Colonel Isaac Clark Papers

Isaac Clark (1742-1822) of Castleton, Vermont served in both the American Revolution and the war of 1812. Clark's public and military career spanned more than 50 years, and involved him in many of the events of Vermont's early history. A hero of the American Revolution, he participated in the Battle of Bennington on August 16, 1777, and the re-capture of Fort Ticonderoga in 1778. Clark married Governor Thomas Chittenden's daughter, Hannah, in 1779. He was involved in the Haldimand Negotiations briefly, and remained firmly allied with the Chittenden/Allen faction throughout the Republic of Vermont's tenure. Clark represented the towns of Ira and Castleton in the General Assembly for a total of seven terms. He served as Rutland County judge from 1806 to 1811, and on the Council of Censors from 1806 to 1813.

Isaac Clark is best-known for his leadership of the Vermont troops during the War of 1812. His responsibilities as Colonel of the 11th Infantry, Champlain District, included patrolling the Quebec/Vermont border to prevent the lucrative smuggling trade throughout the conflict, and he led several forays into lower Quebec in 1813 and 1814. His son, Isaac Jr., joined the 11th Infantry, and served at Plattsburgh, New York and Sackets Harbor on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario. Another son, Satterlee, at Annapolis, kept Clark apprised of the political situation in Washington, D.C. During the War of 1812, Clark served with distinction, but was twice removed from his command under mysterious circumstances. Later, the Secretary of War reinstated his sword of command, and the U.S. Congress honored him for his service to his country.