety be said, That Governor Shirley had Assistance"of Governor Lawrence herein, than that the latter had Assistance"of the former; Governor Shirley being plainly the Principal in it, and almost all the Troops employed, being raised in this Province, under his Direction. It is well known that above 2000 of the Troops went from hence; who enlisted to go upon this Enterprize, under the immediate Command of Lieut. Colonel Winslow, a New England Man; whose Reputation as a Soldier, and a good Officer, was established amongst us. These Troops, when they came to Nova Scotia, were joined and assisted only by about 250, or 280 Regulars, under Lieut. Colonel Monckton: Tho'when they came to act in Conjunction with the Regulars, the chief Command of the Whole devolved (I suppose of Course) upon Col. Monckton, as being the superior Officer upon the Royal Establishment. This being a true, tho' brief Representation of the Case, I appeal to the World, Whether it is just that the chief Honour of this Prosperous Expedition should be snatched from Governor Shirley, Col. Winslow, and our New England Troops, and bestowed, by Way of Compliment, upon those who had, comparatively speaking, so slender a Claim to it. This Address is a Specimen of the Returns made by those whom we have so often succoured and defended. Nova Scotia must have long since fallen intirely into the Hands of the French, had i not been one and again befriended and supported by the Province of the Massachusetts Bay. But it seems that they, who have been from Time to Time, both imploring, and receiving Protection from us, now envy us the Honour of affording it to them; and strangely arrogate to themselves the Credit of whatever is generously done by others for their Defence and Security, as if it were both more blessed and more reputable to receive than to give. I am the more surprised at this Address, as i comes from the Merchants and Traders at Halifax, who, said, are chiefly New England Men; and who, as such, ought certainly to have had a greater Regard to the Credit of their native Country, how little soever many of them had in it, when they made Halifax their Asylum.
July 21, 1755
The Boston Gazette or Weekly Journal
Boston July 21. 1755
Extract of a Letter from Fort Lawrence, July 3.1755.
-You will be glad to hear, That the French have burnt their Fort at St. John's which has sav'd us the Trouble of a Voyage there. - Upon the appearance of Capt. Rous, with the Four Men of War they set Fire to the Fort, burst their Cannon, broke their small Arms, and march'd off to Canada, leaving the Indians behind them. - Capt. Rous landed, and was saluted by the black Gentry, who desired to come to amicable Terms with the English, and accordingly four of their Chiefs went on Board: - whether he has sent them to Halifax is not certainly known. -
We have two Chiefs now at Fort Cumberland, who came up frm St. John's to pilot us down; and we were just going to embark 1500 Men to reduce that Place (the Stores and Provisions being on board the Transports,) when the above Accounts arriv'd, which was Yesterday. - I think Providence has been remarkably favourable to us; the French being now entirely disposses'd of Nova-Scotia, with the Loss of only four Men, (and three of them belong'd to this Fort.) - We have a Prospect of bringing the St. John's Indians, entirely over to our Interest. - All the Inhabitants in this River, are disarmed and kept tightly to Work. - I wish they were exchang'd for as many good New-England Husbandmen, who would improve the Lands hereabouts, for they are well worth it. -
Our Success in these Parts, as they must give you great Satisfaction in New-England; so I doubt not they will spirit up the Troops at the Southward; and I hope, are happy Omens of the Downfall of the Interest of the French in North-America. - You see there is nothing like cutting off the Head; how soon, in such a Case the Limbs wither: Upon the Surrender of Beausejour; all their mighty Forts, and Possessions came to nothing: However, we must not boast too much; we have, 'tis true, made a good Beginning, and I hope the End will correspond therewith.-
We have Advice from Nova-Scotia, That on the 17th of last Month, Col. Winslow with 500 Men took Possession of Fort Gaspereau, scituate on the Bay of Vert, about 15 Miles distance from the English Camp, and the French march'd out. That on the 19th he examin'd the Fort, and foud it 180 Feet square, with four Block Houses, one on each Angle, and in miserable Order, 8 Cannon and 2 Swivels, the Building very bad within, as well as the Water without: The Store consists of 700lb. Of Powder, a large Quantity of Cannon shot, some Claret, 280 Barrels of Pork, and 8 Hogheads of Molasses, but no Bread nor Butters. In reconnoitring the Country thereabouts three Days, they found the Soil barren, and but little fish in the Bay: at Bay of Vert is a Village of about 25 Houses, a Chapel, and a Priest's House well finished; and that the Inhabitants of the Village seemed to live in a better Form, and more after the English Manner than any in that Province, and have an open Communication with the Isle of St. John's and the Inhabitants of Cape-Breton, whom they furnish with Lumber, Indian-Goods, &c. from whom they receive all the Conveniences of Life in Return. That they were cleaning the Fort, by the French People, and were about to repair it.
We hear that Gov. Lawrence having sent for a Number of the principal French Neutrals, he inform'd them, that they must all either take an Oath of Allegiance to his Britannick Majesty, or be transported to France; and they having desired Leave to return and consult their Friends and Neighbours on this important Affair, their Request was granted, and on their Return, they informed the Governor, that they could not consent to that the Oath required of them.
Headline: Boston, July 21;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-07-21; Iss: 16; Page: [2]
July 31, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Tho' we gave, in a former Gazette, an Account of the Success of the Expedition to the Eastward; we believe the following Extract of a Letter from an Officer in the Army at Nova Scotia, will not be disagreeable, as it contains a more peculiar Description of the whole Affair.
The Camp at Chignecto, June 17, 1755.
We arrived at Chignecto the second Instant, and on the Thursday following, at Four a Clock in the Morning, the whole Army, joined by 300 Regulars, and the Royal Train of Artillery, with four Brass Cannon, began their March; and, about Half way to the Grand Fort, is a strong Block house, to which we marched in regular Order, the Cannon going first, the Regulars next, then followed Colonel ScottBattalion, and General Winslow brought up the Rear: The French having cut away there Bridge, obliged us to carry Timber to erect a new One, and when we came to the Place where we intended to build, and intended to send in a Flag of Truce, and demand a Surrender of the Fort, the Enemy prevented us the Trouble, by giving us their whole Shot of Cannon and small Arms from the Woods, the Indians the whole Time keeping a most terrible howling and yelling, but it did not in the least dispirit the Men; on the contrary put fresh Courage in them, our six Pounders playing continually on their Fort, and our small Arms on the Woods, still gaining Ground, as they lost it: We had almost an incessant Firing for near three Quarters of an Hour; they at last gave Way, first setting their Block house on Fire, and ran away by the Light of it: We then marched up in regular Order, the Indians firing all the Time, but we soon beat them off; they killed one of the Regulars, and wounded eight of our Men by Musket Balls, with which their Cannon was loaded, our Men, during the whole Time, keeping a constant Shouting: The whole, I believe, lasted near an Hour and an Half, when we took Possession of the Ground: They lost fourteen Men, one of whom is a Gunner of the Fort, who was killed by a Cannon Shot, having all the back Part of his Head shot away, and only his Face left: Here we rested our Men about two Hours, and then marched forward, after dressing our wounded Men; we encamped that Night in the Woods, without Fire, tho'very cold, for Fear of an Attack in the Night: Next Morning early we began our March, and about Nine a Clock came in Sight of the Fort, and within a Mile and an Half of it, we got up our Cannon, Bombs, &c. to invest the Grand Fort. Mons. Bourlong, the Gentleman who commanded the Block house, came here with a Flag of Truce, to let us know they had taken Mr. Hays, an Ensign of the Regulars, Prisoner; but their real Design was to get what Intelligence they could of the State of our Army, but he lost his Aim, for the Guard brought him in blinded, and we took Care he should not be able to give an Account; we took one Prisoner, but there is no believing any Thing he says: We met in our March from the Block house with many Clothes and other Things, which the Enemy dropt in their Hurry and Flight, which makes me think their Loss most be considerable: They burnt every House round the Fort, not sparing their Mass house.
"The 11th and 12th, we were employed in getting up our Cannon, Bombs and Shells, and on the 12th, in the Afternoon, Col. Scott, and Major Prebble, with a party of 300 men, marchtowards the Fort to take Possession of the Ground, in order to intrench; but the French and Indians knowing the Advantages of the Post to us, sallyfrom the Fort the Number of 300 men, and opposed us, upon which a hot Engagement ensued, which lasted for an Hour and an half; the People in the Camp reinforced us with 200 men, and the French being between the Fort and us, the Cannon could not play on us, for fear of killing their own Men; our Men fought like Heroes, and at last beat them back to the Fort, we began to intrench, within 500 Yards of the Fort, which kept constantly firing on us from 12 to 18 Pounders, but without any Execution. We lost one Man in the Engagement, before we got the Ground, and four wounded, who are all like to do well; we killfour of the Enemy and wounded nine, dome of which are since dead. On the 12th we having opened about 200 Yards of Trench, we began to play on them with our small Mortars, their Cannon all the While firing on us briskly; but we still kept on digging, and the next Day they fired 180 Cannon Shot, and never hurt a Man of us, except throwing the Dirt on us very briskly; and the nearer we approached them, the more they fir, throwing several ten Inch Shells, one of which fell and broke in the Trench, covering near 40 of our People in Dirt; but through Providence not a Man was hurt. We at last got our 13 Inch Mortar to work, and now nothing was to be heard but the Roaring of Cannon and the Noise of Men, a Scene entirely new to me; but thank God, I had as composed a Temper as ever I had in my Life: The continued firing all Sabbath Day without Cessation, but it did not prevent our getting within 200 Yards of their Fort; one of their Shot broke our eight Inch Brass Mortar, and spoiled it. On Monday, we sent in 6 Bombs of 13 Inches, one of which killed them 3 Officers and several men, and among the rest, the Ensign of ours who was taken some Days ago, upon which they sent is out a Flag of Truce, and while we were treating, we heard a great Noise of Small Arms, the Indians having attacked our Camp to the Number of 40 or 50, and fired two Vollies on it before we could return one, but we soon beat them back without the Loss of one Man, or even hurt; we kill3 Indians, one of whom we got before he was quite dead, who gave is this Account, that he was a Sachem of the Mickmacks, and finely dress, a stout Fellow 6 Feet and an Half high, about 4o years old: I send you some Hair with Part of his Scalp. This Morning (being the same Day Ten Years that Cape Breton was taken) our Troops marchin and hoisted the English Flag. The French Regulars, to the Number of 150, and 350 others, marchout of the Fort, and we are now in Possession of one of the finest Forts in Nova Scotia. The French have lost in all 8 Officers and 51 Private Men.
July 31, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
HALIFAX, June 28.
To his Excellency CHARLES LAWRENCE, Esquire, Lieutenant Governor and Commandeer in Chief in and over the Province of Nova Scotia, &c. &c.
The ADDRESS of the Merchants, Traders and other Inhabitants of the Town of Halifax in Nova Scotia.
May it please your Excellency,
WE the Merchants, Traders, and other Inhabitants of the Town of Halifax, humbly beg Leave to offer our Compliments of Congratulations on the late happy Success of his Majesty Arms in the Reduction of the French Forts at Chignecto>, which (under GOD) is intirely owing to the wise and prudent Measures taken by your Excellency in the original planning of this Expedition; the Countenance and Assistance of his Excellency Governor Shirley; the Vigilance, Activity, and Military Accomplishments of the Hon. Col. Monckton, Commander in Chief; and the Bravery and Spirit of the Troops, who generously engaged themselves in that Affair, from a just resentment of the Encroachments made by the French on his Majesty Territories in these Parts.
From this happy Beginning, we have the greatest Hopes of the Success of any other Enterprize you may have concerted for obtained that Peace and Tranquility to us and the rest of his Majestyloyal Subjects in this Province, which we have been long deprived of by the Machinations of our envious Neighbours, and their barbarous and blood thirsty Emissaries, who by their cruel and unnatural Proceedings since the Commencement of this Settlement after the late general Peace, seem to have shaken off and trampled under Foot all Regard to Laws human and divine.
That all the wicked and pernicious Designs plotted for depriving his Majesty of his just Rights, and his good Subjects of their Lives and Properties, may meet with Disappointment; and that your Excellency (whose indefatigable Vigilance and Zeal for his MajestyService, and the Good of the Publick, has so greatly manifested itself upon all Occasions) may long remain at the Helm of this Government, to over awe our open as well as concealEnemies, and to rather this a happy and flourishing Province, will, we doubt not, be the sincere Wishes of all who have the British Interest really at Heart, and who have the Honour to know your Excellency Merit; as they most unfeignedly are those of, Your Excellencymost obedient, and most obliged humble Servants, &c. &c. &c.
August 7, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, July 28.
By Letters from Halifax, dated the 14th Instant, we are informed, that they had certain Advice there, that about 1300 of the French Troops, and four of their Ships, are got into Louisburg Harbour, where they are blocked up by our Fleet: The Remainder are either got into St. Lawrence River, or returned to France. That every Thing goes well at Chignecto: Col. Monckton is repairing and strengthening the two Forts at Beausejour and the River Gaspereau, both of which may be easily made very strong. He has ordered an exact Survey of the lands that have been cultivated both on the Isthmus and without it, which are said to be very rich and fertile. That it is the Governor’s fixed Resolution not to suffer the French Inhabitants to remain there longer than till the Forts are put into a proper State of Defence. That Vice Admiral Boscawen and Rear Admiral Moyston were come into Halifax to refit, that Admiral Holbourn was cruizing off Louisbourg. That every Body at Halifax, but especially the Governor, are full of the highest Encomiums on the Behaviour of the New England Troops under Col Monckton’s Command. He has represented their good Conduct in such a favourable and striking Light, as must certainly give the highest satisfaction to the Publick, but more especially to those who are more nearly connected with them. And, that live Stock is very much wanted at Halifax.
August 18, 1755
The Boston Gazette
By a Vessel from Halifax, arriv'd here last Saturday Morning, we have Advice, That the French Neutrals at Chenectady [Chignecto] had refus'd to take the Oath of Allegiance to his Britannic Majesty; and that upon their Refusal the Hon. Col. Lawrence, Commander in Chief of Halifax, had determined to compel them to quite their present Possession; for which Purpose, Transports were accordingly taken up, - That the Admiral cruising off Louisbourg, had taken a large Ship from France bound to Louisbourg, laden with Provisions. - that he had also taken another Ship [a Packet] bound with Dispatches from Canada to France; both of which were safe arriv'd at Halifax, before the above Vessel sail'd from thence.
Headline: Boston, August 18;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-08-18; Iss: 20; Page: [2];
August 25, 1755
The Boston Gazette-Weekly Journal
Boston - August 25, 1755
By a vessel arrived here last Wednesday, and another the Day following, both in 4 days from Halifax, we are informed, that a 50 and 20 gunShip were arrived there from Virginia; and that 19 + Men of War were in that Harbour when they came away. That a number of Transports were preparing to sail for the Bay of Fundy, which were to be convoyed by Capt. Rous, in order to carry off the French Inhabitants from Nova Scotia.
That a School was arrived there in 6 weeks from England ; but bro't nothing material. War was not declar'd when she sail'd.
By Capt. Bacon, who arrived here last Evening in 8 Days from Chignecto, we are informed, That the French Neutrals were lading a schooner and a Sloop up the Bay Vert, with Provisions, in order to send to Louisbourg: That upon Intelligence thereof to Col. Monckton he immediately dispatched away 250 Troops to said Bay by Land, but when got there could not find any Boats or Canoes; and upon asking the Neutrals whether they knew of any, they said they did (or would) not know; but the English threatening to hang two or three of them if they did not tell, thy soon procur'd them two, which 13 o four men took and went off to the above Vessels, but while they were going, they were constantly fir'd upon from the Vesssels with Swivels and Small-Arms, but those brave Fellows not minding their firing boarded and took them, with 13 Head of Cattle on board, and bro't them safe to Chignecto, without receiving any Damage.
That Col. Winslow had march'd with 400 Men to Pisguit [Pisiguit] in order to take off the Neutrals there; and from thence he was to proceed with them to Halifax.
August 25, 1755
Boston Evening Post
Thursday; Day; Province; Friday; Fishing Schooners; Banks; Cape-Sable; Halifax
By a Vessel arrived here Yesteray from Chignecto, we are informed, that some of our People posted near Bay Vert, observing a French Sloop and Schooner taking in Cattle, got Boats or Canoes and took Possession of them, tho' the Frenchmen fired upon them with Swivel guns, &c.
The two Vessels had 29 Cattle on board, design'd for Louisbourg, but our People saved them that Trouble, by carrying them to Chignecto.
And further, that Col. Winslow with 500 Men, was picking up the French Inhabitants in order for Transportation.
Headline: [Thursday; Day; Province; Friday; Fishing Schooners; Banks; Cape-Sable; Halifax];
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1755-08-25; Iss: 1043; Page: [4];
August 28, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Boston, August 18.
From the London Magazine for May, 1755.
By a Vessel from Chignecto in Nova-Scotia, we have Advice, that most of the Transport Vessels that carried our Troops down to that Province, are discharged.
And by an Express Boat from Halifax, we have Advice, that our Men of War have taken a Snow from France, laden with Provisions for Louisburg, also a Ship from Canada (Quebec), bound to France, with Dispatches for the Government, and sent them both into Halifax. That it being determined to remove the French Inhabitants, Seven Thousand of them are to be disposed of among the British Government between Nova-Scotia and Georgia ; for which Purpose all the Vessels at Halifax fit for that Service, were taken up, and Orders are come to this town to engage as many Vessels as will carry off Two Thousand Persons.
Headline: Boston, August 18;
Paper: The Pennsylvania Gazette; Date: 1755-08-28; Iss: 1392; Page: [2];
September 1, 1755 Advice; Lisbon; French; War; Battle Ships; Frigates; Guns; Royal Place
Capt. Pote who arrived here Yesterday in 13 Days from Chiegnecto, advises, That as he came out he saw the Transports from Halifax bound in, who were going to take off the French Neutrals there; a Number of which were already taken, and twas tho't the Remainder would soon be.
Headline: [Advice; Lisbon; French; War; Battle Ships; Frigates; Guns; Royal Place];
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-09-01; Iss: 22; Page: [3];
September 8, 1755
The Boston Gazette or Country Journal
Boston September 8.
Our advices from Halifax by several Vessels which arrives here since our last, are, That the Squadron cruising off Louisbourg have taken 4 French Ships and three Snows, laden with Provisions, &c. three of which were save arrived there, and the others, were daily expected: that the Admiral had given Orders for the Fleet to take since or destroy all the French Vessels they should meet:
That it was tho't in three Weeks there would not be a French Neutral at Chiegnecto: And that a Party of Troops had escorted three French Priests from Pisiguit to Halifax, where they were under Confinement.
September 18, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Boston, September 8.
Last Week several Vessels arrived here from Halifax, and by Letters from Gentlemen of the best Intelligence there, we are told, that in three Weeks Time all the French in Nova-Scotia would be removed out of the Province, but to what Place not known. - That Col. Monckton had Orders to destroy every French Vessel, Boat or Canoe he could find in any Harbour, Bay, Creek or River in the Province, to prevent the Inhabitants from making their Escape. - That our Fleet had taken 7 or 8 French Ships and Snows, two of which from Martinico the rest from France, laden with Wine, Brandy, Bale Goods, Provisions, &c. most of them of great Value. - That Admiral Boscawen had given Orders to all his Captains to take or destroy every French Vessel that come in their Way, and bring those taken into the Harbour of Halifax. - That nine Transports were gone to Minas, to take as many of the Neutrals as they could carry, and that three Priests or Jesuits had been taken and sent to Halifax, and were put on board the Admiral's Ship for Security, in order to be sent to England.
Headline: Boston, September 8;
Paper: The Pennsylvania Gazette; Date: 1755-09-18; Iss: 1395; Page: [2];
September 29, 1755
Boston Gazette
Boston, Sept. 14, 1755.
By Captain Gay who arrived here on Saturday last, in 7 Days from Chiegnecto, we are informed that Col. Prebble with 400 Forces had been at a Village called La Jour, and burned 170 odd Houses that a Party under Major Fry had been at a Place called Perego de Jack, and burnt several Houses there, but when they come to set Fire to the Frame of the Mass House, they were sallied upon by a Number of French and Indians suppos'd to be between 4 or 500, who killed and took 24 of our Men Prisoners, among whom is Doctor March; after which the enemy Rendez-vouz'd at the Spot where the old Fort at St. John's flood - that 500 Heads of Families of the Neutrals were taken, together with their Families, amounting to about 2500 - And that in two Days after he sail'd, the Forces were going further down the Bay in order to demand the Rest of the Neutrals.
Boston Gazette - 1755-09-29 Iss. 26 page 2
October 9, 1755 Halifax, in Nova-Scotia, August 30.
Last Saturday Capt. Broom, of the Royal Train of Artillery, with a Detachment from the Troops under the Command of the Hon. Col. Monkton, arrived here from Pisguit, and has brought with him three French Priests, and eight other Frenchmen, Prisoners, who had been taken by our Troops since the Surrender of the French Forts at Beausejour, &c. and we hear they are now confined on board one of his Majesty’s Ships in this Harbour.
Headline: Halifax, in Nova-Scotia, August 30; Paper: The Pennsylvania Gazette; Date: 1755-10-09; Iss: 1398; Page: [1];
October 9, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
NEW YORK, Sept. 29.
The same Evening Capt. Concklin arrived here in 14 Days from Halifax, by whom we are informed, that the DAy he sailed from thence, ADvice was received there over Land from Chignecto, that Major Fry being ordered with a Party of 50 New England Men, to destroy a Mass House, and some other Houses, at a Place called Shepperdy, they were attacked by a large Body of Indians, who killed 22 of our People on the Spot, and wounded seven more.
October 16, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, October 6.
By letters from the Camp before Fort Cumberland, in Nova Scotia, of the 8th ult. we have Advice, That on the 27th of August, Major Fry, with several Officers and 200 Men, embark on board the Sloop York, Capt. Cobb, and the Schooner Warren, Captain Adams; and the same Evening, landed at Chipoudie, a Village about 8 Leagues up the River, having Instructions to bring off all the Inhabitants and set Fire to the Houses.--- That upon their first landing they marched with an advance and two flank Guards to the Village, but found all the Inhabitants were fled except 25 Women and Children, who were taken Prisoners. The next Morning they set Fire to the Buildings and burnt down 18 Houses and Barns, with all the Hay, Grain, &c. therein.--- After this they proceeded to the Mass house, which, with what was therein, was burnt to Ashes; --- then putting the Prisoners on board one of the Transports which lay ready for that Purpose, they embarkagain, and the next Morning two of the Officers with 62 Men, were ordered to proceed to Pitcoudiack; and having landed within Sight of the ArmVessels, they found the Houses entirely evacuated; and by the first of September, they laid the Buildings in Ashes, for fifteen Miles in Length on the northerly Side of the River; and about 6 on the other Side; and when they came in Sight of a Mass House, they discoverFoot Tracks lately made, and soon after perceived a Smoak; the Mass House being cloase to a thick Wood, they posted proper Guards, and as they were preparing to fire the House, a Signal Gun was fired by the Enemy;and before the Guards, and the few Men with them, could repair to the main Body, they found themselves almost surrounded by them; upon which they were obliged to rush thro' them as well as they could, firing their pieces, and receiving their Fire; and while thus retreating, the Indians gained Ground, shot lieut. March, and took and wounded some others. But a Serjeant with 6 Men coming from a Cops of Wood, stop their Pursuit, so that the rest of our Men gainthe Dyke and secured their Retreat. --- At this Time it was impossible for Major Fry to come to their Assistance, on Account of the Rapidity of the River, being driven by the Current 3 Quarters of a Mile below the intended Landing Place; but landing thee rest of his Men as soon as he possibly could, drew up the whole Body, and made a Stand; upon which the Enemy likewise drew up in a Body, besides the Dykes lined with Indians, and parties scouting in the Woods, supposed to be upwards of 300, but they were not inclined to engage our Forces in an open Manner, th'with such a Number they might have done almost as they pleased. --- At high Water the two armVessels got in as near the Shore as they safely could, and covering each of the Flanks, sent their Boats ashore, and took or Men and carried them on board; the Vessels during the Embarkation, fired their Cannon and kept the Rebels off.--- Several of the Enemy were killed, but how many is uncertain. --- 253 Houses and Barns, besides the Mass House have been burnt.
October 13, 1755
The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal
Boston, October 13.
By a Vessel from Halifax, we hear, that the Capts. Rous, and Shirley, had sailed from thence as was supposed, for St. Johns in the Bay of Fundy, that the French were repairing the Fort on that River, which they deserted in the Summer upon the Approach of Capt. Roux, the English having neglected to secure it. That a considerable Body of French Regulars were carried there, and great Numbers of the Neutrals and Indians had joined them, encouraged no doubt from the Advice they had received of General Braddock’s Defeat; so that our Troops in Nova Scotia, may have still more Business on their Hands, than was expected; but as New-England Men inlist for Service, they are not commonly pleased with a State of Inaction.
Headline: Boston, October 13;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-10-13; Iss: 28; Page: [2];
November 3, 1755
The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal
Boston, November 27.
We learn by Captain McKey who arriv'd here on Wednesday Evening last, in 4 Days from Chegnecto, that this Day Fortnight, 12 Transports, with about 1500 French Neutrals on board, sail'd from thence (suppos'd for South-Carolina) under the Convoy of 3 20 Gun Ship.
Last Night arrived here three Sloops from Pisguit with a Number of French Neutrals on board.
Headline: Boston, November 27;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-11-03; Iss: 31; Page: [2];
November 6, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, October 27.
BY Capt. Dogget who arrived here last Saturday, in 15 Days from Chignecto, we are informed, that the Captains Rous and Shirley were arrived here. That Colonel Winslow had taken and shipped 1500 Neutrals on board the Transports prepared for that Purpose. And that 26 Neutrals had dug out of Fort Lawrence in the Night, made their Escape, and gone over to the Enemy, who, it is reckoned, are 5 or 600 strong. All that a considerable Number of our Provincial Troops, in the Pay of the Crown, had inlisted into the KingRegiments at Halifax, induced thereto from the Prospect of being better provided for.
November 11, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
An Extract of a Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Stephen, of the Virginia Regiment, Dated at Winchester, November 9, 1755.
Some Vessels are in the River from Halifax with French Neutrals, one of which came up to Town on Tuesday Night, but is since ordered down again.
Headline: An Extract of a Letter from Lieutenant Colonel Stephen, of the Virginia Regiment, Dated at Winchester, November 9, 1755;
Paper: The Pennsylvania Gazette; Date: 1755-11-20; Iss: 1404; Page: [3];
November 13, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, November 3.
Last Monday arrived here his Majesty, a Ship Seaford, Capt. Rawlins, in six Weeks from Plymouth, in Great Britain, with Dispatches for several Governments on this Continent, and several Chests of Money for the Payment of his Majesty Troops in these Parts; and, as we hear, his Majesty Commission to his Excellency Major General SHIRLEY, our Governor, appointing him Commander in Chief of all the British Land Forces upon this Continent of North America. The Otter Sloop of War, bound for Halifax, sailed with the Seaford; and a Number of Merchantmen bound for several Parts. Several Officers came Passengers in the Seaford, for the King Forces; also the Rev. Mr. Pell, Chaplain to Sir William Pepperrell Regiment, and the Rev. Mr. Walker.
A few Days after the Seaford left Port, she fell in with and took a French Vessel in her Return from a fishing Voyage on the Banks: And some Days after, they took another laden with dry Fish, which last was ransomed: The Seaford brought in here dome of the Men belonging to the Prizes. We also hear that the Otter Sloop of War had taken one or two Prizes.
The Seaford was also in Sight of Admiral HawkeSquadron, and spoke with the Newcastle Man of War, which informed, that the Fleet had taken and sent in about forty Sail of French Ships; and had in their Cruize looked into Brest, Rochefort,. and all the principal French Ports, but could discern no great Appearance of a Naval Armament.
Monday last the Snow Diamond, Capt. James Kirkwood arrived here in seven Weeks from London, but last from Portsmouth: He informs us, that off the Western Islands he was brought to by two French Men of War, who, after interrogating him for some Time, admitted him to proceed on his Voyage: Some of the Letters and Papers which the Passengers had, were thrown overboard, as they expected to be taken by the Enemy. A considerable Quantity of Powder came in Capt. Kirkwood.
By Capt. Bethune we learn, that his Majesty was returned to his British Dominions from Hanover, and landed at Deal the 16th of September last. We also hear, that one of our 20 Gun Ships has been taken by the French, on board of which was the Governor of South Carolina, bound hither.
November 13, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Botson, November 3.
Last Night Capt. M'Kay arrived here in four Days from Chignecto, who informs, that last Monday fe'nnight 12 Transports, with a great Number of Neutrals on board, sailed from that Place, under Convoy of three Men of War of 20 Guns each; and that it was thought there they were intended for South-Carolina.
That our Men were in general in good Health. That Capt. Wilson, of one of the Companies died lately there.
Our last Advices from the Camp at lake George, brought by an Express which arrived here last Friday, are, That Capt. Rogers (who was sent as a Spy) with 4 Men, returned to the Camp last Tuesday was se, and reported it as his Opinion, that he thought there were not above 500 Men in Crown Point Fort; that he killed and scalped a Frenchman within 70 Rods of said Fort, in the Middle of the Day, and got off without any Loss.
By Letters from Halifax, dated October 21, we are informed, that the Night before the Fleet sailed for England, a most horrid Scheme was discovered, that had been laid by some of the principal French Officers, with a Plan of the Town and Batteries, and was done on exceeding thin Paper, and extreme fine Writing, and was folded and pressed as close as possible, and put up in the Middle of a Wash ball, to go to Canada by the Way of Louisbourg. It was to take Halifax this Winter, with a Number of Canadians, Indians and Regulars, and when they had taken the Town, they were to fire the Batteries upon the Ships; the Inhabitants all to be shut up in the Church, and Fire put to it, and the Troops were all to be put to the Sword without Quarter. The Admiral put it to the chief Person concerned (viz. the Captain of the Alcide) who flatly denied it; upon which the Admiral shewed it to him in his own Hand Writing, to his horrible Confusion.
December 1, 1755 Philadelphia, Nov. 20.
Some Vessels are in the River from Halifax with French Neutrals, one of which came up to Town on Tuesday Night, but is since ordered down again.
Headline: Philadelphia, Nov. 20;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-12-01; Iss: 35; Page: [1];
December 4, 1755
The Maryland Gazette
"Sunday last (Nov. 30) arrived here the last of the vessels from Nova Scotia with French neutrals for this place, which make four within this fortnight who have brought upwards of 900 of them. As the poor people have been deprived of their settlements in Nova Scotia, and sent here for some political reason bare and destitute. Christian charity, nay common humanity, calls on every one according to their ability to lend their assistance and help to these objects of compassion.
December 4, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
ANNAPOLIS, November 20.
A Vessel from Halifax, with French (falsely called) Neutrals, is arrived here.
December 15, 1755
The Boston Gazette
Boston.
A Vessel from Halifax, with French (falsely called) Neutrals, is arrived at Maryland.
Headline: Boston, December 15;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1755-12-15; Iss: 37; Page: [1];
December 18, 1755
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Extract of a Letter from Charles Town, in South Carolina, dated November 25, 1755.
"Our Assembly has been sitting some Days, in order to determine what to do with the Neutral French brought here; and I believe we shall send them further. They are insolent Rascals, talk in a high Strain, call themselves Subjects of the French King, own they were Neutrals, and that they took up Arms against us, but allege for Excuse, that Col. Monckton used them ill. They say they will settle here, if we will allow them such Privileges as they require, particularly the publick Exercise of their Religion, with their Priests, &c. and unless we agree to their terms, they choose to be transported to some of the Territories of the French King: They will not even upon any Terms take the Oaths of Allegiance: By this we may judge, what a pernicious dangerous Gang they were in Nova Scotia."

1756
January 1, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
New-London (Connecticut), Jan. 22.
Yesterday Capt. Rockwell arrived here in Ship from Annapolis-Royal in Nova-Scotia, with 277 French called Neutrals, as did also Capt. Worster in a Sloop with 173.
Headline: New-London, Jan. 22; Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1756-01-29; Iss: 2795; Page: [2];
January 15, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
NEW YORK, January 12.
Capt. Taylor from Georgia, informs of the Arrival thither of near three hundred of the Neutrals lately sent from New Scotland, all of whom that Government has provided for.
January 8, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Charles Town, in South Carolina, November 27, 1755.
The General Assembly of this Province have been sitting since Thursday last, but we donhear that they have yet determined how the 600 neutral French lately arrived here shall be disposed of.
On Saturday last came in his MajestyShip Syren, commanded by Charles Proby, Esq; and is already fitting out for a Cruize. We hear she has some neutral French on Board.
January 15, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
NEW YORK, January 12.
Capt. Taylor from Georgia, informs of the Arrival thither of near three hundred of the Neutrals lately sent from New Scotland, all of whom that Government has provided for.
ITEM #19119
January 19, 1756
The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal
Boston. January 19.
Last Tuesday 121 MORE French Neutrals arrived here, in a Schooner from Nova-Scotia.
Headline: Boston, January 19;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1756-01-19; Iss: 42; Page: [1];
January 29, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
New-London, Jan. 22. [1756] Yesterday Capt. Rockwell arrived here in Ship from Annapolis-Royal in Nova-Scotia, with 277 French called Neutrals, as did also Capt. Worster in a Sloop with 173.
The Boston Weekly News-Letter 1756-01-29; Iss: 2795; New London
January 29, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
From the Publick Advertiser, November 11, 1755.
To the PRINTER, &c.
SIR,
THERE have lately appeared in the Publick News Papers two very different Articles from Paris, on the same Subject. The first offers as the Basis of a Negotiation to deliver up all the Countries claimed by the English, demolish the French Forts, and restore the Neutral Islands: This is somewhat to the Purpose.
The second comes under great Restrictions. It indeed proposes to evacuate and demolish the Forts at Crown Point, Niagara, and the Fork of Ohio, also to quit Pretensions to settle on this River, but not to evacuate the adjacent Countries, much less to deliver up all which the English claim: They likewise require, that we should not dispute with them St. John River in Acadia, because they cannot do without it.
This Article is aid to be insisted on in a Piece lately published by the GovernmentDirection, relating to the ancient Limits of Acadia, and the Stipulations in the Treaty of Utrecht relative thereto, on which Occasion they would be glad to know, what Arguments the English have to oppose to the Reasons of their Court Writer?
But what signifies producing our Arguments; since the Writer of the Paragraph, who may be the Court Writer himself, at the same time tells us, it may be from the Manner in which this Point is treated (in said State Pamphlet) that whether their Ministry be in the Right or Wrong, they will risque a War, rather than give it up; because Canada will be of little Advantage to them, unless the Limits of Acadia be settled to their Liking."
People who will have Things right or wrong, are not to be satisfied, however convinced by Arguments; and therefore I shall not give myself the Trouble to gratify their Curiosity: However, to satisfy our Countrymen, that the River St. John ought by no Means to be yielded to the French, I shall offer the following Reasons.
1. Because the Limits of the Country are to be settled no as they would like to have them settled, but as they have agreed by the Utrecht and Aix la Chapelle Treaties they should be settled, that it, to the Liking of the English.
2. Because, without that River, Nova Scotia would be of as little Use to us, as they say Canada will be to them: And I hope they do not think they have been such good Neighbours, that we ought to hurt ourselves in any Respect to oblige them.
3. It would be no less Folly on our Side to give, than it argues Effrontery on theirs to ask, the Possession of a River which runs thro' the Heart of one Country.
4. Because the River St. John passing with a Sweep, from the Borders of New England, thro' the Countries of Sagadahok and Nova Scotia, the Giving it up would be giving up to them both those Provinces.
5. Because, if possessed of this River, they would settle and fortify it, gain all the Indians with their Fur Trade, and, by their Help, become Masters of the Whole.
6. Because the Mouth of the River being directly opposite to Port Royal, the Possession of it might enable them at any Time to annoy that or any other of our Settlements in the Bay of Fundi, and the neighbouring Coasts.
7. Because, from what has been said, it appears that the three Forts, &c. which they offer, are by no Means an Equivalent for a River, without which that Country will be of no Use to them: And who would part with a River, the Keeping of which will rid us of such unsufferable Neighbours, without being at the Trouble to drive them out.
These are Reasons, methinks, more than sufficient to hinder us from complying with their menacing Request. But, supposing we had none of them, yet we ought not to do it; because after endeavouring for so many Years past to trick us out of the Province by Fraud and Force, they have now the Audacity, seeing themselves likely to be disappointed, to threaten right or wrong to get it from us. This is adding to Injury the highest Insult, and ought to be resented by Britons with all their Strength and Indignation. I am, Sir, your, &c. P.C.
February 5, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
From the Gentleman Magazine for September, 1755.
A Scheme proposed for driving the French out of the Continent
of America in one YearTime.
1. THAT 60 independent Companies, of 100 Men each, besides Commission and Noncommission Officers, be formed as soon as possible, and the Command of each company given to the most experienced Officers now upon Half pay.
2. That 50 private Men, who have seen the most Service, be draughted, by equal Proportions, out of all the Regiments of Foot in England, Scotland and Ireland, and put into each of the said independent Companies; the other 50 to be recruited by the Officers of the said independent Companies, and all sent to our Colonies in America, as soon as compleated.
3. That an Estimate be made of the Strength and Numbers of People in each of our said Colonies, and Orders sent to each Governor to cause his Colony to raise as many able bodied Men as May answer the Contingency of each according to the Estimate; so that the whole Number to be raised be not less than 14,000 effective Men, besides Commission and Noncommission Officers.
4. That an Act be passed, as soon as the Parliament meets, to oblige each Colony to raise the Number of Men assigned; also to arm and accoutre them, and to march them to whatever Part of the Continent his Majesty shall appoint, and subject them to martial Law.
5. That a Man of Fortune, Courage and Abilities, and who may be most in the Esteem of the People of the Colonies, be sent from hence to command the whole; and that two Major Generals, two Brigadier Generals, and five or six Field Officers, be sent to serve under him, and that the general Rendezvous of all the American Troops be at Albany.
6. That Orders be immediately sent to build seven flat bottomed Ships, in some of the Ports of New England, four of 500 Tons, to carry 20 Guns (24 Pounders) upon one Deck, and to draw by ten, or ten and a Half Feet Water; their Complement 70 Sailors, and 100 Marines; two of 300 Tons each, to carry 16 Guns (12 Pounders) also upon one Deck, and to draw but eight Feet Water; their complement 50 Sailors, and 70 Marines; and a Bomb ship.
7. That Orders be, at the same time, sent to build seven other Ships, of the same Dimensions, at Carolina, or some of our southern Colonies; save only, that two should be of the largest Model, and four of the less, and a Bomb ship. These Ships would inevitably destroy any Seaport Fortress they could come within Musket shot of in smooth Water, they could therefore destroy all the Forts in Canada and Missisippi, without fearing the Attack of French Men of War, because they could draw up in such shoal Water, that ships of grater Force could not follow them. There is no a Model of such a Vessel at the Admiralty Office, Whitehall, which was made by their Lordships Directions from a Plan exhibited by the Author of this Scheme.
8. That all our Troops be furnished at Albany with all Sorts of Provisions for three Months, a good Train of Artillery, Carts, Waggons, Draught and Baggage Horses, Spades, Pick axes, Shovels, and all Manner of Implements of War: Then to march to the South side of Champlain Lake, the most Part of which Rout is Water Carriage; and there they may be joined by all the Warriors of the Five Nations, and our other friendly Indians, who, with their Canoes and other Boats, will assist our Troops in crossing the Lake, to a navigable River, that runs from the North side of it into the River St. Lawrence, between Quebec and Montreal, and but a small Distance from either.
But it would be necessary for our Troops, as soon as joined by the Indians, to take the French Fort at Crown Point, and all the other little Forts about the South side of Champlain Lake; each would not take up 500 Troops above three Days, if attacked with six Pieces of Cannon, 12 Pounders; and a few of the least Sort of Bombshells thrown in, would cause them to surrender in five or six Hours, for they have no Magazine that is Bomb proof. All these Forts taken, the Communication between Champlain Lake and Albany would be safe for Convoys; and the old Indian Men, Women and Children, would be in no Fear of being attacked while their Warriors accompanied our Troops. A few of our Troops should be left on some proper Place on the South side of Champlain Lake, to erect Magazines there, while our other Troops were taking the Forts, and a good Number of Carpenters to build some flat bottomed Boats, and such Rafts as they build upon the Rhine in Germany, to carry our Troops cross the Lake, and down the River that runs from that Lake to the River St. Lawrence, together with their Artillery, Ammunition and Provisions. hese Boats might be constantly employed to carry every Thing the Troops wanted from the Magazines, on the South side of Champlain Lake, for their whole future Operations. And these Magazines might be continually replenished from New York, by way of Albany, there being the greatest Plenty of every Thing to be had in the Colony of New York exceeding cheap, and as many Draught Cattle and Horses as could be wanted.
9. The seven Ships, built in New England, should be ordered to sail for the River St. Lawrence, at the same time that our Troops, began their March from Albany, that they might meet them near Quebec, to attack it both by Land and Water at one and the same time. It is probably, indeed, that the Ships might take it without the Land Forces, because there is no Magazine Bomb proof. Both Ships and Troops should begin their Operations the latter End of April, or Beginning of May.
10. The seven Ships, sent into the River St. Lawrence, should attack the first Place they came to belonging to the French, to alarm the Country, and draw their Troops that Way; by which the French must divide their Forces, so as not to be able to assemble them together in one Body, to oppose our Troops from Albany.
11. The seven Ships, built in Carolina, should also be sent into the River Missisippi, at the same time that our Troops marched from Albany; and they should also attack the first Place they come at in that River, to cause the same Alarm in those Parts. This would put the French as it were between two Fires.
12. As soon as Quebec should be taken, 1000 of our regular Troops, and a good Body of Indians, sent down the River St. Lawrence with the said seven Ships, would soon take the Island of Orleans, and all the little Forts on both Sides that River down to the SEa, and clear all those Parts of the French; and as it is most probable that the French would draw off the Troops they have now guarding their Fortifications which they have thrown up at Chignecto, in Nova Scotia, to strengthen their Troops at Quebec, the Troops we have now at Nova Scotia, might take those Works as soon as they were gone, then cross the Bay of Fundi, or march round the Peninsula, and take all the Forts that the French have lately erected about the River St. John, and clear all those Parts of the French.
13. The Land Forces left at Quebec, after leaving a Garrison there, might go up along the River St. Lawrence to Montreal, which lies upon an Island of fifteen Leagues Length, and four Breadth, in the same River: This taken, another Thousand of our regular Troops, with a good Body of Indians, sent across the Lake Ontario, and down the River St. Jerome, to meet our other seven Ships in the River Missisippi, would soon dislodge all the French, and drive them all out of that Country; for as soon as they heard that Quebec and Montreal were taken, they would make no further Stand in that Country. When Canada and Missisippi were taken, our Troops might march back to our own Colonies, save only ten or twelve of the independent Companies, and a few of the Ships, to guard the Country. But there need not be many left, because when once the FRench Governors, their regular Troops, and their Priests are driven away, the poor Planters would be glad to live there peaceable under his Majestymild Government, especially as they are now kept most miserably poor under those Bigots and Tyrants, who oppress them to the last Degree, because they were Protestants when first sent there by Lewis XIII. after the Siege of Rochelle, and continue so still, as far as they dare.
14. The Five Nations, and our other friendly Indians, will keep the French Indians in eternal Subjection; and as we are Masters of the Sea, a few Ships of War, sent to that Coast every Year, as we do to New England, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia, would for ever prevent the Return of the French into that Country.
The whole Expence of carrying this Project into Execution is computed, Article by Article, to amount only to 700,000 L Sterling, which is much less than we pay in Subsidies for maintaining the Ballance of Power; and it is insisted, that if we had the sole Possession of America, which this Scheme, well executed, would give us, we should have the Ballance of Power in our own Hands.
February 26, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
Extract of a Letter from an Officer at Fort Cumberland in Nova-Scotia Dated February 6. 1756.
Col. Scott having fitted out a Party of Men in the same Dress of the Canadians and Indians, which Party, Ensign Brewen commanded, being 30 they set out after a Snow fell towards Memramcook, and had not gone far in that Road before he met with three Acadians, who came to him imagining them to be one of their own Parties, and would have taken fix more immediately, but by the Eagerness of the Serjeant who fired, discovered the Wolf; therefore wee obliged to return without other Success.
These Prisoners upon Examination acquainted Col. Scott, That Monsieur Beauhebere, Mon. De Ber Ville and 15 Regulars with 18 Canadians and about 300 Indians with their Families to the Number of 1000 were assembled at Shediac (opposite the Isle of St. John) to live upon the Cattle of the Country.
That Monsieur Beauhebere were preparing to come with a Party to fall upon our People when getting their Wood. Upon which Col. Scott purpos'd going to visit M. Beauhebere; and by a Council that he call'd, it was agreed to prepare 500 Men for this Undertaking: whereupon all the Taylors were employed in making Indian Stockings, Cafes for their Firelocks, Mittens, and Waistcoats, and the French Prisoners in making Mogasons [moccasins]. When our Preparations were about two Thirds completed, a Deserter came to us, (a German who had been one of the first at Halifax) who acquainted us of M. Beauhebere's being march'd with about 130 Indians, and that he came with a Certainty of Success, as he had sent a Party 10 Days before to reconnoiter, who had it in their Power alone (as they reported) to have kill'd 50 of our Men; but their Orders were not to discover themselves. The Deserter assur'd us that he knew the very Place where M. Beauhebere would halt, and that he would lead a Party directly upon him in the Night.
This to us all was welcome News; and was immediately resolv'd upon to set out with 350 Men which Col. Scott himself went to command. We began our March at 11 o'Clock, and thro' as bad a Road as was ever march'd being half Leg deep al the Way in Snow Water; We got to the wish'd for Place just before dawn, but to our great Mortification there were no Enemy there; and by the hurry and eagerness of our Front who first came to the House where we imagin'd they were and fir'd a Platoon which making an Alarm, we concluded it would be in vain to seek furthers. We made Fires there and refresh'd our Men, and in two Hour set out upon our Return; but we had scarce quite the Woods with our Rear when they set up their Yell and gave us a Fire which our brave New-England Men quickly return'd and answer'd their Cry; and the whole facing about pursued them into the Woods, but to little Purpose.
Headline: Extract of a Letter from an Officer at Fort Cumberland, in Nova-Scotia, Dated February 6, 1756; Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1756-02-26; Iss: 2799; Page: [1];
March 1, 1756
New York Mercury
By Letters from Antigas, we are inform'd that one the 19th ult. The Snow Edward, Capt. Cook, bound for Connecticut, with 260 Acadians (commonly called French Neutrals) on baord, and on the 22d the Brigt. Experiment, Capt. Stoddard, bound for New York, with 200 more of those People, had put in there; having been out 6 Weeks from Nova Scotia, met with very bad Weather, and beat off the Northern Coasts.
March 4, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Charles Town, in South Carolina, Feb. 5.
Two Parties of the French Neutrals have already attempted to make their Escape from this Town, by traveling towards the Northward, but have been retaken and brought back, one of them, we hear, had gone as high as Monck Corner, but the other no farther than Goose Creek Bridge.
Captain Bolitho, who arrived here last Tuesday Evening from Barbados, we hear made his Passage in ten Days.
A Private Letter from a Gentleman in London, to his FRiend in this Town, dated November 28th, says, That we are likely to be deprived of Mr. Lyttleton, as our Governor; for that he was (that Day) told, from good Authority, that Col. Haldane would be appointed, and Mr. Lyttleton have the Government of Barbados.
Feb. 12. Tho' two Parties of Acadians, who attempted to make their Escape from this Town, have been retaken and brought back, we hear there are still thirty of the Men missing. And we have just received an Account, that five or six of them, on the third Instant, went to the Plantation of Mr. John Williams, junior, at Santee, while he was from Home, terrified his Wife very much, robbed the House of Fire Arms and Clothes, and broke open a Box, out of which they took some Money, &c. and that the Neighbourhood, having gone in Quest of them as soon as they were informed of this Transaction, had track them into the River Swamp. As it is apprehended to be the Duty of every Civil and Military Officer throughout the Province (as it is indeed of every Inhabitant) to prevent such Outrages, &c. &c. hoped these Acadians will not be suffered to commit any more Robberies, or even to appear beyond the Limits prescribed them.
We hear that more French Captures have been carried into Jamaica, and St. Kitts, since those we have lately mentioned.
By Letters from Antigua, we are informed, that on the 19th ult. the Snow Edward, Capt. Cook, bound for Connecticut, with 260 Acadians (commonly called French Neutrals) on board, and on the 22d the Brig Experiment, Capt. Stoddard, bound for New York, with 200 more of those People, had put in there; having then been out six Weeks from Nova Scotia, met with very bad Weather, and beat off the Northern Coasts.
March 4, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, February 23.
They write from Halifax, that they are about, as far as the Season will admit, three new Forts, with Barracks, viz. one Barrack on the Citadel Hill, which is to be 365 Feet long, and 35 wide, of two Stories, which Hill and Barrack is to be walled in the Circumference of the whole Hill, which is very large, and to be mounted with a great Number of Cannon, which will command not only the whole Town, but also as far as Cannon Ball will reach back into the Woods; so that 20,000 Men could not come to do it any Damage, as the Hill is very steep, and lookupon to be impracticable to raise a Bomb battery so near as to reach it. Another Fort and Barrack is to be erected on the Wind mill Hill (so called) about Half a Mile to the Southward of it, but of smaller Dimensions. And a third at a Place called Pleasant Point, at the North side of the Northwest Arm, so called.
By Captain Knox from Halifax we are informed, that the Day he sailed, an Account came in from Chignecto, that one of the French Inhabitants having come to the English Fort there, and informed that about 300 French and Indians were near, and intended to cut off the English Wood cutter, Lieutenant Colonel Scott, with about 300 of the Provincial Troops, went in Quest of them, and having been out a Day and Night without discovering the Enemy, he concluded the Deserter had deceived him, and was returning to the Fort; but on his Way back, the Enemy came upon his Rear, upon which he faced about, and firing, killed eight Indians on the Spot, and put the rest to Flight, many of whom were doubtless wounded, as much Blood was found in their Tracks, upon the Pursuit. We donhear that any of our People were killed or taken. Two Frenchmen were taken Prisoners, and brought to Halifax the Day Captain Knox left that Place.
March 8, 1756
New York Mercury
Charles-Town, in South-carolina, February 19, 1756
Since our last, we have learnt, that the Acadians who lately robbed the House of Mr. John Williams at Santee, tho' it was thought they would have laid their bones in the Swamp they had got into, have escaped from thence, and crossed the River at Maxwell's Bluff, on a Bark Log. We hear, that People in the Country are determined no more of them shall escape that way, or any other by Land; but it is probably these may reach Fort du Quesne, or Canada, (as, we hear, some have hinted they could easily find the Way) unless intercepted in some of the neighbouring Colonies thro' which they must pass.
New York Mercury ' 1756-03-08; Iss: 187; Page 2
March 11, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
Halifax, February 25.
There is Advice in Town, that Capt. Milton, who sail'd from Chignecto some Time ago with a Cargo of French Neutrals, in order to transport them to some other Place, Was, in their Passage, overcome by the French, thro' the Treachery of some of his People, who carried her into St. Mary's Bay, where they lay near a Month, after which they carried her to St. John's where they burnt the Vessel, and deliver'd the People into the Hands of the Indians.
Headline: Halifax, February 25;
Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1756-03-11; Iss: 2801; Page: [2];
March 11, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, March 1.
Extract of a Letter from an officer at Fort Cumberland, in Nova Scotia, dated February 6, 1756.
"Col. Scott having fitted out a Party of Men in the same Dress of the Canadians and Indians, which Party Ensign Brewer Commanded, being 30. They set out after a Snow fell towards Memramcook, and had not gone far in that Road before he met with three Acadians, who came to him imagining them to be one of their own Parties, and would have taken six more immediately, but by the Eagerness of the Serjeant who fired, discovered the Wolf; therefore were obliged to return without other Success. These Prisoners upon Examination acquainted Col. Scott, That Monsieur Beauhebere, Mon. De ber Villee and 15 Regulars, with 18 Canadians, and about 300 Indians, with their Families, to the Number of 1000, were assembled at Shediac (opposite the Isle of St. John) to live upon the Cattle of the Country. That Monsieur Beauhebere was preparing to come with a Party to fall upon our People when getting their Wood. Upon which Col. Scott proposed going to visit Monsieur Beauhebere; and by a Council that he call, it was greed to prepare 500 Men for this Undertaking: Whereupon all the Taylors were employed in making Indian Stockings, cases for their Firelocks, Mittens and Waistcoats, and the French Prisoners in making Mogasons (moccasins). When our Preparations were about two Thirds compleated a Deserter came to us (a German who had been one of the first at Halifax) who acquainted us of M. Beauhebere being marched with about 130 Indians, and that he came with a Certainty of Success, as he had sent a Party 10 Days before to reconnoitre, who had it in their Power alone (as they reported) to have kill50 of our Men; but their Orders were no to discover themselves. The Deserter assured us that he knew the very Place where M. Beauhebere would halt, and that he would lead a Party directly up him in the Night. This to us all was welcome News; and immediately resolved upon to set out with 350 Men which Col. Scott himself went to command. We began our March at 11 o'Clock, and thro' as bad a Road as was ever march, being half Leg deep all the Way in Snow Water: We got to the wish for Place just before Dawn, but to our great Mortification there were no Enemy there; and by the Hurry and Eagerness of our Front, who first came to the house where we imagine they were, and fira Platoon, which making an Alarm, we concluded it would be in vain to seek further. We made Fires there and refreshed our Men and in two Hours set out upon our Return; but we had scarce quit the Woods with our Rear when they set up their Yell, and gave us a Fire, which our brave New England Men quickly return, and answered their Cry; and the whole facing about pursued them into the Woods, but to little Purpose.
The Indians in their first Discharge kill poor Serjeant Read, and another of Warburton, which were all that were hurt; the Indians upon seeing them fall, endeavour to scalp them; but the Rear which consisted of two New England Officers, and about 15 of their Men, kept them off until more came. Several of our People followed the Enemy into the Woods, but it began to blow and snow extremely hard, and our Men fatigued with the NightMarch, we callback our People and return: Those that followed the Indians and French into the Woods, assured us, that they found the Blood in two or three Places of kill or wounded Men, and brought off with them 8 or 10 Pair of Snow Shoes, with a Pistol and other Trifles: Upon our going off the second Time, they came and fired upon our Rear (who kill one Indian) without hurting a Man of ours. This Deserter is a most knowing clever Fellow, he has been a Sort of Prime Minister to the Priests Le Luther and Pere Jermin, in their Indian Affairs, which he knows thoroughly, and all the Country: He says, that the St. John Indians now have the Small pox, having lost lately 15 by it, that the Penobscots brought it amongst them, which Tribe is now almost reduced to nothing, having lost 160 last Summer and this Winter. The Peasants that remain in the Country are in the greatest Misery, living in the Woods, and must soon surrender or starve, if they cannot get off to the Island of St. John, which is their Design, that being the Reason of Mons. Beauhebere making Shedlack (Shediac) his Quarters on Account of the Contiguousness of that River with St. John."
Last Friday came to this Town, from Virginia, the Hon. Colonel Washington.
March 15, 1756
Boston Evening Post
Halifax, February 21, 1756
There is Advice in Town, that Capt. Milton, who sail'd from Chignecto some Time ago with a Cargo of French Neutrals, in order to transport them to some other Place, was, in their Passage, overcome by the French, thro' the Treachery of some of his People, who carried her into St. Mary's Bay, where they lay near a Month, after which they carried her to St. John's, where they burnt the Vessel, and delivered the People into the Hands of the Indians.
A Frenchman lately taken Prisoner by Capt. Lewsisï's Party of Rangers, informs, That a Schooner from Boston, bound to Annapolis royal, on board which Capt. Lieut. Martin, and a private Matross, belonging to the Royal Train of Artillery in this Place were Passengers, having put into a small Harbour there to wait till the Wind was fair, in the Night a Number of Indians in Canoes boarded and took the Vessel, and made the Men Prisoners, but what they have done with them we have not yet heard.
Headline: Halifax, February 21;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-03-15; Iss: 1072; Page: [2];
[Though the ship is not named, we now that this was the Pembroke. Information about the Pembroke and the families who were on it can be found at the sidebar under Paul Delaney - The Pembroke.]
March 18, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Wednesday last Capt. Sears arrived here in 15 Days from Halifax, by whom we have Advice, That some time ago Capt. Milton sailed from Chignecto for the Westward, with a Cargo of French Neutrals; but on the Passage (thro' the Treachery of some of the Crew) they took Possession of the Vessel, and carried her into St. Mary Bay; when, after lying a Month, they sailed for St. John, there burnt the Vessel, and delivered the People into the Hands of the Indians.
Capt. Sears adds, That his Majesty Snow Vulture, Captain Scarff, and the Halifax Province Sloop, Captain Rogers, were fitting out with all Expedition, in order, as said, to be sent to St. John, to look after the above mentioned Frenchmen, and some others, that were assembled there.
Capt. Libourn, in the Brig Relief, inward bound from South Carolina, in the great Snow Storm we had here Friday and Saturday last, parted her Cables and went on Shore on the Inside of the Hook; --- the Crew with Difficulty saved themselves, but the Vessel and Cargo feared will be lost. Capt. Price from Philadelphia also went ashore, but by unloading her will be recovered. Two other Sloops, unknown, are also upon the Beach, and probably may be got off without much Damage. News from Bristol in eight Weeks, Via Carolina, is, That the French had not then made any Captures of English Vessels; and that the latter still continued taking those of the former.
[Tibaudau, PetrePitre], Landry in Pennsylvania Gazette - March 25, 1756]
March 25, 1756 The Pennsylvania Gazette WHEREAS the wife and seven children of Francis Tibaudau, nine Children of Germain John Petre, and Anthony Landry and his wife, the two first of Pisguit river, and the latter of the Inhabitants river, have been sent to some of the king colonies, and the said Francis Tibaudau, Germain John Petre, and some of the children of the said Anthony Landry being in the city of Philadelphia; This publick notice is given, that if possible intelligence may be received by the abovementioned late inhabitants of Nova Scotia, or by the commissioners hereunder named, WILLIAM GRIFFITTS, JACOB DUCHEE, and THOMAS SAY.
April 5, 1756
Boston Evening Post
Philadelphia March 25.
Saturday last Capt. Calvert arrived here from Barbados, by whom there is Advice, that on the 8th of last Month about seven in the Evening, a Fire broke out in Bridgetown, in a Store belonging to one Mr. Blackman, which was full of Cotton, and other Goods, taken out of one of the French Prizes lately carried in there, and burnt with great Violence till Five o'Clock the next Morning, in which Time between 70 and 80 Houses were destroyed, and some Lives lost, and was at last got under by blowing up four Houses, two at each End of the Street or Alley that was on Fire. It is said the Loss is computed to above One Hundred Thousand Pounds. -
We hear that this Fire is strongly suspected to be occasioned by the French Neutrals lately brought to that Island, or the Negro Slaves, as several other Fires broke out in different Parts of the Town soon after, and that a continual Watch and Patrol are now kept all over the Town.
Headline: Philadelphia, March 25;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-04-05; Iss: 1075; Page: [4];
April 13, 1756
CharlesTown, South Carolina
Extract of a Letter from Charlettown, South-Carolina, dated April 13, 1756
"We are at last advised again, that our worthy new Governor (Mr. Lyttelton) is to come out soon, which gives us no small joy. We watch the Acadians narrowly; A Detachment from our Militia, besides a hired Watch, and the Soldiers of the Independent Companies, mount Guard every Night. Upwards of 80 of this People put to Sea in seven Canows (canoes), last Thursday Evening, intending to coast it along, and pass thro' the Inlets to Nova-Scotia: They have obtained Passports from the Governor, as we hear about 300 more have. We cannot devise what our G - would be at."
April 22, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
Charles-Town, South-Carolina, April 1, 1756
Sunday arrived Capt. James, in 18 Days from Boston.
The Acadians who were sent from Nova-Scotia to Georgia, having (as we hear) obtained Leave from His Excellency Governor Reynolds to quit that Province, have built Boats to transport themselves hither; and on Monday about 200 of them, in 10 of those Boats arrived in Wappoo Creek, within a few Miles of this Town, convoyed from Port Royal by one of our Scout Boats, lest they should attempt to any mischief by the Way. What is proposed to be done with them, we have not yet learnt. We hear, these People are infatuated with a Notion, that they shall obtain Leave to pass, in like Manner, thro' all the Governments on this side Nova-Scotia, 'till they reach it; but such have not considered, to what End they have been removed from thence.
Headline: Charlestown, South Carolina, April 1;
Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1756-04-22; Iss: 2213; Page: [4];
April 23, 1756
The New York Mercury
"Thursday last, a Brig with 200 Acadians arrived here from St. Kitts, being blown of our coast in the winter."
Headline: Extract of a Letter from Albany, Dated April 23, 1756;
Paper: The New York Mercury; Date: 1756-05-03; Iss: 195; page 3

May 6, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
PHILADELPHIA, May 6. 1756
We hear from Virginia, that that Government, at their own Expence, are going to send the French Neutrals that are there to England.

May 13, 1756
The Boston Weekly News-Letter
Extract of a Letter from an Officer at Fort Cumberland, in Nova Scotia, dated April 28th. 1756.
As for News I have only to let you know, That on Monday last a Number of Indians (suppos’d to be large) advanc’d towards Fort Monckton (commanded by Capt. Hill, and 70 Regulars) and killed 9 and captivated one ; and the next Day paid us a Visit, and had the Impudence to send some of their Number on this Side Tantamar-Creek early in the Morning, and kill’d one of the Regulars, and took or killed on Noah Williams of Taunton, a young Lad of our Troops, belonging to Capt. Gilbert’s Company – I am fearful he is killed, as we have found the Body of the Regular, stript naked and scalped, as likewise the Lad’s Coat : This has set us in an Alarm, and we are preparing to send a large Body to Gasperau To-morrow. -
Headline: Extract of a Letter from an Officer at Fort Cumberland, in Nova Scotia, Dated April 28th 1756;
Paper: The Boston Weekly News-Letter; Date: 1756-05-13; Iss: 2810; Page: [1];
May 17, 1756
The Boston Evening Post
New York, May 10, 1756
We are told, that some of the French Neutrals that arrived here last Week, are to be sent to Long Island, and the rest to New-Rochell.
Headline: New-York, May 10;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-05-17; Iss: 1081; Page: [1];
May 17, 1756
The Boston Evening Post
New York, May 10, 1756
We are told, that some of the French Neutrals that arrived here last Week, are to be sent to Long Island, and the rest to New-Rochell.
Headline: New-York, May 10;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-05-17; Iss: 1081; Page: [1];
May 27, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Charles Town, in South Carolina, May 1. 1756
We hear that an Offer has been made to the Acadians here, to supply them with Vessels, &c. at the Publick Charge, for transporting themselves elsewhere, as they have frequently solicited (or rather demanded;) but that having refused to accept the Offer, because not exactly corresponding with their own Humor, a Method has been fallen upon that will render it less troublesome and less expensive.
Those that went from hence some Weeks since, stopt at several of the Inlets (if not all) on our Sea Coast (Northward) and at Winyah raised their Boats to proceed, with the more Safety, farther.
May 7. This Day upwards of 80 Acadians went from hence in Canoes, for the Northward: The Country Scout Boats accompany them as far as Winyah.
Yesterday upwards of 50 more of those People went for Virginia, in the Sloop Jacob, Capt. Noel.
May 20, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, May 10.
Saturday last arrived here Capt. Thompson in 9 Days from Chignecto, and informs, that a Body of French and Indians had taken and killed 8 of our Men near Gaspereau; and that they killed two more or our Men about half a Mile from the Fort at Chignecto, two Days before he sailed.
June 10, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
NEW HAVEN, May 29.
This Day His MajestyShip Syren, Capt. Proby, Commander, arrived at New London, with Letters from the Ministry to the Governor and Company, relating to the Effects of the late Snow St. Joseph, of St. Helena, and her Cargoe.
The same Day Capt. Ephraim Cook arrived there with 180 French, called Neutrals.
July 1, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
New-York, June 28.
We hear a great Number of the French Neutrals, some say seven Boat Loads, who were permitted to leave Georgia and South-Carolina, arrived and stopt in Monmouth County, somewhere near Shrewsbury, in the Jerseys; and a Council is called at Elizabeth-Town about them.
Headline: New-York, June 28;
Paper: The Pennsylvania Gazette; Date: 1756-07-01; Iss: 1436; Page: [2];
July 19, 1756
The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal
New-York, July 12.
The seven Boat load of French Neutrals, lately landed in the Jerseys, pass'd this City this Week, and landed a few Miles to the Eastward of it, having coasted it from Georgia, &c.
Headline: New-York, July 12; Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1756-07-19; Iss: 68; Page: [1];
July 26, 1756
Boston Evening Post
Extract of Another Letter of the same date
A few Days ago Advice came to Town, that about 90 French Neutrals (falsely so called) were arrived in Barnstable Bay, near Cape Cod. They were first sent to Georgia, but they not liking the Country, nor the Country liking them, they have been suffered to coast it along from one Government to another, till at last they are come to be an addition Trouble and charge to this.
Yesterday a fishing Schooner arrived here from Cape-Sable Shore, the Master of which informs, that about a Fortnight ago, he spoke with the Nightingale Man of War (Lord Loudon on board) just come from Halifax, and by her was told, that one of our Ships had taken a French Privateer from Louisburg, doubtless bound this Way for Provisions.
Extract of Another Letter, of the Same Date;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-07-26; Iss: 1091; Page: [2];
August 19, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
HALIFAX, July 17.
Last Saturday, in the Afternoon, Captain Kent, with his Party of Volunteers, of about Forty, who had been after the Indians, returned here; they travelled upwards of 800 Miles to and fro in the Woods after them, but without Success: They inform, that a Number of the Rebel French have got together, and made a small Settlement about 20 Miles from the Fort at Pisguit, where they have fine Fields of Corn, &c. growing, and have rebuilt some Houses and Barns. Captain Kent’s party brought to Town with them about 170 Head of French Cattle, and 17 good Horses.
August 30, 1756
The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal
Extract of a Letter from Ghoshen, Dated Aug. 14.
Eighty French Neutrals came to Town yesterday having pleasured it along the Coast from Georgia.
Headline: Extract of a Letter from Goshen, Dated Aug. 14; Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1756-08-30; Iss: 74; Page: [1];
September 6, 1756
The Boston Gazette or Weekly Journal
New-York, August 30.
The French Neutrals that arrived here on Sunday the 22 Instant, from Georgia, as mentioned in our last, were stopped, and their Canoes taken from them, by Order of his Excellency our Governor; and we hear are to be dispersed in different Parts of this Province
Headline: New-York, August 30;
Paper: The Boston Gazette, or Weekly Journal; Date: 1756-09-06; Iss: 75; Page: [1];
September 9, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
BOSTON, August 30.
By Letters from Fort Cumberland, at Chignecto, dated the 14th Instant, we learn, That they were building a large Magazine in that Fort; and that as some of the Masons and Labourers were lately getting Stones for the Work, three Quarters of a Mile Distance from the Fort, attended by a Party of Soldiers, a Number of Indians suddenly arose and fired upon them, but hurt none, only the Serjeant of the Guard had a Shot through the Brim of his Hat: Upon which our Men, being about the same in Number, fired and killed one of the Indians, whom they scalped; the Indians retreated immediately, when our People got four Guns, four Blankets, and two Hatchets, which they left, and saw several Tracks of Blood, so that it is supposed one more at least was killed, and some others wounded. The Indians were about 28 in Number; and it was thought they had laid in wait several Days.
Saturday Night last arrived here Captain Freeman, from Halifax, who informs, that the Day before he left that Place, which was the 20th Infant, Captain Hale, who was sent to Louisbourg by Governor Lawrence as a Flag of Truce, retuned, and reported, that the French Fleet (5 in Number) were sailed for Old France, and that some of the Commodore Holmes Squadron were in Pursuit of them. We also hear, that Captain Knox was arrived at Halifax, and brought in with him a second Prize, a French Dogger, bound from Old France to Louisbourg, laden with Wine, Brandy, Oyl, and dry Goods: She is esteemed a valuable Prize.
Three Transport Sloops, with 141 private Soldiers, besides Officers, of Col. ScottBattallion, arrived here Yesterday from Chignecto, having been 16 Months in the Service there: Major Fry cam in one, and informs us that the Indians still continue very troublesome, having attempted lately at two different Times to burn a Blockhouse, but meeting with such a
September 13, 1756
Boston Evening Post
BOSTON.
Province of the Massachusetts Bay.} By His Excellency the Governor.
Whereas considerable Numbers of the French People, late Inhabitants of Nova Scotia, who were by Order of that Government transported into some of the Southern English Colonies, and have come off from thence in order to return back to Nova Scotia, which would be of pernicious Consequence : And many of the said French People have come into this Government, and have been stopp’d and secured from proceeding further ; and it is probable others may attempt to pass through this Province upon the same Design ;
I do therefore hereby require all His Majesty’s Officers, and all other his good subjects, within this Government, to do every Thing in their Power to prevent the same ; and particularly, to endeavour to make Discovery of any French People from the said Southern Colonies that may be found in this Province, and to stop their Proceeding : and that they inform some one or more of His Majesty’s Justices of the Peace thereof, who are hereby required to secure the said French People, giving speedy Information thereof to me, that so further Orders may be given thereon.
Given under My Hand at Boston, the Eighth Day of September, One thousand seven Hundred and Fifty-six. In the Thirtieth Year of His Majesty’s Reign.
W. Shirley.
By His Excellency’s Command, with the advice of the Council,
J. Willard, Sec’ry.
Province of the Massachusetts, } September 11. 1756.
Headline: Edition: ; Page: [4];
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-09-13; Iss: 1098; Page: [4];
September 20, 1756
Boston Evening Post
Falmouth, June 17, 1756. Arriv'd, the Fanny, Bovey, from Virginia, with 204 Neutral French on board, being sent by the Governor of Virginia, he apprehending they would go and join their Countrymen and the Indians in their Interest.
June 23. The Virginia Packet, Ball, is arrived at Bristol, from Virginia, with 299 more neutral French on board.
[Note: The Acadians deported to Virginia were sent on to England where they would be prisoners until 1763.]
Headline: Falmouth, June 17;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-09-20; Iss: 1099; Page: [2];
September 25, 1756
AMERICA
Halifax, Nova-Scotia, Sept. 25. [1756]
Thursday two Men arrived here with Expresses from Capt. Mercier at Pisguit, to his Excellency our Governor, informing him, that as some of our Men were at Work at some Distance from the Fort, threshing Corn and baking Bread for the Use of the Garrison, with a Guard consisting of a Serjeant and 12 Men, 4 of the French Neutrals discover'd themselves at a small distance from them, upon which the Serjeant and his Party pursu'd them 'till they came to a Hollow, when they were immediately surrounded by about 100 of the French, who took the Seerjeant and 6 of his Men Prisoners, the other 6 by firing and retreating in the best Manner they could, got back to the Fort, with only one wounded.
Headline: America;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-10-18; Iss: 1103; Page: [2];
October 11, 1756
Boston Evening Post
Bristol, June 26.
On Saturday arriv'd here from Virginia, the Virginia Packet with three hundred French Neutrals, a great Part of whom are Women and Children. They lay at our Kay waiting for Orders frm Above, for the Disposal of them, vast Numbers of the Citizens flocking daily to see them, and Thursday were removed to Guinea-Street, and are allow'd Six pence per Head per Day with any Deduction, which will afford them a comfortable Support in their present deplorable Circumstances. - Several hundred more are shortly expected.
Headline: Bristol, June 26;
Paper: Boston Evening Post.; Date: 1756-10-11; Iss: 1102; Page: [3];
October 28, 1756
The Pennsylvania Gazette
Captain Shippy, from Chignecto, for New York, touched at Portsmouth last Thursday in three Days, and informed, that there had been lately discovered a large Body of French and Indians; upon which the English demolished Fort Lawrence, and Fort Monkton, at Bay Vert, and repaired