Rangers and Redcoats on the Hudson

by David R. Starbuck

"From 1991 through 1998 archeologist David Starbuck conducted excavations on Rogers Island, one of the most significant military encampments of the French and Indian War. Located in the Hudson River is what is now the town of Fort Edward, Rogers Island was once home to thousands of British "redcoats" as well as hundreds of "rangers" - irregular American colonial fighters. In fact, the island is named for its association with the famed Major Robert Rogers, leader of Rogers' Rangers and noted author of "Rules of Ranging," his brief code-of-conduct for colonial guerrilla fighters written while encamped on the island. Rogers Island was one of the longest occupied and most populous training camps of the French and Indian War and contains the remains of barracks, tents, storehouse, and hospitals. As such, the island offers insights into the daily life of colonial soldiers."--BOOK JACKET.