Photocopy of a typescript transcription. Purdy enlisted in the Corps of Guides & Pioneers, probably in New York State, in 1777. His diary records where he sailed and marched during the year (mostly throughout New York, Maryland, and Pennsylvania); various skirmishes with the rebels; and military activities such as capturing provisions and building batteries. None of these events is written about in great detail. The diary includes several pages of personal accounts for food, drink, supplies, labor, and employees, and a record of the children of Gilbert and Bethier Purdy. Their first two children were born in New York, the others in Nova Scotia.
