Frederick Mackenzie’s diary entry for August 29, 1778 gives us a picture of the British moves toward the battle. At daybreak Mackenzie could see that the Americans were folding their tents to travel. He found a higher viewpoint and saw that Rebels were not in the trenches.

” I rode as fast as possible to General Pigot’s quarters in Newport and informed him of it, and returned to the Camp with his orders for all the troops to get under arms with the utmost expedition. The General came to Irishes Redoubt by the time the Troops were assembled, and being satisfied that the Rebels had quitted their position, he gave orders for a part of the Army to march out, in three Columns, to pursue them, but to advance with caution, and not bring on an Action with a part of our force.”

The right column included the 38th and the 54th Regiments under the Command of Major General Prescott. He was directed to take the Rebel works at Honeyman’s Hill and wait for orders.

“The Center Column was composed of the Flank Companies of the 38th & 54th, and the 22d, & 43rd Regiments, under the Command of Brigadier General Smith. This Column marched out at Irishes Redoubt, and proceeded on the East road towards Quaker hill.

The left Column was composed of the Hessian Chasseurs, and the two Anspach Battalions, under the Command of Major Genl Lossberg; this Column marched out at Irishes Redoubt, & proceeded by the West road towards General Smith’s late quarters on that road.

The troops began to march about half past 6 o’Clock.”

Irish’s was the starting point for British movements August 29, 1778.

Resources:

Diary of Frederick Mackenzie, Vol. 2: August 29, 1778.

Fage Map, 1778. Clinton Collection, University of Michigan