Benedict Arnold remains one of the most infamous figures of the American Revolution—a traitor to the cause he once helped advance. Yet before his defection, he played a crucial role in key Patriot victories.
A Connecticut native, Arnold grew increasingly disillusioned by political infighting, perceived slights, and what he saw as corruption within the cause he served.
Some historians believe Arnold felt betrayed long before he became the betrayer.
A Coast Under Threat — 1781
In September 1781, now serving the British, Arnold led devastating raids along the Connecticut coast.
At New London, his forces burned more than 100 homes, ships, and supplies.
At Fort Griswold in Groton, the following day September 6, his troops stormed the fort and killed many American defenders—even after their surrender.
Apparently, Arnold then planned to attack Guilford. The Patriots, however, anticipated his move.
Preparing for Attack
Defenses were quickly organized. A regiment marched to Guilford and took position along the shoreline, as noted by Caleb White of Chatham, Connecticut, in his pension files.
“marched to Guilford Ct. with the expectation that Genl. Arnold would land there — we got to Guilford before Arnold, and awaited his landing — Arnold, after anchoring & putting out his boats and sending them part way to shore, he hailed the boats and was supported as boats went back to the shipping. He weighed anchor & went on towards New York”
The defenses at Guilford had thwarted Arnold’s attempt to attack. The guards, after one months service were discharged.
This previously untold episode in Connecticut’s Revolutionary War history was found by Tracy Tomaselli, Historical Room Specialist, Guilford Free Library, in the pension files of Caleb White and William Barker, who were stationed in Guilford. Slide by John Plant, GKS.
