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Forgotten Valor: The Life and Legacy of Revolutionary War Hero Alexander Scammell
Paperback
Revolutionary Period (1775-1800)
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: Apr 8 2025
Pages: 360
Weight: 1.06
Height: 0.75 Width: 6.00 Depth: 9.00
Language: English
While researching and writing several books about the American Revolution, I frequently encountered the name Alexander Scammell. He seemed to be everywhere-present at most battles, serving as an officer and leader, and a close friend of key figures like Hamilton, Lafayette, Washington, and many other generals. When delving into Hamilton's story, for instance, I discovered Scammell had signed Hamilton's entry orders into the Continental Army. He was with Hamilton during the trial and execution of Major André, assisted Hamilton in crossing the Hudson River to Washington's headquarters in a small boat, and Hamilton even took Scammell's place to lead the charge in capturing a redoubt at the Battle of Yorktown.
Alexander Scammell was the son of a Massachusetts physician who passed away when Alexander was just six years old. His widowed mother, Jane, was left to raise three children-Samuel, Alexander, and Ann-on her own. With the help of Reverend Amariah Frost, Alexander excelled academically and went on to graduate from Harvard. After Harvard, he taught school for a few years before deciding to explore new opportunities. He became a land surveyor and helped map New Hampshire while working for the British government.
Alexander had a remarkable ability to leave a strong impression on everyone he met. He was tall, handsome, charismatic, kind, and intelligent. Even George Washington admired his company at dinners, often laughing out loud at Scammell's wit and charm.
Alexander's path soon crossed with John Sullivan, who became his mentor and encouraged him to study law. When the Revolutionary War broke out, Scammell joined Sullivan, who had become a general in the Continental Army. Scammell quickly proved his value as a soldier, fighting in numerous battles, and rising through the ranks to become Adjutant General under Washington.
Recognizing his courage and skill, Washington appointed Scammell to lead the first special forces operations, tasking him with executing risky but vital missions.
While serving in the Continental Army, Alexander pursued a romance with the love of his life, whom he affectionately called Nabby. The two exchanged many heartfelt letters, and he proposed marriage during the war. Tragically, a wartime incident as the conflict neared its end shattered their hopes for a future together.
Alexander Scammell's death deeply affected those who knew him. Many of his contemporaries honored him by naming their sons after him. Notable figures like John Brooks, future Governor of Massachusetts; Henry Dearborn, future Secretary of War under Jefferson; and Peleg Wadsworth, the grandfather of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, who wrote Paul Revere's Ride, carried on his name as a tribute to their beloved friend.
In this book, I will tell the full story of Alexander Scammell-a forgotten hero and close friend of Alexander Hamilton. Thanks to newly available letters and primary source documents, I can provide fresh insights into his life. I will include many of his letters verbatim, allowing you to experience Alexander's voice and character firsthand. Throughout, I will narrate and reference these documents to bring his story to life.
I hope you enjoy this journey into the remarkable life of Alexander Scammell.
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