New London in New London County, Connecticut — The American Northeast (New England)
Revolutionary War Privateering
Led to Benedict Arnold’s Attack
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
1. Revolutionary War Privateering Marker
When the colonies chose revolution, the Continental Congress appointed Nathaniel Shaw to be in charge of Connecticut’s Navy. That navy consisted largely of privateers, privately-owned armed vessels, licensed to attack British shipping. Privateers were allowed to claim their cargos to sell for profit.
Through most of the Revolutionary War, New York City was British headquarters. This made Long Island Sound a prime location for commerce-raiding. New London had 59 licensed privateers and captured over 200 merchant ships carrying a plentiful supply of goods.
The British commander decided to punish New London and sent Benedict Arnold to lead a raid. On September 6, 1781 Arnold’s forces captured Fort Trumbull and Fort Griswold, in Groton, slaughtering 80 of the defenders. In New London, the entire waterfront was set ablaze. Warehouses, homes, businesses, public buildings and ships were destroyed.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • War, US Revolutionary • Waterways & Vessels. A significant historical month for this entry is September 1775.
Location. 41° 21.264′ N, 72° 5.627′ W. Marker is in New London, Connecticut, in New London County. Marker is at the intersection of Water Street and State Street, on the left when traveling north on
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Revolutionary New London (here, next to this marker); Nathan Hale (here, next to this marker); Nathan Hale Schoolhouse (a few steps from this marker); New London Soldiers & Sailors Monument (within shouting distance of this marker); Whaling in New London (within shouting distance of this marker); Native Americans (within shouting distance of this marker); The Roots of the US Coast Guard (within shouting distance of this marker); The Atlantic Trade (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in New London.
Also see . . .
1. History of Fort Trumbull. Account of the raid on New London from the Friends of Fort Trumbull website. (Submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
2. Battle of Groton Heights. Account of the battle across the river from the Friends of Fort Griswold website. (Submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.)
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
2. Markers in New London
Several markers can be found in the New London plaza. The Revolutionary War Privateering marker is the center of those seen here.
Photographed By Bill Coughlin, October 9, 2011
3. Revolutionary War Privateering Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on May 6, 2023. It was originally submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 978 times since then and 17 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 14, 2011, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.
