 Prior to the Battle of Bennington, British troops (mainly Hessians) under the command of Colonel Baum occupied this particular hilltop, with additional detachments guarding the bridge, the ridge on the south side of the river, and a stream crossing north of the river and east of the hill.The American troops led by General Stark were able to reconnoiter these positions and sneak up on them, executing a surprise attack.Baum's forces were eventually routed, and he was slain.