Person

Seth Pomeroy

Boston National Historical Park, Longfellow House Washington's Headquarters National Historic Site

Seth Pomeroy was born on May 20, 1706, in Northampton, Massachusetts, into a family with a long history of military service. His father, Ebenezer Pomeroy, was a major in the militia, and his mother was Sarah King. Seth’s grandfather, Medad Pomeroy, was a blacksmith, gunsmith, and armorer. Seth followed in his family’s footsteps, becoming skilled in these trades and joining the militia at a young age.

Pomeroy’s early life was marked by adventure, but he never sought it recklessly. He traveled to New York at the age of 24 and later to Connecticut with his wife, demonstrating a spirit of adventure uncommon for the time. As a young man, he was tall and muscular, known for his expertise in smithing and marksmanship. He made various tools and equipment, including nails, bells, plows, axes, and occasionally even pulled teeth.

His reputation as a competent gunsmith extended beyond local farmers and militiamen to the Native American tribes in New England. Pomeroy’s interactions with Native Americans varied between friendly and hostile, depending on the circumstances of his military career.

Pomeroy first saw combat during King George’s War. He was commissioned as a captain of a company of snowshoe men in 1743, a unique unit prepared for winter warfare. He later played a significant role in the siege of Louisburg in 1745, using his skills to repair and ready cannons and guns.

Pomeroy’s experiences in the French and Indian War further solidified his military reputation. He played a vital role in the Crown Point expedition and was involved in the Battle of Lake George in 1755. Despite suffering personal losses, including the death of his brother Daniel, Pomeroy remained a dedicated and brave soldier.

Outside of his military life, Pomeroy was deeply religious and devoted to his family. He married Mary Hunt in 1732 and had nine children. His letters to his wife during his military campaigns reveal a man of deep affection and loyalty.

As the American Revolution approached, Pomeroy’s military experience and leadership were again called upon. Although he was in his late sixties, he played a critical role in the early stages of the war, including the Battle of Bunker Hill. He was appointed Brigadier General by Congress in June 1775, the most senior of that rank in the Continental Army, although he never accepted or acted under that commission. However, Pomeroy served as an officer in the Massachusetts militia and died in 1777.