Journal and Maps : 1777-1778.

Major John Andre was of French Huguenot descent, but was born in England after his father had emigrated from Switzerland. John was educated in Switzerland, engaged in the family business for a time, then joined the British army, rising quickly from lieutenant to captain, and taking part in several engagements before being placed on Sir Henry Clinton's staff as his aide. It was while acting in this capacity, as Clinton's Chief of Intelligence, that he entered into secret negotiations with Benedict Arnold for the surrender of West Point for 20,000 pounds. While returning to New York City after meeting with Arnold, Andre was captured by American militia men, tried as a spy by a board of officers appointed by George Washington, found guilty, and condemned to death by hanging. Negotiations between Clinton and Washington to save Andre proved fruitless when Clinton refused to turn over Arnold to the Americans after he had escaped to the British lines. Major John Andre was executed on 2 October 1780 and buried nearby. In 1821 his remains were removed and interred in Westminster Abbey. He was mourned by both the British and the Americans because of his ability, personal charm, and considerable literary and artistic talent.