Encyclopedia · Battlefields, forts, ships, and operational use

Artillery at Dorchester Heights

In March 1776 American artillery, including the guns brought from Ticonderoga, was placed on Dorchester Heights overlooking Boston, forcing the British to evacuate the town.

Also known as: Dorchester Heights.

DateMarch 1776
GunsContinental artillery, including the Ticonderoga guns
ResultThe British evacuation of Boston

Guns above Boston

In the night of early March 1776 the Americans fortified Dorchester Heights, the high ground commanding Boston and its harbor, and mounted artillery there, including the cannon Knox had brought from Ticonderoga. The guns threatened the British troops and fleet below.

Unable to hold the town under these guns, the British evacuated Boston, a bloodless victory that showed the decisive value of artillery well placed on commanding ground.

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