Ottendorf's Corps Explained

Unit Name:Ottendorf's Corps
Allegiance:Continental Congress of the United States
Type:Light Infantry
Dates:1776–1778
Command Structure:Continental Army
Size:160
Notable Commanders:Nicholas Dietrich, Baron de Ottendorf
Charles Armand

Ottendorf's Corps was raised on December 5, 1776, in eastern Pennsylvania for service with the Continental Army. Congress directed the corps would be composed of 150 privates, sergeants and corporals included, and that it be divided "into three companies, the first to consist of 60 men, light infantry, to be commanded by one captain and two lieutenants. The other two companies of hunters (Riflemen), 45 men each, also commanded by one captain, two lieutenants."[1]

The corps saw action at the Battle of Germantown and Battle of Brandywine. In April 1778 the Corps was broken up, one company was transferred to Armand's Legion and the others became independent companies of dragoons.

Notes and References

  1. http://memory.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?ammem/hlaw:@field(DOCID+@lit(jc00649)) "December 5, 1776"