On July 30, 1776, British warships threatened New York, but George Washington warned his army about a danger inside the city: its water. His General Orders stated that the pump water in the city was very unhealthy, and he ordered canteens, inspections of water stored in the defensive works, and a plan to supply fresh water throughout the city.
Congress Examines Canada Invasion Failure
In Philadelphia, Congress spent the same day examining why the American invasion of Canada had collapsed. The report identified three main causes: short enlistments, the lack of hard money, and smallpox. Congress also ordered trials for several officers who had surrendered or left their commands.
Washington’s warning about the city’s water came two days after he reorganized regimental hospitals due to increasing sickness. He moved to protect the water used by troops defending New York, directing the quartermaster and commissary generals to establish another fresh-water supply.
Original reporting: WBAP News/Talk (Dallas-Fort Worth) — read the source article.
