On Sept. 6, 1781 the American troops assembled at Fort Griswold in Groton, CT awoke to the sight of 32 British vessels coming towards them in the morning light. The day unfolded into what became known as the infamous Battle of Groton Heights, which proved to be one of the saddest days of the nearly ended Revolutionary War. All the American troops were either killed or captured. Some time during the ensuing year, Daniel Read picked out the 17 verses of Dr. Watts’ epic poem that captured some of the tragedy embodied in this day. It is hard to speculate if Read composed the tune with this in mind or if the lyrics were uncovered first and the tune followed. Why was the tune left unpublished? Drawing attention to the pain of this day was perhaps too much to bear?

Learn more about the Battle of Groton Heights and Fort Griswold from Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park Foundation, Inc.