Philip Reed: Architect of Early American Resilience
A scholarly exploration of a Revolutionary War veteran and statesman, detailing his pivotal roles in shaping the nascent United States.
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Biographical Foundation
Personal Overview
Philip Reed (1760 โ November 2, 1829) was a distinguished figure in the early United States, serving as a United States Senator representing Maryland. Born near Chestertown in the Province of Maryland, Reed's life spanned a critical period of national formation and conflict.
Political Affiliation
Throughout his public service, Reed was a member of the Democratic-Republican Party. This party, influential in the early republic, advocated for states' rights, an agrarian economy, and limited federal power, shaping much of the political discourse of the era.
Lifespan and Demise
Reed lived from 1760 until November 2, 1829, reaching the age of approximately 68 or 69. He passed away in Huntingtown, Maryland, leaving a legacy of service across military and legislative branches.
Key Public Offices Held
United States Senator
Maryland
November 25, 1806 โ March 3, 1813
Preceded by: Robert Wright
Succeeded by: Robert H. Goldsborough
U.S. House of Representatives
Maryland's 7th District
March 4, 1817 โ March 3, 1819
Preceded by: Robert Wright
Succeeded by: Stevenson Archer
U.S. House of Representatives
Maryland's 6th District
March 19, 1822 โ March 3, 1823
Preceded by: Jeremiah Cosden
Succeeded by: George Edward Mitchell
Founding Era Service
Continental Army Service
Reed's commitment to the nascent nation began during the American Revolutionary War. He served with distinction in the Continental Army, achieving the rank of Captain of Infantry. His military career included participation in significant engagements.
Key Engagements
Reed demonstrated bravery at the Battle of Stony Point in 1779. He was also severely wounded during the Battle of Camden in 1780, underscoring the personal sacrifices made by those fighting for independence. A notable, albeit grim, account from this period involves his role in enforcing military discipline by displaying the head of a deserter as a deterrent.
Early Political Roles
Following his military service, Reed transitioned into public office. He served in the Maryland House of Delegates in 1787 and held the position of Sheriff of Kent County, Maryland, from 1791 to 1794. He further contributed as a member of the executive council of Maryland from 1805 to 1806.
Defender in the War of 1812
Militia Command
During the War of 1812, Reed served as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Twenty-first Regiment of the Maryland Militia. Although he had voted against the declaration of war on Great Britain, he actively participated in defending Maryland's shores.
Worton Creek Ambush
On July 10, 1814, Reed's vigilance and leadership were evident when he observed four British barges entering Worton Creek. Gathering twenty-nine neighbors armed with muskets and duck guns, he organized an effective ambush. This engagement resulted in significant British casualties, forcing their retreat and highlighting the effectiveness of local militia tactics.
Battle of Caulk's Field
Reed led a crucial defense at the Battle of Caulk's Field in August 1814. Facing a British force comprising Royal Navy sailors and Royal Marines, Reed's approximately 200 militiamen were strategically positioned. Exploiting the terrain and the light of a full moon, the American forces inflicted heavy casualties on the advancing British, including the mortification of their commander, Lieutenant Peter Parker, who was fatally wounded. The American militia sustained minimal casualties, securing a significant victory.
Enduring Contributions
Society of the Cincinnati
Reed maintained connections with his fellow Revolutionary War officers, serving as the vice president of the Maryland Society of the Cincinnati in 1828. This society, founded by officers of the Continental Army, aimed to preserve the ideals and friendships forged during the war.
Final Resting Place
Philip Reed is interred in the cemetery of Christ Church, located near his birthplace in Chestertown, Maryland. His final resting place serves as a quiet testament to his long service to the state and nation.
Scholarly References
- Letter of Philip Reed to Noah's Register, 1828, defending Gen. Andrew Jackson's execution of deserters.
- Hemstock, Kevin. "The Battle of Caulk's Field in Kent County". Kent County, Maryland. Retrieved June 28, 2022.
- Minami, Wayde (August 31, 2012). "Guardsmen, Royal Marines Recall 1812 War Dead at Caulk's Field". news.maryland.gov. Maryland National Guard. Retrieved May 5, 2020.
- Elting, John R. (1995). Amateurs, To Arms! A Military History of the War of 1812 (1st Da Capo ed.). New York: Da Capo Press. ISBN 0-306-80653-3.
- Hickey, Donald R. (2012). The War of 1812: A Forgotten Conflict. Urbana, Illinois: University of Illinois Press. ISBN 978-0-252-07837-8.
- Sharpe, Katherine (SeptemberโOctober 2013). "Battlefield: 1814". Archaeology Magazine. 66 (5). Archaeological Institute of America: 42โ45. ISSN 0003-8113.
- United States Congress. "Philip Reed (id: R000125)". Biographical Directory of the United States Congress.
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References
References
- Letter of Philip Reed to Noah's Register, 1828, defending Gen. Andrew Jackson's execution of deserters.
- "The War of 1812: A Complete Chronology with Biographies of 63 General Officers" by Bud Hannings Pages.240.
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This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon historical data and academic sources. It is intended for educational and research purposes for advanced students. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, the information is based on a snapshot of available data and may not encompass all nuances or recent scholarship.
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