Historical Background
On March 14, 1781, while encamped at Deep River, Cornwallis was informed that Greene was encamped at Guilford Court House. Cornwallis decided to give battle, although he had only 1,900 men at his disposal. Cornwallis found the Continental positions in three lines near the courthouse. The first line, blocking the road and deployed behind a rail fence, was primarily untested militia. Greene had instructed the militia officers to have their men fire two volleys and fall back. Following a short barrage, Cornwallis sent his troops forward. The British pressed the first and second Continental lines back with bayonet charges and superior discipline and at ninety minutes into the battle, British troops reached Greene’s third line. Keeping the pressure up, the British Guards attacked and the Continental flank broke and fled.
William Washington’s Dragoons charged into the enemy’s ranks, attempting to stop the advance, but were thrown back. With the British nearing his third line, Greene ordered a withdrawal, giving the British a tactical victory, but enabling Greene’s army to remain mostly intact.
The stage is set. The battle lines are drawn and you are in command. The rest is history?
Empty Board
Empty Board
Battle Notes
Continental Army
• Commander: Greene
• 5 Command Cards & 3 Combat Cards
British Army
• Commander: Cornwallis
• 5 Command Cards & 3 Combat Cards
• Move First
Victory
10 Victory Banners
Special Rules
• Opening Cannonade rules are in effect. Continental militia units will participate in the Opening Cannonade and may fire with 1 die and then choose to retire prior to the start of the battle.
• The British player gains 1 Temporary Victory Banner at the start of his turn for each hill hex occupied by a British unit. Place a British Victory Banner on the hex at the start of the turn when occupied.
• The Continental player gains 3 Temporary Victory Banner at the start of his turn if the British do not occupy any hill hexes. Continental player starts with 3 Victory Banners, place 3 Continental Victory Banners near the hill hexes.
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