In Solemn Step
Colonial National Historical Park
At about twelve o’clock, the combined army was arranged … in two lines extending more than a mile …. The French troops, in complete uniform, displayed a martial and noble appearance …. The Americans … exhibited an erect, soldierly air, every countenance beamed with satisfaction and joy. The concourse of spectators … in point of numbers was probably equal to the military, but universal silence and order prevailed.
Surgeon James Thacher, M.D., Continental Army, October 19, 1781
On October 19, 1781, the now-paved road to your right was lined by American soldiers on the right and French soldiers on the left. Every eye was trained upon the arrival of the British troops. Spectators from miles around crowded behind the military formation in anticipation of the British parade. Washington had ordered Cornwallis to march his men from Yorktown at precisely 2 p.m., but unforeseen delays held their exit until 3 p.m.
Cornwallis sent word that he was ill and appointed Brigadier General Charles O’Hara to lead his troops. In solemn step, with arms shouldered and colors cased, the British and German prisoners marched with drums beating to this field where they surrendered their weapons. The victors and the defeated were unaware that the long struggle had ended.
Marker can be reached from Historical Tour Drive, on the right when traveling south.
Courtesy hmdb.org
