Declaring Independence Battle of Great Bridge
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- December 9 1775
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Battle of Great Bridge
Great Bridge, twelve miles south of Norfolk on the southern branch of the Elizabeth River, was the key point on the only land route providing access to Norfolk. Lord Dunmore built a small wooden fort there in a strong defensive position. Lacking a cannon, Colonel William Woodford 's Virginia forces hesitated to attack. Thinking that North Carolina reinforcements were on their way, the British left their strong position and attacked. The battle lasted 30 minutes. Read the account in John Pinckney's Virginia Gazette, December 13, 1775.