The Probert Encyclopaedia of Warfare

BATTLE OF GREAT MEADOWS

The Battle of Great Meadows marked the beginning of the French and Indian War, and was the first engagement of the Seven Years' War. Toward the end of May, 1754, George Washington encamped with 150 men on a meadow near the Youghiogeny River between the Alleghany and Laurel Ridges received instructions to advance upon Fort Duquesne, which had been seized by the French during the preceding year. When at Great Meadows he learned that a body of French were in his vicinity he took a portion of his force and an Indian guide and surprised the French who were hidden in a hollow in the forest, and at once opened fire. Several, among whom was their commander Jumonville, were killed, and over twenty taken prisoner.
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