Harper's Encyclopedia of United States History
Benson Lossing, Ed.

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Turner's Falls, engagement at

Around the falls in the Connecticut River known as Turner's a sharp action occurred in May, 1676. A large body of Indians, who had desolated Deerfield, were encamped here. Captain Turner was then in command of the English troops in the valley, and, taking 120 mounted men, started on a night ride through Hadley and Deerfield in search of Indians. He found them fast asleep in their camp, and surprised them. Many fled to their canoes, but, leaving their paddles behind, went over the falls. Others hid away among the rocks, and were killed, and others were shot while crossing the river. After the battle the bodies of 100 Indians were found dead at their camp, and 140 who went over the falls perished. About 300 Indians were destroyed. Turner lost only one man. Another party of Indians were soon on his track, and a panic seized the troops when it was rumored that King Philip, with 1,000 men, was in pursuit. A running fight occurred. Turner was killed, many of his men were slain, and Captain Holyoke, who took command of the whole, died not long afterwards from the effects of the excitement and fatigue of the eventful May 10, 1676. It was a severe blow to King Philip.