Cannon surrendered by the British at Yorktown, October 19, 1781.
This is my post for the My World meme. It is hosted by Klaus, Ivar, Sandy, Wren, Louise and Fishing Guy. To learn more about our world or to join and share your part of the world, click HERE.
In June, 2007, Betsy and I made an anniversary trip to Virginia. We went to spend several days at Colonial National Historical Park and at Williamsburg.
The siege of Yorktown in 1781 was the last major battle of the American Revolution. It came about after a French fleet defeated a British fleet at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, making it impossible for British Lord Cornwallis to get help or to escape by sea. The American and French army marched to Yorktown on September 28, 1781, and after a week of preparation, constructed their first siege line on October 6. They began bombarding British positions on October 9.
After a round-the-clock bombardment that lasted nine days, Cornwallis requested a cease fire to discuss surrender terms. Two day later, on October 19, 1781, he formally surrendered his army. As the British army marched to the field to lay down their arms, the British fife and drum corps play “The World Turned Upside Down”. When Lord North, the British prime minister, learned of Cornwallis’s defeat, he is reported to have cried, “Oh God! It is all over!”
To see more of the Yorktown Battlefield click HERE.
Senior Moments 
September 22, 2009 at 7:20 am |
I’ve never been to Williamsburg before. I’m sure it would be so interesting to visit.
September 22, 2009 at 8:23 am |
Isn’t it wonderful that now the British and Americans can be friends? History is so fun, especially when there are so many historical places to visit.
September 22, 2009 at 8:40 am |
A great piece of history. I’ll have to show this one to Mike…he loves cannons and stuff like this.
September 22, 2009 at 9:01 am |
Between you and Betsy, you’d keep us all busy traveling! You should write a travel book! I love Williamsburg and the surrounding area.
September 22, 2009 at 9:10 am |
I love the US parks- at least in a book. I have been reading Nevada Barr’s mystery novels. Very interesting.
September 22, 2009 at 10:26 am |
This is a wonderful piece of history. Thanks for sharing the words and the picture.
September 22, 2009 at 10:46 am |
Love the history behind the photos, thanks for sharing!
September 22, 2009 at 12:28 pm |
I see you were back near my old stomping grounds. 🙂
I love the shadow play in your photo!
September 22, 2009 at 1:24 pm |
Neat shot (no pun intended) and interesting history. MB
September 22, 2009 at 2:10 pm |
History and travel go together so well
September 22, 2009 at 4:53 pm |
Thanks for the history review …
Hugs and blessings,
September 22, 2009 at 5:32 pm |
This country has so much history. Williamsburg is a great place to go sightseeing. Thanks for sharing