Maps from the Clinton Collection

[ndembowski]

A little known fact among local history fans is that the University of Michigan’s Clements Library holds an impressive collection of maps and documents related to the area’s revolutionary war history. They are part of their Sir Henry Clinton collection. The U of M ended up with the papers of Clinton, who was the second Commander-in-Chief of British forces in America. Prior to the battle of Brooklyn, Clinton was an advocate of landing British forces in Kingsbridge, as opposed to Long Island. After taking command from Sir William Howe, Clinton spent most of his time in NYC, trying to fend off Washington, who desperately wanted to retake New York. As a result, Clinton devoted considerable attention to the Kingsbridge area, which was the front line for much of the war. Here are some links to their maps, which have recently been made available online:

Roads from Kings Bridge to White Plains

Sketch of Kings Bridge

Philipse Manor Hall

New York Island with circumjacent country (includes East Bronx and Pelham)

[Author]

Posts