Sgt John Reed

John Reed was an active member of the Washington spy ring in Philadelphia. In the trial notes of Peter Deshong, miller of Philadelphia, under charges brought about by brother Joseph Reed, John worked closely with Peter as he reluctantly served as Gatekeeper of the city during British occupation. In the trial notes before Judge Thomas McKean, John Reed testified "In January I came into the city in Disguise in Quaker habit. I saw Deshong out by the Gate who knew me in Disguise, shook hands with me, but did not mention (my) name. He asked me how the American Army was, said he had a bad station, had frequently applied but now was in hopes to get rid of it. I saw my own Brother (Joseph) but would not trust even him. I came in at the request of General Sullivan, was concealed in the Day, (and) accomplished my business in the Night". Peter Deshong was acquitted of any treason based upon testimony such as John's.