Crooked Billet Commemorates 235th Anniversary of Battle

Crooked Billet Elementary School students donned duster caps and tri-cornered hats, while paying tribute to the American Revolutionary War heroes who fought for our freedom during Wednesday's annual Crooked Billet Day ceremony.

The school's 280 students sang songs, read essays and danced the "Virginia Reel" to pay tribute to the 235th anniversary of the Battle of Crooked Billet, which occurred on what is now the school grounds, on May 1, 1778.

The Battle of Crooked Billet occurred when American Patriots under the command of General John Lacey were attacked in the early morning hours by the British Redcoats, led by Lieutenant Colonel Ambercromby. The American troops had stopped on what is now school land to rest during their journey to deliver fresh food to troops at Valley Forge. Twenty-six Americans died in the surprise attack, including John Downey, a young schoolmaster.

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