19
Sep
1777
Wayne's Division Positioned Near Paoli
Paoli, PA· day date
The Story
After the American defeat at Brandywine on September 11, Washington positioned Wayne's division near the Paoli Tavern to harass the British rear as Howe's army moved toward Philadelphia. Wayne's 1,500 troops camped in the woods, monitoring British movements and waiting for an opportunity to strike supply trains.
The position was intended to be temporary and aggressive, but Wayne's camp was poorly concealed. British intelligence — including reports from local Loyalists — pinpointed his location. The failure to maintain adequate security and act on warnings of British knowledge of the camp's position set the stage for the surprise attack two days later.
People Involved
Anthony Wayne
Brigadier General
Chester County-born general whose division was surprised at Paoli. Wayne demanded and received a court-martial to clear his reputation, which acquitted him with honor. He went on to become one of Washington's most aggressive commanders, earning the nickname "Mad Anthony."
Jane Wayne
Plantation Manager
Wife of Anthony Wayne who managed the family's Waynesborough estate in Chester County while her husband served with the army. Like many officers' wives, she ran a complex agricultural operation alone for years, receiving intermittent letters and uncertain news.
Sources for Paoli