On This Day: British fleet leaves Boston, destination unknown

The following is an installment of “On This Day,” a series celebrating America’s 250th anniversary by following the actions of Gen. George Washington, the Continental Congress, and the men and women whose bravery and sacrifice led up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

After two weeks of uncertainty, Gen. George Washington is at his headquarters in Cambridge when field reports arrive indicating that the British fleet has finally abandoned the coast of Boston.

Washington immediately writes to John Hancock, the president of the Second Continental Congress, telling him that “the whole of the Ministerial Fleet besides three or four Ships” has gotten underway and is “standing out for Sea.” 

ON THIS DAY: WASHINGTON STUDIES THE BRITISH FLEET AS IT LINGERS IN BOSTON

However, uncertainty remains; the British Fleet’s destination is unknown. 

Washington has no other course but to respond by telling Hancock that he will detach a brigade