Commanders: Marquis De Lafayette Anthony Wayne Casualties: 28 killed 122 wounded
When Cornwallis arrived at Williamsburg, he received orders from General Sir Henry Clinton to go to Portsmouth and prepare a detachment of troops to return to New York City. After hearing these orders, Cornwallis began moving south on the Virginia Peninsula on July 4, planning to cross the wide James River at the Jamestownferry. Lafayette followed, and most of his Continentals reaching Norrell's Mill, about 8 miles from the ferry on July 5. Lafayette saw an opportunity to attack the British force as they made the difficult crossing of the James River. Cornwallis also recognized the possibility, and decided to lay a trap, hoping to capture a portion of Lafayette's army.He only sent his baggage train and JohnGraves Simcoe's.Queen's Rangers across the river, and concealed his main force near the crossing. Cornwallis also sent men to "desert" to the Americans with information that most of the British force had crossed, leaving only a rear guard. Wayne's charge worked; it successfully halted the British advance long enough for Lafayette's covering force to approach. Lafayette rode forward to assist in managing the American retreat, which began to crumble after Cornwallis personally led a counter charge. During the retreat, two American soldiers had to abandon the battle because their horses were shot, and Lafayette was also unhorsed. As the sun was beginning to set, Cornwallis chose not to pursue the Americans, who retreated to Green Spring.
Commanders: Charles Cornwallis Banastre Tarleton Casualties: 75 killed and wounded