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Today in History: Norfolk, Virginia, destroyed by British and Whig forces

1/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 1, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War, British Royal Navy ships shelled Norfolk, Virginia, while landing parties set fire to specific properties. The town, largely abandoned by its Loyalist residents, was occupied by Patriot forces who, instead of stopping the flames, burned and looted Loyalist-owned properties, marking a significant moment in the conflict.

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Story summary

On January 1, 1776, during the American Revolutionary War, British Royal Navy ships shelled Norfolk, Virginia, while landing parties set fire to specific properties. The town, largely abandoned by its Loyalist residents, was occupied by Patriot forces who, instead of stopping the flames, burned and looted Loyalist-owned properties, marking a significant moment in the conflict.