Regimental History

About ninety percent of the regiment was at Fort Ticonderoga under the command of Major Peter Gansevoort, in late August, 1775. It was the only time that this many of the regiment were together at a single location. It was also when they were the best equipped during their time of service.

By then, each soldier had received the regimental coat and blanket he was entitled. As many as 600 of the men were each to receive a pair of shoes and a tumpline to secure their belongings, by the personal order of Brigadier General Richard Montgomery. In addition, each 2nd New Yorker was issued a musket and bayonet, a cartridge pouch, waistbelt, tin canteen, a linen haversack, and other sundries. Additional clothing such as shirts, hats, waistcoats, breeches and stockings were to be available for purchase by the men, but was probably misdirected elsewhere or acquired by other New York soldiers.

About 300 men of the 2nd New York proceeded almost immediately (under Gansevoort’s command) with General Montgomery’s Army on the invasion into Canada. Elements of the regiment were at Isle-aux-Noix, the sieges of Forts St. John and Chambly, and the taking of Montreal. Most of them, along with the Green Mountain Boys, successfully held off a British counterattack at Sorel. There is now strong evidence that members of the unit also took part in several raids that accumulated needed clothing and supplies for the army and that others were also caught up in Ethan Allen's early sortie into Montreal. However, since most of the men were needed as occupation forces, only a portion of the those 2nd New Yorkers would ever make it to all the way to Quebec. Yet, new research indicates these men took an active role in the actions there.

In a blinding snowstorm, on 31 December 1775, shortly after joining with Colonel Benedict Arnold's forces (which came up through present-day Maine), the assault on Quebec's defenses finally began. Montgomery was killed leading the New York troops and Arnold lay seriously wounded on the other side of the city. 

The attack on the city a failure, the beaten American army retreated to Montreal.  Throughout the winter, most of the Yorkers filtered south to be reorganized for the 1776 campaign, and the first establishment of the Second New York passed into history. All in all, it was rather a quiet end to a regiment that served courageously during the difficult early days of the American Revolution.

Today's 2nd New York

In late 1971, two mid-Hudson Valley families interested in American history, started a living history association dedicated to educating its members and the public in the period of our War for Independence by portraying the life and times of the New York soldier during that glorious cause.

Formed as a member unit of the highly regarded Brigade of the American Revolution, the 2nd New York has a diverse membership from all walks of life. They are stretched from the Adirondack Mountains to Long Island and include family and single men, wives, children, and others who participate on a full or part-time basis.

About every other weekend from mid-spring through late fall the 2nd New York actively participates at 18th century site demonstrations, battle reenactments, black powder shooting competitions, war games and various civic presentations of 18th century life and times.

Sound research, experimentation, a dedication to authenticity, and the many unique talents of its membership, has made the 2nd New York one of the finest living history organizations around.

Membership

The 2nd New York welcomes the opportunity to expand its ranks with others who might want to join them in recreating the history of early America. There are many roles to play, both in camp and on the field. Men, women, and (supervised) children can participate in historically appropriate roles to bring history alive.

Every member owns their own clothing and equipment, so it is advised new members have sufficient disposable income to afford the undertaking and have enough free weekends to enjoy it. Though, with few exceptions, members of this group always seem to find the time and the money to take part.

Motivated applicants are assisted in getting uniformed, equipped, and educated. Sources for almost everything, including muskets, are available at discounted prices.  Since ready made items generally do not meet unit standards, the 2nd New York maintains its own storehouse of raw materials.  The all-natural fabrics are bought by the bolt and oak-tanned leather by the hide.  Felt hat blanks are purchased in quantity, and later blocked and sized to fit the individual member.  Patterns and instructions are also in stock for making needed items, or they can locate the best sources for finished goods should you prefer to buy them.

Contact the 2nd New York today for more information on how you and your family can join in on one of the most enjoyable and worthwhile hobbies of today - reliving our nation's historic past.