YORKTOWN, capital of York co., Va., s. side of York river, 10 m. from its mouth, is chiefly noted for its two sieges, 1781 and 1862. Cornwallis having established himself here Aug. 1, 1781, fortified the town with 7 redoubts and 6 batteries on the land 'side, and a line of batteries along the river. Gloucester point, on the opposite side of the river, was also strongly fortified. He had an army of 8,000 supported by several vessels anchored in York river. Washington, with the combined French and American army, suddenly leaving New York, reached Williamsburg, and, Sept. 28, marched to the investment of Yorktown with a force of 16,000, of whom 7,000 were Frenchmen. A French fleet under col. de Grasse had one hour before entered the Chesapeake, and, by blocking the James and York rivers, cut off communication between the British at Yorktown and New York. In the siege the French were posted in front. Oct. 9 the batteries opened, many of the guns and destroying several vessels. On the 11th they began their second parallel, only 300 yards from the fort. On the 14th two redoubts were carried by assault, one by American, the other by French troops. On the 16th the walls and fortifications of the British works were broken down and almost every gun dismounted. The British general attempted now to escape by night by way of
Gloucester Point, but the attempt was frustrated by a furious storm, which scattered his boats. On the 10th he capitulated to the allies, the land army with its munitions to the Americans, the marine to the French. The prisoners, exclusive of seamen, amounted to more than 7,000, of whom 2,000 were sick or wounded. Among the spoils the Ameri cans obtained 235 pieces of cannon, 8,000 stand of small arms, 28 regimental colors; the French 2 frigates and 20 transports. The total loss of the British was about 550, and of the allies 300. This victory virtually ended the war.—The second siege was begun by gen. McClellan, April 5, 1862. Gem Magruder, with 15,000 men, had early in the spring erected formidable works around the town and strong works on Gloucester point. They were soon re-enforced by gen. Johnston, the total force numbering 50,000, and that of McClellan about 90,000. In the night of May 3 the rebels abandoned their works and retreated to Richmond, leaving 71 heavy guns. They were pursued, and on the 5th was fought the battle of Williamsburg.