Identity area
Reference code
Title
Date(s)
- 1768 - 1781 (Creation)
Level of description
Extent and medium
3 folders of textual material (4 cm)
Context area
Name of creator
Archival history
Immediate source of acquisition or transfer
Content and structure area
Scope and content
The “American Revolution” sub-series consists of chronological correspondence files relating to Simcoe’s military career between 1768 and 1781. The files include correspondence received, copies of proclamations and speeches relating to the American Revolution, and documents acquired during his American service.
The bulk of the papers deal with his activities during the American Revolution including the Siege of Boston and Burgoyne’s invasion from Canada in 1777. Following his experience during the latter of these campaigns, Simcoe supported the creation of light infantry units raised locally, using the same military tactics as the Americans. As a results, he was commissioned as a Colonel in command of the Queen’s Rangers, operating out of New York and Virginia between 1777 and 1781. Shortly before Lord Cornwallis was compelled to surrender at Yorktown, Simcoe received permission to return to England for reasons of health.