Vaughan, John, ca.1738-1795

Papers, 1779-1781
1 lin. foot

Biographical information:

John Vaughan saw duty in the Seven Years War in England, Scotland, and Germany before raising his own light infantry regiment, the Royal Welsh Volunteers, for service in America. After the capture of Martinique in 1762 his regiment was disbanded and Vaughan took command of the 46th Regiment of Foot; he remained in America until the regiment returned to Ireland in 1767. Promoted to colonel, he accompanied the reinforcements sent to America under Cornwallis in 1775. Vaughan participated in the battle of Long Island and was in action under Clinton at Fort Montgomery, Verplancks Point, and Stony Point. At the end of 1779 he returned to England and was appointed commander in chief of the Leeward Islands. He made an unsuccessful attempt to take St. Vincent in 1781 but shortly thereafter took the Dutch island, St. Eustatius. Although Vaughan held seats in the English and Irish parliaments, he remained at his post in the West Indies until his death.

Scope and Contents:

Correspondence of Sir John Vaughan, British army officer.

This collection relates to Vaughan's service in the West Indies. The papers extend from his appointment in December, 1779, to the capture of St. Eustatius in March, 1781, and consist entirely of incoming correspondence, dispatches, and memoranda. There are no drafts or retained copies of Vaughan's letters.

Provenance:

Purchased, 1928

John Vaughan Papers

Subject Index