Educational materials developed through the Baltimore County History Labs Program, a partnership between Baltimore County Public Schools
and the UMBC Center for History Education.
RS#01: The Battle of Bunker Hill
“The Death of the American General Warren at the Climax of the Battle of Bunker Hill,” by John
Trumbull, was completed in March, 1786. To explain it in Trumbull’s own words: ". . . This
painting represents the moment when (the Americans having expended their ammunition) the
British troops became completely successful and masters of the field. At this last moment of the
action, Gen. Warren was killed by a musket ball through the head. The principal group
represents him expiring, a soldier on his knees supports him, and with one hand wards off the
bayonet of a British grenadier, . . . Col. Small . . . is represented seizing the musket of the
grenadier, to prevent the fatal blow, . . . Near this side of the painting is seen General Putnam,
reluctantly ordering the retreat of these brave men; ... Behind Col. Small is seen Major Pitcairn,
of the British marines, mortally wounded, and falling in the arms of his son, . . . Under the heel
of Col. Small lies the dead body of Col. Abercrombie. Gen. Howe, who commanded the British
troops, and Gen. Clinton, . . . are seen behind the principal group."
"Battle of Bunkers Hill." Americanrevolution.org. Web. 29 June 2011. http://www.americanrevolution.org/bunksm.html
Trumbull, John. “The Battle of Bunker Hill.” Digital image. Temple's Diary. Independence Hall Association, 1999. Web. 29 June
2011.http://www.ushistory.org/franklin/temple/part3_062375.htm.