Biographical Sketches of the Generals of the Continental Army

William Maxwell

William Maxwell, though little is known of his personal history, is believed to have been born in Ireland, and brought to New Jersey in his early life. He entered the colonial service in 1758, serving through the French and Indian War, and as colonel of one of the New Jersey regiments, took part in the disastrous campaign of 1776 in Canada. On the 23d of October of that year he was commissioned brigadier-general. He was with Schuyler on Lake Champlain, and later was attached to the main army under Washington. In August, 1779, he joined Sullivan’s expedition against the Indians, but soon after the action at Springfield, he sent in his resignation, which was accepted by Congress on the 25th of July, 1780. Washington said of him, “I believe him to be an honest man, a warm friend to his country, and firmly attached to its interests.” He died on the 12th of November, 1798.