Historic leaves, volume 2, April, 1903 - January, 1904

[95] the Orderly Book of Nathan Stow, from which we cull several particulars more. The General Orders for July 4 stated: That Hon. Artemus Ward, Charles Lee, Philip Schuyler, and Israel Putnam, Esq., are appointed major-generals of the American army by the Continental Congress, and due obedience is to be paid to them as such; and, That all the troops of the several colonies which have been raised, or may hereafter be raised, for the support and defense of the liberties of America are received into the pay and service of the Continental Congress, and are now the troops of the United Provinces of North America, and it is hoped that all distinctions of colonies will be laid aside. The General Orders for July 16 by Major-General Putnam commanded: That to-morrow morning precisely at six o'clock all officers and soldiers in the camp attend on Prospect Hill at the usual place of prayers, there to hear read by Mr. Leonard (chaplain) the manifesto of the Hon. Continental Congress, containing their reasons for taking up arms. Putnam was still in command on Prospect Hill July 18, when he instructed the officers to warn the soldiers to be on parade at four o'clock, and be ready for action at once, as by some movements on Boston Common it appears that they (the enemy) have some intention of coming out. Such proclamations on Prospect Hill, thus early giving expression to the advanced views of freedom and independence for America are a lasting honor to Somerville, and are full worthy to be remembered in connection with Washington's visit there, when January 1, 1776, the flag of ‘alternate hues’ was hoisted in token and publication of ‘the cementing of the thirteen American colonies in a common bond against British oppression.’ Nearly six months before, as we have seen, the spirit of liberty was there equally manifest and equally comprehensive in its sweep. Good for Somerville, we say again; and pleasant it is to remember that, while Putnam and Greene were there in command, they were associated together with the ‘Father of His Country’ in the same purposes, aspirations, and endeavors, and all were of one mind and heart.

Prospect Hill encampment presented a busy scene under Putnam's command, as afterward. Washington's first visit to