In our continuing series in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Historical Society of the New York Courts is highlighting New York’s role in the creation of our nation and its legacy through its annual calendar. In September, we are spotlighting the Great Fire of 1776.
September: The Great Fire of 1776
On September 15, 1776, the British landed on Kip’s Bay and pushed the Continental Army north to Harlem Heights. Five days later, on September 20th, a mysterious fire burned through the night and into the next day, destroying up to 25 percent of New York City, including the original Trinity Church. Both the British and Americans blamed each other. George Washington denied knowledge of the cause, and no one was charged. The Great Fire of 1776 contributed to the displacement and loss experienced in New York City under British occupation.
Image Captions
Image of New York’s Great Fire of 1776, “Representation du Feu terrible a Nouvelle Yorck,” engraving by Amos F. Eno, 1776. The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Print Collection, The New York Public Library.
The British landing at Kip’s Bay, New York Island, 15 September 1776 by Robert Cleveley, 1777. Image in public domain in the United States, courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.