Jefferson Battle During the Revolutionary War

If you have driven toward Jefferson past Lake Utsayantha, you may have noticed a historical marker at a pull-off less than a mile north of the Oorah entrance. The marker identifies the location of a Revolutionary War “Battle Site” and points toward where the fighting supposedly took place.

But was it really a battle, or would it be more accurately described as a skirmish or ambush? Even the exact location remains a subject of debate. The incident has been called both the “Battle of the Narrows” and the “Battle of Lake Utsayantha.” Historical sources also disagree on the date, with November 2 and November 15, 1781, both being cited.

On Sunday, October 25, at 2:00 p.m., the Jefferson Historical Society will explore these questions through a presentation by Bob Glas, portraying Adam Crysler, one of the participants in these events.

Born in 1732, Crysler was a Loyalist (Tory) who served as a lieutenant in Butler’s Rangers. Through his portrayal, Bob will offer Crysler’s perspective on the events leading up to the raid and the fighting near Lake Utsayantha. The presentation will also explore the divided loyalties and bitter conflicts among neighbors and families that made the American Revolution a civil war as well as a struggle for independence.

Join us at Judd Hall, 163 Main Street, Jefferson, for this fascinating look at a little-known episode of our local Revolutionary War history.

The program is free and open to the public. Sponsored by Richard Herodes.

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Photo caption: Bob Glas as Adam Crysler