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CONTAINING A MINUTE ACCOUNT OF THE VARIOUS ^itttarg anD JSabaf Operationief* i i ILLUSTRATED WITH PLATLS: BY H. M. BflACKENRIDGE, ESQ. t i Fourth Edition, BETJSED AND COURECTED. ■' m BALTIMORE; PUBLISHED AND SOLD BY GUSHING & JEWETT, NO. 6, N. HOWARD STREET, JOHN D. TOT, PRINTER. 1818. I M li s r ,^^^«,~— -.jC- »» * y y — "■ 'T I ■■ »■« " ^-VvMi, '4n A DiSTnitT OF MAIIYLAjNU, 6..-. RE IT REMEMBERED, Thaton this tweiuieth dayof Jantiuiy, ^4F«r««««» in the forty -first year of the nidepondeiicc ot tlie United * Slates of America, Joseph Gushing, of the said district, hath * deposited in this office the title of a boftk, the right whereof ******** he claims as proprietor; in the words following, to «^it; *'History of the Late War, between the United States and Great Britain.— -C/Ontaining a minute account of tlie various Military and Na- ■valOperations.— Illustrated with plates. — By H. M.Braokeni'idge, esq." In conformity to the act of the congress of the United States, entitled, "An act for the encouragement ot leai'ning by securing the copies of maj)s, charts, and books, to the authors ancT i)roprietors of such copies dui ing the times therein mentioned." And also to the act entitled, "An act siipplementai'y to an act, entitled, 'An act for the encoui-agenient of leai'uing, by s(>curing the copies of maps, charts, and books, to the au- tliovs and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mention- ed,' and fxten(iing the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, en- gruving, and etching historical and other prints." PHILIP MOORE, * Ch)^ of the (lisinct of jyiarijland. tmm CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Declar«tlon of war — General Hull reaches Detroit — Crosses 'nito 'Janu- da — Skirmishes on the river Aux Canards — Hattle of Brownst'jvu— Takinc of Michilimackinack— Taking of Chicago — Batlle of Vlaga- giia— 'Tlie aurreuder of Hull. Page '2."> CHAPTER n. Naval events— Cniise of commodore Rodgers— The President chases the Belvidera — The Constitution captures the Gucrrierc— Captain Porter captures the Alert-— Cruise of the President— -United States captures the Macedonian — The Wasp captures the Froliek— Priva- teers — Sensations excited in England. Page 4 ' CHAPTER m. General Harrison tjikes command of tlie northwestern army — Expedi- tion under general Winchesteif — General Hopkins — ^Defei ce of fort Harrison — Colonel Campbell's expedition. Page 56 CHAPTER IV. Troops on the Canada frontier — Capture of the Caledonia— Battle of Queenstown, and death of general Hixx-k — -Bombardment of Nipga- ra — Abortive attem[)t of General Smyth — Northern ai'my— -First cruise of conimodore Chauncey. Page 69 CHAPTER V. Meeting of congress — Proposal for an ariyiistice — Reverses of Napo- leon—Measures for carrying on the war — Blockade of our coast — The southern Indians — Tecumsch's visit to the Creeks— War with the Seminole^— Third naval victory over a British frigate— Disasters of oui' arms to the west. Page Si CHAPTER VI. Harrison returns to Ohio — General Winchester sends a detachment to protect Frenchtowu— Colonel Lewis defeats the British and Indiana— »v CONTENTS. 1 •r ii Winchester arrives with reinforcements— l^attl* of the rirtn- Kaisiu— Shocking conduct of tlic British and their allici* — Harrison's return — Siege of fort Meiga— Defeat of Dudley — The seige raised—Exploit ©f major Ball. Page 9o CHAPTER VIT. British preparations in Canada — Ir.cursion of Forsythe*— Attack on Og- denshurgh — ^I'he taking of York, and death of Pike— Taking of fort George— Battle of Stoney Creek, and capture of generals Cliandler and Winder—- "Cjeneral Brown defenf<»asnr«9 for cany- iii;; Oil the war — UiitViendly deportment of tlu.' Xow-l'iiij^lund ^Uilcs — The sulycct of retaliation — .\ committee of congress in(|nires into the inannor in which the war has beea carried on by tlie (.nemy — The war gaining ;;round in the United States, l*age ^06 CHAPTER XIII. The southern wnr — Massacre of fort Minis — Expedition of p^jneral •Fackwin, and general Cock?" — Battle <.f Tallodega — Iu( !ans surprised by general Cocke — Expedition of general Floyd — Critical situation of general Jackson — Defeat of tlie IiidianH — The Creeks totally de- feated at the Horse-shoe-bend — General Jackson terminates the Creek war, and dictates a peace. Page ^15 CIIAP'I'ER XIV. flencral Wj'kinson retires to Plattsburg — General Brown maixhcs to the Niagara frontier-^Afiair of La Colle — Exertions of cointaoilore M' Donongh to create a naval force — Contest for superiority on lake Ontario — Attack of Oswego — Death of colonel Forsythe — Colonel Caniphell's expedition — Gallant defence of capUiin Holmes — Senons crisis in the state of onr atfairs — Coiuniodore Hardy invades tlie northern scu-coast — Takes possession of Eastport and Custine — Gal - v"m lant defence of Stonington. CHAPTER XV. Xaval incidents— the Plantagenet seventy-four declines a contest ^vith commodore Rodgers — Captain Stewart chases a British frigate of ei(Ual force— 'Cruise of commodore Porter — Typee wai* — The Essex cap- tured h^' the Phoebe and Cherub — The Peacock captures the Epervier — The V^asp captures th. Reindeer — TheWasp si-iksthe Avon — Loss of the Wasp— Frigate President ca^)tured by a squadron — Constitu- tion engages and captures two British sloops, the Cayenne and Le- vant— 1 he Hornet captures the Penguin. Pase 243 captures tue rengum. CHAPTER XVL Movements of tlie army on the Niagara frontiei* — Capture of fort Erie — Battle of Chippewa — Death of general Sv/ift— 'BiiLile of I^iagara— . Siege of fort Erie^Assault upon fort Erie — Sortie upon the British woiis — Affairs of the west — Expedition against Michilim-'ckiaack. CHAPTER XVII. i'age iGl War on the sea-coast — ^Engagements between the enemy and Bar- ney's flotilla in the Chesapeake — T'lmiiierings of the British — >Vashington and Baltimore threatened— -General Whulor appointc»J 1* \1 CONTENTS. to command the tonlVi district — Serious apprehensions from the Bri- tish — Difficulties in collecting an efficient foire tor dei'ence — Cup- rage i288 tare of Washington— The plunder of Alexandria. CHAPTER XVIU. ScnsatioTis produced by the capture of Washington, in Kurope, and in England — Effect of this event in the United States^— Clorious defence of Baltimore*— The retreat of the British — (Japture of the British !jc|uadix>n on lake Chamnlain>— Repulse of sir (ii.'orge Pnivost — The British fleet leaves the Cnesapeake, and a part sails tu Uie south. Page 309 CHAPTER XIX. Unanimity of sentiment in con^'css — British sine qua non — Affairs to the southward — Ci-cek hostilities — Invasion of Louisiana — Affairs of the gunboats — British foi-ces landed in Louisiana — Battle of th*^ twentv-third of December — Battle of the eighth of January — The Hritislj compelled to retreat— Bombardment of fort St. Philijj — Peace with Great Britain. Page 3'iB , •«■ jtmtMlMMK- tuMtSl. ;^ Mx. INTRODUCTIOX. One amongst the numerous artifices, which ihe selfisli- ness of European nations has put in practice, the better to retain the American colonies in a slavish subjection, or what amounts to the s?!ne thing, in a state of perpe- tual non-age, has been to claim over them a maternal au- thority or prerogative. If this fiction imposed upon them the obligation of treating the colonies with tender- ness and affection, the colonies might regard it as inno- cent, if not salutary; but it is used to cover the cruel iniquity of fastening on their necks the yoke of conquest. The self-styled mother, without a spark of that afiection which exists, as a law of nature, in the Greast of every creature, would inculcate, that, on our part, to refuse the most implicit and slavish obedience, to whatever dispo- sitions sne may choose to make of our persons or estates, to her sole and exclusive benefit, is no less than filial im- piety. That the opposition of the colonies to the most glanng abuse of power, was in them the conduct of wick- ed and unnatural children; that remonstrance was inso- lence, and resistance atrocity. From no better source than this idle fiction, proceed the invectives lavished on the colonies, for manfully resenting the indignities that have been offered them. It is time that this shallow artifice should be exposed. It has encouraged the nations of Europe to make their unwarranted demands upon us, and it has too often with- held our arm from opposing them, in the manner that we ought. As a poetick fiction, it might serve to amuse the ■n >i '^ •? s . /; t'^ m i*. rs viii INTRODUCTION. fancy. It was first invented by the colonist himself, to express his aftection for the s<»il of his nativity, or the birth place of his ancestors; for who is there that ceases to love the spot from which he is an exile? He little thou{];lit that he was contriving a fiction, which would enable the inhabitants of that paternal soil, his kinsmen, to claim the privilej^es of masters; they could feel no af- fection for his exile, or the land which received him. So stronjj;ly lias this fiction fastened itself upon all our thoujijhts, that it has become necessary to make an ettbrt to shake it olf, and return to simple truth. Are the pre- sent inhabitants of the British isles, the fathers, or mo- thers of the Americans.? Are tiiey brothers, or cousins, or tenth cousins? No: we sprang from the same stock, have a common ancesay, and that is all. We have as much right to claim a parental prerogative over English- men, as they have to claim it over us. These states, once British colonies, were for the most part, established by persons who fled fiom persecution, and at the private expense of the colonists. They were suffered to struggle with the difliculties incident to their new situation, and after they had thus grown up in neg- lect, and become possessed of what might tempt the cu- pidity of the European mother, she assumed the arbitra- ry power of "binding them in all cases wliatsoever," in other words, she declared them in a state of vassalage. In leaving the land of our forefathers, already crowded with population, our condition was injproved, at the same time that a corresponding benefit accrued to the mother country, in the creation of new marts for her trade. We carried with us the language, the laws, the literature, the "free born thoughts," of our ancestors, to which we were as much entitlecl, as the islanders, whom we left in pos- session of the natale solum. We left behind, indeed, ma- ny customs and institutions, not suited to our new situa- tion, or which we considered as useless. Admitting that the infancy of the colonies was motected by the European state; dv "s this create a debt of gratitude never to be repaid? Does it authorise the treating of the colonies as subjugated countries. The European states have been long ago repaid a chousand fold, rhe INTRODUCTION. IX new world lias been continually pourinja; forth her trea- sures, to be lavished in distant wars, to be expencled in courtly extravajiant^e, or to contribute to the comfort of inyriails across the Atlantick. The colonies were foster- ed from ititerestt never from affection. The conduct of the European state, far from beiiija; that of a mother, has been that of a wicked }j;«ardia!i, whose only wish is to lengthen the pupilage of his ward, that he n>av riot in his estate. Away then with the trash of filial obedience hi the colonies, unnatural children, unnatural wars, or ma- ternal preroi^ative. The obstinate persistance of Great Britain in her pre- tensions to thir. preroi^ative, first broke the ties of depen- dence, whicli it was so much her interest to preserve, aiul her subsequent illiberal policy, has tended to weaken the intluence of affinity, which a true wisdom would have taught her to cherish. Why is it that the enmity of those, between whom there naturally exist the most numerous bonds of friendship, is the most bitter? It is because each of these is a distinct cord, which may vibrate to the feelings of hatred, as well as of M)ve. With China, witjh Tujkey, with France, we may be governed by temporary and varying policy, but towards England we can never feel indift'erencf. Why then has England taken so much pains, to make us hate her as a nation? nie grievances of which we have to complain, by frequent recital, have grown wearisome to the ear. There always existed, and still exist, numerous ties to attach us to Britain, which nothing but her ungenerous and unnatural policy, can weaken or destioy. Her wisest and best men foretoUl to her, the consequences of the usurpations which led to our independence, and y^ii she still continued to afflict us, with every species of irritating and insulting deport- ment, and then at last complained of our unnatural con- duct, in refusing to bear it any longer. With the acknowledgement of our independence. Great Britain did not renounce her designs of subjugating America. Force had been found unavading, she next re- solved to try what might be done by fraud. For many years after the peace of 1783, our aifairs wore no promis- ing appearance. The confederation, which bound the '' n fe. i ^1 »««*MM«ta ■MM ^ , INTRODUCTION. states (luriiiff their struo:gle against a common enemv, was too feeble to hold them together in a time of peace. i he cement of our union being thus taken away, Eno;land loresaw what we had to encounter, and prophesying ac- cording to her wishes, solaced herself with the hope of seeing us divided and engaged in civil broils. The seeds yi of dissention had been abundantly sown, our state of fi- nance was deplorably defective; *it might almost be said, that the nation was at an end, for so many jarring inter- ests discovered themselves in the states, as al^iost to preclude the hope of reducing these discordant elements to harmony and order. A state of anarchy and civil war might restore us to Great Britain. Happily for Ameri- ca, she possessed at this moment, a galaxy of sages and patriots, who held a powerful influence over the minds of their fellow-citizens, hy their exertions, a spirit of com- promise and accommodation was introduced, which ter- minated in our present glorious compact. A second revolution, which secured to us the benefits of the first. By ihis event Great Britain lost, for a time, the oppor- tunity of tampering with the individual states, of foment- ing jealousies, and of governing by division. Her policy was changed; it became a favourite idea, that our growth should be repressed, and so many impediments tlirown in our way, as to convince us, that we nad gained nothing in becoming free. We soon experienced the effects of hei- disappointment. Contrary to express stipulation, she refused to surrender tlie western posts, and, at the same time, secretly instigated the savages to murder the fr'mtier settlers. Spain was, at this very moment, prac- tising her intrigues to draw off the western states from the confederacy, of which there is little doubt England woi id soon have availed herself. But we also came in contact with Britain on the ocean; our commerce began to flourish, and on the breaking out of the French war, she found in us formidable rivals. In order to put a stop to this competition, slie called into life the odious, and almost obsolete rule of *j6, which is in palpable violation of the law of nations. The spirit of tills rule is to prevent the neutral from enjoying any commerce, which would not, at the same time, be open tb .,.,.,«..i>'.v»tW^i.i^ilgS««S^«»^''' INTUODUCTION. XI the belligerent; in other words, to permit no neutral. In practice, it was carried to the full extent. The orders in council of the eighth Januar-^-, 1793, became the source of a thousand vexations to ;ierican commerce; and yet was in a manner tolerable, compared to those of the sixth of November, which were secretly circulated among the jBritish cruisers, authorising them to capture, "all ves- sels laden with the produce of any of the colonies of France, or carrying provisions or supplies to the said co- lonye" The greater part of our commerce was at once swept from uie ocean. No diversity of opinion, among our merchants, prevailed on this occasion. They ex- pressed themselves in the strongest terms, against this treacherous and wicked procedure. The war of the re- volution had not been forgotten, that with the savages still raged; it was not by sucli acts, we could be induced to entertain a friendly feeling towards England. There prevailed a universal clamour for war, among the mer- chants particularly, and which required all the firmness of Wasnington to withstand. This great man had mark- ed out to himself the wise policy, of keeping aloof from European politicks, and or avoiding all entanglements in their wars. Mr. Jay was despatched a^ a special mes- seriger, with orders to remonstrate in a maidy tone. This mission terminated in the celebrated treaty of 1794, and which was sanctioned by the nation, although not without great reluctance. It appeared in the sequel, that we had only shoved aside a war, in order to recommence disputes concerning the same causes. The British did little more than modify their orders in council, by those isisued in 1795 and '98. In fact, down to the peace of Amiens, the same vexations and abuses furnished a constant theme of remonstrance. Neither general Washington, nor Mr. Adams, was able to ar- range our differences with England, or induce her to con- sult her own true interests, by a just and liberal policy towards us. From this we maj'^ fairly infer, that no ad- ministration of our government could have succeeded in accommodating our differences upon just and equitable principles. xtl INTRODUCTION. Another cause of complaint, proceeded paripasu with the violations of our commercial and maritime rights, and of a nature still more vexatious. It is one upon which American feelinff has always been much alive. Great Britain is the only modern nation, who does not consider the flag as protecting every person who sails under it; and we are the only people who have, during peace, been dragged from our ships on the high seas, by christian nations, and condemned to servitude. This in- tolerable outrage grew up from a small beginning, by im- prudent acquiescence on our part; perhaps not conceiv- ing it possible, that it could ever assume its present hideous front. At first, it was a claim to search our mer- chant vessels for deserters from the publick service of Britain; next, it became a right to impress English sea- men, who had engaged themselves in American ships; finally, every person who could not prove on the spot, to tJie satisfaction of the lieutenant who came on board, that he was an American, was carried away into a most hateful bondage. England had gone far, in asserting the riu;ht to search a neutral vessel for enemy's goods; a right which can only be regarded as an exception to the gene- ral rule, that ships of neutrals on the high seas are as in- violable as the neutral territory; a right, which had been successively opposed by all the maritime states, excepting the one which claimed the sovereignty of the seas; a strong proof that it was but an abuse of power. But this claim of searching for meny is unsupported by any wri- ter on the publick law, or by one goocl reason. She had no more right to claim her subjects from our ships, than from our territory. Whatever right she might nave, to prevent them from quitting the country, at times when their services were required, or of punishing for doing so, she had no right to pursue into our country, or demand them from us, unless warranted by express treiity. But what she had no right to demand, she hatl a right to take by force! When closely pressed, she deigned at last to sive some reasons in support of her practicj— she must nave men to man her thousand ships — she was contend- ing for her existence — we had no right to employ her seamen — our flag had no regMf*a*!lali'Ae»ik>S> ■MMJiiiUtaia INTRODUCTION. XV dieted, that these men who had wron«:.«? of their oum, would be found, in case of war with England, no common foes. War came, and Britain may read in our naval combats, a commentary on her practice of impressment, and her tyranny on the ocean. As early as the year 1793, it was declared by the Ame- rican minister at London, that the practice of impress- ment had produced great irritation in America, and that it was difficult to avoid making reprisals on the British seamen in the United States. It is perhaps to be regret- ted, that general Washington's threat was not carried into execution^ as it might have brought the affair to is- sue at once. The practice had grown so vexatious after the treaty of 1794, that the British government was told in plain terms, that unless a remedy was applied, war would be inevitable. It was said to be of such a nature, as no American could bear, '*that they might as well rob the American vessel's of their goods, as to drag the Ame- rican seamen from their ships, in the manner practised by them." Certainly the offence would have been as much less, as a bale of goods is of less value than a man. It was stated, that as many as two hundred and seventy Americans were then actually in the British service, the greater part of whom persisted in refusing pay and bounty. They were told, that if they had any regard for the friendship of this country, tl^ey would facilitate the means of relieving those of our oppressed fellow-citi- zens. That the excuse alleged by Great Biitain, in not being able to distinguish between her subjects, aud the citizens of America, was without foundation, inas- much as foreigners who could not be mistaken, were equally liable to impressment. The honour of tlie na- tion, it was said, was deeply concerned, and unless the practice should be discontinued, i ; must ultimately lead to open rupture. This was the language uniformly held forth, by every successive administration of the American government. It was the theme of reprobation and re- monstrance of every distinguished statesman of this cou li- tre. On this subject, we find Washington, Adams, Jef- ferson, Madison, Monroe, Marshall, Jay, Pickering, Kin«r, and many others, in their official correspondence, fulfv ,\rr ;■ -X-M XVl INTRODUCTIOX. and uniformly concurring. In fact, these complaints continued untd the last hour, in consequence of our ira- politick submission. This shocking outrage was at length carried to suc^ extent, that voyages were often broken up, and the safety of vessels endangered, by not leaving a sufficient number of mariners on board to navigate tnem. It was calcu- 1111 lated, that at least seven thousand •Americans were at one time in the British service, against their will, ftven as respects her own subjects, the practice of impressment is one of the most cruel and unjust; in direct contradic- fion to the general freedom of her constitution, and only co^ ercd by the most miserable sophistry; but to America, wlio would not endure a single one of her citizens to be impressed into her own service, it is not surprising that it should appear detestable. The tribute of Minos, or of Montezuma, of the youth doomed as a sacrifice to infer- nal idols, was not more hateful. The American was com- pelled to stoop to the humiliation of carrying about him, on the high seas, the certificate of his nativit^^; and this was soon found unavailing, it was torn to pieces by the tyrant, and its fragments scattered to the winds. Great liritain boldly asserted the right of dragging from under- neath our flag, every one who could not prove on the spot, that he was not a British subject. Every foreigner, no matter of what country, was, in consequence, excluded from our merchant service. On the part of the United States, every possible effort was made to compromise the matter, but in vain. No offer was ever made by Great Eritaiii, which presented any prospect of putting an end to these abuses, while the most fair and rational on our part, were rejected. About the year 1800, a proposal was made for the mutual exchange of deserters, but this was rejected by Mr. Adams, for the same reason that the president rejected the treaty of 1806, because it was thought better to have no provision, than one which did not sufficiently provide against the abuses of impress- ment. England offered to make it penal, for any of her naval officers to impress our seamen, provided we discon- tinued our practice of natuializing her subjects. The mockery of such a proposition, alone fully proves her ...vOmm^ INTRODUCTION. x-vu J complaintej zb of our im- ried to such nd the safety ;ient number t was calcu- ans were at will, Kven inipressment :t contradic- Dn, and only to America, itlzens to be -prising that 3]ino&, or of fice to infer- e by Great ting an end onai on our proposal ?rs, but this on that the ise it was which did F impress- any of her we discon- ects. The proves her iixed mind. No plan could be devised so suiiable to licr wishes, as that of subjecting the liberty, life and happi- ness of an American citizen, to the caprice of every petty lieutenant of b*^r na»y; otherwise, she would have been contented with the exclusion of her subjects from all American vessels, a thing which she had no right to ask, but which we were willing to grant fcr the sake of peace. The climax of this extraordinary humiliation; and which, a century hence, will scarcely be credited, was still wanting; the attack on the Chesapeake occurred, and for the moment, convulsed the nation. The burst of indigna- tion which followed, was even more violent than that which was produced by the orders in council of 1793. Party animosity was suspended, meeiings were nssein- bled in every village, the newspapers were filled with formal addresses, volunteer companies were every where set on foot, and in the first phrensy of the momont, the universal cry was for immediate war. Although hostili- ties were not declared, the feelings of America >\ ere from that day at war with England; a greater attention was paid to the discipline of our militia, and the formation of volunteer corps; and the government was continually making appropriations for our national defence. We still resorted to negotiation, and the aggressors thinking that we might now possibly be in earnest, were willing to avoid war by a sacrifice of pride. They yielded to the humili- ation of surrendering the American citizens, upon the very deck from which they had been forced; but at the same time, rewarded the oflicer, by whom the violence had been offered. In excusing her conduct, England con- descended to tell us, with a serious face, that she never pretended to the right of impressing American citizens, and this she seemed to consider rather as a magnani- mous acknowledgement. HumiliaUng, indeed, to be se- riously told, that she did not regard our citize as as her property! Nothing can furnish stronger proof of the ex-s- tent of the abuse, and the bad policy of our pacifick course of remonstrance. Our sacred duty to our fellow-citizens,, as well as a regard to our national character, forbade such an acquiescence. From this review of the subject of impressment, we res- 2* ■wi— < I p m i^g i«i^»< }kvm INTRODUCTION. i«t; turn to the other principal branch of our national diflTcr- cnceso It must be evident to the reader, that nothing- was to be expected from ciny temporary arrangement on the part of our enemy; that nothing siiort of a change in her genera policy an hope now B of foreign 1, concurred easure. An ch received lay; and on 12, war was ' the nation- iome places, ) that which War, as a : state of the iniple on the lOut despon- many, how- as a second ice, and not the sake of state policy. , the sensa- oyful. The asperity was m eclipse of igh for some of the two red in hopes end; their ►eaceful ac- lited States, felt; in an it should be lo regarded tful experi- )rin of our Ihe want of Id from un- But, what states had le interests of any extensive portion should be too deeply aftectcd, a drssolution of our compact, "the noblest fabrick of iuiinan invention," might ensue. A powerful party was oppos- ed to the measure, on the ground, that an accommodation with England might yet be made, that war could net be otherwise than in subserviency to the views of Franco. and that we were unprepared for so serious a contest. The opposition of a great portion of the population, of the talents, and wealth of the country, would c(;rtaiiilv tend to throw embarrassments on its prosecution. Una- nimity, in so important a measure, was not to be expect- ed; yet the disadvantages of tliis opposition would be greatly felt. It was foreseen that our Atlantick cities would be much exposed, that the coasts of the southern states would be laid open to the incursions of maraud in <^ parties, and that the western frontier would feel all the norrours of a savage and murderous warfare. Many per- sons, on the other hand, entertained the belief, that the Canadas would fall, and that the Floridas, in case that k:pain should be broui2;ht into thi- contest on the side of En^^Iand, would be ours. Thus should we be freed from troublesome neighbours, and end for ever, that dreadful species of hostility in which we had been so often engag- ed with the savages. These hopes were not ill founded; but we were not aware, at the time, of our deficiency in experience, and want of a full knowledge of our resour- ces; the causes of many subsequent calamities. For some years previous to the declaration of war, a military spirit was gradually diftusing itself amongst the people. Pains were taken in disciplining volunteer com- panies throughout the country, and a degree of pride and emidation was every where felt, to excel in military exer- cises. There seemed to be a kind of instinct, to prepare for the approach of war. liut tlie military establish- ments were exceedingly defective. Acts of congress had already authorised the enlistment of twenty-five thousand men, but it was found impossible to fill the ranks of a regular aimj^^ from the small number of indi- viduals who were not in easy circumstances, and there- lore under no necessity of enlisting. The wliole number already enlisted, scarcely amounted to five thousand ' M M""' ):•. ''■ ^8 HiSTORY OF ll^E WAfc i ji' men, and these scattered over an immense surface of Lountrj. The president was authorised to receive fil'ty thousand volunteers, and to call out one hundred thousand militia. This force could not be expected to be otherwise serviceable, than for the purpose of defending the sea- coast, or the frontier. A difficuHj of still greater impor- tance existeii; the best troops in the world, are inefficient, unless they happen to be led by able and experien^ced officer*. (Jur ablest revolutionary heroes had paid the debt of nature, and those who remained, were either far advanced in life, or had not been proved in other than ,:iMbordinate situations; and besides, from lon^ repose, ihey had laid aside all their military habits, 'rfiere pre- vailed, however, a disposition to place a degree of reli- ance on the skill of the revolutionary soldier, from the mere circumstance of having been such, which was not corrected until we had been severely taught by after ex- {jerience. Such was the situation oi things, at the com- mencement of hostilities. Whether to be attributed to the nature of our govern- ment, whose genius is not well adapted to offensive war^ litre on land, or to the precipitancy and want of forecast in our rulers, certain it is, that the preparations for the invasion of the province of Canada, were by no means suitable to the occasion. Governour Hull, at the head of about two thousand men, was on his march to Detroit, with a view of putting an end to the Indian hostilities, when he receivea infor- mation of the declaration of war. His force consisted uf about one thousand regulars, and twelve hundred vol- unteers from the state of i)hiu, who had rendezvoused on (he twenty-ninth of April. In the beginning of June ihey advanced to Urbanna, where tliey were joined by the 4th regiment of United States infantry, and imme- diately commenced their march through the wilderness, still in possession of the Indians, and which separates the inhabited part of the state of Ohio, from the Michigan territory. From the town of Urbanna to the Rapids, a distance of one hundred and twenty miles, they V.ad to pass through a country without roads, and abounding with marshes. From the Rapid's to Detroit, along the HISTORY OF THE WAK. ,se surface of I receive fifty Jred thousantl 3 be otherwise iding the sea- ;reater impor- ire inefficient, i experienced had paid the ere either far in other than long repose, 'Fhere pre- jgree of reli- ier, from the i^hich was not t by after ex- , at the com- ' our goveru- )ifensive war^ it of forecast ations for the )y no means Vv'o thousand w of putting ceivea infor- rce consisted hundred vol- ezvoused on ing of June re joined by and imme- wilderness, eparates the he Michigan le Rapids, a they p. ad to abounding t, alon^ the Miamie of the Lake, and along the Detroit river, there were a few settlements chiefly of French Canadians, but in general the territory was but thinly inhabited; the whole of its scattered population scarcely exceeded five or six thousand souls. It was near the last of June when this little army reached the Rapids, after having expe- rienced considerable obstacles, m traversing a gloomy, and almost trackless wilderness. They no vv entered an open and romantick country, and proceeded on their march, full of an ardent and adventurous spirit, wliich sought only to encounter difficulties and dangers. The volunteers of Ohio consisted of some of the most enter- prising and active young men of the state; liner mate- rials were never collected. After taking some refresh- ments heroi they loaded a schooner with a part of their baggage, in order to lighten their march. On the fifth of July, they encamped at Spring Wells, opposite Sand- wich, and within a few miles of Detroit. For some days the army had been under the necessity of proceeding with great caution, to guard against surprises from the Indians, and their allies, and who, but for this timely ar- rival, would have possessed themselves of Detroit: they, however, had thrown up breast-works on the opposite side of the river, and had made an attempt to fortify a position about three miles below. From both these hoMs, they were soon compelled to retreat, by a well directed lire from the American artillery. This was the favourable moment for commencing ac- tive operations against the neighbouring province of Upper Canada; and as governour Hull had received discretionary power to act oifensively, an immediate inva- sion was determined on. Preparations for this purpose were directly made, and boats provided to eftect the pas- sage of the whole army at the same instant. The British, aware of this design, attempted to throw up a battery, for the purpose of opposing the landing; this was twice ren- dered abortive; on theiV attempting it a third time, they were permitted to accomplish it unmolested, as our army Gould either land above or below it, and thus keep out of the reach of their guns, which consisted of seven small raunon, and two mortats*— On the twel-fth, every tlnng '':f' "W. ' ^'AI s- ''''i II so HISTORY OF THE WAR. being made ready, the army embarked^ and landed with- out molestation, some distance above the fort, and enter- ed the village of Sandwich. The inhabitants made no shew of resistance, and were therefore respected in their persons and property; the principal part, however, had been marched to Maiden, for the purpose of aiding in its defence. A proclamation was immediately issued by Hull, in which he declared his intention of invading Can- ada, but gave every assurance of protection to the inhabi- tants, whom he advised to take no part in the contest. The proclamation, was written in a spirited and energet- ick style, and had he been eventually successful, there is no doubt it would have been regarded as an eloquent pro- duction. It has been censured by the British as intended to seduce her subjects from their allegiance, as if this were not justifiable in an invading army; and as violating the laws of civilized warfare, in the declaration that no quar- ter would be given to any white man found fighting by tlic side of an Indian. When we consider, that Indians giv^e no quarter, there may be as much justice in retaliating, upon those who are fighting by their sides,as upon the sav- ages themselves, for it may be presumed that both are actu- ated by the same intentions. It is not to be supposed that Hull was seriously resolved on carrying this threat into execution; his object was to prevent, if possible, the em- ployment of savages. In a few days, possession was taken of the whole coun- try along the Trench, or Thames, a beautiful river, whose borders are well settled. This service was performed by col. M*Ai-thur, of the Ohio militia, who returned to carnp, after having collected a considerable quantity of Glank- ets, ammunition, and other military stores. Col. Cass was then despatched in an opposite direction, towards Fort Maiden, with two hundred and eighty men, for the pur- pose of reconnoitering the British and Indians. This place is situated at the junction of Detroit river with lake Erie, thirteen miles south of Hull*9 camp. Col. Cass, fol- lowing the course of the stream, reached the river Aux Canards, about four miles from Maiden, where he found a British detachment in possession of the bridge. After reconnoitering the situation of tbe enemy, tne colonel "1 ret th< HISTORY OF THE WAR. 31 i landed with- }rt, and enter- ants made no ected in their however, had >f aiding in its ely issued by invading Can- to the inhabi- 1 the contest. I and energet- issful, there is eloquent pro- 3h as intended as if this were violating the that no quar- Rghting by the t Indians give in retaliating, ipon the sav- both are actu- supposed that lis threat into sible, the em- ! whole coun- river, whose performed by ned to camp, ity of Glank- ol. Cass was owards Fort for the pur- lans. This ver with lake ol. Cass, fol- ic river Aux e he found a idge. After tne colonel placed a rifle company under capR Robinson, near the place, with orders, to divert the attention, of the guard, by Keeping up a fire until the rcnainder of the party should appear on the opposite side. This part of the detach- ment, was to have forded the river about five miles below. Tlie design was frustrated, by their want of a sufficient knowledge of the country; the detachment was unable to reach the designated spot, until late in the evening; in the meanwhile, the attempt to surprise the post had been discovered, and it was strengthened by considerable rein- forcements: notwithstanding which a smart skirmish en- sued, and the enemy v/as compelled to abandon his posi- tion, after losing eleven killed and wounded, besides sev- eral deserters. Col. Cass, having no orders to retain pos- session of it, although constituting the principal obstruc- tion between the American camp and Maiden, thought proper to retire. The floor of this bridge was afterwards taken up, and a breast- work erected on the bank to ob- struct the passage of the river. There occurred, a few days afterwards, anotli r skir- mish at the same place, between the guard and one hun- dred and fifty men under col. M* Arthur. The colonel having advanced somewhat too near the enemy, while reconnoitering their situation, narrowly escaped being cut off from his men. A messenger informed him, that sev- eral Indians had been seen passing to his rear, and it was at the same time discovered, that those who had been stationed at the battery, were rapidly quitting it He had scarcely time to turn his horse, when he, together with his companions. Dr. M*Anaw, and capt. Puthuff, were fired upon by a party of Indians, concealed in the bushes. The detachment, on the report of the guns, ad- vanced to the succour of their leader, and drove the In- dians back. The Indian party is said to have been com- manded by the daring chief Tecumseh. These skirmishes, in which the Americans were gen- erally victorious, served to inspire confidence, and, to- gether with the proclamation, had an effect upon the Canadians, many of- whom joined our standard, and threw themselves on Hull for protection. They were but the preludes to the attack of Fort Maiden, the rallying «. : .■. 14 ! -I i HISTORY OF THE WAR. point of the British power in this quarter. Until this place should be captured, it was idle to think of making any progress in the conquest of the British possessions. Preparations for this purpose proceeded but slowly. It seems that every thing was to be provided after the inva- sion. It was not untu the beginning of August, that two twenty-four pounders and three howitzers were mounted^ In the meanwhile, no steps had been taken to ascertain whether the fort might not be carried by escalade. The capture of this place, which would have been necessary in the prosecution of any further design, had now be- come absolutely essential to self-preservation, A most unexpected event had happened during the last month — an event to which many of our subsequent misfortunes are to be attributed. This was the surrender of Michil- limackinac. On the sixteenth of July, a party of three huruhed white troops, and upwards of six hundred Indians, em- barked at St. Josephs, and reached the island next morn- ing. A prisoner was despatched to inform the garrison, and the inhabitants of the village, that if any resistance were made they would all be indiscriminately put to death. Many of the inhabitants escaped to the enemy for protection. The garrison consisted cf no more than fifty-six men, under the command of lieutenant Hanks, of the artillery. A flag was now sent by the British, to the fort, demanding a surrender. This was the first in- timation of the declaration of war, which the garrison had received. Until this moment, the American com^ mandant had considered the attack as one of the out- rages on the part of the Indians, which of late had been frequent; he nad therefore resolved to defend himself to the last extremity. He now thought it most prudent to agree to a capitulation, as there was no hope of being able to defend himself successfully, against so great a dispar- ity of force; the attempt might compromit not only the lives of bis soldiers, but of the inhabitants of the island, who had sought refuge in the fort. The 8;arrison was Accordingly delivered up; security to the property and persons of individuals was stipulated, and the British put in possession of one of the strongest positions in tfte Vi All nu inil a III ■It iaii (.irl HISTORY OF THE WAR'. 3S United States, on that account, sometimes called the American Gibraltar. The situation completely com- mands the northwest trade, which is compelled to pass immediately under the jjuns of the tort, anil consequently afl'urds the best means of intercepting the Indian supplies, and of checking the incursions ot those restless warriours. It is ditticult to say to whose charge this affair is to be laid. Without the intervention of some extraordinary circumstance, with which we are unacquainted, there ^eems to be nothing to excuse the governour in neglect- ing to notify the garrison, which was only at the distance «f two hundred and forty miles, and twelve days were allowed him for this purpose. Intelligence of this unfortunate occurrence reached Hull on the 23d of July, while engaged in making pre- parations for the attack on Maiden. The British, by tliis time, were considerably reinforced, and aided by an additional number of Indians. The golden moment had been suffered to pass. It is generally conceded, that if an assault had been made on the fort, in the first instance, it must have fallen. This was the opinion of the officers; the general, however, declined it under va- rious pretexts. But having neglected this opportunity, there was no longer any hope of carrying the place with- out being j^rovided with a train of artillery, and the necessary means for a regular assault. The necessity of possessing the post, became every day more apparent. With the fall of Michillimackinac, that of Chicago, and all the other western posts, might be expected to tollow, and the Indian tribes would move lown with all the force of the North-west Company, rendt in* the situation of our army extremely critical. In anticipation of these events, the general had sent repeated expresses to pro- cure reinforcements. His expectations of those rein- forcements, may probably be one reason of the slowness of his movements against Maiden, contenting himself with carrying on a vigilant partizan war, in itself of little consequence. Reinforcements were not hastened, from the belief that the force under his command, was more than sufficient for all the purposes that could b<^ accomplished in this quarter. .' i ■ ■'■»? i-^mm 34 HISTORY OF THE WAR. The spirit which had animated tlie troops, in the first instance, was gradually ,e;iving way lo (iespondcncy; while their commander had by this time nearly lost their confidence. By the first of Auj^ust, every thing being made ready for the attack on Maiden, a council of war was convened, and the result waB a determination to make it immediately. Desertions from the Canada mili- tia still continued, and the whole force was animated with the prospect of undertaking an enterprise, which it was believed could not but be successful. The cannon Avas well mounted, and embarked on floating batteries. The general had approved the deliberations of the coun- cil, and the day was actually appointed, for carrying them into execution. Sometime before this, a company of Ohio volunteers, under the command of captain Brush, had arrived at the liver Raisin, with supplies for the army. As thc'r march to Detroit, the distance of thirty-six miles, was attended with considerable dangers, from parties of the enemy, it was deeniod prudent to remain here until an escort could be sent to guard them. This duty was confided to major Vanhorn, with a detachment of one hundred and fifty men. On his second day's march, near Browns- town, he was suddenly attacked on all sides by Brifisn regulars and Indians. His little force made a deter- mined resistance, and being commanded by a brave and skilful officer, was at length brought off, with the loss of nineteen killed and missing, and nine wounded. Cap- tains Gilcrease, M'Culloch, and Bostler were killed, and captain Ulry severely wounded. Scarcely had this detachment left the camp at Sand- wich, when a sudden and unlocked for change took place in the determination of the commander in chief. Without any apparent cause, or the occurrence of any new event, he announced his intention of abandoning not only the design upon Maiden, but even the position which he then hetd. T!u. operated like a thunderbolt upon the army; the volunteers murmured; they upbraided their com- mander with pusillanimity, and even treachery; and it was with difficulty they could be restrai.ied by their own ofljcers, in wiiom they confided. The disappoint- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 35 IS, in i\\o tiisi. meiit, and vexation, which ensuetl, can be better ima- jrined than described; all confidence in their leader was evidently at an end; if treacherous, he mi«j;ht deliver tliein up to be massacred; and it was evident he was de- ficient in the skill and ability necessary to command. It was with much reluctance this ;2;allant little army was conjpciled to abandon, almost in disgrace, the flatter- ing; hopes, which they thoui!;ht themselves on the point of realiy-inj;. They reached the opposite shore on the eighth of August, where they receiveil the intelligence of the affair of major Vanhorn, of the day before. Such was the termination of this expedition into Canada, of whose suc- cess, an account was every moment expectetl in the United States; happy had it been if the misfortunes of our arms had terminated here! The enemy'> territory was not, however, entirely evacuated; a detacliment of about three hundred men, was left to keep possession of Sandwich, principally with a view of affording some pro- tection to the Canadians, who had been induced by Hull's proclamation to joiji our standard. One thing was now on all hands considered indispen- sable, the opening the communication with the river Rai- sin. In a few weeks, the army might stand in need of the supplies in the possession of captain Brush, and at all events, its situation was rendered extremely unplea- sant, by being thus cut off from all communication with the state of Ohio. To affect this object, a respectable force was detached under lieut. col. James Miller, of the United States army, consisting of three hundred regulars of the gallant 4th regiment, which had distinguished it- self under col. Boyd, at the battle of Tippecanoe, and also about two hundred militia. The enemy, anticipating a renewal of the attempt, had sent reinforcements of re- gulars and Indians, so that their force was little short of seven hundred and fifty men: this force might, moreover, he increased during an engagement, from Maiden, which is situated opposite Brownstown. They had also thrown 'ip a temporary breast-work, of trees and logs, about four miles from this town, at a place called Magagua, behind wiiich the greater part of the Indians, under Tecumseh, ! i o6 HISTORY OF THE WAR. Unr concealed. The whole commanded by major Muir, of the British army. On the ninth, our detachment marched, but was com- pelled to use great caution, from the danger of surprise, riiey, however, drew neor the ambuscade, before it was discovered, when suddenly the attack was commenced on captain Sneilinjr, who commanded the advance, with the usual barbarous shouts of the enemy. Undaunted by this sudden onset, he kept his ground until the main body approached, when the Indians sprang up, and with the regulars furiously advanced to tlie front of tlie breast- work, where they formed a regular line, and commenced a heavy fire. Col. Miller, with the utmost celerity and coolness, drew up his men, opened a brisk fire, ancl then charged. The British regulars gave way, but the Indians under Tecumseh, betaking themselves to the woods on each side, kept their ground with desperate obstinacy. The regulars being rallied, returned to tne combat, which continued for some time, with equal resolution. Despis- ing both the yells of the savages and the musketry of their allies, the American leader repelled their attacks on every side, his troops gallantly maintaining their ground until the enemy was compelled to yield. They retired slowly to Brownstown, literally retreating at the point of the bayonet; here they hastily embarked in boats, pro- vided lor their reception. Had not this precaution been 4aken, it is probable the whole force would have fallen into the hands of the Americans. Their loss was, of the regulars, fifteen killed, and thirty or forty w ounded, but of the Indians nearly one hundred were left on the field. In this battle, which lasted about two hours, we had fif- teen killed, and about sixty wounded. The officers who chiefly distinguished themselves, were captain Baker, lieutenants Lars bee and Peters, and ensign Whistler. The next day at noon, col. Miller, who kept possession of Brownstown, received orders to return to Detroit. Tliis was rendered necessary from the fatigue which his command had experienced in the engagement of the day before. It was thought more adviseable, to send a frei^h detachn\£Bt t« accomplish the ultin^te object. HISTORY OF THE WAR. S7 An occurrence took place about this time in another <|uarter, which ought not to be passexl in silence. Cap- tain UeaUl, who commanded at fort Chicag;o, had received orders from Hull to aband(m that post and make his way 1o Detroit. He accordingly consigned the publick pro- perty to the care of some friendly Indians; and with his company, about fifty regulars, accompanied by several families, which had resided near this place, set out on his march. He had proceeded but a short distance along tlic beach of the lake, when he was attacked by a largo body of Indians, who occupied the bank. Captain Heald ascended the bank, and fought them for some time, until they had gained his rear and taken possession of his horses ami baggage. He then retired to an open piece of ground, vvliere he was enabled to keep the Indians at bay. But finding that he would be compelled to yield at last, he accepted the offer of protection from an Indian chief. Twenty-six regulars were killed, and all the mi- litia; a number of women and children were inhumanly murdered. Captain Wells and ensign Warner were among the killed. Heald with his lady, who had received six wounds, himself severely wounded, after a variety of escapes, at length reached Michillimackinac. Tlie victory at Magagua, though brilliant, and highly honourable to the American arms, was productive ot no essential at'.i^antage. Two days afterwards, a despatch was sent to captain Brush, who was still in waiting for the escort at the river Raisin, informing him that in con- semience of the fatigue of the victorious detachment, it hail been rendered incapable of proceeding further, and that it was become impossible to send a sufficient force by the usual rout; that he must therefore remain where he was, until circumstances should be more favourable. In a postscript, the general advised him that an attempt would be made to open the communication in another quarter, by crossing the river Huron higher up the coun- try. And accordingly, on the 14th, colonels Miller and Cass were despatched with three hundred and fifty men, for this purpose. Sometime before this, an express had been received from general Hall, commanding at Nia- 4 ss HISTORY OF THE WAli. gara, bringing infof iiation that it was not in his power to send reinforcements. On the I9th, the British took a position opposite De- troit, and immediately set themselves about erecting bat- teries. On their approach, major Denny, who commanded at Sandwich, abandoned his position, and crossed over to Detroit, it having been determined to act entirely on the defensive. The British, who continued their prepa- rations for the assault, on the 15th sent a tlasc to summon the place, accompanied by a note from the British com- mander. Gen. Bro.ck, which, after stating that the forces at his disposal warranted the demand, concluded in these words; "It is far from my inclination to join in a war of extermination, but you must be aware that the numerous body of Indians who have attached themselves to my troops, will be beyond my control the moment the con- test commences. You will find me disposed to enter into such conditions as will satisfy the most scrupulous sense of honour. I^ieut. colonel M'Donald and major Glegg are fully authorised to enter into any arrangements that may tend to prevent the unnecessary effusion of blood." To this summons an answer was returned, that the fort would be defended to the last extremity. The Bri- tish immediately openetl their batteries, and continued to throw shells during a great part of the night. The fire was returned, but with little effect on either side. In the morning, it was discovered that the British were landing their troops at Spring Wells, under cover of their ships. To prevent the landing from the fort, at this moment, was impossible; the town lying between it and the river. But if Hull had not neglected the ad- vice of his officers, he might have effectually prevented it, by erecting batteries on the bank, where they would be compelled to debark. A strange fatality seemed to attend this unfortunate man. The enemy having landed, about ten o'clock advanced towards the fort in close column, and twelve deep. From the position of the fort, the en- emy were enabled to approach within two hundred yards belx)re its guns could be brought to bear, being thus (lir shoitered by the town. The American force was, how- ever, judiciously disposed to prevent their advance. The mil tow ann and adv the HISTORY OF THE WAR. S9' niilitia, and a great part of the volunteers, occupied the town, or were posted behind pickets, whence tliey could annoy the enemy's flanks; the regulars defended the fort, and two twenty-four pounders charged with grape, were advantageously posted on an eminence, and could sweep the whole of the enemy's line. All was now silent ex- pectation: the daring foe still slowly advanced, apparent- ly regardless, or unconscious of their danger; tor their clestruction must have been certain, had they not been impressed with contempt for a commander, who had so meanly abandoned Sandwich a few days before. I'he hearts of our countrymen beat high, at the near prospect of regaining their credit. But who can describe the chagrin and mortification which took possession of these troops, when orders were isrsued for them to retire to the fort; and the artillery at the very moment when it was tiiought the British were advancing to certain destruc- tion, was ordered not to fire! The American troops, to- gether with a great number of women and children were gathered into the fort, almost too narrow to con* tain them. Here the troops were ordered to stack their arnfts, and, to the astonishment of every one, a white ilag, in token of submission, was suspended from the walh-. A British oflicer rode up to ascertain the cause, for this surrender was no less unexpected to the assailants. A capitulation was agreed to, without even stipulating the terms. AVords are wanting to express the feelings of the Americans on this occasion; they considered them- selves basely betrayed, in thus surrendering to an infe- rior force without firing a gun, when they were firmly convinced that that force was in their power. They hall provisions for at least fifteen days, and were provided with all the requisite munitions of war. They were com- pelled, thus humiliated, to march out, and to surrender themselves prisoners at discretion. The British took immediate possession of the fort, with all the publick property it contained; amongst which there were forty barrels of powder, four hundred rounds of fixed twenty- four pound shot, one hundred thousand ball cartridges, two thousand five hundred stand of arms, twenty-five pieces, of iron cannon, and eight of brass, the greater ^' '».' u^^' 40 HISTORY OF THE WAR. number of which had been captured by the Americans «turingthe revolutionary war. The whole territory, and all the forts and garrisons of the United States, within the district of the general, were also formally surrendered; and the detachment under colonels Cass and M*Arthur, as well as the party under captain Brush, were included in tlie capitulation. Or- ders had been despatched tlie evening beiore, for the de- tachment under Cass and M'Arthur to return, and they had approached almost sufficiently near to discover the movements of the enemy,while their accidental situation, might enable them to render the most material service «luring the attack. They were surprised at the silence \> hich prevailed when every moment was expected to an- nounce the conflict, and that surprise was soon changed Into rage, when they learned the capitulation. A British officer was then despatched to the river Raisin, to convey the intelligence to captain Brush, who at first gave no credit to so improbable a tale, and actually put the officer iri confinement. The melancholy story was, however, iioon confirmed by some Amerieans who had escapedi <»aptain Brush indignantly refused to submi': to the cap- itulation, declaring that Hull had no right to include him, and determined to return to the state of Ohio. He first ;''eat a disparity of force, was considered as deserving a high rank in naval exploits, and was much admired at the time, as evincing superior nautical skill. Tlie advantage to the British in this chase, was consider- able, when we reflect that their foremost vessel had the assistance of all the boats of the squadron, for the purpose of towing. The superiority of captain Hull, was that of seamanship alone. This superiority was sometimes after- wards proved in a most remarkable manner: while naval history lasts it will not be forgotten. The Constitution again put to sea, on the second of September. On the nineteenth, a vessel hove in sight, and a chase instantly commenced. It was soon discovr cred to be ^he Guerriere, one of the best frigates in the British navy; and which seemed not averse from the ren- contre, as she backed her main topsail, waiting for the Constitution to come down. This was a most desirable occurrence to our brave tars, as this frigate had for some time been in search of an American frigate, having given a formal challenge to all our vessels of the same class. She had at one of her mast heads a flag, on which her name was inscribed in large characters, by way of gas- conade, and on another, the words, "not the Little Belt," in allusion to the broadsides which the President had given that vessel, before the war. The Guerriere had looked into several of our ports, and affected to be ex- ceedingly anxious to earn the first laurel from the new enemy. The Constitution being made ready for action, now bore down, her crew giving three cheers. At first it was the intention of captain Hull, to bring her to close action immediately; but on coming within gun-shot, she gave a broadside and filled awayi then wore, giving a broadside on the other tack, but without effect. They now continued wearing, and manceuvring, on both sides, for three quarters of an hour, the Guerriere attempting i KM V '^\^r li / ^^1 46 HISTORY OF THE AVAR. io take a rakinp: position: but failing in this, she bore up, under her topsail and jib. The Constitution perceivinj^ tliis, made sail to come up with her. Captain Hull,, with admirable coolness, received the enemy's fire, without returning it. The enemy, mistaking this conduct on the part of the American commander, for want of skill, con- tinued to pour out his broadsides with a view to cripple his antagonist. From the Constitution, not a gun had been fired. Already had an officer twice come on deck, with information that several of the men had been killed at their guns. The gallant crew, though burning with impa- tience, silently awaited the orders of their commander. The moment so long looked for,at last arrived. Sailing mas- ter Ayl win, having seconded the views of the captain, with admirable skilj, in bringing the vessel exactly to the sta- tion intended, orders were given at five minutes before five, P.M. to fire broadside after broadside, in quick suc- cession. The crew instantly discovered the whole plan, and entered into it, with all the spirit the circumstance was calculated to inspire. Never was any firing so dreadful. For fifteen minutes the vivid lightning of the Constitution's guns continued one blaze, and their thun- der roared with scarce an intermission. The enemy's mizen-mast had gone by the board, and he stood exposed to a raking fire, which swept his decks. The Guerriere had now become unmanageable; her hull, rigging and sails dreadfully torn; when the Constitution attempted to lay her on board. At this moment lieutenant Bush, in attempting to throw his marines on board, was killed by a musket ball, and the enemy shot ij.head, but could not be brought betbre the wind. A raking lire now contin- ued for fifteen minutes longer, when his mainmast and foremast went, taking with them every spar, excepting the bowsprit. On seeing this, the firing ceased, and at twenty-five minutes past five she surrendered. "h\ thir- ty minutes," says captain Hull, "after we got fairly along side of the enemy, she surrendered, and had not a spar standing, and her hull, above and below water, so shatter- ed, that a few more broadsides must have carried her down." The Guerriere was so much damaged, as to render it impossible to bring her inf she was therefore set HISTORY OF THE WAR. 47 fire to the next day, and blown up. The damai^e sustain- ed by tl»e Constitution, was comparatively of so little consequence, that she actually made ready for action, uhen a vessel appeared in si^^ht the noxt day. The loss on board the Guerriere was fifteen killed and sixty-tJnee wounded; on the side of the (Constitution, seven killed and seven wounded. It is pleasing to observe, that even the J3ritish commander, on this occasion, boie testimony to the humanity and generosity, with which he was treated by the victors. The American frigate was somewhat superior in force, by a few guns, but this difference bore no comparison to the disparity of the conflict. The Guerriere was thought to be a match for any vessel of her class, and had been ranked amongst the largest in the British navy. The Constitution arrived at Boston on the twenty-eighth of August, having captured several mer- cluant vessels. This glorious event, as may well be conceived, spread the most unbounded joy over the whole country. Th'i gallant Hull, and his equally gallant officers, were receiv- ed with enthusiastick demonstrations of gratitude, where- cver they appeared .He was presented with the freedom of all the cities, through whicli he passed, on his way to the seat of government, and with many valuable donations. Congress voted fifty thousand dollars to the crew, as a recompense for the ios3 of the prize, and the executive promoted several of the officers. Sailing master Aylwin,* who had been severely wounded, was promoted to the rank of lieutenant, and lieutenant Morris, who had been also w ounded, was promoted to the rank of post captain. This affair was not less mortifying to Great Britain, who for thirty years, had in no instance lost a frigate in any thing like an equal conflict. The publick mind was now continually excited bv some new series of naval exploits. There was scarcely time for one victory to become familiar, before another was announced. On the 7th of September, commodore Por- ter of the Essex, entered the Delaware after a most active and successful cruise. He had sailed from New-York on the third of July, and shortly after fell in with a ileet of merchantmen under convoy of a frigate: Having kept ' . a :. -A i ;'!^;i'^ 4 ' 1 .'' ;#! 48 HISTORY OF THE WAR. il .11,; at a distance until night, she cut off a brig, tvith a hun- dred and fifty soldiers on board, which was ransomed for 14,000 dollars; the men were disarmed and released, on taking an oath not to serve against us during the war. The commodore regretted, in his letter to the secretary ot the navy, that he had not had with him a sloop of war, as in this case he could have eni^aged the frigate, while the convoy were kept employed, and he could then have cap- tured the whole fleet, consisting of several sail, and hav- ing two thousand men on board, including the crew and transports. On the 1 3th of August, the Essex fell in with the Alert sloop of war, and captured her, after an action of eight minutes; the Alert had mistaken this frigate for the Hornet, of which she was in pursuit, and actually commenced the engagement, by running down and pour- ing a broadside into the Essex. When she struck her colours but three men were wounded, but she had seven feet of water in her hold. The frigate did not suffer the slightest injury. Com. Porter being embarrassed with his prisoners, who exceeded five hundred in number, conclud- ed to convert the Alert into a cartel, for the purpose of ef- fecting an exchange. Her guns were thrown overboard, and she was ordered to proceed to St. John's, under the command of a lieutenant of the Essex. The British com- mander at that place protested strongly against the prac- tice of converting captured vessels into cartels, but in this instance was willing, in consequence of the attention which commodore Porter had uniformly shewn to British prisoners, to consent to the proposed exchange. On the afternoon of the 30th of August, a British frigate was seen standing towards the Essex; preparation was immediately made lor action, and she stood towards the enemy. Night intervening, the Essex hoisted lights to prevent a separation, which were answered. But at daylight, to the mortification of the crew, who were anxious to support the cause of "Free trade and sailors* rights," the enemy dis- appeared. On the 4th of September, near St George's banks, two ships of war were seen to the southward, and a brig to the northward, to which the Essex gave chase, but the winds being light, she made her escape. The Essex HISTORY OF THE WAH. 49 was afterwards chased by the two shins seen to the south- wanl, but escaped in the nij^ht by skilful nianceuvrinj^. On the 8th of October, a squadron, consisrmg of the President, the United States, Conj^ress, and tlie Ar«.^us» sailed from Boston on a cruis':. On the 13th, the United States and Arj^us, parted from the rest in a gale of vind. A few days attcrwards, the President and Congress had tho good fortune to capture the British packet Swallow, with 200,000 dollars on board, and on the 3()th of Decem- ber arrived at Boston, after a very successful cruise. The Argus was not less fortunate; after parting from the squadron, she cruised in every direction, between the continent and the West-Indies, and after being out nine- ty-six days, she returned to New-York, with prizes to the amount of two hundred thousand dollars. She made vafious hairbreadth escapes; at one time she was chased by a British squadron for three days, and several times almost surrounded; she was one moment within pistol shot of a seventy-four and yet in the midst of all this peril, !§he actually captured and manned one of her prizes. The United States, commanded by that distinguished officer commodore Decatur, soon after her separation from tlie squadron, h«id the good fortune to add another victory to our Naval Cronicle, not less glorious than that of the Constitution. On the 25th of October, off the Western Islands, she fell in with the Macedonian, captain Garden, a frigate of the largest class, carrying 49 guns and 300 men, The Macedonian, being to windward, she had it in her power to choose her distance, and at no time were they nearer than musket shot; from this circum- stance, and the prevalence of a keavy sea, the action last- ed nearly two hours. The superiority of the American gunnery, in this action, was very remarkable, both for its greater rapidity and eftect. From the continued blaze of her guns, the United States was, at one moment, thought by her antagonist to be on fire; a mistake of very short duration. On board the Macedonian tb ri were 36 kil- led and 68 wounded. She lost her mainmast, her main- topmast, and main yard, and was much cut up in her hull. The United States suffered so little, that a return to port was not necessary: she hai} only five kil ted, and seven 5 »' ". > . 1 it HIsroRY OF THE WAR. H I r NvouikUhI. Among the killed were lieufeiiant Funk, ol whom tlie commonore spoke in the highest terms. Lieu- tenant Allen was on this occasion highly anplauded. The connnodore arrived at New-York on the 4tn of December, with his prize. Commodore Decatur, already a universal favourite, experienced the same demonstrations of grati- tude, as were shown to captain Hull; nor was there de- nied him that new species of praise, which the generous conduct of our heroick seamen has uniformly drawn forth, the praise of the enemy; all the private property belong- ing to the men and officers on board the Macedonian, was restored to the captured, with the most rigid exactitude; and their treatment was the most polite and humane. An act of generosity and benevolence on the part of our brave tars, of the victorious frigate, deserves to be honourably recorded. The carpenter, who was unfortu- nately killed in the conflict with the Macedonian, had left three small children to the care of a worthless mother. When the circumstance became known to the brave sea- men, they instantly made a contribution amongst them- selves, to the amount of eight hundred dollars, and plac- ed it in safe hands, to be appropriated to the education and maintenance of the unhappy orphans. Tlie feelings of the nation nad scarcely time to subside, when the welcome news of another victory was received; a victory over an enemy most decidedly superior in force, and under circumstances the most favourable to him. This was the capture of the brig Frolick, of 22 guns, by the sloop of war Wasp. Captain Jones had returned from France, two weeks after the declaration of war, and on the 13th of October again put to sea. On the 16th he experienced a heavygale, in which the Wasp lost her jib- boom and two men. (hi the evening of the following t!ay, the W\asp found herself near five strange sail, and as two of them appeared to be ships of war, it was thought proper to keep at a distance. At day-light on Sunday morning, they were discovered to be six merchant ships, from Hon- duras to Ena;land, under a strong convoy of a brig and two t hips, armed with sixteen guns each. The brig, wlucli )roved to be the Frolick, capt. Whinyates, dropped be- lind, while the others made sail. The Wasp, being pre- f HISTORY OF THE WAR. 51 pared for action, at 32 min. past 1 1 o'clock, came down to windward in handsome style, when the action was be«;im by the enemy's cannon and mus!:etrv. This was return- ed, and approaching still nearer the enemy, brought her to close action. In five minutes tlie maiiitopmast of the Wasp was shot away, and falling down wiresented him with their thanks, and several ele- gant swords and pieces of plate; and the congress ?f the United States voted him, his officers, and crew, iil5,()00 dollars, as a recompense for their loss, in not being able to bring in the Frolick. lie was soon after promoted to the command of the Macedonian, captured by commodore Decatur. Feats of naval prowess were not confined to national vessels; the exploits of private armed vessels daily filled the gazettes. Letters of marnue were issued sooh after the declaration of war, and privateers sailed from every port, to annoy and distress the enemy's commerce. They were generally constructed for swift sailiiur, an nrt in which th« Americaus excel every other people, lu their HISTORY OF THE WAK. .).) contests, they exhibited the same suijeriority over the vessels of the enemy, as was shown with respect to the ships of war. One of the first to sail was the Atlas, com- manded by captain Moffat. On the third of August, he fell in with two armed ships, and after a severe action, captured them both, but was not able to bring more than one of them into port. The Dolphin, captain Endicot, of Salem, in the course of a few weeks, captured fifteen of the enemy's vessels, and for his activity and courage soor became noted. He had the misfortune to be captured by a sciuadron, under commodore Broke, and in consequence or the prejudice entertained against privateers, and the irritation which his exploits had excited, he was treated somewhat rougli- \y; this conduct, to the honour of the British officers, was soon changed, when they were informed, by the pri- soners, of the humanity of his conduct. On one occasion, there happened to be on board one of the Dolphin's prizes, an old woman, who had her whole fortune on board, consisting of 800 dollars; she made a lamentable outcry at her misfortune; but the fact was no sooner known to the sailors, than th^y spontaneously agreed not to touch her pittance; and on arriving in the United States, she felt so much gratitude, that she could not re- frain from giving publicity to it, in the newspapers. It soon became understood, that American privateers were- under the same regulations as national vessels, a circum- stance in which they differed from those of other nations; that in fact, private cupidity was not the sole motive in arming them, but that they constituted a part of our mode of carrying on the war, by assailing the enemy in his most vulnerable part; and that the gallantry displayed on board these vessels, bestowed almost as much nonour on the actor, as those of a publick character; there were, therefore, the same inducements to correctness of deport- ment. It cannot be denied, however, that on some occa- sions during the war, the captured privateersmen were treated with a degree of harshness, and even cruelty, which nothing can justify. Early in the war," ohe of our oldest and most distin- ;5uishcd naval heroes, but who had, for many years, led . 5* ;tii- -iv:: " I 34 mSTORY OF THE WAR. i; :.! 1 a private life, entered this service. Commodore Barney sailed from Baltimore in the Rossie, and, in the course of a few months, did more havock in the British commerce, than was ^xperieticed from the French cruisers for years. The fame oi this gallant officer was already well known to the enemy, particularly as the captoi* of one of their vessels of war of superiour force, the Monk, during the revolution. Such was the glorious beginning of our naval warfare against Great Britain. In the course of a few months, two of her finest frigates surrendered, each after a few minutes fighting; and a most decided victory was gained over an adversary confessedly superiour. Before the meeting of congress, in November, nearly two hundred and fifty vessels were captured from tne enemy, and more than three thousand prisoners taken. Upwards of fifty of them were armed vessels, and carrying five hun- dred and seventy-five guns. To counterbalance this immense loss, the enemy had but a small account. By the cruise of commodore Rogers, our merchantmen had been much aided in getting into port, and the number captured was but trifling compared to theirs. The Fro- lick and Wasp, we have seen, were captured in a way to give no credit to the captors. Two other smaller vessels were also captured by squadrons; the first, on the twen- tieth of July, the schooner Nautilius, of twelve ^uns, commanded by lieutenant Crane, captured by the frigate Shannon, the leading ship of the squadron. The Vixen was captured the twenty-second of November, by the "Northampton frigate, sir James Yoe. Not long after the capture, both vessels ran ashore, and were wrecked. Through the exertions of captain Reed, of the Vixen, much of the property was saved from the wreck; and, in con- sequence of his services on the occasion, he was pub- lickly thanked by sir James, and permission given to him to return home on his parol. This he generously declined, as he could not think of receiving any benefits, in which his officers and crew could not partake. He accordingly accompanied them to Nova Scotia, where he fell a victim to the climate. He was interred by the ^British with the honours of war, accompanied with eyerV HISTORY OF THE WAR. »3! demonstration of respect, to the memory of a brave and gallant officer. The navy now became the favourite of the nation; for thus far, contrasted with our armies, it was entitled to the most decided preference. There were not wanting occasions in which our arms by land had acquired repu- tation, but they had also brought upon us dishonour; on the contrary, the navy, in every instance, had added to our national renown. The modesty of our naval com- manders, in the narratives of the most brilliant achieve- ments, and whirh were read with delight in every cot- tage, and spread over our country by tne means of our thousand newspapers, was peculiarly pleasing: whereas the proclamations of our generals, were too often filled with idle fustion. The British had threatened to drive our "bits of striped bunting" from the ocean, and we had been seriously apprehensive that our little navy would at once be annihilated! We, however, sought con- solation for this, in the prospect of possessing Canada, and freeing ourselves from troublesome neighbours. In both instances how greatly disappointed! The dispensa- tions of Providence are better than the wisdom oi men. The mortification of Great Britain was attended with no alleviation. She was wounded in the most vital part. In vain did she seek consolation in endeavouring to nide her m ^fortune from herself, by representing our vessels, in every instance, as greatly supenour in size, and having every advantage in the various conflicts. This might do with respect to one engagement, but the same cause was insufficient to account for her defeats in every instance. The American frigates were seventy-fours in disguise, and she turned her seventy-fours into frigates, that she mi^ht contend on equal terms. But she could not so easily account for the wonderful superiority in the ma- nagement of the ships, and in gunnery. She set on foot committees of investigation; and the result was, that by some unaccountable neglect, her marine had degene- rated, and it was seriously recommended to her navy board, to put their heroes again to school, that they might learn to cope with this new, this subtle, and most extra- Ordinary enemy. From the idle boast of being the „.,,Jr If t ! 56 HISTORY OF THE WAR. SOVEREIGNS OF THE SEAS, a claim, as vain n» that to the dominion of the air or the light, and, without whose per- mission not a sail could be spread, they were most com- pletely humbled by one of the youngest maritime states; actuated by ;io ambition of conquest, biit merely con- tending for the privilege of navigating an element, de- signed by the Almighty for the common possession of the human race. CHAPTER in. GenefHl Hannson takes command of the Northwestern army— «Expedi- tum imder ^neral Winchestei^— General Hopkins— Defence of Fort Havrison— ^Colonel Campbell's Expedition. The publick mind had by this time recovered from the distress and chagrin occasioned by the surrender of Hull. A spirit was roused, which produced effects not equalled by the most enthusiastick periods of our revolution. To the westward and to the southward, volunteer corps were form- ing in every quarter^ and tendering their services for any enterprise which might be undertaken. The western parts of Pennsylvania and Virginia exhibited great alacrity: but it was in the states of Kentucky, Ohio, and Tennes- see, that this generous zeal prevailed in the higliest de- gree. Civil pursuits were almost forsaken, while tlie prevailing enthusiasm was shared by persons of every sex, and ever;;^ age. The ladies set themselves to work in pre- paring military clothing and knapsacks for their relatives and friends, and cheerfully contributed from, their house- hold stock, such articles as their soldiers might requii*e. Companies were equipped in a single day, and ready to march the next. There prevailed every where, the most animated scenes of preparation. The admiration which this excites, is not lessened by the reflection^ that they were but acting in self-tlefence, for excepting in the re- mote settlements, and merely on the frontier, there was 'mistm^.ai.. HISTORY OF THE WAH. 57 hut little to apprehend from the Indians: tlie settlements having become so considerable in the western states, that it would be impossible for the enemy to penetrate far. They were actuated by an enthusiastick love of country, a generous feeling, which could not brook the thought of ! aving been worsted, or that a part of the territory of the union should fall by conquest into the hands of our ene- my. The military ardour which was now awakened, dis- played t'lie character of a free people, in the most inte- resting point of view. Louisville and Newport had been appointed as the places of rendezvous, for the troops destmed to the aid of Hull. So numerous were the volunteers from Ken- tucky, who offered their services here, that it was soon founii necessary to issue orders that no more wjould be received, and many companies, thus disappointed, were compelled to turn back. The command oi the Kentucky militia, was assigned to general Payne. The same ala- crity was manifested in the state of Ohio, which, in the course of a few days, embodied an equal force under ge- neral Tupper. The Pennsvlvania volunteers, under p:eneral Crooks, were marched to Erie, aud a brigade of _ Virginians under general Leftwitch, wass to join the troops of Ohio, at Urbanna. The Kentucky troops, together with th** seventeenth United States r-pgiment, under colo- nel Wells, the greater part of which had been enlisted in the western country since the war, were destined for fort Wayne, and thence for the Rapids, which was appointed as the general rendezvous. Thus in a few weeks, up- wards of four thousand men were drawn oat from their homes, completely equipped, embodied, and ready for the field. The command of^ this army was given to major general Harrison, who was well known to the western people, and whose recent conduct at Tippecanoe had ren- dered him popular as a leader. In order to secure him this rank, he was brevetted by the governour of Kentucky, and sometime after appointed comiiiander-iii-chief of the northwestern army by the president. The first step taken by Harrison, was to relieve the frontier posts, principally fort Harrison, situated on the Wabaah, and fort Wayne, situated on the Miami of (h* f ■f •i f ■ 'V : 58' HISTORY OP THE WAR. ii'ii' Lakes, and on the road to the Rapids. It might be ex- pected that this fort, as well as fort Defiance, situated lower down, would be attempted by the British, in order to obstruct the road to Detroit. Harrison arrived at this place on the twelfth of September, with about twenty-five hundred men. The Indians who had laid siege to it, disappeared on his approach. It had been invested by a considerable body of them, who after repeated attacks, from the sixth to the ninth, in which they resorted to every stratagcn), and several times attempted to take it by as- sault, were compelled to retire, after destroying every thing outside the fort. The garrison consisted of no more than seventy men. After remaining here a few days, general Harrison, not thinking it advisable to proceed to the Rapids, until suf- ficiently strengthened by the arrival of the other troops, resolved to occupy the intermediate time in laying waste the Indian country. Colonel Wells was despatclied on the fourteenth, with his regiment, and that under the command of colonel Scott, together with two hundred mounted riflemen, against the Puttawatomy town on the. river St. Joseph, v^lmh discharges itself into lake Mlclii- gan. The other, under the command of general rayne, consisting of colonels Lewis and Allen's regiment, and captain Garrard's company, against the Miami villages. The detachments were in both instances successful, the bark and wooden huts of nine villages were destroyed, the inhabitants having abandoned tliem; their corn was also cut up, according to the mode of warfare practised on these people by all European nations. General Har- son returned to fort Wayne about the eighteenth, where he found general W^inchester, with considerable rein- forcements from Ohio and Kentucky; this officer had been originally destined to the commana, and the new arrange* ment had not yet been known. General Harrison, there- fore, set off tor Indiana, but was soon overtaken by a messenger, with information of his promotion. On the twenty-third, he accordingly resumed the command. The day before his arrival, general Winchester had marched for fort Defiance, on his way to the Rapids, the place of ultimate destination. His force consisted of a HISTORY OF THE WAR. M brigade of Kentucky militia, four hundred regulars, and a troop of horse, in all about two thousand men. I'he troop country which he was compelled to traverse, opposed great difficulties, particularly in the* transportation of stores. Along the heads of the rivers which discharge themselves into the Ohio, on the south, and those which discharge themselves into the lakes on the north, there is an extensive tract of flat land, full of marshes and ponds, in wliich the streams take their rise. In rainy seasons particularly, this tract is exceedingly difficult to pass, the horses at every step sinking to the kneies in mud. The ground, besides, is covered with deep forests and close thickets. To facilitate the passage through this wilder- ness, each man was obliged to carry provisions for six days. General Harrison proceeded to fort St. Mary's, for the purpose of transporting supplies by the Aux Glaise, a branch of the Miami. The detaclimenl, for this purpose, was placed under the command of major Jennincs. The American troops moved slowly, on account of the precautions necessary to avoid surprise, in a country highly favourable for Indian warfare. From the close- ness of the thickets, they were under the necessity of cutting open a road ecch day, and were not able to make more than six or eight miles. They usually encamped at three o'clock, and threw up a breast-work to guard against a night attack. They had tlie precaution on their march, to be preceded by a party of spies, under an ac- tive officer, captain Ballard, and an advanced guard of about three hundred men. On tlie twenty-fourth, they discovered an Indian trail for the first time, and pur- sued it some distance; but from the nature of the coun- try, it was impossible to overtake the enemy. Ensigu Legget, having obtained permission to penetrate to fort Denance, still at the distance of twenty-four miles, set out accompanied by four volunteers. These gallant youn^ men, not being sufficiently experienced in such en- terprises, were killed the same evening, and found the next day by the spies, scalped and tomahawked in the most barbarous manner. On the twenty-seventh, captain Bal- lard, who had gone before for the purpose of burying the, dead, discovered an Indian trail; but being aware oif the ♦ >. ;lr;l'^.^^'i' 1 i^'HM':. 60 HISTORY OF THE WAR. m strata^cmg of these wily people, instead of following it, he divided his company, and inarched his nnen on each side. The stratagem of the enemy bein«; thus frustrated, they rose from theii hiding places, raised the war whoop, and took possession of an elevated piece of ground; but were soon compelled, by the approach of the cavalry, and the well directed fire of the spies, to betake themselves to the swamps and thickets. The next day^ while the army %vas on its march, four Indians fired upon the spies; the general instantly drew up his men, and sent forward a detachment of Iiorse, which returning with an account that no enemy could be seen, the line of inarch was again resumed. Tney had not proceeded far, when a trail was discovered, which induced the general to cross the river, and shortly after another trail was discovered, but which was at first supposed to have marked the march of colo- nel Jennings, and was therefore hailed with joy by the troops, who had began to suffer exceedingl v tor want of provisions. The agreeable mistake was unpleasantly rec- tified by the arrival of the scouts, who >rouglit intelligence that about two miles above fort Defiance, they had seen the Indians encamped, with their war poles erected, and bloody flag displayed. On the evening of the twentv-ninth, a messenger ar- rived from colonel Jennings, with the information, that, on havin» discovered the British and Indians in posses- sion of fort Defiance, he had thought it prudent to land about forty miles above that place, where he had erected a block-house and awaited further orders. Captain Gar- ,ard, with about thirty of his troopers, was despatched with orders to Jennings, to forward the provisions; this was promptly obeyed. Captain Garard returned as the escort to the brigade of pack-horses, on which they were loaded, after having been for thirty-six hours exposed to an incessant rain. This occurrence gave new life and spirits to the starving army, which had in the mean time taken possession of fort Defiance. The British and In- dians had precipitated ly descended the river. — On the fourth of October, general Harrison left the fort and re- turned to the settlements, with a view of orgaiiizing, and bringing up the centre and right wing of the anny; the HISTORY OF THE WAR. 6i left wing having been placed under the command of gen- eral Winchester. Orders were given to general Tupper, by the commander-in-chief, to proceed immediately to the Rapids, with about one thousand men, for the purpose of driving the enemy from that place. The intended expedition of general Tupper proved abortive. The general, in consequence of the damaged state of the ammunition, and the length of time requisite to prepare the necessary provisions, was considerably delayed. In the mean while the Indians had killed a man on the opposite side of the river, and almost within gun shot of tne camp. He beat to arms; and ordered major Brush to cross over with about fifty men, and explore the woods, while a strong detachment would be formed for the purpose of supporting him, in case of attack. The party had no sooner moved, than all in camp began to breaK away, twenty or thirty together, in order to join in the chase, and by no exertion of authority could tliey be kept back; so totally insensible were they to any thing like regular military subordination. Luckily these small bodies were not attacked, or they must have been cut to pieces. Immediately after this, orders were given by the com- manding general, to go in pursuit of the Indians, and if possible ascertain their number; general Tupper repre- sented his situation, and requested that the order might be countermanded; but this was answered by a peremptory command, which he now attempted to obey. This unfor- tunately resulted in a misunderstanding between him and the commanding general, in consequence of which colo- nel Allen received private orders to supercede him in A\Q command; on this being made known to the corps of Ohio, they positively refused to march, unanimously set off for Urbanna, and the expedition was entirely brok- en up. These are instances of insubordination much to be re- gretted; but they spring from the want of the habit of mechanical obedience, and not permitting their comman- ders, on occasions like this, to think for them. Such are the unavoidable evils attending the militia hastily called together, and not kept in a body a sufficient length of time to learn the utility of perfect subordination. They d« r-i i^r C2 IHSTOIIV OF THE WAR. "';,ii: not reflect, that, to a soldier, thfs is no more inconipalable with the liberty of the citizen, than the wholesome re- straints of virtue and the laws, arc to the man of society. It was now necessary to wait until the arrival of the other divisions of the army, before any thing further could be attempted against the Rapids, and much less against Detroit. The army was at this time accompanied by some friendly Indians, whom general Harrison iiad re- ceived into his service at fort Wayne, the greater part under the command of Logan. No other course would have prevented their becoming our enemies; it was in vain to expect them to remain neutral, while surrounded by war. However contrary to our maxims and policy to employ such auxiliaries, we were compelled to do so in self defence; and we afterwards sufficiently evinced, by th.c concluct of those Indians, that it is not impossible to restrain tliemfrom the commission of acts of barbarity. General Tupper, having returned to Urbanna, with his mounted men, was despatched with the division of the centre, which consisted of a brigade of Ohio volunteers and militia, and a regiment of regulars, to tort M*Arthur, while the right wing, consisting of a Pennsylvania and a Virginia brigade, was ordered to Sandusky. On his arrival at fort M'Arthur, general Tupper organ- ized another expedition; composed of about six hundred men, with a view of proceeding to the Rapids. Having provided himself with a supply of provisions for five days, he marched on the tenth, and on the tliirteenth approached within thirteen miles of the place, which he found, by his scouts, to be still in possession of the British and Indians. A number of boats and small vessels were seen lying be- low. On receiving this information, he advanced within a few miles of the Rapids; and then halted until sunset, with a view of crossing the river, and making an attack i\\c next morning by day break. The rapidity of the current was such, that his attempts were ineffectual; many of the men, who endeavoured to cross, were swept down the stream, and it was thought advisable to order those, Vv'ho had actually passed to return. It was now resolved 1o resort to stratagem, and if possible, to decoy the enemy over. For this purpose, early in the morning, he shewed HISTORY OF THE WAR. ^3 the heads of his columns, by advancing some dista^ice oi«t of the woods, in an open space opposite the enemy's camp. A great confusion appeared to ensue; those in the vessel slipped tlieir cables, and descended t\w river, while the Indian women were seen scamperinj» jff on the road to Detroit. A fire was then opened upon the Americans, with musketry and a four pound(»r. Tupper's stratagem did not perfectly succeed; but a few Indians at first seem- ed disposed to cross, and then acted witii great caution. A number, however, were observed in a little while, ci os- sing higher up the river; being now apprehensive tliat his camp might be attacked, tlie general thought proper to return. He had not proceeded far, when some of the men, unfortunately, contrary to orders, fired on a drove of hogs, and pursued them some distance, and others, ecpial- ly disobedient, entered a field to pull corn. At this mo- ment, a body of mounted Indians iiished forward, killed four men, and attacked the rear of the right flank. The column being thrown back, commenced a brisk fire, and caused the Indians to give ground. The Indians rallied, and passing along the van-guard, made a charge upon the rear of the left column: this column was also thrown brisk- ly back; all attempts to break it were unsuccessful, and in twenty minutes, the Indians again retired. Conceiving this only preliminary to an attack of foot, general Tupper order- ed the right column to move up in marching order, to pre- vent the attack from being made on the right flank. Infor- mation was now received, that the Indians were crossing in considerable numbers; on this, the general ordered the left column to take up the marching order, and pro- ceed to the head of the right column, where a number of Indians had already crossed on horseback, others still in the river, and about tv/o hundred on the opposite bank. These, a battalion was ordered to dislodge, which com- pletely succeeded in the undertaking, many of them be- mg shot from their horses in the river. The different charges of the Indians were led by the famous chief Split- Log, who rode a fine white horse, from which he sometimes fired; at other times alighted, and fired from behind a tree. The horses appeared to have been much superior to those which the Indians generally ride, and they were ^IW ^,\ fe •■ A. t ' f ■.' ^^ G4 HISTORY OF THE 'WAR. M well supplier! with holsters and pistols. The Aniericaiisj were compelled to return in haste, as their provisions were hv this time entirely exhausted, and they had to maich forty miles before they could obtain a fresh supply. A\'hile these things were taking place in the northwcst- lirn army untler general Harrison, other events deserving attention, transpired further to the westward, under dif fcrent leaders. We have seen that many of the compa- nies equipped for the service of the United States, were dismissed, as exceeding the number required, or the num- ber for which suj)plieshad been provided. The spirit for volunteering was excited to so high a degree, tnat the people could not be satisfied, without having an opportu- nity of doing something. Vincennes, on the \V abash, was appointed the place of rendezvous for an expedition against the Peoria towns, and others situated on the Illi- nois and Wabash rivers. Nearly four thousand men) chiefly mounted riflemen; under the command of general Hopkins, collected at this place, and early in October ])roceeded to fort Harrison. This expedition was sanc- tioied by the venerable governour Shelby, of Kentucky, and was, perhaps, the most formidable in appearance that had ever entered the Indian country. The army reached fort Hirrison about the tenth, and on the fourteenth crossed the Wabash, and proceeded on its march against the Kickapoo and Peoria towns; the first about eighty miles distant, the others about one hun- dred and twenty. Its march lay through open plains cov- ered with a luxuriant grass, which in autumn becomes very dry and combustible. Murmurs and discontents soon began to shew themselves in this unwieldy and ill compacted body, which was kept together by no discip- line or authority. Every one consulted his own will; in fact, but little could be expected from this "press of chiv- alry." They had scarcely been four days on their march, when they demanded to be led back; a major, whose name it is unnecessary to remember, rode up to the general, and peremptorily ordered him to return! An idea had begun to prevail, that the guides were ignorant of the country, and that the course was the opposite of that which they direct- ed. An unlucky occurrencCi towards evening, gave th« It liilll; • lb • 1 ■ 1 1 iil 1 ' Hi 'iil il III' 1' i|i .rr- c*> lU III i.A^ 1. 'I ^ I t' I i: If ^•;ii^ - * . . •■'»' ■If. . r <. ■ 1 *' . h. " ■ i - ''ii'<- ,■!• « ,-p-v •U' ^J* W !■ ^ ■mMi h iflMRj \ T\ finlshj had ai lentlyl to be locitj.l would I to the gress cers w| arinv, ceed a that ni remain I posal \\ general tjuestet single their hej lowing I directioi ther wit rison. ' number in the p liorsebac impress! bers whi favourat or to tht more thj The s party, w the Wal Harrisoi same tin colonel '. visions, town, ai to surpi Tlie par about di p^- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 63 m finishing blow to this mighty expedition. A gust of wind had arisen, while thej were encamped, whicli blew vio- lently towards them; soon after, the grass was discovered to be on fire, and the flames approaching with great ve- locity. This was. supposed to be an Indian attack; it would have been a formidable one, had they not set fire to the grass around their camp, and thus arrested the pro- gress of the flames. The next morning a council of offi- cers was called, and the general, seeing the state of the army, or more properly of the crowd, proposed to pro- ceed against the Indian towns witli five hundred men, if that number would volunteer their services, wliile the remainder might return to fort Harrison. When the pro- posal was made to the men, not one would turn out; the general having entirely lost his popularity. He then re- quested to be permitted to direct the operations of that single day; this being agreed to, he placed himself at their head, and gave orders to march; but instead of fol- lowing him, they turned round, and pursued a contrary direction. Finding it useless to attempt any thing fur- ther with such a body, he followed in its rear to fort Har- rison. They saw no Indians during their march; their number must have caused a most formidable appearance in the prairie, particularly as they were nearly all on horseback. The expedition was by no means useless, as it impressed the enemy with an alarming idea of the num- bers which we could bring against thenj. No inference un- favourable to militia, can be justly drawn from this body, or to the individuals who composed it: for it was nothing more than a crowd of armed men under no command. The same officer, sometime in November, led another party, \vith more success, against the towns at the head of the Wabash. On the eleventh, he again set out from fort Harrison, with about twelve hundred men; while at the same time, seven boats, under the command of lieutenant colonel Barber, ascended the river with supplies and pro- visions. On the nineteenth, he reached the prophet*s town, and immediately despatched three hundred men, to surprise the Winebago towns on Ponce Passu creek. The party, under colonel Butler, came upon the place about dav break, but found it evacuated. This village, «'•<■ mm .. ' 1 i- ' '■ ; : i -. ut „ ' r'-H ; • >f ') Hi? ■ K?|lHt 66 HISTORY OF THE WAR. together with the prophet's town, and a large Kickapoo village, containing one hundred and twenty cabins and huts, were destroyed, together with the winter's provision of corn. Until the twenty-first, no Indians m ere discov- ered, when they fired on a small party, and killed a man of the name of Dunn, a gallant soldier of Duvall's company. The next day, about sixty horsemen, under colonels Mil- ler and Wilcox, being sent out to bury the dead, they were suddenly attacked by a considerable party of In- dians; and in the skirmish which ensued, eighteen of our men were killed, wounded and missing. The principal camp of the Indians having been discovered, preparations were made to attack it, but on approaching it, the enemy was found to have gone off. Their situation was remark- ably strong, being on a high bank of the Ponce Passu, and no means of ascending but through some narrow ravines. The inclement season advancing rapidly, it was deemed prudent to tliink of returning, particularly as the ice in the river began to obstruct the passage. The success and g-ood conduct of this detachment forms a remarkable con- trast with the first, and proves that militia, after having been sometime embodied, becomes as good troops as any other. This corps suffered exceedingly; and without a murmur; many of them were sick, and to use the words of the general, many were "shoeless and shirtless," dur- ing the cold weather of this season. These repeated in- cursions would doubtless strike terrour into the enemy, and operate powerfully upon the only sense to wliich we could appeal. We have passed over, without noticing, but with the intention of recording in a more distinguished manner, the admirable defence of fort Harrison, which was timely relieved by general Hopkins, on his first expedition. This fort was invested about the same time with fort Wayne, by a large body of Indians, some of whom had affected to be friendly, and had the day before, intimated to captain Taylor, that an attack might soon be expected from the prophet's party. On the «vening of the third of Septem- ber, two young men were killed near the fort, and the next day, a party of thirty or forty Indians, from the piu- phet'stown, appearetl wi^ha wbito flag, under pretence ot HISTORY OF THE WAR> 67 obtaining provisions. Captain Taylor, suspecting an at- tack that nif^ht^ examined the arms of his men, and fur- nished them with cartridges. The garrison was composed of no more than eighteen effective men, the commander and the greater part of his company having suffered very much from sickness. For sometime past, tne fort had ac- tually been considered incapable of resisting an attack. About eleven o'clock, the night being very dark, the In- dians had set fire to one of the block houses unperceived.. Every effort was made to extinguish the Hames, but with- out effect; a quantity of whiskey, amon^^st other stores, belonging to the contractor, deposited tnere, blazed up, and immediately enveloped the whole in a flame. The situation of the fort became desperate; the yells of the Indians, the shrieks of a number of women and children within, added to the horronrs of the night, altogether pro- .duced a terrifick scene. Two soldiers, giving themselves upfor lost, 'eaped over the pickets, and one of them was instantly cut to pieces. The commander, with great presence of mind, ordered the roofs to be taken off the ad- joing barracks; this attempt, with the assistance of Dr. Clark, fortunately proved successful,, although made un- der a shower of bullets. A breast-work was then formed, before morning, six or eight feet high, so as to cover the space which would be left by the burnt block house. The firing continued until day-light, when the Indians retired, after suffering a severe loss; that of the fort was only three killed, and a few wounded. The Indians, discour- aged by the failure of this attack, thought proper to retire, and made no further attempts, until the place was happily relieved by the arrival ot general Hopkins. In conse- quence of his conduct, captain Taylor was afterward- promoted to a majority. Another expedition was undertaken by colonel Russell, with three companies of United States rangers, and a farty of mounted riflemen, under governour Edwards, of llinois. This party, consisting of three hundre^^ ?'" ' six- ty men, was destined to meet general HopkL..^ r tne Peoria towns, on the Illinois river. They were i.>.jap- pointed in tJiis, in consequence of what has been alreauy detailed; but they, notwithstanding, persevered in their *:■ i I; '^■>M^ 6? HISTORY OF THE WAR. ,1 -i cnterpn7.e, and destroyed one of the towns known by the name of Pamitaris's town, and pursued the Indians into a swamp in its vicinity, where they had fled for shelter. The party waded into the swamp for several miles, in «)nie places to the waist in water, and killed upwards of twenty of the enemy in this place, and on the bank of the river. The village, which was populous and flourishing^ was completely destroyed, together with their winter's provisions, The party returned to camp on the thirty- iirst of October, after an absence of only thirteen days. Lieutenant colonel Campbell, of the 19th United States infantry, was, about the same time, detached againscthe towns on the Mississinewa river, a branch of the Wabash. A town, inliabited by I^ lawares and Miamis, was sur- prised on the seventeenth of November; upwards of thirty persons were taken prisoners, a; d eight warriours killed. The next morning at day -light a furious attack was made on the American camp; major Ball, with his dragoons, sustained the onset for some time; but a well directed fire from captain Butler*s "Pittsburgh Volunteers," coui- pelled the enemy to give way. Captain Trotter, of the Lexington troop of horse, charged, and the Indians pre- cipitately fled. Captain Pearce, of the Zanesville iroop, was, unfcrtunately, killed in the pursuit. Lieutenant AValtz, of the Pennsylvania volunteers, was also killed. The officers particulaily named on the occasion, were lieutenant colonel Simmeral, major M*I)owell, captains Markle, M'Clelland, Gerrard, and Hopkins. The loss in killed on the part of the assailants, amounted to forty, and on our part, to eight killed, and about thirty wounded. Several of their villages were afterwards destroyed. Besides these aifairs, there were p number of less mo- ment, in which the militia of Indiana, Illinois, and Mis- souri territories, greatly distinguished themselves. The Indians were so much harrassed, that they began seri- ously to repent of having taken up the war-club so hasti- ly; and their sufterin^s, during the succeeding winter, were not likely to produce any change of feeling towards those who had thus urged them to encounter their own ruin. The security of the frontier from the murdeious scalping knife of the savage, was thus in a great measure HISTORY OF THE WAR. 69 effected. The Indianr would be compelled to remove to the distant British establishments for sustenance, dijirina; the winter, since their means of subsistence were cut oft'. As to the loss of their huts or wigvvan*s, that was a mat- tor of little consecjuence to them; a few days being sufTi- ( lent to re-construct them. But by their being thus driven io a distance, with their wives and children, they were revented from annoying the settlers, with their fiend- ike warfare. Many a peaceful settler was saved from their midnight attacks; and "the slumbers of the crjidle** were protected from the savage war-whoop. Fi CHAPTER IV. Ticiops ou tho Canada frontier — Capture of the Caledonia— Mattic of Queeniitowa, and the death of general Brock — Bomhai'dnient of J^'iiigara — Abortive attempt of geiuial Smyth — Northern Army- First ciuisc of commodore Chauucey. It is now time to turn our attention to the northern frontier, that we may take a view of the occurrences on that extensive line, from Niagara down the St. Lawrence. Towards the close of the year, our forces had chiefly concentrated in two bodies; one near Lewistown, con- sisting of some regulars newly enlisted, and militia, amounting to four thousand men, under general Van Hensselear, of New-York; the other, in the neighbourhood of Plattsburg and Greenbush, under the commander-in- chief, general Dearborn. At Black Rock, at Ogdensburg, and Sackett's Harbour, some regulars and militia were also stationed. During the summer and autumn, a num- ber of volunteer companies had marched to tlie borders, as also the new recruits, as fast as they could be enlisted. Bodies of regulars were distributed in each of these places, with officers of experience, for the purpose ot drilling the raw troops as they arrived. It was expected, that before the month of October, every thing would be made ready for a formidable invasion of Canada. Considerable di&- 4 ' , • ..« ■.• 1 1.. 70 History of the war. ;1l m m appointment was, however, experienced, in consequence 01 tlie refusal of (lie j»;overnours of Massacliusetts, New Ilampsliire, and Connecticut, to permit the militia of those states to marcli under the requisition of the presi- dent, on the {ground of their beino; the proper judjres, un- der the ccmstitution, of the exij2;ency Avhich miju;ht require them; and as they were not friendly to the war, and par- ticularly so to rendering it offensive, they felt no dispo- sition to wave their privilej;es. Other constitutional objections were alsourg;ed, which it is scarcely necessary to mention. As the militia in those states was better disciplined and more effective, than any in the union, their absence was severely felt. It is liighly probable, that had there been a full co-operation on the ])art of these states, with the views of the general government, that Upper Canada, at least, would have fallen into our lu»nds, in the course of the first campaign. Military stores had been collected at different points, and general Dearborn, who had been appointed in consequence of his experience in the revolutionary war, was actively engaged, with the assistance of such officers as Pike, Koyd, and Scott, in drilling, disciplining, and organizi'ig his army. General Smyth, who v» as considered an able tactitian, v/as simi- larly engaged. Between eight and ten thousand men were collected along this extensive line, and it was hoped that something might still be done. Skilful oilicers of the navy weie also despatched, for the purpos*^ of aiming ves- sels on lakes Erie, Ontario, and Champlain, in order if possi- ble to gain the ascendancy there, and to aid the operations of our forces. The army under the command of Van Rensselear, was called the army of the centre, to distin- guish it from that of Harrison. That under the immedi- ate command of general Dearborn, the army of the north. About the beginning of October, an action was achiev- ed by lieutenant Elliot, who had arrived on lake Erie, for the pur] ose of superintending the naval equipments, which roused the attention of the army of the centre, and excited a general emulation to do something worthy of notice. On the morning of the eighth, the British brig J)etroit, formerly the Adams, surrendered by Hull, and the brig Caledonia, came down from Maiden, and an- HISTORY OF THK WAR. n chorcd under tlu' ^uns effort Erie, nearly opposite Bluck Kc k: Klliot conceived tlie idea of attacking them, and seni an express to hasten the seamen, then (m the way, anM \' ho, about fifty in number, arrived in tiie evenirij^, weaiicd with a marrh of five hundred miles. Allowing them until twelve at, night for repose, he then embarked in !>oats with about fifty volunteers, who joined him, and, cro-islng the river, slipped down to the brigs; in an in- stiinl he was on board, an" '- ii i ; 4i '^''^"^^ 1^ 1 n 72 HISTORY OF THE WAR. and heavy rain, an attempt was make to pass the river^ but owing to tlie darkness of the night, and various un- foreseen accidents, the passage could not be effected. This failure but served to increase the impatience of the troops, who became almost ungovernable. Orders were despatched to general Smyth, to advance with his corps, as another attempt would be made on Queenstown. Every arrangement was rapidly made, and early on the morning of the thirteenth, the troops embarked, under the cove '^i' ihe y\merican batteries. The force desig- nated to . rm I e heights, was divided into two columns; one ofthrev hum' .d militia, under colonel Van Rensse- laer, the other of tnree hundred regulars, under colonel Christie. These were to be followed by colonel Fen- wick's artillery, and then the other troops in order. Tlie British, in the meanwhile, anticipating this attack, had obtained considerable reinforcements from fort George, and, if necessary, could be still further assisted by gene- ral Brock, who, it now appeared, commanded at that place. At day-light, as soon as the approach of the Americans could be discovered, a shower of musketry and grape opened from the whole line on the Canada shore, and was returned by our batteries, with the addition of two sixes, which, after an extraordinary effort, lieutenant colonel Scott had brought to their assistance from the Falls of Niagara. The fire of the enemy, and the eddies in the river, produced considerable embarrassment, in conse- quence of which, lieutenant colonel Christie, who was wounded by a grape shot in the hand, and colonel Mula- ney, fell below the intended point, and were obliged to return. Colonel Van Rensselaer, who commanded the whole, and who led the van, reached the shore, with only one hundred men, in the midst of a most galling fire. He had scarcely leaped on land, when he received four severe wounds, which retarded the onset. This gallant officer, being still able to stand, though suff^ering the most excruciating pain, ordered his men to move rapidly up the heights. Captain O^ilvie assumed the command, secondetl by captain Wool, who was also wounded, and followed by lieutenants Kearney, Carr, Higginan, Som- mers, and ensign Reeve, of the thirteenth. Lieutenants HISTORY OF TllK WAU. 73 Gansevoort and Rantlolph, ascended the rocks to the r\fr\\t of the fort, gave three cheers, and alter several des- perate charges, at the head of a handful of men, carried the heights, and drove the enemy down tlie hill in every direction. The enemy retreated behind a large stone house, and kept up their fire; but their batteries, with the exception of one gun, were silenced. The detach- ment under colonel Christie, on his second attempt, now landed. Considerable reinforcements soon after arrived, under captains Gibson, M'Chesney, and Lawrence; and colonels Mead, Strahan, Allen, anil other militia officers. About this time, general Brock arrived in person, with the forty-ninth regiment, six hundred strong. ■ r^eiv- ing him approaching to the rear of the battery, .a^ ain Wool, who commanded at this point, ordered .detach- ment of about one hundred and sixty men, to charge. The detachment was driven back, but being reii *brced, charged a second time. Encountering a grea^ superiori- ty of numbers, they were again repuised, a, d on the point of being driven to the very verge of the precipice, when the officer, considering the situation hopeless, plac- ed a white handkerchief on the point of a bayonet, in token of submission, which was instantly torn away by Captain Wool, who ordered the men to stand their ground. At this instant, colonel Christie advanced with a reinforcement, which increased the number of the de- tachment to three hundred and twenty. This officer now led on a desperate charge, and completely succeed- ed in putting to night a regiment tv/ice his numbers, and bearing the name of invincibles. General Brock, exas- perated at this conduct, endeavoured to rally tijem, when ne received three balls, which terminated his existence; his aid, captain M*Donald, at the same instant falling by his side, mortally wounded. At two o'clock, general Wadsworth, of the militia, and colonels Scott and Mula- iiey crossed over. Captain Wool having been ordered to retire to have his wounds dressed, again returned to the action. The forty-ninth being repulsed, and the British commander having fallen, the victory was thought to be complete, and general Van Rensselaer crossed over, for the purpose of immediately fortifying a camp, to pre- 7 :^rg 74 HISTORY OF THE WAR. I I ' fi „,.v I. i\ : "ill, pare against future attacks, should the enemy be rein- forced. This duty lie assigned to lieutenant Totten, an nble engineer. The fortune of the day was not yet decided. At three o'clock, the enemy having rallied, and being reinforced by several hundred Chippewa Indians, again advanced to the attack. At first our men were disposed to faulter, but being animated by such leaders as colonel Christie and colonel Scott, marched boldly to the charge, and at the point of the bayonet, once more compelled tlie British, wiM) were now the assailants, to retire. Tliis was the tiiird victory gained since morning, and had the contest ended here, it would have been one of the most glorious for our country. General Van Rensselaer perceiving that the men on the opposite side embarked but slowly, and fearing another conflict, recrossed for the purjwse of ex- pediting ected circum- stance, and giving him permission to consult his own judgment, and at the same time despatched a number of boats, that in case it should be so resolved, he might re- turn with his troops to the American side. A desperate contest soon followed, which was kept up for half an hour, by a contiuutd discharge of musketry and artillery, when ■Mia HISTORY OF THE WATT. /;» our troops were gra I. i,|, .i ■■I '-■< t>i 1 1 in . n HISTORY OP TKR WAR. I'tti li ^;ii !' ! ii • During the embarkation of tlie troops at Lewifttown, a tire was oneiied tVoni fort (jleorj:;e, on the American tort Nia;^ara, wliiih was returned anil kept up during the ,%MI.»#t«,.4 r^ HISTORY OF THE WAR. that even tlie Indians of the IViendly six nations had of- iered their services, but that, tiirougli regard to tiie caii^se of humanity, he had refused to follow a disgraceful exam- ple, by letting ioi:>se these barbarous warriours upon the inhabitants ofC^*nada. He then addressed himself par- ticularly to the "Men of New-York," appealing to their patriotism, calling on them to retrieve the late disaster, and at ihc same time, by this step^ secure their wives and children from the predatory and murderous incursions of he savage. This address was well calculated to reacli the feelings of the moment, although eccentrick in its strlle, and in some respects reprehensible, particularly in the reflections indulged at the expense of others. More- over, it was not dictated by prudence as respected him- self; for in case of a possible failure, he would naturally be exposed to ridicule, for what would then turn out a pompous hnd inflated rhodomontade. It was, however, not without some effect, particularly when seconded by an animated proclamation from general Porter, of the New-York militia. About the twenty-seventh of Novem- b::r, upwaitls of four thousand five hundred men, consist- ing of regulars, and the volunteers from Pennsylvania, New-York and Baltimore, were collected at Buffaloe; and the officers were actively engaged in drilling, equipping, and organizing them for the intended enterprise. Seventy boats, and a number of scows, were prepared for the reception of the army, that they might be at once Vransported to the Canadian shore; but preparatory to the principal attack, two detachments, one under colonel Boerstler, and another under captain King, received or- ders to pass over before day; the first to destroy abridge, about five miles below fort Erie, and capture the guard stationed there; the other to storm the British batteries. Before they reached the opposite shore, the enemy open- 'd a heavy fire; the first cletachment landed and took some prisoners, but failed in destroying the bridge. The other, under captain King, landed higher up at the lied House, drove the enemy, and then advanced to their bat^ rories, which they stormed, and then spiked the cannon. Lieutenant Angus, with a number of marines, accidental- ly ,5 oprn-a^ed firom captain King, and no reinforcements tains 01 leaving party, captainl with al> and led touchet down b From was reta twelve at last and coin a second Ice ted reive th( iinaccoui Mhen or and disc lenced; 1 made. ] low the n the thirtj pose. T hundred conducti and alio wanting I orders W( panied w was give I made to 5 sion of i HISTORY OF THE WAR. 'Q. arriving from the opposite side, they concluded that King and his party had been taken prisoners, and therefore re- turned. The party of King, now consisting of seventeen, besides captains Morgan and Sprovvl, and nve other otli- cers, was in full possession of the works, while tlie enemy was completely dispersed. Finding, at length, that tliey could not expect to be supported, they resolved to return; but one boat could be found to transport them all; cap- tains Sprovvl and Morgan passed over w ith the prisoners, leaving captain King, who was soon after, with his small party, surrounded and taken prisoner. On the return of captain Sprowl, colonel Winder was ordered to pass over with al>out three hundred men. He instantly embaiked, and led the van. His own boat was the only «me which touched the opposite shore, the others having been swept down by the swiftness of the current. From various causes the embarkation of the main body was retarded much beyond the appointed time, so that ik twelve o'clock in the day, about two thousand men were at last ready to move. General Tannehill's volunteers, and colonel M'Clure's regiment, were drawn up ready for a second embarkation. The enemy by this time had col- lected on the op[;Osite shore, and appeared ready to re- c«.'ive them. The departure of our troops was in the most unaccountable manner, delayed until late in the afternoon, ^\hen orders weie given to debark. Much murmuring ami discontents ensued; which were in some measure si- lenced; by assurances that another attempt would be made. It was now resolved to land about five miles be- low the navy-yard; and accordingly, on Monday evening, the thirty-ninth, all the boats were collected for the pur- ose. The whole body, with the exception of about two undred men, were embarked at four o'clock; the men conducting tiiemselves with great order and obedience, and atibrtling every hope of success. Notlnng was wanting but the word to move; when, after some delay, orders were suddenly given for the whole to land, accom- panied with a declaration, that the invasion of Canada was given over for that season, while arrangements were made to go into winter quarters. One universal expres- sion of indignation bur*t forth; the greater part of the I I k 1 I ii % 80 HISTORY OF THE WAR. militia flirew down their arms, and returned to their homes, and those who remained continually threatened the life of the ji^eneral. Severe recriminations passed be- tween him and general Porter, who accused him of cow- ardice and of unofliger-l ike deportment. General Smyth, in vindication of his conduct, alleged that he had posi- tive instructions not to risk an invasion with less than three thousand men, and that the number embarked did not exceed fifteen hundred. Be this as it may, great dis- satisfaction was excited through the country, and his mil- itary reputation, from that time, rapidly declined in pub- lick estimation. This affair had certainly an unfavoura- ble aspect, and was not only prejudicial to our affairs in s for caiTvinp; on the Wai — Ulock.'xic ot our coast — The Southern lisdinns — 'I'ecuniseh's visit to the Creeks— Wav vith the ScniinoU\s — Third naval victory over a Urilish Frigatt — Disas- ters of our Anns to the West. • 1 UK coiigiess of tlie United States .igain assembled on the foiiitli of November, after a recess unusually short, on account of the new and interesting state of our affairs. Party spirit unfortunately prevailed amons; us with unu- sual warmth, and it was not difficult to foretell that no small portion would find its way into the national coun- cils. Recriminations of French influence, and improper submission to the outrages of Great Britain, very much embittered this animosity. The existence of party spirit is necessary and healthful to our political system; it is the current of the stream, which preserves it pure and un- tainted. In despotisms ther is no party spirit; there all is condicted in the darkness and secrecy of intrigue. But party has its evils. In peace, it renovates the flag- ging energies of the Tjation, and keeps all things pure and sound; on the contrary, in a period of war, this animosity may clog tl'C efforts or the party in power, and may be a useful ally to the enemy. Unfortunately there prevailed a strong dispositioii to thwart the measures of the admin- istration, and in this way compel it to sue for peace, with- out perhaps sufliciently reflecting, that the enemy might not be disposed tojirant it, upon other terms than such as wor 'd be «is?graceful to the nation. It is not becoming a true lovfcT of his country, to desire that the government, with which th-i nation, as respects others, is identified, should IsL' dis'^raced, in order that power may be trans- /erred to better hands. This would not be the maxim of '\VashingV>n. But on this subject it is difficult, if not im- possible, lo ilraw the exact line between a manly and laudable opposition to what we conceive to be wrong, ami such intemperance as may endanger the character and safety of trie country. In one of the eastern state?, where voted cess ( asliain The a wish sistent of war orders ties; a of wha of the j pealed regard count; cease. war, th ties, uii ment c practic( the mea ployme Kind. Short sition f( of Cana Americ a cessat that the during t was aft€ ffuired i armies s to our CI «|uence ( us to tal< our armir lias ever from Gr was she for, by ti HISTORY OV rilB WAR, xvlieVe ilie opposition to the war was most violent: it was voter! to be iiniiiorai and impolitiek to rejoice at the suc- cess of our arms; of this vote they afterwards became asliained, and ordered it to be erased from tlieir journals. The administration, soon after the war, had manifested a wish for the restoration of peace, could it be done con- sistently with prurience. About the time of the declara- of war in tins country, the prince regent had rej)€al('d his orders in council, one of the principal causes of hostili- ties; an act, which was by no means dictated by a sense of what was due to justice and to us, but by the ur«i;ency of the particular interests of Great Britain. Having re- pealed them, he considered himself entitled to the same regard tis if they had been expressly repealed on our ac- count; and demanded that hostilities, on our part, should cease. To this the president replied, tliat being now at war, the United States would not put an end to hostili- ties, unless a provision were made for a general settle- ment of difterences, and a cessation of the abominable practice of impressment, petiding the negociation. In the meantime, a law would be passed forbiddiii'^ the em- ployment of British seamen in our vessels, of whatsoever kind. A law to this effect was passed during the session. Shortly after the commencement of the war, a proj)o- sition for an armistice had been made by (he governour of Canada, but was rejected as a matter of comse. The American minister in I^ondon, was authorised to agree to a cessation of hostilities, even on the unofficial assurance that the practice of impressment would be discontinued, during the armistice. This was rejected. A proposition was afterwards made by admiral Warren, but wliich re- f(uired as a preliminary to every other step, tha our armies should be immediately witlidrawn, and the orders to our cruisers recalled. This he alleged, was in conse- «|uence of our being the aggressors, and as such it became us to take the first step, and unconditionally throw down our arms. Here it might be asked, whether this country has ever experienced so mucli good faith and forbearance from Great Britain, as to justify such confidence? But was she not the aggressor, by her own acknowledgement? for, by the repeal of the orders in council, if on oiu' ac- 8 M iti V'"V i 8G lIIftTOUY OF THE WAR. \rif^ [pi count, she acknowledoed herself to have violate 'dw *,*,i^i*««lfc,fc.J 1^ «8 HISTORY OF THE WAR. rU ^" ! .,.ll!i ^;. > > / /A Photographic Sdences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 S: ^ ^ ,\ iV \\ >% V *» *> m 92 HISTORY OF THE WAtt. teers, under captain Williams, were attacked near Davis's Creek, by about f\i'ty Indians and negroes. After a des- perate resistance, in which captains Williams and Fort were both severely wounded, the party retreated, leaving the savages in possession of their wagons and teams. On the 24th of the same month, colonel Newman, of the Georgia volunteers, with about one hundred and se- venteen men, marched to the attack of the Lochway towns. When within a few miles of the first of these, lie met a ])arty of one hundred and fifty Indians on horse- back, who instantly dismounted and prepared for battle. Colonel Newman ordered a charge, and tiie Indians were driven into one of the swamps, which abound in this part of f he countiy. As they fled, the fire of the musketry did considerable execution, and, amongst others of the slain, they left their king in the hands of the whites. The Indians discovering this, with a spirit which deserves to be admired, made several desperate charges, in order to recover the body of the chief, and were each time driven back. But in another attempt, still more desperately fu- rious, they succeeded in carrying off the dead body; when they retired from the field, after a severe conflict of two hours. This, however, did not free the Georgians from their unpleasant situation. Before night, the In- dians returned with considerable reinforcements of ne- groes, and after a loss more severe than the first, they again fled. The volunteers now found their situation be- coming every mon^ent more critical; the number of their wounded, would neither permit them to retreat, nor to ad- vance, and the enemy was hourly increasino; on all sides. A messenger was despatched jor reinforcements; and in the meanwhile, they threw up a small breasMvork. Here (hey remained until the fourth of October, waiting for as- istance; having in the meantime repelled numerous as- ■taults from the Indians, who continuea to harass them day \nd night. The Indiajis observing that a perfect silence )revailed within tlie breast-works, suspected that they had •een deserted in the night; and approached under this issurance, until within thirt}* or lorty paces, when the ^'eoigians suddenly shewed themselves above the breast- vork, fired their pieces, and sent them yelling to the rakina:; at tl i*H ad his the ist- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 93 swamps. The volunteers then decamped, and reached unmolested the village of Peccolatta, whence they had set out. Intelligence of this affair reached the govern- ment about the commencement of the session of Congress, and it was found necessary to make suitable prepara- tions to meet a war in this quarter. The defence of this important frontier was assigned to general Pinckney»of .South Carolina, a gentleman of great distinction and ability, who was appointed a brigadier in the service of tin- United States. Congress had not been long in session, when the pub- lick feelings were once more excited, by news of the most flattering kind. Another naval victory was announced, not less splendid than those of the Constitution and the Macedonian; the fla» of another British frigate was trans- mitted to our capital, and was placed amongst the other trophies of our naval prowess. In October, the Constitution, commodore Bainbridge, and the Hornet, captain Lawrence, sailed from New- York, and were to effect a junction with the Essex, cap- tain Porter, which sailed about the same time from the Delaware; the object of which was to cruise in the South Seas, and destroy the British fisheries and commerce in that quarter. Ihe junction not happening at the time and place appointed, commodore Porter passed round Cape Horn alone. In the meanwhile, on the twent}'- ninth December, a few leagues west of St. Salvador, the Constitution, which had a few days before parted compa- ny with the Hornet, descried a British fiigate. Commo- dore Bainbri('ge tacked sail and stood for her. At two P. M. the enemy was within half a mile of the Constitu- tion, and to windward, liavirig hauled down his colours, except the union jack, which was ^.t the mizenmast head. A gun was then fired ahead, to make him shew his colours, which was returned by a broadside. The enemy's co- lours being now hoisted, the action commenced with round and grape; but he kept at so great a distance tliat this had little effect: and in this position, if he were brought nearer, the Constitution would be exposed to raking; at thirty minutes past two, both ships were with- in good cannister distance, when the Constitution's wheel m ' } ■■' 'Mii '"■ >: t w "' f im*. 'S^ 94 HISTORY OF THB WAR. was shot away. At forty minutes past two, the fore antl main-sail were set, anu commodore Bainbridge, being BOW determined to close with her, luffed up for that pur- pose, and in ten minutes after, the enemy's jib-boom got foul of the Constitution's mizen rigging, and in ano- ther ten minutes, his bowsprit and jib-boom were shot away. At five minutes past thiee, his maintopmast was shot away just above the cap. Tliis was followed by the loss of his gaff and spanker boom, and soon after his main- mast went nearly by the board. At fifteen minutes past iliree the enemy was completely silenced, and his colours at the mainmast being down, it was thought he had sur- remicred; under this idea, the Constitution shot ahead to repair damaaes; after which discovering the enemy's flag still flying, she wore, stood for him in a handsome style, and got close athwart his bows in an effectual positioiv for raking, when his mainmast went entirely by the board, and he lay an unmanageable wreck. He now struck his colours, and was taken possession of by lieutenant Par- ker, and found to be the British frigate Java, of thirty- eight guns, but carrying forty-nine, commanded by a dis- tinguished ofliicer, captain Lambert, who was mortally wounded. She had on board four hundred men, besides one hundred seamen wliom she was carryina; out to the East Indies, for the service there. The Constitution had nine men killed, and twenty-five wounded; the Java six» ty killed, and one himdre(i and twenty wounded. Slie had on board despaiches for St. Helena, Cape of Good Hope and the different establishments in the East Indies, and China, with copper for a seventy-four, building at Bombay. There were also on board a number of passen- gers, among whom v;ere lieutenant general Hislop, gov- vernour of Bombayj major Walker; and one staff major; captain Marshall, master and commander of tl\e Royal Navy; and several officers appointed to ships in the East Indies. The conduct of all the American officers on this occa- sion, was as conspicuous for gallantry during the engage- ment, as for humanity to the vanquished. It is this true chivalrick courtesy, which gives estimation to valour, lieutenant Aylwin, so favourably known to the reader, HISTORY OF THE WAR. 93 ore antl J, being hat pur- loom got in ano- sre shot [last was d by the lis main- jtes past 3 colours had sur- ahead to my's flag me style, position, he board, truck his lant Par- )f thirty- by a dis- mortally besides it to the ition had Java six* ed. She of Good st Indies, ng at f passen- op, gov- |ff major; e Royal the East lis occa- engage- Ithis true valour, reader, received a severe wound of which he soon after died. He was in the act of firing his pistols at the enemy from the quarter deck hammocK, when he received a ball in his shoulder blade, which threw him on the deck. Midship- man Dulany, who had fought by his side in both actions of this ship, ordered two men of his division to carry him below; to this he would not consent, until he saw tne is- sue of the battle, at the same time declaring that no man should quit his post on his account. Lieutenant Parker, James Dulany, of Pennsylvania, and James Packett, of Virginia, were much distinn:uished; the latter was after- wartls presented with a sword by h.is native state, and was promoted to a lieutenancy. Many extraordinary in- stances of bravery were manifested by the seamen, one of whom, after being mortally wounded, lay upon deck during a great part of the action, apparently expiring; but no sooner was it announced that the enemy had struck, than he raised himself up, gave three cheers, fell back and expired. On the first of January, the commodore finding the ri'/.e in such a state as to render it impossible to bring ler in, and leaving every thing on board except the pri- soners' baggage, blew her up. On arriving at .St. Salva- dor the commodore received the publick acknowledge- ments of governour Hislop, who presented him with an elegant sword in consideration of the polite treatment which he had shewn. He released the private passen- gers without considering them as prisoners; the publick passengers, officers and crew, were released on their pa- role. At this place the Constitution met with the Hornet, and leaving this vessel to blockade the Bonne Citoyenne, tlie commodore sailed for the United States, changing the original destination for the South Seas. On the arrival of commodore Bainbridge in the United iStates, he was universally hailed by the applauses of liis countrymen; he received the freedom of the city of New- York in a gold box; a piece of plate from the citizens of Philadelphia, and the tbanks of many of the state legisla- tures. Congress also presented him a medal, and voted fifty thousand dollars to himself, officers and crew. I : : m m ■ 1 1 1" ' > ';t 'i % HISTORY OF THE WAR. In the midst of these alfairs, news of fresh disasters to the westward, and accompanied by circumstances such as rarely occur w the annals of historjj tended much to teinp'^r the publick joy for the second victory of the Con- stitution. CHAPTER VI. Harrison returns to Ohio— rieneral Winchester sends a tlrtachraent tu protect Frenchtown — Colonel Lewis defeats the British and Indians- Winchester arrives with reinforcements — liattle of the Kiver Rai- sin — yiiockinjj; con(hict of the British and their allies— Harrison's re- turn — Siege of Fort Meigs — Defeat of Dudly — The siege i-aised— Kxploit ot Major Ball. f^' E have seen with what indefatigable industry gene- ral T^larrison was engaged, in placing the western frontier in a posture of defence, and in attempting to regain wiiat we had lost. The Indian tribes had been made to feel the war in their own country, and were d 'liven to such a distance by the destruction of their villages;, as to prevent them from annoying our settlements: they were compel- led to remove their wives and children to the distant Bri- tish establishments, in order to obtain the means of sub- sistence. The close of the season was now chiefly occu- pied in strengthening the frontier posts, and in establish- ing others. Great exertions were made by governour Meigs, of Ohio, to keep up the necessary supply of men, and to provide the means of subsistence. General Har- rison established his head quarters at Franklinton, whence he could with greater facility organize and distribute to the different forts, the reinforcements and supplies which must arrive. His object was to concentrate a considera- ble force at the Rapids, and thence, unless a change of circumstances forbade, proceed to Detroit. The govern- ment was compelled, in consequence of the taking of that place, to transport artillery and publick stores at an enor- mous expense across the mountains, and down the Ohio; and after \ consumed anny. In the n fort Defiar the volunt of their te cliieily froj amongst its of January from tlie inl is situated ( Detroit, tha about to con venting tlie iiabitants be^ Americans \ probably be in the midst obliged to m niour. Thrc out by one o young Amer strongly exci to lead them \^ith some r contrary to resolved to se the seventeen under colonel l^i-esque Isle, On their ai vance party o possession of instantly and my became ap their receptio wing, major G t'*e, On comi ice, they disph a howitzer and such ch to Con- mcnt tu Kliaiis — er R»i- ion's re- ' gene- Vontier n wliat to feel such a irevent ompel- ,nt Bri- ef sub- ly occu- Itablisli- /ernour k men, il llai- /henco Ibuteto which isidera- |ange of rovern- fof that In enor- Ohio; HISTORY OF THE WAR. .97 and aftcrwanls to Ihe different forts. This necessarily consumed nuirh time, and delayed the ojierations of the anny. In the meanwhile, genera^ Winchester continued at fort Defiance, with aBout eight hundred men; many of the volunte(M*s having returned home on the expiration of tlieir term of service. Those who remained were chieily from Kentucky, and the greater part ranked amongst its most respectable citizens. Early in the month of January, general Winchester recciveii intimations from the inhabitants of the village of Frenchtovvn, which U situated on the river Raisin, between the Rapids and Detroit, tliat a large body of British and Indians were about to concentrate at this point, for the purpose of pre- venting tiie further progress of the Americans. The in- liabitants became alarmed at their situation, besought the Americans to march to their protection, as they would probably be exposed to the honours of Indian massacre, in the midst of ferocious savages, whom the British were obliged to indulge, that they might be kept in a good hu- mour. Threats against them had, besides, been thrown out by one of the Indian chiefs. The sensibility of the young American volunteers, oiHcers and privates, was strongly excited, and they ?arnestly besought the general to lead them to the defence of the distressed inhabitants. \Yith some reluctance, he yielded to their wishes, and contrary to the gent^-al plan of the commander-in-chief, resolved to send a force to their re 'ief. Accordingly, on the seventeenth of January, he detached a body of men under colonels Lewis and Allen, with orders to wait at Presque Isle, until joined by the main body. On their arrival, information was received that an ad- vance party of British and Indians, had already taken possession of Frenchtown. It was determined to march instantly and attack the»n. As they drew near, the ene- my became apprised of tlieir approach, and prepared for their rece])tion. Colonel Allen commanded the right wing, major Graves the left, and major Madison the cen- tre. On coming to the rivir, which was bridged with ice, they displayed and moved forward under a fire from a howitzer and musketry. Majors Graves and Madison, 9 \ W, •■<* * »8 IIIJSTUUY OF THE AVAR. uith ihc'w battalions, were (Milered to dislodge the enemy from the houses and picketin«»;, which they in a moment cftectcd, under a ihower of bullets, and (Irove the Brit- ish and Indians to the woods. Colonel Allen made a sim- ultaneous movement upon their left, and after several spirited chari;es, compelled these to take the wood also. Here availin*; themselves of the fences and fallen timber, they attempted to make a stand; but were attacked a second time, and after a conllict more obstinate than the lirst, they a«]5ain fle they might satiate their fiend-like hatred by roasting them at the stake; or if reserved, it was to gratify their cupidi- ty, by rendering them the objects of an abominable traf- fick. Alas! what heart that does not shiink with in- ward horrour, at the contemplation of this ghastly scene! But its abominations were not yet complete. About sixty of the wounded, many of them officers 06 distinction, or individuals of much respectability, had been suftered to take shelter in the houses of the inhabi- tants, ard two of their own surgeons permitted by Proc- tor to attend them, from whom they also obtained a pro- mise ^hat a guard should be placed to protect them, and thit they should be carried to Maiden the next morning in sleds. But alas! this wretch's affected humanity, was but an aggravation of his cruelty, by awakening a hope which he intended to disappoint. No guard of soldiers was left, and on the next day, instead of sleds to convey them to a place of safety; a party of Indians returned to the field of battle, fell upon these poor wounded nieji^ t\biii:.meji^^uitj- HISTORY OF THE WAlt. 1C3 plundered them of their clothing, and every article of any value which remained, tomahawked the greater part of them, and, to finish the scene, firr'1 the nouses, and consumed the dying and the dead. The terrible tale is not yet told. Those rites, which in every civilized country are held sacred, which are not withheld from the vilest malefactor, wliich are paid alike to enemies and to friends, the rites of sepulture, although there existed an express stipulation with the^monster who commanded, a stipulation unnecessary amongst civilized men, yet these were not only denied, but the humane in- habitants of the village dared not perform them under pain of death. And why was this refused? Because, said Proctor, his majesty's allies would not permit it! Was li;nvls, and even the blankets from then* beds, when no- thing else remained for them to give. Woodward, the former judge of the supreme court, and appointed by the president of the United States, p man of enlightened niiiul, now openly and boldly remonstrated with Proctor, an! in the manly tone of his injured country depicted ilie infamy of the British conduct. "The truth," said he, "must undoubtedly eventually appear, and that unfor- tunate day musl meet the steady and impartial eye of history." Those facts have been esiablislied by a cloud of witnesses, and the appeal of judge Woodward wiil reach posterity. Let the reader of tliis history, now re- nieuiber, that this was but the commencement of a series of barbarities, both upon the Atlantick board, and upon the frontier, which was afterwards systematically pursu- ed: that so far from this having been covered by the base excuse of retaliation, it is a charge which has never other- vvise been met by Britain but witK the silence of con- scious guilt. There can be notliing more delightful to a good man than the reflection that he lives in the heart of gratitude. What is all earthly pageantry, or power, or wealth, com- pared to the pleasure of a noble mind, in the contempla- tion of the bright store of its virtuous actions! Who would not be a M'Intosh,* to experience wherever he * Mr. INI'Intosh several tii.'.es visitcl this country. The expression of gratitude from thousands whom he suved, was ahiiostoverwliehniii^. There are few scenes in the annals of histoiy, or in the fictions of the pof ts, so suhlimely aftVcting;, as those which occurred when this good man visited Baltimore and New-Orh^ans. In these places particularly, the unfortunate people were I'eceived with open anus, and now live ui comfort and respectability. .;!/.. I 1 ■ . . - »■' •A i i'> 106 HISTORY OF THK WAR. li', • goes, llic untVif^iuMl, the full, IIjc art\»c .HMJmtmk*. <>.i».«B>»iaicr,-)Ml)Mrt{'» fe ' iiilii %cWii-, to in- eserve Muir, nd Mr. terms ons in- tainly wever, ness of ptivoi*, urcha-. HISTORY OF TIIK WAR, lor scs, oil tlie j^round that tliey gave more than tlie covern- jnetit. This officer was al'tervvanls promoted to the rank of a brigadier, in consequence of liis good conduct, par- ticularlv in saving the prisoners from the fury of the In- dians. If any thing can move indignation, it is this cli- max of insult. It is thus that Great Britain wilfully shuts her eyes. The facts were afterwards proved to the satisfaction of every man, and the British government was silent; but had not the magnanimity to consign the guilty wretch to punishment. The incider ents of this catastrophe might be swelled to a volume. A few days after the affair, a doctor M'Keehan was despatched by general Harrison for tiie purpose of attending the sick, and with gold to provide such things as they might want. The doctor, notwithstanding his Hag, his sacred errand, and an open letter directed to any jJritish officer, stating the object of his mission, was ac- tually wounded and robbed, then dragged to Maiden, whence he was taken to Quebec. After the sutt'erings of several months, dragged from place to place, from dun- geon to dungeon, sufferings which could hardly occur on the banks of the Niger, he at length reached home, with a constitution totally impaired. Such are the distressing occurrences which it becomes the painful duty of the his- torian to record. The heart sickens at the contempla- tion of so much depravity. Why are so much pains taken to make us hate the name of Englishman? This is far from being the wish of Americans. Such conduct is not to be accounted for, unless it proceeds from a deep- ly rooted hatred on the part of the British government. tVe know that pa^ns have been taken to cherish in the minds of the people of England, a contempt for our na- tional character; we know that hired calumniators have represented us as a savage race, to whom the courtesies of civilized life cannot be extended, because they cannot be reciprocal. These things must have an end, or a day of terrible retribution will come at last. The news of this melancholy affair soon after reached general Harrison, who was on his march with reinforce- ments to general Winchester. He had heard witli cha- grin the movements of that officer, and apprehensive of f ■!; <■ > , * i ,.,i|..L. ' ■ • ■ ! ■j1 108 IIISTOUY OF THE WAK. m ':>- the consequence, had ordcretl a detachment of three hun- dred men, under major Cotgrcves, from general Perkins' brigade of Ohio militia, to march to his relief. Hearing of the disaster, they fell back upon the Jia])ids, vvlu're general Harrison was tlien stationed, who retreated to Carrying river, for the purpose of forming a junction with the troops in the rear, and favouring the cimvoy of artil- lery anti stores then coming fiom Upper Sandusky. He first, however, despatchevl u chosen body of one hundred and seventy men for the purpose of picking up such of the unfortunate fugitives as n\ight have escaped. Tiie number of these was very small, on account of (he depth of the snow, which rendered it almost impossible for them to make their way. Governour Meigs having promptly despatched two regiments to the assistance ot Harrison, wlio again advanced to the Uapids, and immediately set about constr ucting a fort, which in honour of the gover- lumr of Ohio, he named fort Meigs. Fortifications were at the same time constructed at Upper Sandusky by ge- neral Cooks; who commanded the Pen*isylvania mditia. Excepting some parties on excursions, notliing additional transpired during the severe winter months. The move- ment of genei'al Winchester had considerably deranged the plans of Harrison; and it was necessary to oi'ganize a new system. He returned to Ohio, for the purpose of obtaining an additional force fi'orn tliat state, and Ker:- tucky. Towards the beginning of April, he received in- formation which hasteneu his return to foi-t Meigs. The enemy for some time past, had been collecting in considei'able u'lmber's, for the purpose of laying siege to this place; and as the new levies had not arrived, the Pennsylvania br-igade, although its term of service had expired, generously volunteered for the defence of tlie fort. Immediately on his ar-rival, general Harrison set about making pr-eparations for the approaching siege. — The for't w as situated upon a rising ground, at the dis- tance of a few hundr-ed yards fr-om the r^ver-, the country on each side of wliich is ohieily natural meadows. Tlie garrison was well supplied with tlie means of defence, and Harrison, with unremitted exertions, laboured night and day, to improve its capacity for resisting the siege. , ..»»..-.««i^ > liili ' li«. W f-* hrce l\un- l Perkins' Hearing Is, v/l»ere treated to ction with y of artii- isky. He e hundred ip such of ped. Tl»e tlie depth Ic for them firoinptly larrison, iliately set the i^over- tions were sky l)y ge- lia mditia. additional Tlie move- r deranjj;ed D organrzc purpose of and Kei:- iceived in- igs. lecting in g siege to rived, the rvice had nee of tlie rrison set g siege. — it the dis- le country )ws. TliC f defence, lired ni^|;ht the siege. The asslsta pal CMi;inct' was ncccss in tiie fort, part vol nut ilcrond fhci one oi AR. Ill evcrsunen- stanlly cninpollod to mlsc thn sioj>;o. ('olonfl DmIIcy, uiiowas chai'Kod with i\\v cxecuticm orHic onler by ^cn^ rnil CMny. lamliMl his iikmi in ^;oo(l order, and then ad- vaiKcd nil tin* enemy's cann<»n. The four hatteries were carried in an instant, and tlic British re<;ulursand Indians foiniH'lled to itantlv ordered to form an ambush; and wait the ap- pniath (»r the Americans: and, to decoy them, a few In- dians shewed themselves out of the woods, as if to renew (lie action. Colonel Dudley having; executed his order:*, (oininanded a retreat; but liis men, (lushe HISTORY OF THE AVAIL ^.plked the cannon, and ro;»' wan nwule on the CaiWHliaii^ and IndianH by major AU'xaniK'i 's hadalion; (he second hy < (donri MiUer, against the ie;;ulars; the otllcers ol'tlicM', uerc Cr(»^ih'in, Jian;i;han), liradi'ord, u p;allant otliccr, Xearinji;, and lieutenant Caniphell, aF)d a coiunany of kcutiickians, conwnanded hy captain Salirie, wl»o liad dis- »ini;uishetl liiniseli" in the hiiKle of Krcnchlown: this com- pany was particuhiily reniarkeil; it maintained itsi;roiMi(l ui(h unshaken lirmness, at one time, ay;ainst four tiuics their numbers; tliey uere entirely suirounded, and would have Ijeen cut utV, had not lieutenant Gwyniu', ol* the nino- fecnth, charged the enemv, and released them. A cessation of hostilities took jilace durinj; the throo following days; flaj^s frecjuently passed between the he- siej;crs and the besieged, and arrangements were entered into for the exchange of prisoners. Tecumseh agreed (0 relea?*e his claim to the persons taken by the Indians, provided some Wyandots, to the number of forty, were delivered up; and Proctor promised to furnish a list of (he killed, \ii)und d and prisoners; with tliis, howevei-, he never complied. Oii the ninth, the enemy aj)peare(l to be engaged in making preparations for raising the sie!.:. m;L l>v wlnrh iu«v\ns mouio vi>luj»I»l»« ollii •li('H ami nuinilinns ot war woro assidunUMlv ioIIocUmI at o nnndiod and twontv nniskcis, twonJv rillcs, two casks o( livod am»niniition» and otluM- puMnk pKi- ])tM'lv. Ui' tluMi irtuinod, without the loss of a sini;lc man. Soon ai'trr, it was dlsrovoivd thai ut not without a sliarn conllict. The Hritisli al- fiukod in two columns, of six* numlrod uhmi each, at (Muhl oViock in tho motninu-, and w (MV comman IiihI jiihI i('( rived iiilrl liirciico o( IIh" c.'iplmr of liin iii.ijeMly'H (Viirafc .Ihvji, l»y ;iti /ViiH'iicnii IVifrrifr of (Mjiial ('oi( <", and irifeiulrd lo Cin" ,1 saliHr iVoui Niagnrn, at ilu* Haiiic (itue, in lioiioin ol'tliiH liiiHiaiil vi<'i<>ry. liodicH i)\ lu'w Irvirw wjtc I«' indusliy wan tliHplaycd, in IniH t^sHcnlial duty l|V J'ikc, lufoly proin(»(('d to s('d an arik'nf njind, an«1 ^vas lii:.dily animated by a desire ofmaifial t!,loiy and renown. I'ike was already a fiivourile in (he IJniled Sfates, and distin'rnished aH one of the adven(MroiiH ex|>lorers of (he inimer»se weH(ern de- M'll. He had here* j;iven proofs of mMih fortitude of iiiiiid, vijj;our of bocly, ami ji^reat prudence and int(dli- iveiice. lli.H /.eal atid activity were afterwardH ronnpicu- (iiis, in the suctcss with wlii; in presenting; itscdf. The lake was no so(»ner clear of ice, than a, descent on the Canatla shore was projected. York, the capital of Hpper ('anada, was the depot of all the IJritish military stores, whence the western posts were supplied. It was ■k ' ! 118 HISTORY OF THE WAR. I m •; ill known that a large vessel was on the stocks, and nearly <:ompleted. The importance of the place to either party was immense; and should an attack on it prove success- ful, it might be followed up by an immediate attack upon fort George; the forces then concentrating, and aided b) the fleet, might, with every prospect of success move against Kingston. About the middle of April, tlie commander-in-chief, in conference with Pike and other officers, determined ou attacking York. Major Forsythe, who had returned to Ogdensburgh on the retreat of the British, was ordered with his riflemen to repair to Sackett's Harbour; and commodore Chauncey received orders from the navy departnjent, to co-operate with general Dearborn, in any plan of operations wnich he miglit wish to carry into exe- cution. On the twenty-fifth of April, the fleet moved down the lake, every arrangement having been made for the projected attack. The plan, which had been princi- pally suggested by Pike, was highly judicious, and at his particular request, the commander-in-chief intrusted him with its execution. On the twenty-seventh, at two o'clock, the fleet safely reached the place of debarkation. This commenced at eight o'clock; and was completed at ten. The spot fixed on for this purpose was an open space at the ruins of Toronto, the former site of the fort, about two miles above the present town of York. The British, on discovering the fleet, hastily made the necessary dispositions to oppose the landing of the Amer- ican forces. General Sheaife advanced from the a;arrison, which was situated above York, with his whole force, consisting of about seven hundred and fifty regulars and ■militia, and five hundred Indians, besides a body of grei) adiers, and a corps of Glengary fencibles. The Indians were [)laced in the thickets at thcswater's edge, near the expected points of debarkati in, while the regulars were drawn up on tlie bank, and partly concealed in a wood. In pursuance of the plan of attack, the batteaux carrying Forsythe and his riflemen, first moved to the shore; this appeared to be at the point where the principal force of the enemy was stationed. A galling fire of musketry and rifles was instantly opened on him. To have gone higher lilSTORV OF THE WAk u|) would have deranw,! (i,„ ''^ to dash at once i^ ii^^ XT"'' .?'""'• ''" ''<"<'™ine,l ordered (he oar«i f« r. ""^Kest o/ the enemv h,u a 1 the same time ordering Zf ^'' ^""^^If and h s " taft- l^ ordered the '-st ^^1, t S';, f;'.*!. "^ 'hf « fi.sffo^n'^'rf'* tlie bank with his handfiil n^ •'^'*'"'" S'l'lanfyascemlt,! tl em; they were thrown into dtT, ""petuously upo„ l>ad scarcely been achieved when ^li''^' *"'' "^d- Ais announced that ho k. f ^"'^" *"« bus »« nf i?„ /i l.l.e bant; at first it fauhe.e^- h'V-""^ """^ drawn up "n" l;«l. returned to the rh!I ' '"'3*'," '^ »'<>"ient ,,a7,.aT (lie field. 'Ihc J5H f.l, ^'^' ^""^ drove the enemv r 'ance; but coLwerable *'• T'" '''" f^"ning7/T Ij-e landed from tl ete "aS'^r'^"*? •'"'^'4 by this" 'Tit:;^»ttto^^^^^^^ '" ^"'""'"' *^^ !";med in the order c™XmnS"-'^f'"^«''' "'«y ^ere Hfiet„rri-tronhff\''''^^^^^^^^ -ved ;br;-v:4^^rutot^^- /^'-^^^^^ -eh^^^^Tari^y r ,, *ttt"««t P.eci;i;„, rd'-'^i/h";: m-t. "n■ , « !,:•' -V • ; .f ,'■ ^ *' t'^ ■ ' V. ■'.; -i- ^ui'llh. 1 ■ ''■ «V' , lIH 120 HISTORY OF THE WAR. batteries. Tlie battery was soon cleared, and the co- lumn moved on to the second, which was abandoned on the approach of the Americans, the enemy retroatinij; to the garrison. General Pike here ordered the cohpnn to halt, for the purpose of learninj»; the strength of (he garrison, and obtaining further information; as the bar- racks appeared to have been evacuated, he suspected a stratagem, to draw him within tlie reach of some secret force. Lieutenant Riddle was sent forward to learVi the situation of the enemy. In the meanwhile, the heroick Pike, as humane as he was biave, occupied himself in re- moving a wounded Kritiyh soldier from a dangerous .sit- uation, and after having performed this act of liumanily, which speaks volumes in his favour, he was calmly seated on the stump of a tree, in conversation with a sergeant, wh« had been taken prisoner, wlien suddenly the air was convulsed by a tremendous explosion. Tlie magazine, at the distance of two hundred yards, near the barracks had blown up. The air was instantly tilled with huge stones and fragments of wood, rent asunder and whirled aloft by the exploding of five hundred barrels of powder. This was the treaclierous attack which the British had pre- pared, but which Pike could not have suspected. Im- mense quantities of these inflamed and blackened masses fell in the midst of the victorious column, causing a iVight- ful havock, which the arms of their enemies could not ef- fect, killing and wounding upwards of two hundred, and amongst them their beloved commander, the heroick Pike. The brave troops, though for a moment confounded by the shock, were soon called to their recollection by the national musick, Yankee Doodle. The column was in- stantly closed up, and they rent the air, in their turn, with tliree loud huzzas! The wound of Pike, a severe contusion, was soon found to be mortal; he still, however, preserved his undaunted spirit; "move on my brave fellows, and revenge your general," he cried, addressing them for the last time. They instantly obeyed. He was then tak^n up by some of his men, to be conveyed on board the ship; scarcely had he reached the shore of tlie lake, when a Uud and victorious shout from his brigade brightened, i'ot a mo- si ■i ■ antiqui (er of own. ; perfect are the any of I persons iick proj to say ^ sentimej original tain it is refined 1 itself, in who has ( sieenis to theatre oi On the colonel P ^ound ain liavin§- ret acquaintet mander-in ed; other, stores, mm id the co- ld ouetl on tioatini;; to lie c(»lu'nn igtli of the as tl\e bar- u spec ted a >me secret learVi the the heroick [iiself in re- iigerous sit- f humanity, Imly seated a serj^eant, the ail- was magazine, at »arracks liad huce stones rled aloft by ^der. 'I'bis ish had pre- ected. Ini- ened masses sing a iVight- could not ef- lundred, and eroick Pike. .iVninded by |Ction by the mm was in- their turn, HISTORY OF THE WAR. 121 ineiit, the expiring lamn of life; a faint sigh was all his strength would permit liini to express. Shortly after his being carried on board the Pert, the British flag was brought to him; at sight of it, his eyes again resumed its lustre for a moment, and making sign^ for it to be placed under his head, he gloriously expired. Thus fell, a warriour who w ill live w ith honour in the page of his- toiy. lirave, prudent, and chivalrous, he was adorned with that moral excellence which is essential to the ac- ( oinplished soldier and the real hero. Thus falling in the very day-spring of life, we can but feebly anticipate what the ripened age of so mucii promise would bring forth. Ife was amiable in all the domestick relations of life, strickly observant of the duties of morality and religion; he was a sincere patriot, whose chief ambition was to give distinction to his country. With him the Scipios of antiquity were no fables; and the fate, as well as charac- ter of Montgomery, whose name he bore, were truly his own. No otiicer ever entertained a more refined and perfect sense of honourable warfare; as a proof of it, are the orders which he gave this memorable day, tiiat any of his soldiers, who should molest the ]Jossessions or persons of the iidiabitants, or wantonly tiestroy the ])ub- lick property, should sutler instant death. It is difficult to say whether such men are actuated by the prevailing sentiments of their country, or whetiier they give an original tone to its manners and habits of thinking: cer- tain it is, that both in our army and navy, a species of refined honour and generosity has uniformly manifested itself, in striking contrast with the conduct of our enemy, who has elsewhere exhibited the noblest traits, but who seems to consider this new world, too contemptible a theatre on which to appear with any dignity .of character. On the fall of general Pike, the command devolved on colonel Pearce, who advanced to the barracks, which he found already in the possession of Forsythe; the enemy having- retieated to the fort. There being now no person acquainted with the plan of the invasion but the com- mander-in-chief, the enemy was not immediately pursu- ed; otherwise the whole of the regulars and publick stores, must have fallen into our hands. The Americans, 11 '^. . . ^ , ;- .u i ■ ; '% 122 HISTORY OV THE WAR. after IjaKins a short time, moved on towards Ihc tow ijj and drawinji; near it were met by oflicers of the (aii- achi militia, witli oifers of capituhition. This produced some dehiy; but it being suspected that it was oidy in- tended to fa« 'litate the escape of general SheafFe and the princi])al ])art of his regulars, and to gain time while they could destroy the militar} stores, and burn the vessel on the stocks, Forsythe and Ripley pushed forward, and ^vere soon after lollowed by Pearce. The strictest ob- servance of Pike's order, wilh respect to the treatment of the iidiabitants and their property, was enjoined. At lour o'clock the Americans were masters of the town. Although with just ridU they might be enraged at tiie conduct of the British, as well for their barbarous p.nd nnmanly attempt to destroy them by a mine, as their amusing them under the pretence of discussiiig the stip- ulations of surrender, the troops conducted tiiemselves with the most perfect order and forbearance; perlia} s considering this the best testimonial of res])ect for tlieir brave leader. The stipulations of surrender were enter- ed into with colonel Pearce, at the very moment the British were engaged in the destructicm of the pubiick property. By the terms of the stipulation, the troops, regulars and militia, naval officers and seamen, were siii- rendered prisoners of war; all the pubiick stores were given up, and all private property was to be guaranteed to the citizens of York; every thing relating to the civil departments should be respected; and the surgeons, at- tending on the wounded, should not be considered as prisoners of war. On entering the house appropriated for the sittings of the legislature, a discovery was made, which cannot be spoken of without feelings of indignation. Among the regal trophies, a human scalp was found over the mace, near the speaker's chair! Other nations have en- deavoured to civilize the Indians, by inducing them to imitate the manners of the Europeans; the officers of the British government alone have taken pains to pam- per their savage propensities, not merely by indulgence, but by adopting their horrid customs. A human scalp hung up as a trophy, iu the legislative hall of a civilized and talit' Uml seen tlon ( tlie M. fiiwe i below nai^-h lilv. vvii tV, \\\] con nte fame, ' try; or tvofsi tould n plav so h seejr other sii this yoi bol of t\ spectab! ing to e men, wh Notwi covery o enemies, fitting I lacks the ^^'io renia <'ie detes *'ieni; not and the s 'T on the J'ck store (''stribute^ ^">''dy sati P''^"cipal c ^^lanks to ^^as manift safety of t\ ] mm he U)\\h; i\\Q C'au- produccd only in- e ami the ^hile they vessel on vard, and iciest ob- trcatinent )med. At the town, wd at the barous ?.nd uc, as their acr the stip- themselves ce; perhav;3 >ct for then- were enter- monieiit the the publick the troops, HISTORY OF THE WAR. ]2^ and christian people! Can we now wonder at the bru- tality with v/hicli the war was conducted towards us? Had the eloquent and virtuous Chatham lived to have seen this day, what must he have thought of the degrada- ti(»n of his countrymeni Would he not have renounced the name of Briton, thus scandalized, by all th.at is pro- fane and indecent? Wouhl he not think nis country sunk below tlie level of civilized nation?, in so far setting at naught the precepts of religion and humanity, as'to min- jrlc with her regal trophies, the detestable symbol of cruel- ty, which disj'races even the savage? Can these things b(? countenanceu by the enlightened Englishmen, whose fume, whose writings, receive a second life in this counr try; or will he disbelieve that his countrymen can be guil- ty of such atrocities? For we, who have seen and felt them^ v.x)uid not otherwise have believed that a people, who dis- play so many virtues both in peace and war, should thus forget what belongs to the character of christian men. It seeins then, whatever their conduct may be on the other side of the Atlantic; that in this new world, and to this youthful nation, they would say, by the horrid sym- bol of the scalp, that they have renounced all that is re- spectable among civilized men, while we are endeavour- ing to emulate the actions of those illustrious En»lish- men, whose fame their degenerate sons have disgraced. Notwithstanding the ample cause of rage, in the dis- covery of this additional proof of the disposition of their enemies, the soldiery was perfectly restrained from com- mitting any acts or violence; they marched to the bar- racks the same evening, with the exception ot i. nflemen, who remained in town. No part of the house in which the detested scalp was found, underwent any injury from them; nothing was carried away except the odious trophy and the speaker's mace. So far from inflicting any inju- ry on the inhabitants, a considerable portion of t!ie pub- lick stores, which could not easily be transported, were distributed among them, and they expressed themselves highly satisfied with the conduct of the Americans. The principal civil officers of the place addressed a« letter of thanks to general Dearborn, for the strict regard which was manifested by the troops under his command, for the 8a(\^ty of the persons and property of the inhabitants. iV • i y>. ► It ': . . i ■ t 11 1 '11 1^24 HISTORY OF THE WAR. The commander-in-chief landcc! soon after the fall ol Pike, but did not »nssume the immediate command until rifter the surrender of the town. Great assistance was rendered during the cn;j;agempnt hy the co-ojjeration of commodore Chauncey, after lantl- inp; the troops. Th** vessels, in consequence of a contra- ry V, irid, were com])clle(l to beat up to their several posi- tions witli j:;reat difficulty, and under a heavy fne from the batteries. When this was ettected, they opened a j;-allin^ and destructive fire, which contributed much to }ho success of the atiack. In the squa' *^J%^*>*ibsi^-' 128 HISTORY OF THE WAR. considerable swell, the troops from the Madison and Oneida, could not reach shore until the second and third brija;ades had advanced; M'Comb's regiment, and the ma- rines under captain Smith, therefore, did not reach shore until the debarkation had been completed. The advance under Scott, consisting of five hundred men, on its approach to the shore, had been exposed to an incessant volley of musketry, from at least twelve hun- dred regulars, stationed in a ravine. This spirited corps, composed of the flower of the army, moved on Avithout faultering, and for a few minutes returning the fire. As they drew near the shore, a surprising degree of emula- tion manifested iiself both amongst officers and soldiers; many of them leaping into the lake, and wading to land. Captain Hindman, an accomplished young officer of the second artillery, was the first on the enemy^s territory. No sooner were the troops formed on the beach, than tlicy were led to the charge, and instantly dispersed tlie ene- my in every direction, some flying to the woods for shel- ter, and otiiers seeking refuge in the fort. The first were briskly assailed by Forsythe, while the advanced corps and the first brigade, under general Boyd, vigorouslv at- tacked the latter. The prevailing panick haa seized the garrison, which made but a feeble resistance. Fort Nia- gara, and the batteries on the American side, opened at the same time; and fort George, now beino- untenable, the British laid trains to their magazines, and retreated with precipitation, having abandoned all the works, and pur- suing different routs. Colonel Scott and his light troops were closely in their rear, when he was recalled by gene* ral Boyd. Lieutenant Riddle, with his party, not re- ceiving the order, followed the enemy almost to Queens- town, and picked up a nuniber of stragglers. The light troops took possession of fort George; captains Hindman and Stockton entering first, and extinguishing the fire in- tended to explode the magazine; the former withdrew a match at the imminent hazard of his life. General Boyd and colonel Scott mounted the parapet for the purpose of cutting away the statt'; but Hindman succeeded in tak- ing the flag, which he forwarded to general Dearborn, and which was immediately replaced by the American ensig At t\ on tl The short troopi much fish ii lasted and e who f and fil The 1( one hu tenant major the sis third, heights captain tenant the Bri der, col action, with in brigade ter'the as to re ous. C weigh; ; place of Higli eral Dei mands. the conn indebted to major to captai molishinj the fir^t maudant h¥^.f-> HISTORY OF THE WAR. ensign, while the troops were ordered in and quartered. At twelve o'clock the whole of tlie Uriiish fortifications on this shore were in possession of the Americans. — The enemy had moved off with such rapidity, that in a short time nothing more of them was to be seen; and our troops, having been eleven hours under arms, were too mucli fatigued to pursue them far. The loss of the Bri- tish ill this affair, considering the time which the contest! lasted, was very considerable. They had one hundred and eight killed, and one hundred and sixty wounded, who fell into our hands; they besides lost one hundred and fifteen regulars, and five hundred militia, prisoners. The loss of the Americans was thirty-nine killed, and one hundred and eight wounded; among the former, lieu- tenant Hobart of the light artillery; and of the latter, major King of the thirteenth, captains Arrowsworth of the sixth. Steel of the sixteenth. Roach of the twenty- third, (wlio had been wounded the year before at the heights of Queenstown, and was nromoled to the rank of captain for his good conduct on tliat occasion,) and lieu- tenant Swearingen of the ritle corps. The forty-ninth, the British invincibles, was in this affair, and its comman- der, colonel Myers, wounded and taken prisoner. Th« action, notwithstanding, was fought on the American side with inferiour numbers, the advance and part of Boyd's brigade only having been actually cngageu. Shortly af- ter the surrender of the fort, the lake became so rough as to render the situation of tlie fleet somewhat danger- ous. Commodore Chauncey, therefore, made signal to weigh; and accordingly stood up the river, choosing a place of safety between the two forts, he there anchored. High praise was given both by the commodore and gen- eral Dearborn, to the forces under their respective com- mands. Scott and Bovd were particularly mentioned; the commander-in-chief also acknowledged himself much indebted to colonel M. Porter, of the light artUlery, and to major Armistead, of the third regiment artillery, and to captain Totten of the engineers, for their skill in de- molishing the enemy's forts and batteries. We here find the fir^t mention of the hero of lake Erie, lieutenant com- mandant Oliver H. Perrv, who had volunteered his ser ' > »('' '' H m 'U: . \ ■'. 1 M iip ..•(?<^i4iihf', «kii,i«(.„/ 130 HISTORY OF THE WAR. vicc3 on the night of the twenty-sixth, and hail rentleretl 2,reat services in assistinjj in the arran supposed did not exceed a thousand men. General VVindei-, at his request, was detached by the conMuander-in-chief, in pursuit, with his brigade. Hav- ing reached Twenty Mile Creek, on the second day's march, the i^-j3««>''fic 132 HISTORY OF THE WAR. therefore the necessity of the utmost precaution. To the ultimate character of the campaign, the capture of the British would be of the greatest importance; as the ne- cessary consequence, tlie contest to the westward would terminate, for it would iio longer be possible for Proctor to hold out after his communication with the lower pro- vinces had been cut off. Until late in the evening, the twenty-fifth had occupied the meadow ground on the opposite side of the creek, where they had kindled fires for the purpose of cooking, but towards midnight were withdrawn to the position as- signed tliem on the brow of the high bank. These pre- cautions had well nigh proved fruitless, from the unac- countable negligence and misconduct of the main guard. Several of the sentinels in advance, were silently bayonet- ed by the enemy, who pushed a column of seven or eight hundred men, passed the chapel whilst the guard must have been buried in sleep, since not a shot was fired by them. On apnroaching the tires made by the twenty-fifth, and whicii had not yet been extinguished, they raised a tremendous Indian yell, expecting no doubt to bayonet the Americans, whom they supposed to be asleep a few paces from them. This yell was most fortunate for the Americans, who were instantly roused on the opposite bank, and as the twenty-fifth had lain on their arms, they instantly commenced a h^avy fire on the British, who v.ere revealed by the fires which had deluded them. General Wiju'.er, who commanded the troops on the left ©f the road, succeeded in a few moments in stationing the greater part of them on the edge of the creek, to the left of the artillery, and joined his fire with that of the twen- ty-fifth, which was by this time returned by the enemy, though with little eft'ect. In twenty minutes the firing on tue part of tiie British ceased, and as they had be- come invisible after passing the fires, the night being ex- cessively dark, it was uncertain whether they had retir- ed, Oi meant under cover of the darkness, to attack with the bayonet; tlie firing on the part of the Americans, was also ordered to cease. Arrangements were rapidly made to receive them. At this moment some shots in the rear of the army induced the general, who v/as apprehensive pieces. m the m Gener dispositi which ha back, an discoveri ascertain in|to tu artillerist drove the witli prec the enem^ view of th thrown fn til the eve gallant efl' to recover vented the nev anothe nel Milton aid, were . The Am wounded, and ninety much more prisoners w Chandler, To the re of the ls the ne- rd would r Proctor )wer pro- occupied he creek, f cooking, osition iis- .'hese pre- the unac- ain guard, y bayonet - in or eight iiard must as fired by ventv-iifth, ly raised a to bayonet deep a tew ate for the e opposite arms, they Iritish, who ded them, on the left Itioning the to the left the twen- he enemy, the firing y bad be- lt being ex- had retir- Ittack with leans, was jidly made [in the rear rehensive HISTORY OF THE WAR. 133 that an attack might also be made in that quarter, to or- der one of the regiments to face about, and take such a position, as would enable him to repel it, whether made on flank or rear. Whilst general Chandler was directing these movements on the right, his horse fell under him; after recovering somewhat Irom the fall, which had stun- ned him, he attempted to walk towards the centre, near the artillery, where he and general Winder had met from time to time, to receive and communicate information And orders. In the meantime, favoured by the excessive darkness, which had been increased by the smoke, the enemy stole along the road unperceived, until they .sin- gled with the artillerists, whom they drove from their pieces. At this moment general Chandler found himself m the midst of the enemy, and was taken prisoner. General Winder, in returning from maintaining the dispositions on the left, met with a part of the sixteenth, which had either never reached its position, or had fallen back, and was posting it to protect the artillery, when, discovering some confusion there, he rushed forward to ascertain the cause, and was made prisoner in attempt- ing to turn back what he supposed to be the American artillerists. The British finding two pieces limbered, drove them off, overturned one or two more, and retreated with precipitation and disorder. Before clear day-light the enemy had, in his retreat, covered himself from the view of tlie Americans by a wood. General Vincent was thrown from his horse, and did not rejoin his troops un- til the evening, almost exhausted with fatigue. Several gallant efforts were made, after the flight of the enemy, to recover the artilleij. Lieutenant W. iWDonoutjh pre- vented the capture of one piece, and lieutenant IVrClies- ney another; these officers, as well as colonel Burns, colo- nel Milton, captains Hindman, Arclier, Steel and Leon- ard, were highly complimented in general orders. The American loss was sixteen killed, and thirty-eight wounded, and two brigadiers, one major, three captains, and ninety-four missin;^. The loss of the enemy was much more severe, particularly in officers; one hundred prisoners were taken. Blame was attached to general Chandler, who commanded, but with very little reason; 12 >;>■' 41 11: 'kr u * ^ Miv ??*^.1«fe-'J^«;5fai*'.« -i^ : 154 HISTORY OF THE WAR. ^till less of «ieneral Winder, who only met with such mis- fortune as the bravest and most prudent are subject to. Had the enemy been immediately pursued, there is little doubt they would have fallen into our hands. Colonel Burns, on a consultation with the oflicers, judged it most prudent to fall back on Forty Mile Creek, where he was joined by colonel Miller's regiment, who had been sent -to guarif the boats, and g;enerals Lewis and Boyd, the former now assuming the command. The British claimed in this aflair a splendid victoix The accidental capture of the American generals would seem to give it the appearance of one; but in the action they were certainly beaten with great loss. Their object, however, was effected by the attack, though not to the extent which they had anticipated. The credit of t'ns affair has been justly given to colonel Harvey, who is said to be an elegant and accomplished officer. A fla^ having been se • into camp to obtain informa- tion of the killed and wounded, as also permission to bury the dead, but merely to obtain information, general Vin- cent immediately despatched a messenger to sir James Yoe, advising him of the position of the Americans. On the eighth sir James, with his squadron, appeared abreast of the encampment, and within a mile of the shoie. He attempted to destroy the boats, and warped in a large schooner for the purpose; but captains Archer and Tow son, in thirty minutes, constructed a furnace, and opened a fire with hot shot, which compelled him to haul off. A party of Indians now appeared upon the brow of the mountain, but where soon dislodged by lieutenant Eldrid^e, who gained the summit with a few volunteers, before tlie detachment which was ordered for the purpose. Sir James now demanded a surrender, with the usual story of Indians in the rear, a fleet in front, and regulars ap- proaching. This artifice had grown stale, and" could be played off no longer. Orders were now received from general Dearborn, for the army to return to fort George; the greater part of the camp e(}uipage and baggage were put in boats, but were intercepted by an armed schooner, And twelve of them taken. The army broke up its en- campnitnt about ten o'clock, and took up its march lor HISTORY OF THE WAR. 135 fort Geori.»:c, harrassed nearly the whole way by Indians, who hung lipon its Hanks. 'I'lie movement oj" general Dearborn against the Brit- ish fortifications on the Niagara, hanil(lings. On the approach of the enemy's boats, which were commanded by sir George Prerost in person, a well directed lire, which was opened upon them, compel- led them to pause; several ollicers and men were seen to fall. Encouraged by this, they were engaged in loading a second time; t'le artillery would then open; when sud- derdy some unaccountiible panick seized ilic militia, a panick, to which corps composed of the bravest men indi- \ idually, are liable on being engaged for the first time; ihey fled in confusion, and their officers in vain attempt- «*d to rally them; their brave commander, colonel Mills, in attempting to ellect it, was shot from his horse. The enemy now layided with little opposition, ?j,nd having formed, ;;dvanced to tlie barracks; but were for a moment ciiecked by a vigorous attack from a party of infantry, inider major Aspinwall, and the dismounted dragoons under major Lavalle. These were compelled, by num- oers, to retreat. A sharp conflict now ensued, with the regulars and artillery, under colonel Backus, which retir- ed gradually, taking possession of the houses and bar- racks, whence they continued to annoy the enemy. The colonel, about this time, fell severely wounded. Shortly after the flight of the militia, general Brown succeeded gceniod to American *oint, with V occupied twelve of ^veie many w ot inter- .^rown was for the de- mucii \ynV^- iccnt to the \ by woods, breast-work icetl behind ded, and to the artillery, vere station- and publick boats, which in person, a lem, compel- were seen to ;d in loading , when sud- \Q militia, a st men indi- ^ first time; ain attempt- idonel Mills, horse. The find having [or a moment of infantry, :ed dragoons ed, by num- sd, with the i, which retir- ises andbar- :nemy. The ed. Shortly 11 succeeded HISTORY OF THE WAR. in rallying the company of captain M'Nitt, about ninety in munber; with this he assailed the rear of the British, and in his own words, "did some execution." Finding that there was now little hope of repelling the enemy, so superior in force, and every moment gauiing ground, he resorted to a ruse de guerre. A considerable part of the militia, now asliamed of their panick, had collected near the scene of action; the general instantly formed them, and marched them silently through the woods, so as to be discovered by the enemy. Sir George Prevost, believing that his rear was about to be cut oft, ordered a retreat, which became a precipitate flight to the boats, leaving ali his wounded and a number of prisoners. The resistance at the barracks had been exceedingly obstinate; a destructive fire was poured from the build- ings, while lieutenant Fanning, though severely wound- ed, still directed one not less so from his piece of artil- lery. Captain Gray, a valuable British oflicer and an accomplished gentlemen, vai shot by a small boy, a drummer, who snatched up a musket and fired at him, ad he was advancing at the head of a column, to storm one of the barracks. This boy, who was an American, had served him in his kitchen, and on the war breaking out, had returned home; he now approached his former mas- ter while in his last agonies, and owned that he had shot him. Captain Gray generously forgave him, and with a nobleness of soul, of which we have had but too few ex- amples on the part of Britain during the war, took out his watch and presented it to him, witli these words, "my brave little fellow, you have done well." It is delightful to read such traits even in an enemy; whether the boy deserved his encomium or his curse, is a matter to be set- tled by casuists. During the battle, a false alarm having been communi- cated to lieutenant Chauncey, that our troops had been defeated, he immediately, according to ortlers previously received, set fire to the publick store-houses; and the fire was not extinguished until considerable damage had been done. The loss of the Americans, in this affair was one colonel of volunteers, twenty regulars and one volun- teer killed; one lieutenant colonel, mree lieutenants and I, .W '■^i^e>fS4>'i.^tML. 138 HISTORY OF THE WAR. one ensif!;n of the regulars, and seventy-nine men, com. missioned officers and lej^ulars, wounded; ami twenty-six missing; the loss of the enemy amounted to tliree tield officers, two captains, and twenty rank and file foiuul dead upon the ground; two captains and twenty rank and file woundecl, besides those killed and wounded in the boats, and carried away previous to the retreat. On tlic same evening lieutenant colonel Little arrived, after a forced march of forty miles, with about six hundred men, and reinforcements were rapidly arriving from eve» ry quarter. Notwithstanding^ this, a modest renuest of a surren. der was made by sir George Prevost, wnich he soon aftep as modestlv changed into a request for permission to bu- ry the deau, and that the wounded in our hands should bo attended to; of this he received satisfactory assuran- ces. On his return to Kingston, he issued a vaunting proclamation, in which he announced a splendid victory^ which no one ijelieved. The injury inflicted on us was certainly considerable, but fell far short of the object qI this expedition; and that he was compelled precipitately to retreat, he could not pretend to deny. General Brown, received and deserved applause for his conduct on this occasion, which laid the ground work of his military i'elebrity. Shortly after this affair, commodore Chauncey return- ed with his squadron; general Lewis took command oi Die place, and set about repairing the buildings and pub- lick store houses. General Dearborn, whose increas- iTig indisposition disqualified him fcr an active command, retired irom service, leaving colonel Boyd in command of fort George. On the sixteenth of June, lieutenant Chauncey havins; been ordered to cruise off Presque Isle with the Lady oi the Lake, captured the Lady Murray, with some ofticws and privates, besides a quantity of mditary stores. About the same time, a devastating and plundenng party of the British made an attack on the village of Sodus, where some publick stores were deposited. On their approacli, these were concealed in the woods, while the militia could be assembled to defend them. The British, exa?,- HISTORY OF THE WARf, 139 perated at their disappointment, set fire to all the valua- ble buildings in the town, destroyed the private property of individuals, and were only induced to desist from the entire destruction of the place, on the stipulation of the inhabitants to deliver the publick stores at tlie wharf. The militia soon after appearini.^i)'*iimmk!m&^^ . HISTORY OF THE WAU. 143 I better e to an it being ent the r James jcasions the con- of corn- side, arc J history ey came :. Com- l Hav- nd being / s^ins to et. The nd to the jchooners id hauled that the the next arthvvard. lase Nvas iing able [rsuit, our y, and at and tlie le squall, officers, led. The appeared [' for that schooners Ihen with- m off, in ve to. A being ap- Ichooneis, le receiv- |and fifty Irough hi^ fleet; he again sailed and continued until eleven o'clock, at times pursuing and being pursued, when the rear of the line opened its fire, which in fifteen minutes became gen- eral on both sides. At half past eleven, the weather line bore off, and passed to the leeward, except the Growler and Julia, which soon after tacked to the southward, and brought the British between them and the remainder of {we American fleet, which then edged away to engage the enemy to more advantage, and to lead him from the two schooners. Sir James exchanged a few shot with the American commodore's ship, and pursued the Growler and Julia. A firing commenced between them, which continued until one o'clock in the morning of the tenth. A desperate resistance was made against this superiour force to which the two vessels were compelled to vield; Sir James* ship is said to have been considerably injured. The next day he was visible, but shewed no disposition to come to action. Commodore Chauncey soon after re- turned to Sackett's Harbour. A victory for this affair was claimed by sir James Yeo; his situation would not allow him to be candid, for he was compelled to keep up an appearance of being willing to engage the American squadron, although he nad no such intenti(m; he expect- ed, however, to be able to cut off our dull sailing schoonera in detail« J* •?■ ' IPS' !• ^% ♦ ! 144 HISTORY OF THE WAR. CHAPTER Vni. '^'ar on the coast — ^Exp^olts of Cockburn — Plundering and burning of Havrc-de-Grace'— l?nrning of Georgetown and Fredericktown-^Ar- rival of admiral Warren and sir Sidney Beckwith— Southern cities threatened — -Attack on Craney island — ^Enormities at Hampton— Cockburn plunders the coast of North Carolina— Blockade of the American squadron at New London, by commodore Hardy— The torpedo system. XluRiNG the first year of the war, Great Britain being deeply engaged in the important transactions then going on in Europe, had little time to attend to the wai- with this country: not one of our ports could be said to have been in a state of actual blockade. The forces which she could spare, were sent to Cana- da. The change in the face oi things in Europe, gave her a greater disposable force, and more leisure, while our unparalleled victories on the ocean, awakened her attention, and kindled a desire for revenge. Long be- fore spring it was known that a British squadron had ar- rived at Bermuda with a body of troops on board, and well supplied with bombs and rockets, ror the purpose of attacking some of our most exposed southern cities. For the invidious distinction was made between the north and south, from a belief, that the northern states were not merely unfriendly to the war, but were strongly in- clined to secede from the union, and return to their for- mer allegiance to the king of England. We are now about to enter upon a species of hostili- ties, entirely new among civilized people. The scenes which we must pass in review, can scarcely be spoken of wilh moderation. They are compounded of the avari- cious and plundering barbarity, which characterizes the pirates of the Mediterranean, and of the savage ferocity of the scenes which disgraced the River Raisin. What- ever may be the reputations of the chief actors in En- gland, they can never be otherwise regarded in this coun- try, than as the. infamous instruments in the perpetration of enormities, from which the honourable man would shrink prison ary wa and wl to havt sible a double eternal future certain! things s at peaci it vvouh ty; it w most CO tinction It wa against of havoc exactly tising ui large coi the appr taciied; gen, it V jured, an regular t the sea-b ^vhich m number ( Hels, whi( this servi On the two ships inadi> its standing d lately c* the upper >nade upo destroying tioa of tl HISTOUY OF THE WAR. 145 shrink with instinctive horrour. The recollection of the prison ships and other enormities, during the revolution- ary war, when England chose to regard us as traitors, and which the generosity and wisdom of England ouglit to have kept from our minds, was renewed with all pos- sihle aggravation, now tliat she chose to regard us as double traitors. If it has been her intention to plant an eternal hatred in the hearts of a people, destined at some future day to become numerous and powerful, she has certainly fallen upon the proper means. To say that these things should be passed over lightly, because we are now at peace with her, would be a scandal to every American; it would be a desertion of truth, justice, religion, humani- ty; it would be passing over lightly and indulgently, the most complicated crimes, and sinking at once every dis- tinction between infamy and virtue. It was soon understood, that the war to be carried on against the Atlantic coast in the spring, was to be a war of havock and destruction; but to what extent was not exactly known. 'Hie enemy, however, "talked of chas- tising us into submission," and it was expected, that our large commercial towns, now somewhat fortified against the approach of their shipping, would be vigorously at- tacked; and, from the example we had seen at Copenha- gen, it was not impossible that they would be niucli in- jured, and perhaps reduced to ashes. Small bodies of regular troi jis were stationed at ditterent points along the sea-board, to form the rallying points of ilm militia, which mi;:ht be called out as occasion should require: a number ot marines and seamen, belonging to publick veii- sels, which did not put to sea, were also to co-operate in this service. On tlie fourth of February, a squadron consistitig of two sliips of the line, three frigates, and other vessels, made its appearance in the Chesapeake, apparently standing for Hampton Roads. The alarm was imme- diately caught at Isorfolk, and the militia called ia from the upper part of the state. No attempt, however, \. as )nade upon the town, the enemy contenting himstif with destroying the smaller vessels einployed m the navf^^a- tion of the bay, and etVectively blockading its \\»i.tci.«. 13 'MM- y. f'H i ,.i.-N' " ,' : i t- < - * .1 ';■'■' ' '?. V ; 1 'vM', M 146 HISTORY OK THE WAK. About iUc same time, luiother squadron, under tlie com- mand ot" commodore Jjcrcsford, appeared in the Dela- ware, consisting of the Poictiers, the 13elvidera, and some other vessels, which in the same manner destroyed a number of small trading vessels, and attempted several times to land some of their men, who were as often re- pulsed by the militia, hastily collected. On the tenth of Apiil, sir John Beresford made a demand on the people of the villa2;e of LewiF+own, for a supply of provision!!, which was spiritedly refused by colonel Da' s, comm.and- ing at that place. Captain Byron, of the Belvidera, wns ordered to move near the village and bombard it, until the demand should be complied with. Tliis was obeyed, but without effect; after a cannonade of twenty hour,'^- they were unable to make any impression on the plact . Their fire had been returned from some batteries, hastily thrown np on the bank, with considerable eifect. On the tenth of May, the same squadron sent out their barges in the neighbourhood of Lewistown, to procure water. Ma- jor George Hunter was detached by colonel Davis, with one hundred and fifty men, to oppose their landing, which the major did with so much gallantry, that he compelled them to hasten to their shipping. The squadron soon after returned to Bermuda, where sir J. Borlace Warren, who commanded on this station, was engaged in fitting out a more considerable armament, for the attack of our sea-coast during the summer. Soon after the departure of the squadron, the Spartan, and some other fiigates cjitered the Delaware. One of their vessels, the ^l art in, was discovered on the twenty- ninth of July, slightly grounded on the outer edge of Crow's shoals. A detachment of the gunboat flotilla im- mediately moved, and anchoring in a line about three- quarters of a mile from tlie sloop, opened a destructive fire upon her. The Junon frigate soon after canu^ off to her relief; a cannonade was kept up during an hour be- tween the gunboats and these two vessels, in whkh the latter suffered great injury- Finding it impossible to drive oif thismusqueto fleet, they manned their launches, tenders, and cutters, to cut oif the gunboats at the ex- tremity of the line. No. 121, com manded by sailing-mas- ter Head, was unfortunately taken, after a desperate the com- the Bela- , and some estroyed a ed several s often ip- le tenth of the people provisions, , command- vidcra, wr.s rd it, until vas obeyed, enty hourp . the phict. ries, hastily ct. On the ir barj^es in vater. Ma- Davis, with iding, which compelled adron soon ce Warren, d in fitting [tack of our the Spartan,^ [re. One of [the twenty- ter edge of flotilla im- ^bout three- destructive came off to m hour be- ll whicli the ipossible to ir launches, at the ex- ailing-mas- desperato mSTOUY OF TilE AVAli. 1 lie 14: Ilritisii resistance against eight times her number. soon after made sail, the Martin having been extricated from her situation. Scenes of a different kind were, in the meanwhile, act- ing in the Chesapeake. The squadron, whicli returned in February, still continued to caiTV on a predatory war along the shores and inlets. It was here, that one Cock- burn, by some means an admiral in the service of the king 01 England, exhibited the first of those exploits, for which he afterwards43ecame so highly celebrated; and of which he may justly claim to be tue originator. At first they were directed against the detached farm-houses and seats of private gentlemen, unprepared for, and incapa- ble of defence; these were robbed, and the owners treat- ed in the rudest manner. The cattle whicli could not be carried away, were doomed to W':inton destruction: the slaves were armed against their owners, and persuaded to follow the example of their new friends, to attack their master's defenceless families, and to engage in pillaging* them. It was impossible to station a force at each farm-^ house, to repel these miserable and disgraceful incur- sions; yet, in several instances, Cockburn and his ruffians were bravely repelled by a collection of the neighbours without authority, and under no leader. The spiiited citizens of Maryland formed bodies of cavalry, which were stationed at intervals along the shore, to be drawn out at a moment's warning, for the purpose of repelling the sudden inroads of the enemy. Cockburn took pos- session of several islands in the bay, particularly Sharp's, Tilghman's, and Poplar islands, whence he could seize the opportunity of making a descent upon tiie neigh- bouring shores, when the inhabitants happened to be off their guard. Encouraged bj his success agjiinst the farmers, and his rapacity increasing by tiie booty which he had already obtained, Cockburn now resolved to undertake something ofa more bold and adventurous character, in which his thirst for plunder, and his love of mischief, might be gra- tified in a higher degree. He therefore directed his at- tention to the unprotected villages and hamlets along the bay; carefully avoiding the larger towns, the plundering •;■>' •jkfijrt 'v» "^^'Mih .0 m i r _ " ! i[ '■')■{ ' ^"""^ Vj> a M m (48 HISTORY OV THE WAR. of which iinuiht be attended with some danj^er. 'Plie first of tliese exploits was a;2;ainst the villap;e ot Frenchtown, <"on.Me after riaving treated the village of Georgeto\/n in the same manner, he returned glutted with spoil and satiated with wanton havock. It was not long after this, that admiral Warren onfrr- cd the bay with a considerable reinforcement, and a num- ber of land troops and marines, under the command of sir Sidney Beckwith. They had seized a number of the smaller vessels emy)loyed in the navigation of the bay, for the purpose of being used in penetrating the various inlets, impervious to their larger tenders. To oppose to these small parties, employed in frequent and distressing depredations on the property of private individuals, tiie government hired a nun»ber of barges and liglit vessels, which by moving from place to place with great rapidity, would tend to keep the enemy in cheek. On the arrival of admiral Warren, their force, which appeared in the Chesapeake, consisted of seven ships ol the line, and twelve frigates, with a proportionate number of smaller vessels. The appearance of this fo'*midable force, created much alarm in the more considerable towns along the Chesapeake. Baltimore, Annapolis, and Norfolk, vv^ere threatened. The last of these places, it was evident was to receive the first blow. On the eighteenth, commodore Cassin, having received intelligence that a squadron of tlie enemy had arrived in Hampton Roads, now made the neces: ary disj)ositions for repelling the invader. The frigate Constellation was anchored between the two fjrts, on each i^ide of Eliza- beth river, which commands the approach to Norfolk. At thiS place nearly ten thousand ol the Virginia militia had been already collected. The gunboat flotilla was ordered in the meanwhile to descend the river, and en- gage the foremost of the enemy'-i fiigates. Captain Tar- bell, by whom it was commanded, proceeded in two divi- sions; the first commanded by lieutenant Gardner, and the other by lieutenant Henley. On the twentieth, iiav- ing brought his gunboats into a favourable position, he opened a rapid fire upon the Junon fii[»,ate, at tlie dis- tance of half a mile. This was returned, and continued U V-*>Hy;^.:i.,.^ 15« HISTORY OF THE WAR. for half an hour, apparently to tlie great injury of th*^ fri^^ate, the j^unboats sutt'ering but little. Another ves- sel, which proved to be a razee, was seen coming to htr assistance; the iire of the Junon for a short time appear- ed to have been silenced, but on the arrival of her con- »ort, and additional frigates, she again opened. Captain Tarbeil now thought proper to retire. The Junon wan much shattered; and her loss, considering the great dis- parity of force, is thought to have been considerable. A formidable attack on Norfolk was resolved upon by the British; preparatory to this, it would be necessary to subdue the lorts by wliich it was protected. The near- est obstruction to the enemy's advances, was Craney island; and in the course of the day, they dropped to the mouth of James' river. Captain Tarbeil gave orders to lieutenriiits Neal, Shubrick and Saunders, of the fri}2;ate Constellation: to land with a hundred seamen on tlie island, for the purnoise of manninjj a battery on tlie north- west side, whde he stationed the gunboats in such a manner as to enable him to annoy the enemy from the opposite side. On the twenty-second, at day-light, they were discovered approaching round the point of Nansi- mond river, with about four tliousand men, a great pro- portion of whom, it was aftei'vvards ascertained, were wretched French troops, wlio had been taken prisoners in Spain, and induced to enter into the British service, under promise of being permitted to pillage and abuse the citizens of the United States. Tiiey selected a place of landing out of tlie reach of the gunboats; but unfortu- nately for them, not out of the reach -of danger. When they had approached within two hundred yards of the shore, lieutenant Neale, assisted by lieutenants Shubrick and Saunders, open<»d a galling fire upon them, which compelled them to pause. The battery was mounted with an eighteen-pounder, and manned by one hundred and fifty men, including lieutenant Breckenridge's ma- rines. The piece was directed with so much precision, that several of their boats were cut in two, and tlie men with difficulty escaped. The Centipede, the admiral's barge, was sunk, ancl the whole force was compelled to make a precipitate retreat. This was no soun^^r dii'cn- HISTOKY OF TIIK WAR. 15^ vcred, than lieutenant Neale ordered his men to haul a\) the boats, which had been sunk, and (o aftord the utifoi- tunate sufferers every assistance in tlicir power. A lar^e body of the enemy who had landed on tiio main shore, were not less warmly received by the Viri»;i ia volunteers, on their crossing the narrow inlet to the west. A short time before the approach of the barj^es, this body of men, about eight hundred in number, attei"pted to cross to tlie island by the inlet of which we have s|)okcn; colonel Beaty had been posted, with about four hundred men, to guuru the pass; two twenty-four pounders, and two sixes, were planted to oppose the passage, under the di- rection of major Faulkner, and the guns commanded by Gaptain Emerson, and lieutenants llovvel and Godwin. The conflict here raged at the same moment with the at- tack on the party approaching by water. The enemy was compelled to give up the attempt in tl»is quarter also. His loss in this sional repulse, was upwards of two hun- tlreJ in killed an(l wounded, besiides a number of deser- ters, who seized the opportunity of making their escape. The safety of the city of Norfolk, and of tlie surround- ing towns of Gosport, Portsmouth, and others, is to be attributed to the resolute defence of Craney island. Tlie conduct of lieutenant Neale and his brave companions, Shubrick, Saunders, ar.d Breckemidge, received the grateful acknowledgements of the inhabitants. Colonel Beaty and his officers, and two non-commissioned volun- teers, sergeant Young and corporal Moffit, were no less entitled to praise for the parts which they took in this in- teresting affair. This unexpected repulse enraged the enemy beyond measure. At the same time that their desire of revenge was excited, in consequence of their disappointment in the sacking of Norfolk, they were tau";ht greater prudence in the selection of the object of attack. In a consultation between admiral Warren, sir Sidney Beckwith, and Cock- burn, they determines' on attacking the town of Hamp- ton, distant about eighteen miles from Norfolk. There was a garrison here, consisting of about four hundred men, artillerists and infantry. The fortifications of the lace were of very little consequence; in fact, it was but ; 1.54 HIS TORY OK THE AV Ali. dii open villa;;'!*, ol li(flc inoro iiit])()r(aiu'0, tlian lliii-^c |>il- la';;«Ml by Coclvbuui. If was y |n>HS('s-.irii(»|K'nsili('S. Allcr aclirii; flic usual mcncs III' sliaiiiclcss plunder ami (icvasfafioii, in wIi'm li ol]i('(M'ilaiit>., whose ni^e, whose sex, whose inlinnilies piechnled ihe pdssihilif y of escape. 'J'lie wretched lenialcH w<'re cori- si*;iicd U) the <;rati Ileal ion of the brutal desires of a hrutal soldiery, \\ifh ( ircuinstances of iiidi^tiity unheard of. Wives wcie torn IVoin the sides of their wounded hus- iiaiids, dau;i;hters from their inotheis, and violated in tiu^ir presence. Kuiuan natuie was shocked heyoiid endu- limce at, the detested spectacle; mothers claspin:^ their helpless babes to their bosoms, endeavoured to plnnj^e at (Mice into the sea, as the last sad relume of" despair; but oven this was denied them; they vvcie driven back, and ioini)elle j i '!« 1 ^ 1 ; 1 1 \^ m ^ .:r :'^'jm>'^,itgs&^:^,. 156 HISTORY OF THE WAR. feelings of the people, throughout "Virginia, were, if possi- ble, more excited on this subject, than were those of the people of Keatucky, at the massacres under Proctor. General Taylor, who commanded the station, addressed a letter to sir Sidney Beckwith, conceived in that species of dignified and apalling eloquence, which the feelings of an honourable man alone can dictate, on the subject of such an outrage, and by which guilt is compelled to seek for refuge in the slieltering meanness of falsehood and pre- varication. General Taylor, after stating the enormities of which the I>ritish troops had been guilty, desired to be informed of the nature of the war intended to be carried on against the United States; whether the scenes at Hamp- ton had been unauthorized by the British government, or whether that government had entirely thrown aside the ordinary usages of war, which govern civilized nations. "VV^orthless," said he, "is the laurel steeped in female tears, and joyless the conquests which have inflicted needless wo on the peaceful and unresisting." Sir Sid- ney replied, that he was sorry for the excesses at Hamp- ton, and hoped that, in future, the war would be carried on witli as much regard to humanity as possible. This evasive answei- was not received as satisfactory; otie more explicit was required. He then declared that the excesses were coiamitted in retaliation, for the conduct on the pait of the Americans at Craney island, in shooting at the seamen, who clung to a barge which had overset. Geneial Taylor immediately instituted a court of inqui- ry, which proved the charf^e to be without foundation. On the result being communicated, sir Sid/.cy did not think proper to give a written reply; but promised ver- bally to withdraw his troops from the neighbourhood, and •excused himself, on the score of his notliaving been ac- quainted with the kind of war to which these men had been accustomed in Spain; that, in fact, they could not be restrained: but, he added, that as soon as he had found them engaged in such excesses, he had given orders for them to re-embaik. The facts will not, however, support the excuse, and there is no criminal who has perpetrated the grossest crime, that cannot fabricate as good. It is uii[,k'asant to implicate admiral Warren, and sir Sidney Beckwi been in more tl; it with ] of the b ence up* ter of th or not, 1 assertioi those wli the Briti iy were country. The S( frequent lis, and 1 \cva\ occ much ha enemv, a our town ance, it ^ of war, w was pern to tlie so the Caro which he In the be Ocracoke crossed tv\ priva which, aft revenue c bern, at w bers, that He lande( Ports mou same man he return slave?, w'h der a proi in the Wt HISTORY OF THE WAR. 15^ Beckwith, in this detestable affair, as their conduct has been in general of a different character. This is much more the element of Cockburn, who doubtless shared in it with peculiar pleasure. But there was in the conduct of the two officers before mentioned, a shameful inditier- ence upon a subject, which so deeply regarded the charac-* ter of the British government; if such indifterence be wise or not, the liistory of the world will decide. As to the assertion, that the scenes at Hampton were similar to those which had occurred in Spain, it by no means clears the British character; but, in* reality, such acts of atroci- ty were never perpetrated in Spain, or in any other country. The squadron, durin'; the remainder of the summer, frequently threatened tlie cities of Washington, Annapo- lis, and Baltimore. Large bodies of militia were on se- veral occasions drawn out, and the country inconsequence much harrassed. This was fair and justifiable in the enemy, and is no subject of complaint; and had any of our towns been laid in ashes, while attempting a resist- ance, it would only have been regarded as a misfortune of war, which the enemy had a right to inflict. Cockburn was permitted to pursue his own inclination, in moving to tlie south with a formidable squadron, to carry on in the Carolinas and Georgia, tlie same species of warfare, which he had so successfully practised in the Chesapeake. In the beginning of July, the admiral appeared oft' the Ocracoke river, in North Carolina, and shortly after, crossed the bai-, and with a number of barges, attacked two private armed vessels, the Anaconda and the Atlas, which, after a gallant resistance, were captured. The revenue cutter, then in port, made her escape to* New- bern, at which place the militia assembled in such nuni-. bers, that the admiral's designs upon it were ffustratcd. He landed about three thousand men, then proceeded to Portsmouth, and having treated the inhabitants in the same mannei-, as he had treated those of the Chesapeake, he returned with a valuable booty, and a number of slave.-, who !iad been induced to leave their masters, un- der a promise of freedom, but who were afterwards sol'fl in the West Indies. 14 4 ipj^ I >i>e powder in the attempt to unload. She was then thrown m the way of the blockading squadron's boats; fortu- nately, the seamen, instead of taking her along side of the Ramilies, determined first to take out some of the carj>:o; in doing this, the schooner blew up, and destroyed seve- ral of the British seamen. The next experiment was made with the torpedo, against the Plantagenet, then ly- ing below Norfolk. After four or five attempts, in which the persons engaged could not come sufliciently near the ship, without being discovered, the torpedo was dropped at the distance of an hundred yards, and swept down by the tide, and on approaching the vessel, exploded in the most awful manner; an immense column of wat*"- "^ ''s tlirown up, which fell with vast weight upon the liwc- * ^ yawning gulph was opened, in which she appeared to ha\ c been swallowed up. By the light of the explosion, it wa« :\ : 'ik t ; ■>y. I .';..* fl:--,; .' t' • f'i v;^^ ''^\yf-^'':iS^',.\k>r'X^1l^.:, 160 msrOIlY OP THE WAR. discovered that the forecastle had been blown off. Tlie ship's crew soon after took to their boats, completely pa- nicK struck. Commodore Hardy was justly indignant at this attempt, and protested in strong terms against a species of annoyance, which he considered dishonourable. It had the effect, however, of compelling the enemy to be "^:trcmely cautious in his approach to our harbours; and althougli the torpedo system was not afterwards put in piactice, the enemy's apprehensions from it served to keep them at a greater distance. If any thing could justify this mode of attack, it had been the scenes of Hampton, and the deportment of Cockburn and his crew: but commodore Hardy was a generous enemy, and ait* rlted a different treatment. CHAPTER IX. V.iVul ist*:ii; s — l he ({ui'iiet oapturca the Peacock — "Wie SKasujou (i.-ig-' .• tares liio Cb.cfiiipcitke— The Peliciia captures tlie Aii-his — T'le En- ierj)nz*.' cai;i.urc'3 the Boxer — Ci'uise ot commodore Vorter in the ? r in i?ie ?teiTet-- llio Do- , Cm of her hrough + with II where lilt fri- of tlie iventj- )urs on Id, that It could )ecome lat coii- uildiiig HISTORY OF THE WAR. IGl several additional vespels, and it was proposed to con- tinue to augment our navy by annual appropriations for this purpose. This was undoubtedly wise policy; for whatever we have to fear from a considerable standing army, there can be no cause of distrust of a navy. Be- sides, it is only on that element, we can come in contact with an enemy of consequence. Fortunately for us, our. territory adjoins to that of no power, from which we need apprehend any great danger; the colonies of England and 01 Spain might have reason to fear us, if the genius of ouv government were not opposed to conquest; but v.e liave no cause to fear them. On the ocean, however, we must unavoidably come in contact wit' other nations, as long as we pretend to have commerce; and without a navy,^, that commerce cannot be protected. in the last chapter, on the subject of our naval war, it will be recollected, that the Hornet was left to blockade the Bonne Citoyenne, at St Salvador. This vessel was formally cliallenged by the Hornet; but whether from her unwillingness to risk the loss of a quantity of specie which she had on board, or that she was not inclined to engage in the combat, though of superiour force, she thought proper to pay no attention to the challenge. — Commodore Bainbridge, we have seen, had parted from the Hornet at this place, in order that the Bonne Citoj - enne might have no excuse for declining the invitation, and it will be recollected how gloriously ne met the Java a few days afterwards. The Hornet continued the blockade until the twenty-fourth of January, when tlie Montague hove in sight, and compelled her to escape in- to port. She ran out, however, the same night, and pro- ceeded on a cruise. Her commander first shaped his course to Pernambuco, and on the fourth of February captured the tlnglish brig Resolution, of ten guns, with twenty-three thousand dollars in specie. He then r;tn down the coast of Moranham, cruised otF chore a sliort •■ time, and thence oil* Surinam, where he also cruisetf for some time, and on the twenty-second stood foi Demerara; The next day he discovert I an English brig oi' war lying at anchor outside of the bar, and on beating around Cara- buna Bank, to come near her, he discovered, at l^iU V.l ■ I', ', ; » ,1 '''■ ,.'y 1 h 1 J I 'I'. it ^l i--' 162 HISTORY OF THE WAR. past tinec o'clock in the afternoon, another sail ou hiV weather quarter, edginj^ down for him. This proved to be a lar^ man of war brig, the Peacock, captain Peak, somewhat superiour to the Hornet in force. Captain Lawrence nianceuvred some time to gain the weather gage, then hoisted the American ensign, tacked about, and. in passing each other, they exchanged broadsides at the distance of pistol shot. The Peacock being then dis- covered in the act of wearing, Lawrence now bore up, received his starboard broadside, ran her down on board, on the starboard quarter, and poured into her so heavy a fire, that in fifteen minutes she not only surrendered, but lioisted a signal of distress, as she was literally cut to pieces, and had already six feet water rii her hold. Lieutenant Shubrick, whose conduct in this aftair was not less conspicuous, than in the actions with the Guer- riere and Java, was despatched to bring her officers and crew on board the Hornet. He found that tlie captain of the vanquished vessel had been killed, the greater ^lart of her crew had been either killed or wounded, and ihat the vessel was sinking fast, in spite of every eftbrt (0 keep her above water. Every exertion was made to lake off the crew before the vessel sunk; her guns were tlnown overboard, the shot holes were plugged, and a part of the Hornet's crew, at the risk oi their lives, la- boured incessantly to save the vanquished. The utmost efforts of these generous men were vain; she sunk in the midst of them, carrying down nine of her own crew, and liuee of the American. Thus did our gallant country- men twice risk their lives, fiist in the cause of their coun- try, and next in the cause of humanity; first to conquer riioir enemies, and then to save them. These are action* which unfortunately fall too rarely to the lot of the his- torian to record. Of all our naval victories, this is the one which Americans recollect with most pleasure; and surely there cannot be a higher proof of the genero*- sity of feeling which predominates in the nation. The new of the Hornet divided their clothing with the pri- soners, who were left destitute by tlie sinking of the sliip", and so sensible were the officers of the generous treat- mep.t, wliich they experienced from captaiai Lawrence HISTORY OF TffK W A«. 163 and his men, that on their arrival at New- York, they ex- pressed their gratitude in a publick letter of tiianks. "So much," say they, "was done to alleviate the uncomforta- ble and (listressinj; sitnuHon in which we were placed, when received on board the shij) you command, that we cannot better express our feelinj];s, than by saying, we ceased to consider ourselves prisoners; and every thinj^* that friendship could dictate, was adoptetl by you and ihe officers of the Hornet, to remedy the inconvenience we otherwise would have experienced, from the unavoid- able loss of the whole of our property and clothes, by the sudden sinkinj^ of the Peacock." Tliis praise is worth more than a victory. The Hornet received but a slight injury; the number of killed and wounded, on board the Peacock, could not be exactly ascertained, but was supposed to exceed fifty. The officers mentioned, as having distinguished them- selves on this occasion, were lieutenants Conner and Newton, and midshipmen Cooper, jMayo, •(letz, Smoot, Tippet, Bcerum and Titus. Lieutenant Stewart was un- fortunately too ill to take a part in the action. On the tenth of April, a few days after the arrival of the Hornet, the Chesapeake, that "ill-omened bark," returned to Boston, after a cruise of four months. Her commander, captain Evans, having been appointed to the New-York station, she wag assigned to captain Law- rence. The British, whose mortification at their repeated de- feats may be easily imagined, an('i wlio regaided the repu- tation of their navy as their great bulwark, had become seriously alarmed. If the charm of their fancied superi- ority on this element were once destroyed, other nations, who had now yielded to them the palm, might conceive the idea of conquering also. A fearful example was set to the Kuiopean world by America. In some recent rencounters, even tiie French, who had been so unfortunate in their naval combats with the British, had begun to pluck up courage. Something must be done to reti-ieve their naval character, Ur all their naval songs murrt be burnt, and their naval boasts must be at an end. A course was nat- urally fallen upon of selecting one of tlieir btst fii;;.-ites, ■ v^ •«/"•■(<*!,;.; 1.04 lllSlOUY 0\f TUV. VVAU. mnniUMl Uy pirkiMl H««.iHM«n, and oxcrriMtMl uilh all pusHi hU» pjsiiiM, lor llu» Hiicfial pur|Mme. Tlioy tloi^iUMl ( t'vorv (hinu; wlti* li in iralilv, or uhicli Hu»v J'aiiriiMl, inr- vailod ill tlio AnuMiiai) ships. TIumo was an idio iiiHimi- alion, :>*»»!. \vi(h (ho ('ona,ross, laplaiii J:*mi(h, sailod on a oruiso: l)u( (ho Siiannon, (hon in <'om- ])anv \\\\\\ tho ToiumIos, oi(hor in(on(ionally avoidod (hi'in, or hy aooidont happonod (o bo on( of (ho way. The Shannon soinotinio aflorWards rolurnod, and sont a lui- n\al ohalloniio (o oap(airi \-awromo, who had just (akon iho coitnoanv'I; (his was nnl\)r(una(oly uM. roooivod hy liini. Wo aro now io rolaie an ooourronoo whioh impar(s n niolanoiioly (ini;o (o onr naval ohroniolo, thus far so hiil- lian(; an ocounonco in whioh unoonlrollahlo foriuno had tho lari;osf sliaro; bn( in (ho midst of visi(a(ions whiili till onr hoarls >Ni(h sorrow, wo shall find nialtor ofoonso- lation, almost a loconiponso lor onr misforlnno. ('ap(ain Lawronco, on arriving;!; (o (ako commami of this ship, was informod (ha( a lv('ip now rocoiH ilcd; l»n(, imOMfiuui riy, Hiry wno at tlii« inoiiiiMif aliiMwi In n Hfjilution: captain Brooke received a wound in the head, and was cariicd on boaril his own ship. Lieu- tenant Watt, who now commanded the eneniyj was sliot; but a large reinforcement coming to their assistance they gained possession of the deck, and soon after hoisted tiiti English flag. In this sanguinary conllict, twenty-three of the enemy were killed; and fifty-six wounded: among the killed, her first lieutenant, her clerk, and purser, and amongst the wounded her captain. On board the Chesapeake, the captain, the first and fourth lieutenants, tiie lieu- tenant of marines, the mastei, the midshipmen Hope- well, Livingston, Evans, and about seventy men killed: and the second and third lieutenants, the chaplain, midsliipmen Weaver, Abbot, Nicholls, Berry, and about eighty vaen wounded. The greater proportion of this loss was sustained after the enemy had gained the deck. The Biitish have been cliarged with a cruel and ungener- ous conduct towards tlie vancpiish.ed. We could wish that this charge had been properly repelled, if not true. It is said that after the Americans had submitted, they continued the work of destruction, and that the treatment to the prisoners was not of that liberal kind which miglit have been expected from manly generosity. The liber- ality of their subsequent conduct, leads us to wish that no such complaints could be made against them. The bodies of our naval heroes, Lawrence and Ludlow, on tlieir ar- rival at Halifax, were interred with every honour, civil, naval and military, which they could bestow, and no tes- timony of respect that was due to their memories was left unpaid. They were afterwards brought to the United States, by Mr. Crowningshield of Boston, who obtained a passport JVoui commodore Hardy for the purpose, in a HISTORY OF THE W Alt iGr vessel manned by twelve masters of vessels, mIio volun- teered their services on the occasion. The loss of the Chesapeake has been justh* attributed to the accident of her fallins: on board the Shannon, and to the mutinous state of ]\er crew. She was somewhat inferiour in force also, but this ou^ht not be taken into consideration; fov until the fatal accident, the advantage was decidedly in her favour. However this niay be, we ran spare to Great Britain this victory, as some slight consolation for her former and subsequent drubbings. And never did any victory produce sucli extravagant re- joicing. Not the land victories of Wellington in Spain, nor even the victories of Nelson, called forth such expres- sions of satisfaction; a proof that our naval character had risen somewhat in her estimation. In the United States it was regarded as an accident, which proved no superiority on the part of the British, and it was lamented chiefly for the loss of our brave officers. The tide of fortune seemed for a short time in favour of Great Britain. On the fourth of August, another of our national vessels was captured b}' the enemy. The Argus, after carrying out Mr. Crawford; our minister to France, in the spring of 1813, proceeded, early in June, to cruise in the British channel, where she continued for two months to commit great havock on the British shij> ping. So much uneasiness did she cause, that the Eng- lisli mercltants were unable to effect an insurance on their vessels, under three times the usual premium. The Bri- tish government was induced, at last, to send several ves- sels on purpose to chase off" this daring enemy. On the fourteenth, at four in the morning, the Pelican, a sloop of war, of considerably greater force tlian the Argus, ob- tained a Sight of her by the light of a brig which the lat- ter had set on fire. The Argus immediately prepared to receive the enemy; at five o'clock the action commenced at the distance of musket shot, the Pelican having the weather gage. At the first broadside captain Allen fell, severely wounded, but remained on deck until several broadsides were exchanged when he was carried below, leaving the command to lieutenant Watson. At half past si-Xj the riggiug of tlie Argus was so cut up, as to rciidev M\t m 4 ii •*»"ul*pi'*«. 1G8 HISTORY OF TIIR WAR. her almost unmaiia;j;eablo; the lieutenant wafl severely Muniuted in the hea; position. At thirty-live minutes past six, the y\r- gus havin*; lost her wlieel vopes, and runninij; ri^jiinir, could no ioniser be mana'uvrcd, and the IVIican chost' a {position in which none of the p;uns of the Ar^us could \Q brought to bear upon her; she had nothing to oppose to repeated raking broadsides, but musketry. At lortv- seven minutes past six slie surrendered, with the loss of six killed and seventeen wounded; on board the Pelican there were three killed, antain Al- len died soon after in Kngland, together with midshipmen Delphy and I^Mwards, and they were all interred with the honours of war. The Pelican was a slooj) of twenty guns, th' Argus of eighteen, but the victory in this in- stance may be fairly awarded to the Knglisn. Our olli- cers and men did their duty, but were compelled to sub- mit to a njore fortunate adversary. Captain Allen Mas justly a favourite in this country, and his death on this occasion only served to render his memory the more denr to his countrymen. To put our ingenuity to the rack in finding excuses for this defeat, would be but to imitate the l^ritish, who have not allowed us a single fair nnml victor';, out of at least twenty instances, in which their national tlag has struck to ours. If accidents may hap- ]jen in twenty successive cases, why may they not hap- ]>en in okc or two; but we do not regard them as such. i3y letters dated early in July, news reached the Unit- ed States from captain Porter, who had captured seve- ral British vessels in the South Seas, and was then cruis- ing with great success, his crew in tine health. He had actually created a fleet, of nine sail, by means of vessels captured on those seas, eight of which had been letters of marque; and he was at this time completely master of the Pacific ocean. This may be regarded as a novelty m na- val incidents; and there is no doubt, had it benn per- form*^d by an English naval commander, it would have been applauded to the skies, but in an American it was the deportment of a buccanier. By none of our com- mantlcr^ coiMMier fuse in t two line rving be board a i ofMai-cl \vbi( h ha t(/(»k th( oiafing t] TIjIs is (lore Poi caiiicM-. 'llie Ti con(|uest the side o hrig Knt iVoin Pord On the fif which lie guns, stoo( I'd. She I pcrior to tl file tiring < After the ternrize i-ai lied for twi :ind ciied f as it had bt (^nc killed l.iniented ii <^ct'm\, and with a noble be struck. to hi in, he < breast, «] di permit himsi «uch a death sides in the called invin( souls never ( lllsroilV OF TliK WAR. 11)9 ^iifiinliMS lins tlieie been so much injury done to Hri(ih|i i'ouMueice; aujaiiist iio»ic of (hem have fhey been so pro- fuse in (heir invective. On the list of his captures were ♦ wo fine Kiii^lish ships, j)ierccetween them sixteen; with fiftj-nve men, and on board a considerabh* sum in s|)ecie. On tlie twenty-sixth of March, he fell in with a Spanish ship, the Nereydn, \vlii(h had been enu;ai;ed in ca|)turinjy; American ships; he took the liberty of throwin*;; her i^uns overboard, and lib- ciatina; the ships and pris«»ncrs, tlie pirate had captured. This is probably one of the j»;roun;hts." 'I'he brij]; Knterpri'/.e, lieutenant VVilliarn Iluirows, sailed from Portsmouth on a cruise, al)out tlie first of September. On the fifth, a large man of war bii^ was discovered, to which he «»;ave chase. The enemv, after firinj; several guns, stood for the I'literprize with several ensigns hoist- ed. She nroved to be the Hoxer, of force somewhat su- perior to tlie f'nterpri'/,e. At twenty minules after three, the fuin*^ connTienced on both sides, within pist(»l shot. After the action had continued fifteen miimtes the En- terprize ran;^ed ahea, clasping it to his breast, "1 die cont 'uted;'' and not till then would he permit himself to be cairied below. Wlio will say that such a death is not truly heroick? while such a spiiit re- sides in the breasts of our seamen, they n)ay indeed be called invincibles; their bodies may be subdued, but their souls never can. The British loss was much njorc con- 15 i Wi' Vi. I ^ I, iW ■ iH: |5il •>' iro HISTORY OF THE WAR. siderablc, but not jjroperly ascertained; it is supposed how ever, tl»at between thirty and forty killed and wound- ed, anioii<»: the former her commander, captain Blyfhe. The bravado of nailing the flag to the mast, is an addi- tional proof of the terrour in which the Americans were now hold b} the enemy, which before affected to despise them. The co?itnvance of nailing the flug, was probably b<"rrowed from the Odyssey, where Ulysses caused him- self lo bo boiaid to the mast, that he might escape the •song of the Syrens, v\ '.lich even his great wisdom could not withstand. The two commanders, both promising youno; men, were interred beside each other at Portland, with militaiy hon- ours. The Bi'itish, as usual, set themselves to work to iletract from the honours of this victory. On the twenty-sixth of 8er«tember, the President, coin- modore llodgers, arrived at Newport, Rhode-Island, after a cruise of unusual length. lie put to sea on the thirtii'th •of April, in company with the Congress, captain Smitii. After cruising otf our coast without any im])ortant oc- currence, tliey parted on the eighth of May, and the com- modore s'r.aped his course to intercept the British West India trade; but meeting with nothing in this (juarter, he j^tood towards tlie Azores, where he continued until the sixth of June, without meeting any of the enemy's vessels. From information which he now received, he shaped his course to intercept the convoy from the West Indies to EngUunl. In this he was not successful, but made four captures, between the ninth and thirteenth of June, lie next cruised in the tiack from Newfoundland to St. George's channel, but without meeting a single vessel; being short oi provisions, he put into North Bergen on the twenty-seventh of June. lie thence steered towards the Orkneys, to intercept a convoy fiom Archangel; but about the middle of July, when in momentary expectation of metting with it, lie was chased by a ship of the line and a frigate, for several days, owing to the lightness of the winds. He next steered to gain the direction (»f the trade passing out and into the liisii channel. In this posi-ion he uuKle tln-ee captures; but finding that the enemy had a supcriour force near this, he made a circuit round ire- 111^1 HISTORY OF THE WAR. in land, and then steered for the banks of Newfoundland, wliMC he made two captures. On the twenty-third of September, he rajitured, in a singular manner, the British schooner riipjhUyer, tender to admiral Warren; on her approach to the President, she hoisted a private signal, which was ic: idontally answered by one that proved to be the Britisli si|\aal for that day; she accordinj^ly bore down and wdr- ^-.iptured. By this means the British pri- vate signals, and admiral Warren's private instructions, were obtained, and which enabled the commodore to avoid their s(|uaiseh— Correspondence hetwcen general Ilarrisoa and general Vincent. In the midst of the various occurrences of the war, on the northern frontier, on the sea-board, and on the ocean, important preparations were making to the westward; and although the spring and summer had passed away, without any incident in this quarter worthy of being re- corded, they had not passed inactive. The general at- tention was now turned towards it with much anxiety, and the armies of the Niagara and St. Lawrence, re- mained almost with fohlcd arms, av.aiting the issue of Harrison's campaign, and the result of the contest for the mastership of lake Erie. The British, aware of the con- sequence of a defeat, had with great assiduity laboured to strengthen themselves. The reinforcements contin- ually arriving at. fort George, were evidently destined to follow up the advantages which Proctor might gain, in conjunction with the commander on the lake. In the meanwhile, in the neighbouring states of Kentucky awl Ohio, the people were excited in a most surprising de- gree; had it been necessary they would have risen en masse; almost every man capable of bearing a musket, was anxious to march. Tne governour of Ohio had scarcely issued his proclamation, calling on volunteers, (for the obligations of law to render milita?y service were no longer thought of,) than fifteen thousand men present 15* i j^^^'^^^WlMliriil^^ ^*.:5vfei. iT'i HISTORY OF THE WA.1. qk\ tlu'ipsclvos, coinplolely armed iuu\ cc.injjpo('-njr.r!^ iIkiu live tiiiu's the iiuiuber re<|nii\Hl. The vrarfvlile «>;(*. venumr of Kentucky, Shelby, a revolutioMJiry hen>, and the. Nestor of tlie present war, nuulc it known ;uinary wnrs. At (his day, it blooms beneath the hand of agric ulture. It is fdleil witji beautiful towii;^ ;ind villages; and is the abode of peace, opulence and re- linemern. The inhabitants are descended from tne phui- ters of V'irginia and North (Carolina, nnd emi5i;rants, com- posed of the enterpri.-ing and intelligent of the odicr states. Living in abundance and at their ea.>e, nvA m( remote from the seats of commerce, they have imbiiiid less of foreign attachments or feelings, than any cf our people; and are perhaps more enthusiastically devoted to the iiisti- lutions of freedom. They have not a little of the manners of chivalry in their generous and hospitabl 'cportment. Fearless of danger, regarding dishonour more than ;e. In Ai;gu«t, jfnd before the arrival of the ^hio and Kentucky volunteers, which did not take place until f'le fuUowjng n.onth, threatening movements had been made \!pon all the ditterent forts, established by the Ain^' r^ti m-' HISTORY OF TIIR \^ A^v» 175 r^!^-i VC'il'V-vIn*' ";w- ury l\oi(), and cii'owu ll»;vt lie "or the nuutlc tl\o number of of KcMilucVy, ooily p;rouiul," i, ])(»ss<.'-^so(l by jovial the tho.v )lo()>us l)eneatK HMutii'ul towns )nlonce iiiul re- I IVoni t'ne plan- 'iuJ'i;rar.1;S c-jm- it of tlie olhrv ca 'Pj 5\nd in( ive imbi'.Vwil less ;y cf our people; ttedto theiustl- of U'.e manners [bl 'icporimeut. jiore than ^ ricans on the rivers whirh fall into lake I'irio. vVHer the siei;" of fort Meijis, th<' IJritish had beeri considciably reiniorced by rei;,u!ars, and an unusual nundKU- ot Indians, under their j:;re;j leader Tecumseh. It wiis all-important to revluce these torts before tlie arrival of the volunleers. Major ('ro;L!;han, then connnandin'^" at Upper Sandusky, havinj; received intimation tluil the etUMuy vvei'e about to invest the, fort ,unboats. After the general \r\i\ made such (lis])ositi(ms of his troops, as to cut off the retreat of the i^arrisoUjhe sent a Hag by cohjucl Elliot and nwijor ('hani- bers, denumdin*^ a surrender, accomp'anied witli tlie usual ba?^«e and detestable threats of butcherv and cold blood uwursacre, if the jj^arrisorv should hold out. A spirited answer was returne-"-'- 1 4 . ' '' !-■■• ;"^ 176' nisroRv OF the war. but not vvitli much oftVct. About four o'clock in the af- teriioou, it was discovtM'cd that the eiuMuy IkuI concen- trated Ids lire aj^ainst the northwest an^ie, with tl»e in- tention of making a breach. This part was innncdiately stren«;thened by the apposition of ba^s of llour and sand, so that tlie pickets suliered but little injury. During this time, the six pounder was carefully concealed in the i)as- tion, which covered the point to be assailed, and it was loaded with sluj^s and i;rape. About live hundred of the enemy now advanced in close column to assail the part where it was supposed the pickets must have been injured: at the same time makinj; several feints, to draw tlie at- tention of the besieaed to other parts of the fort: their force being tluis divided, a column of three hundred and iiUy men, which were so enveloped in smoke as not to be seen until thev approached witlnn twenty paces of the lines, advanced rapidly to the assault. A hre of muske- try fr(Mn the fort, for a moment threw them into confu- sion, but Mere then (juickly rallied by colonel Short, their connnn?ider, who, now sprin^^in'jj over the outer works in- to the ilitch, commanded the rest to tollow, cryin,<»; out, the d d Yankees n nuarter!" Scarcely had jvive these de\v stable words escaped his lips, and the jjreater part of ills followers landed in the ditch, when the six pounder opened upon them a most destructive fire, kill- ing and woundini>; tlie greater part, aiid amongst the first, the w rotchc'i leader, who was sent into eternity, before his words had died upon the air. A volley of musketry was, at the same time, fired upon those who had not ven- tuied. The olficer who succeeded Short, exasperated at being ilv.'^'^ treated by a few boys, formed his broken co- luiniv, and ngain rushed to the ditch, where he, and tliose who i«.ire■■-. .n M,ii,.„ sii.t'e " "'"^ '''•■'' '■"""*<"' 5>; "'« /-nu-.,. or ..very fr .,,',, "' • '"' ^'^''^fi't .I,.,,.,, "s n;'" <;n.sn,,,!. -Icserv,. I "'"""'.O'- 'Hk' scene ivl.id "«nle,l bv .nePcil.. Vf, .' ' :"'""^'" -»HTe l„o.|,, c«,„„li,,,e,,e ',"'?'■ "'^''''^ •''"'' volunteers «ar,ls receiye,l the tJrnW- V"' =*""^''''- '^'liey after- -"'«'^ "-" - elegant ^"o.^ It^fc'i^cliKr W- I ''^^^iil^i'^^t^tt^AMttli^, 'i)(bjl.te^'i 78 HISTORY OF THK WAR. '1^ I ■ ( \i- ^ Soon after this afliiilr Tecumseh raised the sioi^e of fort Mei<;8, and followed Proctor to Detroit; all iiope was wlveii U|) by tlie enemy of reducing these forts, until they could gain the ascendency on the lake. The utmost exertions had !)('cmi made in the meanwhile, by captain Perry, to complete the naval arujumeiit on lake Erie. By the fourth of August, the fleet was- com- pleted; but several of th.e vessels were with dilHculty got over the bar, on wliich there are but live (eet water. fie sailed in quest of the enemy, but not meeting him, re- turned on the eighth, and after receiving a reinfoicement of sailors, brought by captain Elliot, si; i led again (tn the twelfth, and on the Hfteenth anchored in the bay of San- dusky. Here, aftei taking in about twenty volunteer marines, he again went in quest of the en'.'my; and after cruising off Maiden, returned to Put-in-Kay, a distance of thirty miles. His ileot consisted of the brig Lawrence, of twenty guns; the Niagara, captain [''liiot, of twenty; the Caledonia, lieutenant Turner, three; {\{(i schooner Ariel, of four; the Scor]non, of two; the 8omers, of two, and two swivels; tlie sloop Trij)p!*, and schooners Ty- gress and Porcupine, of one gun each; making a Meet of nine vessels and fiftv-four iiuns. On the morniui;' of the tenth of September, the ejiemy was discovered bearing d(.iv/n upo-a the American squadron, which imincdiately got under weigh, and stood out to meet him. The supe- riority was decidedly in fivour of the Britisli; the Amer- icans had three moie vessels, but this was much more than counterbalanced by the size of those of the enemy, and the number of their guns. Their fleet consisted of the Detroit, captain Barclay, of nineteen guns, and two howitzers; the Queen Charlotte, of seventeen guns, captain Finnis; the schooner Lady Pre vest, lieutenant Buchan, of thirteen guns, and two howitzers; the brig Hunter, of ten guns; the sloop Little Belt, of three; and the schoon- er Chippewa, of one gun and two swivels; in all six ves- sels and sixty three guns. When the Americans stood out, the British fleet had the weather gage; Dut the wind soon after changed, and brought the American fleet to windward. The line oi totle was formed at eleven, and at tifteea minutes b '- iO!:;e of fort I hope was , until they moanwliile, •iiuiinont on 't was' com- i\x ilillkulty I feet water. ting hi»^^. »'e- ■irifiJicenient a^aiu on the J bay of San- ty voiunteer ly; ami after ly, a distance •i"- Lawrence, )t%f twenty; the schoauer choonefs Ty- king a lleet of konruifj; of the Ivered bearing iniiiictllately ^1. The supe- .h; the Anier- s much more of the enemy, .t consisted of tuns, and two h guns, captain uaut Buchan, r-io- Hunter, ot fuftlieschoau- I in all six ves- Itish fleet had changed, and The linti ^'^ Li minutes b'- HISTORY OF TIIK M AR. iri) fure (welve, tlie enemy's f!a;j; ship, the Queen Charlotte, ()|)ene(l lier lire upon the Lawrence, whicli she sustained fur ten minutes, before she could ap])roach near enough for iicr carronades to return. S!>e thei'efore bore up, making signals for the other vessels to hasten to her sup- port, and about twelve, brought her guns to bear upon the enemy. Unfortunately, the wind being ton lii:;ht, the re- mainder of the scjuadron could not be brought up to her assistance, and she was compelled to contend, for two hours, with two ships of ecpjal force. The contest was, notwithslanding, kept up with unshaken courage, and a (iejrree of coolness wnich deserves the hia;hest admiration. By this time the brig, which had so long borne the brunt ot*the whole of the British force, had become entirely un- manageable; every gun was dismounted, and, with the exception of four or live, her whole crew either killed or wounded. Perry now, with admirable presence of inind, and which drew forth the praise of the gallant ofticer to whom lie was opposed; resolved to shift his flag, leaped into his boat, and heroically waving his sword, passed unhurt to the Niagara. At the moment he reached the Niagara, he saw with anguish the flag of his ship come down; she was utterly unable to make futtlier resistance, and it would have been a wanton waste of the remaining lives, to continue the contest; the enemy was not able to take possession of her. Captain Elliott, seconding the design of the^ commodore, volunteered to bring- up the rest of the fleet; for at this critical moment the w ind had providentially increased. Perry now bore men Claxton and Swartwout. The loss of the Bi'itish was about two hundred in killed and wounded, and the number of |)nsoners amounted to six hundred, exceeding the whole number of the Americans. Com- modore Barclay, a gallant officer, who had lost an arm at the battle of Trafalgar, was severely wounded, and the loss of olFicers, on the side of the British, Mas unusually great. Among the oificers particularly spoken of on this occasion, were captain Elliot, lieutenants Turner, Ed- wards, Forest, Clark, and Cummings, besides those al- ready mentioned. •■'■■"^T'' """' ^ y«ii w iiy HISTORY OF rilK WAR. 181 ii'st time iu .ftt. But it ir of Perrv. ietl to hoist her captain \ce ran foul ■una of both V conipcUed he Niagara, flag of cap- hose of \\\e iter, and the ittle Belt at- ^unboats anil this unparal- vesscl of the the kind ever i glorious vic- r in which it Never was any event received with such unbounded demonstrations of joy. All party teelings were (or a moment forgotten, and this «i;lorious occurrence celebrat- f'tl bv illuminations and festivals, from one end of the ( ontinent to the other. It is highly gratifying to know, that the treatment of the British prisoners was such, as to call forth their thanks. Captain Barclay declared, that "the conduct of commodore Perry towards the captive officers and jnen, was sufficient, of itself, to immortalize him." We were now masters of the lake; but our territory was still in the possession of Proctor. The next move- ment would be against tlie British and Indians at De- troit and at Maiden. General Harrison called on a portion of the Ohio militia, wliich had been embodied; and on the seventh, four thousand Kentuckians, the Hower of the state, with their venerable governour, Isaac Shel- hy, the hero of king's mountain, at their head, arrived at Harrison's camp. With the co operation of the tleet, it was determined to proceed at once to Maiden: and at the same moment, colonel Johnson was ordered to pro- ceed with a body of Kentuckians to Detroit. These ac- cordingly marched; but on approaching the river Raisin, where those scenes of horrourhad been acted, the}^ halted sometime to contemplate the tragick spot. The feelings wliich they experienced on this occasion, cannot be de- scribed; many of them had lost their friends and rela- tions, whose bones they now gathered up, after in vain attempting to distinguish them; and theiefore consigned them to a common grave, with the most affecting demon- strations of grief. On the twenty-seventh, the troops were received on board, and on the same day reached a point below Mai- den. The British general had in the meanwhile destroy- ed the fort and publick stores, and had retreated along the Thames, towards the Moravian villages, together with Tecumseh's Indians. A number of females came out to implore the protection of the American general, as tliough it had been necessary: general Harrison had given order s that even Proctor, ii taken, shouUl not be hurt; nay the dwelling of the obnoxious Elliot, was not even touched 46 / 11 1' it I . '}' ■j < i 1 'X a 'I ftp IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 I.I 11.25 UiK^ 12.5 |50 l*^" IIIII^H 1.8 - 6" U llllil.6 V] ^ /2 7 c^l #1^^?^ M V Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14S80 (716) 872-4503 fT % 18.^ HlSrORY OF THE WAR. I', by the maj^nanimoiis Kentuckians, who had been repre- sented by iProctor as savages. It was now resolved by Harrison and Shelby, to pro- ceed immediately in pursuit of Proc!:or. On tiie second of October, they maiched with about three thousand five hundred men, selected for the purpose, consistinfl; of co- lonel Ball's dragoons, colonel Johnson's regiment, and other detachments of governour Shelby's volunteers. The heroick Perry accompanied general Harrison, as a volunteer aid. They moved with such rapidity, that they cncan^ped the first day at the distance of twenty-six miles. The next day they captured a guard, by whom they learned that Proctor was not aware of their ap- proach, but had sent to destroy the bridges. On the fourth, they were detained some time by a deep creek, the bridge over which had been partly destroyecl; and a number of Indians commenced an attack from the oppo- .site bank, but were dispersed by colonel Johnson, and the artillery of major Wood, while the bridge was repaired. On the other side, they captuied two thousand stand of arms; the houses containing the enemy's pu'plick stores, together with several vessels were on fire. On the fifth, the pursuit was renewed, when, after capturing some property to a considerable amount, they reached the place were the enemy had encamped the night before. Colo- nel Johnson was sent forward, to reconnoitre the British and Indian forces; and he very soc i returned with infor- mation, that they had made a stand a few miles distant, and were ready for action. They were drawn up across a narrow strip of land, covered with beach trees, and hemmed 'n on one side by a swamp, 'and on the other bv the river; their left rested on the river, supported by their artillery; and their right consisted of the Indians under Tecuniseh, who occupied the more dense forest in the vicinity of the morass. The American troops were now formed in order of battle. General Trotter's brigade formed the front line, with general Desha's division en potence on the left, (ieneral King's brigade formed a second line, in the rear of. general Trottei", and Chile's, as a corps of reserve; lioth under the conunand of major-general Henry. Each bngade avi by Desha's venerable S hundred an Pjing a nar the purpose repulsed. Jonnson's ir the Indians; cavalry toai of attack alt back wood 's- inconvenien( situation, he and charge c trees; the m in front. T this way, wh fire, and wen in front of th« soon after goi broke through fninute the co instantly fort] fife, and were Rrifish officer! fanks, imniedi ^'pon the le ?reat fury. C /bat flank ofh »e returned w jards the poii nrst made an brought a regi raged with inci twelve or fiftee tain their grou cumseh could Hours; and alt that of the mo courage than h, ! ■iMtti epre- ) pro- »coiul d five of co- t, and iteers. I, as a it they ity-six whom eir ap- On the creek, , and a J oppo- and the jpairetl. itaud of store«, he fifth. g some he plate Colo- British :h infor- distant, across jes, and ptherby irted by Indian;^ forest in lorder of lont line, Ithe left. Ithe rear reserve; Each HISTORY OF THE WAR. 183 biigade averaged five hundred men. The an^le formed by Desha's brigade and Trotter's, was occupied by the venerable Shelby. The regular troops, amounting to one hundred and twenty men, were formed in columns, occu- pying a narrow space between the road and the river, for the purpose of seizing the artillery, should the enemy be repulsed. General Harrison had at first ordered colonel Jonnson's mounted men to form in two lines, in front of the Indians; but the underwood beinii: two close here for cavalry to act with any effect, he determined upon a mode of attack altogether new. Knowina; the dexterity of the backwood's-men in riding through forests, and the little inconvenience to them of carrying their riiles in such a situation, he determined to refuse his left to the Indians, and charge on the regulars drawn up among the beech trees; the mounted regiment was accordingly drawn up in front. The army moved on but a short distance in this way, when the mounted men received the enemy's fire, and were instantly oidered to charge. The horses, in front of the column, at first recoiled from the fire; but soon after got in motion, and immediately at full speed broke through the enemv with irresistible force. In one minute the contest was over in front. The mounted men insta?7tly formed in the rear, and poured a destructive fire, and were about to make another charge, when the British ollicers, finding it impossible to form their broken ranks, immediately surrendered. Upon the left, tlie onset was begun by Tecumseh with ^reat fury. Colonel R. M. Johnson, who commanded on that flank of his regiment, received a galling fire, which he returned with effect, while the Indians advanced to- wards the point occupied by governour Shelby; and at first made an impression on it; but the aged warriour broudit a regiment to its support. The combat now raged with increasing fury; the Indians to the number of twelve or fifteen hundred, seemed determined to main- tain their ground to the last. The terrible voice of Te- cumseh could be distinctly heard, encouraging his war- Hours; and although beset on every side, excepting on that of the morass, they fought with more determuied courage than had ever been witnessed in these people. :!* ^ ■ ■•! nil t J ■U'i .1 184 HISTORY OF THE WAR. An incident soon occurred, however, which decided the contest. Colonel Johnson rushed towards the spot v^herc the warriours, clusterinj:; around their undaunted chief, apj»earp(l resolved to perish by his side; in a moment a hundred rifles were aimed at the American, whose uni- form and white horse which he rode rendered a con- spicuous object; his holsters, dress, and accoutrements, were pierced with bullets, his horse and himself receiv- ing^ a number of wounds. At the instani hts horse was about to sink under him, the daring Kentuckian, covered with btood from his wounds, was discovered by Tecum- seh; the chief having discharged his rifle, sprang forward with his tomahawk, but struck with the appearance of the warriour who stood before him, hesitated for a moment, and that moment was his last. The Kentuckian levelled a pistol at his breast, and they both, almost at the same instant, fell to the ground.* The Kentuckians rushed forward to the rescue of their leader, and the Indians, no longer hearing the voice of Tecumseh, soon after fled. Near the spot where this scene occurred, thirty Indians were found dead, and six whites. Thus fell Tecumseh, the most celebrated Indian war- riour that ever raised the tomahawk against us, and with him fell the last hope of our Indian enemies. This mighty warriour was the determined foe of civilization, and had for years been labouring^ to unite all the Indian tribes in opposing the progress oi the settlements to tlie westward. Had such a man opposed the European colo- nists on their first arrival, this continent, in all proba- bility, would still have been a wilderness. To those who prefer a savage, uncultivated wa«te inhabited by wolves and panthers, and by men more savage still, to the busy city, to the peaceful hamlet and cottage, to science and the comforts of civilization, to such it may be a source of regret that Tecumseh came too late. But if the cultiva- tion of the eartli, and the cultivation of the human intel- lect and the human virtues, are agreeable in the sight of * C<)lonel Johnson is still a member of congress. In this affair I liave adopted the popular story: but 1 aiu awai-e that it has been ile- nied the Indian killed by colonel Johnson was Tecumseh. Until it shall be formally denied by him, I shall think it my duty to relate the fitory as I find it. ^H ■m w«r*ir^ affair I leen i'*-" lUntil it lltitc Uvo ■^' 1 ' ♦ f 0^.ik 'mrnmum^- the Cre&i champion a period, his own 1 strength. as a great took priso been taken tuallyput 1 work of inj ment with his death, h cumseh hai hand of nat state of soc (listinguishe mind, with i dignity in h he could be the rest of tl VV'hen girdei tor that he v for his condu the present v to command, submission tc precedence. of uncommon parison with Greece and R frequent occa the reproaches before his dea ihe papers of i monly elegant tectlj proporti I victors, by wh< [veterate, but a In this engaa P'lrs killed, an !!>nsoners. Th( Ma'*aak^ i ai» tfii' ih HISTORY OP THE WAR/ 18.1 the Creator, it may be a just cause of felicitation that this chaninion of barbarism was the ally of Great liritain, at a period, when he couhl only draw down destruction on liis own head, by sava^el)^ daring what was beyond his strcngtlu But Tecumseli fell respected by his enemies, as a great and a magnanimous chief. Although he neldom took prisoners in battle, he treated well those that had been taken by others; and, at the defeat of Dudley, ac- tually put to death a chief whom he found engaged in the work of massacre. He had been in almost every engage- ment with the whites since Harmer*s defeat, although at his death, he scarcely exceeded forty years of a^e. Tc- cumseh had received the stamp oi greatness from the hand of nature, and had his lot been cast in a different state of society, he would have shone as one of the most distinguished of men. He was endowed with a powerful mind, with the soul of a hero. There was an unconmion dignity in his countenance and manners; by the former he could be easily discovered even after tleath, among the rest of the slain, for he wore no insignia of distinction. When girded with a silk sash, and told by general Proc- tor that he was made a brigadier in the British service, for his conduct at Brownstown and Magag-ua, he returned the present with respectful contempt. Born with no t'tlc to command, but his native greatness, every tribe yiehied submission to him at once, and no one ever disputed his precedence. Subtle and fierce in war, he was possessed of uncommon eloquence,— his speeches might bear a com- parison with those of the most celebrated orators of Greece and Rome. His invective was terrible, as we had frequent occasion to experience, anil as may be seen in the reproaches which he applied to Proctor, a fev days [before his death, in a speecn which was found amongst I the papers of the British officers. His form was uncom- jHionly elegant; his stature about six i'ceAy his limbs per- fectly proportioned. He was honourably interred by the victors, by whom he was held in much respect, as an in- |veterate, but a magnanimous enemy. In this engagement the British loss was nineteen regu- lars killed, and fifty wounded, and about six hundred ||)risoners. The Indians left one hundred and twenty on I'll m !'.. 1: vy ■ '.■*' i- -: C TrU«i-..j^.i,^J,.^^^_ k1 l\ ■ » 5 j8r> HISTORY OF THE WAR. (he field. The Ami'iican loss, in killed ami wounded, amounted io upwards of fifty; seventeen of tlie slain were Kentuckians, and among tiiem, colonel Whitelj, a soldier of the revolution, who served on this occasion as a private. Several pieces of brass cannon, the tro- phies of our revolution, surrendered by Hull, were once more iesrisoners th thon took oc iJiities comn of vvarfaj-e w cans. He f the Miami, \ general Prof slander of tl ^t:d, that inn t>l a deviutioi (nith of thes led.^'e of gen ■'^;ited, that, 'ictly purely score of recif nster, i same : recol- justi- ts wi\o dispo- ioss of 1 as an toma* inflict ! cruel- ut ti e to the look of Irder of Iributcd merely lly ca- iuhabi- w'liith it not a at that lul.and ervvent Nor was the treatment of the conquered savages less ojeneious. Peace was granted them, and during the suc- •eetling winter tlicy were actually subsisted at the pub- lick expense. Tliey stipulated to raise the tomahawk against their former friends, but engaged not to assail the defenceless and the non-combatant.* The Indian war being now settled, and security re- stored to our frontier, the greater part of the volunteers were permitted to return home; und Harrison, ahei sta- tioning general Cass at Detroit, with about one thousand men, proceeded, according to his instructions, with the rcujainder of his force, to join the army of the centre at liullhloe. Shortly before his arrival at this place, an in- (oresting correspondence between him and general Vin- « eiit, was brouglit on by a request from the latter, that the British prisoners in his possession might be treated with humanity. General Harrison, after assuring him tha\ such a request was unnecessary, referred him to the |)ris()ners themselves for information on this score. He then took occasion to go into n minute detail of the enor- mities committed by the British and Indians, in the mode of warfare which they had practised towards the Ameri- cans. He painted the scenes of ihe river Raisin, and the Miami, with others of a similar character, and which general Proctor had attempted to cover by an infamous slander of the western people: he at the same time sta- ted, tiiat in no single insta?ice had the British complained of a deviation from civilized warfare on our part; for the truth of these Aicts, he appealed to the personal kjiow- ledi^'e of general Vincent. General Harrison distinctly stated, tliut, in his ircatment to British prisoners, he actly purely from a sense of humanity, and not on the score of reciprocity, and as there were still a number of tliose Indians, v»1k> reside beyond the boundaries of the Uiiited States, in the employment of the British, he »^ow wished to be informed explicitly, whether these allies would be restrained in future, or whether general Vincent would permit them to practise their usual cruelties. ** 'I'ho Brilisl) ministers at Client Ji year afte. v. ards, flciriiinded as a :--'-ip (jua )iOii, that P.n article s'lould be iuserti'd in tlie tnaty in Favoui; •)i these their quaudam allies, but v/ho were at that time their e.ieniies. ' 4 . 1 }■ , ■ I \ If 'r \\ ; 1 y t 1 .■*«4to:*i«.Xtil-. 4-^Jki 1S8 mSTOKY OK THE WAR. i **Vac tlu'ii, 1 |iruy you," Haul he, "your authority and inllunuc to stop the dreadlul effusion of innocent Llood, which proceeds from the euqdoytnent of those savjiijje monsters, whose aid, as must now be i° tlif Aiiici'icikii fiiiTt s — (irinrul NV ilkiiisoii (Icshci-imI^i 'llu' .^t. I>:i\u-(iicr— •IJatllc of (^lirvHlltT h fulil— llminiloii'.s inaliility to •■o-()|K'iat<' — Kailiire ot tlie cxpcilition— (yniiHr (tf commodore (.'liuiiiict')— 'I'lu- bui'uiug of Newark— Hritisli n-laliation. X Ml', glorious result of thr operations of (lie north-west- n II army, ami the splendid victory on the lake, opened the uuy to a more eftectual invasion of ('anada. Wc were now in the situation thiit we should have been at the couuuenecment of the war, had Hull's expedition proved successful. There was, however, this ditlercnce, tliat the British had time to j)rovide for a defence, by collecting troops, disciplining tlieir niiliti , and fortifying the bor- ders of (Jje St. Lawrence. On the other hand, a more for- midable force was collected on the frontier, than at any time since the war, under oflicers whose merits had been tiied in actual service; and besides, the greater i)art of the Indians on our froutierw had declared against tne Bri- lir.l!. 'j'he publick was now so elated by the series of bril- liant victories to the westward, tiiat it was thought the tide of fortune had at last turned in our favour, and it was exp«'cted that the administration would go about the conrpiest of Canada in earnest. At the head of the war department, there was now a man of energy and distinfjuished talents, who had resided a long time abroad; and it was supposed, that from the natural bias of his mind to military affairs, he had availed himself of his opportunities to the best advantage. Much ^vas expected from him. In a short time it was acknow- ledged, that great improvements were introduced into this department, particularly in the selection and pro- motion of the officers of the army. General Armstrong, knowing the sanguine expectations which prevailed tlirough the United States, proceeded to the northern frontier, with a plan of operations digested in the cabinet; and which he intended to see put in execution under his own eye. The plan as afterwards developed was in itself ^$ i ' t«.'Httki *'*:U»..f 190 nihlORY OF THE WAR. judicious, but there was, perhaps, in its execution, not ji siifticient alUtwance for a change of circumstances. Al- though the season was far advanced, much might yet be done; but, to satisfy the publick expectations, to the ex- tent to whicli they had been raised by the success of Har- rison, was scarcely possible. Little short of the com- idete conquest of Canada would suifice, and but vague ideas of the nature of the enterj)rise, and the difticulties to be encountered, prevailed tiirougliout the great body of the nation. The people in this country, like other sovereigns, are unfortunately too apt to look little further than the success or failure of their agents, without much weighing the peculiar circumstances under which they may have acted. To .he desire of doing too much, may perliaps be attributed the misfortunes we experienced in a campaign, which resiulted so dittercntly from our wishes and expectations. After the resignation of general Dearborn, general Wilkinson, who tiien commanded in the southern section of the union, was called to the command of the Ameri- can forces. It was generally admitted, that he possessed a greater share of military science than any one in the army. The general, on taking command, issued an order which gave universal satisfaction; and it was expected that, for the sake of firmly establishi)ig his reputation be- yond the power of his enemies, he would endeavour to render some signal service to his country. I'he force under his command, on the Niagara, amounted to eight thousand regulars, besides tliose under Harrison, who was expected in the course of the month of October. General Hampton, a distinguished revolutionary oflicer, had also been called from the south, and appointed to the command of the army of the north, then encamped at Plattsburg, and amounting to about four thousand men. As the season for military operations was drawing to a close, it was determined to lose no time, and measures were immediately taken for carrying into effect the pro- jected invasion. The outline of the plan which had been adopted, was simply to descend the St. Lawrence, pass- ing the 13ritish posts above, and "fter a junction with ge- neral Hampton at some designated point on the river, proceed words and swoj them hoi opinion at var; Kingston f lie latter taking ^] above th;i ef his reii greeof ur wise to m not to ta! those case great or (i( Tlie an corps, and centrated atiou. Fo between S, on account most prope tober, gpTK principal b island, whe the necessa terprise. J at which pi their necess dezvous. < at fort Geo of artillery, vessel of th lonel Denni hour; and i\ ber of boat: Lawrence, | the twenty- seven thousj ter's light ar ii(»t a Al- ct be e ex- Hai- coin- ^a|»;ue ulties body otlier irtber much I tliey , may >d in a wishes en eriil section /Vmcri- isessed in the I order pec ted ion be- our to force eight p, who Ictober. loflicer, to the ed Tit men. g to a asures |ie pro- \ been , pass- lith ge- river, TITSTOUY OF TflK W AU. 191 proceed to the island of Montreal; and then, to use the words of ji^eneral ^Vilkln^on, *Mheir artillery, bayonets, and swords, must secure them a triumph, or provTde for them honourable graves." It is said tuat a difllerence of opinion existed between the «»;eneial and the secretary at war; the former not considerinj; it prudent to leave Kinjjston, and other British garrisons, in the rear; while the latter seemed to think, that as there was no doubt of taking Montreal, all the posts on the river and lakes above that place, must fall of course. The correctness »f his reasoiung catmot be denietl; but as there is a de- gree of uncertainty in every human undertaking, it is un- wise to make no allowance for some possible failure, and not to calculate the corisecjuences; excepting indeed, in those cases, where the party, like Ctesar, resolves to be great or dead. The army, whicli ha'tire. Tlie day being now too far spent to attempt the Saut, it was resolved to post- pone it until the day following. At ten o'clock on the eleventh, at the moment that the flotilla was about to proceed, and when at the same time, the division under general Boyd, consisting of his own and the brigades of generals Covington and Swaitwout, were drawn up in marching order, an alarm was given that the enemy was discovered approaching in column. The commander-in-chief and general Lewis, being both too much indisposed to take the command, general Boyd was ordered to face about and attack the approaching army. The enemy's galleys had at the same time ap- proached, for the purpose of attacking the rear of the American flotilla. General Boyd now advanced with his detachment formed in three columns, and ordered a part of general Swartwout's brigade to move forward, and bring the enemy to action. Colonel Ripley, accord- ingly, at the head of the twenty-first regiment, passed the wood which skirts ti>e open ground called Chrystler's field, and drove in sever al of the enemy's parties. On entering the field, he met the advance of the British, consisting of the forty-ninth and the Glengary fencibles. Colonel Ripley immediately ordered a charjre, which was executed with such surprising firmness, that these two regiments, nearly double his numbers, were com- '--*■■ ■P^ • ■i:'=~; ,1 «.. A- r, Wmmm^m. ^»^vfmi>^sma i96 HISTORY OF THE WAR. h pellcd to retire; ami on makinj^ a stand, were a second time driven before tlic bayonet, and compelled to pass over the ravines and fences, by which the field was inter- sected, until they fell on their main body. Generul Coviii'»;tou had, before this, advanced upon the rij2;ht of the enemy, where his artillery was posted, and at the mo- ment colonel Ripley had assailed the left flank, the r'v^hi. was forced by a determined onset, and success appearod scarcely doubtful. IJnfoitunately, however, j[5eneral (o- virit^ton, whose activity had rendered him conspicuous, became a nuirk for the sharp-shooters of the enemy sla- tioncd in Cinystler's house, and he was shot from his horse. The fall of this gallant officer arrested the pro- 5>ress of the bri«»;ade, and the artillery of the enemy threw it into confusion, and caused it to fall back in disorder. Tile Tlritish comniander now wheeled part of his line into column, with the view of capturing some pieces of artillery, vhich were no longer supported. A body of dragoons, under the adjutant-general, Walbach, attempt- etl, in a very gallant manner, to charge the British co- lumn, but from the nature of the ground was not suc- cessful. At this critical moment, colonel Ripley, who had been engaged with the enemy's left flank, threw his regiment between tiie artillery and the advancing co- lumn, and frustrated their design. The British fell back with precipitation. The regiments which had broken, had not retired from the field, but still continued to keep up an irregular fight with Various success; and the twen- ty-first having by this time expended its ammunition, and being much exposed, was withdraw^n to another po- sition, and in the meanwhile the enemy again attempted to possess themselves of the artillery. One piece was unfortunately captured by them, in consequence of tlie death of lieutenant William S. Smith, who commanded it; the others were brought oft' by the coolness and bravery of captain Armstrong Irvine. The action soon after ceased, having been kept up for two hours, by little better tliaii raw troops against an equal number of v«terans. The British force consisted of detachments from tlu- forty-ninth, eighty-fourth, hundred and fourth, the Volti- geurs, and the Glengary regiment. The enemy soon after n boats. In tl wounde whom ( were lii the woi died; c Cummin bell, ant I-ynch, 1 could no Both^ it was pi tlieir enc I'erhaps, again ass granted, i ral Browr Rapids, a eleventh, the ad van ( der-in-chi< which, in once to tl Montreal. On the s field, the c ral Hampt this order, in which, a state of ger situation of possible to carried by i a ccmniunic any other j mander-in-c time before Jiis troops, ] t'le same tii HISTORY OP THK WAK. 197 after retired to their camp, ami the Americans to their boats. In this battle the loss of the Americans, in killed and wounded, amounted to three hundred and thirty-nine, of whom one hundred and two were killed: amont; these were lieutenants Smith, Hunter, and Olmstead; among the wounded, were j»;eneral Covinjijton, who afterwards died; colonel Preston, majors Chambers, Noon and Cumminj^s; captains Townsend, Foster, Myers, Camp- bell, ami Murdock; and lieutenants Heaton, Williams, Lynch, Pelham, Brown, and Creery. The Britisli loss could not have been less than tiiat of the Americans. Both parties claimed the victory on this occasion, but it was properly a drawn battle; the British retiring to tlieir encampments, and the Americans to their boats. Perhaps, from the circumstance of the enemy's neVer again assailing the American army, it may be taken for granted, that they were defeated in their object. Gene- ral Brown had, in the meanwhile, reached the foot of tlie Rapids, and awaited the arrival of the army. On the eleventh, the army proceeded on its course, and joined the advance near Barnhart. At this place, t!ie comman- der-in-chief received a letter from general Hampton, which, in the most unexpected manner, put an end at once to the further prosecution of the design against Montreal. On the sixth, a few days before the battle of Chrystler's field, the commander-in-chief had given orders to gene- ral Hampton, to meet him at St. Regis; but soon after this order, a letter was received from general Hampton, in which, after stating that from the disclosure ot the state of general Wilkinson's supply of provisions, and the situation of the roads to St. Regis, which rendered it im- possible to transport a greater quantity than could be- carried by a man on his back, he had determined to open a communication from Plattsburgh to Conewago, or by any other point on the St. Lawrence, which the ccm- mander-in-chief might indicate. General Hampton some- time before tliis, with a view to a further movement of his troops, had descended the Cliateaugay river; about the same time that the army was concentrated on lake M ii -iE M* '^i?;v>^ ^'^^^W*'!P5&i a.„V6«./»/;,,^,„„ 108 HISTORY OF THE WAR. 'I I l!i> i'l li ^1 Ontario. Sir Geort:!;e Prevost perceiving this moveinoni towards Montreal, liad collected all his force at ti«is point, to oppose the march of Hampton. On the twenty- first of October this officer crossed the line, but soon found his road obstructed by fallen timber, and the ambuscade of the enemy's militia and Indians. A wood of consider- able extent would have to be passed, before they could reach the open coin-try, and while the engineers were (Migased in cutting a way through, colonel Purdy was de- tached with the light tioops and one regiment of the line, to turn their flank, and then seize on the open country below. In this he succeeded, and the army by the next day reached the position of the advance. But it was discovered that about seven miles further, there was a wood which had been felled and formed into an abatis, and that a succession of breast-works, some of them well 'Uipplied with artillery, had been formed by the main body of the enemy. Colonel Purdy, on the twenty-fifth, was ordered to march down ihe river on the opposite •>ide, and on passing the enemy, to cross over, and attack him ill his rear, whilst the brigade under general Izard V ould attack him in front. Colonel Purdy had not marched far, when his orders were countermanded; but on his return, he was attacked by the enemy's infantry and Indians, and at first thrown into some confusion, i>ut the assailants were soon after repulsed; they came ovit at the same moment in front, and attacked general Izard, but were compelled to retire behind their defences, (leneral Hampton receiving information that the enemy were co)itinuaily reinforced, resolved, on the advice of \ih ofilcers, to retreat to a position which he had occupied yiome days before, called the Four Corners, where he ar- rived on the last day of the month. The British claimed u victory for this affair, which they say was gained with a very inferior force. But it was not the intention of gen- eral Hampton to penetrate to Montreal, but merely to divert the attention of the British from the army of gene- Tal Wilkinson, with which it was his intention to form a junction some days afterwards. Having accomplished iiis object; he fell back to the position whence he could, ^\ith greater facility, make his way to some point on fh** St. Lav iler of tor aire (oinplia munica by whic [niign w cd to re /roops example Ids corps Thus salisfacti had been peared ti cess whic to the ca ought to I kinson, af supplies, J to nave j: health, he would hav With res| fay, that ii implicit re he alleged With resp tainly judi( eti. By se and strong] «pper and ^Iie most i season, how just expectj that Montr some length greater thar secretary at operations o than service TT^» HISTORY OF THE WAR. 199 ^t vemsni at ti«^s Lwentv n found buscadc onsider- y could jrs were was d*"- the line, country the next t it was re was a in abatis, hem well the main enty-fifth, i opposite nd attack ral Izard had not r\ded; but infantry :r,nfusion, ley came d general defences. le enemy I advice ot occupied lere he ar- li claimed led with a ^n of gen- lerely to of gene- Ito form a )mplished lie could, Int on {he St. Lawrence. It was then tliat on tlie receipt of the or- der of the commander-in-chief, he despatched the let- ter already mentioned, stating the impracticability of a ( ompliance. On tl.g receipt of general Hampton's com- munication, a council of the principal officers was called, by which it was determined tliat tlie objects of the cam- paign were no longer attainable; it was therefore resolv- ed to retire into winter quaifers at French Mills. The troops under general Hampton soon after followed his example, and in consecpience of the illness of that officer. Ids corps was left under the command of general Izard. Thus terminated a campaign, which gave rise to dis- satisfaction, pioportioned to the high expectations which had been indulged; this unexpected turn of affairs ap- peared to cast a shade upon all the brilliant series of suc- cess which had preceded. Opinion was much divided as to the causes of tlie failure, and as to the parties who ought to bear tlie blame. With respect to general Wil- kinson, after the disappointment in his reinforcement and supplies, it would not perhaps have been prudent for hiirt to nave persevered; and besides, from the state of his health, he was not qualified to carry into execution what would have required the utmost vigour of mind and body. With respect to Hampton, military men will probably say, that it was his duty to have obeyed; but if we place Implicit reliance upon the correctness of the facts which he alleged, it will be difficult to condemn his conduct. With respect to the whole plan of operations, it was cer- tainly judicious; it ought from the first to have been adopt- ed. By seizing a favourable position on the St. Lawrence and strondy fortifying it, the communication between the upper and lower provinces would have been cut off, and the most important results would have followed. The season, however, m as too far advanced to attempt it with just expectations of success. It is by no means certain, that Montreal could have been taken without a siege of i^oine length; an I the strength of the British was probably greater than it had been supposed. The presence of the secretary at war, for the purpose of superintending the operations of the campaign, was perhaps more injurious than serviceable. He was by no means in a situation in. W^ •.f ■ 3 ' * *a«*^^.^ ■*' 200 HISTORY OF THE WAR. ^vhicb he could be considered responsible, although in case of success, the merit of it would be assigned to him. This is an unfair and improper interference which ought to be condemned. While these things were taking place on the land, the commander of our squadron on the lake was not idle. , Commodore Chauncey, it has been seen, after his first at- tempt to bring the enemy to action, returned to Gackett's Harbour, for the purpose of obtaining a fresh supply of provisions. After bein^ reinforced by a new schooner, ] |i lie again sailed on a cruise; and on the seventh of Sep- tember, discovered the British squadron near the Niagara, and immediately stood for it. Sir James, on perceiving the Americans, made sail to the northward, and was pur- sued during four days and nights; but owing to the dull sailing of a greater part of the pursuers, lie was enabled to keep out of their reach. On the fourth day, off Genesee river, commodore Chauncey having a breeze, while sir James lay becalmed, endeavoured to close with him; this he was not able to accomplish, the enemy taking the brecie also, when thie American squadron had approached v it.iin half a mile. After a running fight of more than thiee hours, *.he British escaped; but the next morning ran into Amherst bay, whither the American commodore, for want of a pilot, did not think it prudent to follow, but content- ed himself with forming a blockade. In the running fight, the British sustained considerable injury; that of the Ame- ricans was very trifling. The blockide -vas continued until the seventeenth of September, when in consequence of a heavy gale which blew irom the westwr^rd, the commo- dore was compelled to leave his station, and tlie British escaped into Kingston. After remaining but a short time in Sackett's Harbour, commodore Chauncey again sailed towards Niagara, where he arrived on the twenty-fourth, having passed sir James at the False Ducks, without noticing him, intending to draw him into the lake. A few days after, the American commodore received information, that the enemy was in the harbour of York; he therefore made sail to that place, as fast as his dull sailing schooners would permit; and on the twenty-seventh, early in the morning, discovered the ^■nemy him. ' and ent that th€ (tivn in at the J 1 eai- of I vented 1 down in was tlir a^vay, bi hy chat ( and rniz away; tl and kee|] the great coiitinuei tov/, and f'/the enc lieutenan close wit! v.as at lei ahnoht a cjiemy be ^vithout g was just I though thf heaten; tw in the com with the ^ dition to i fair on lak to avoid ai considerab the fire of was occas vhich twi total amou deal cut ui ' Shortly; inunicated ^^rirn HISTORY OF THE WAR. i201 <'iieniy in motion in the bay, and immediately stood for him. This b^ine perceiveu by sir James, he stooii out and endeavourecf to escape to the southward; but finding that the American was closing upon him, tacked his squa- dron in succession; and commenced a well directed tire at the Pike, in order to cover his rear; and attacking the 1 ear of his opponent as he passed to leeward; this was pre- vented by tiiv; skilful manceuvring of Chauncey, by bearing clown in line on the centre of the enemy's squadron, which was thrown into confusior , and Yco immediately bore away, but not before his snip had been roughly handled by that of the commodore. In twenty minutes, the main and rnizentopmast and mainyard of the Wolf, were shot away; the British commander set sail upon his foremast, and keeping dead before the wind, was enabled to outsail the greater part of Chauncey's sc^uadron. The chase was continued until three o'clock, the Pike having the Asp in tov/, and during the greater part of this time, within reach of the enemy's shot. Captain Crane, in the Madison, and lieutenant Brown, of the Oneida, used every exertion to close with the enemy, but wit'.ioul^, success. The chase was iif length reluctantly given up, as it came on to blow almost a gale, and there was no hone of closing with the enemy before he could reach the British batteries, and without great risk of running ashore. The commodore was justly entitled to claim a victory in this affair; al- though the enemy were not captured, they were certainly beaten; two of his vessels were at one m.oment completely in the commodore's power; but from his eagerness to close with the whole fleet, they effected their escape. In ad- dition to the general policy of sir James Yeo, the late af- fair on lake Erie had rendered him particularly careful to avoid an engagement. The loss on board the Pike was considerable, owing to her having been so long exposed to the fire of the enemy's fleet; tlie most serious, however, was occasioned by the bursting of one of her guns, by vhich twenty-two men were Killed and wounded; the total amounted to twenty-seven. The vessel was a good deal cut up in her hull and rigging. ' Shortly after this aftkir, the commodore having com- municated with general Wdkinson on the subject of the !^) If' 'I ( \ I' 202 HIS rORY OF THE WAR. ' -r;. expedition -lien on foot, was advised to continue to watch the enemy's squadron; and, if possible, to prevent its re- turn to Kingston. About the beginning of October, tlie con)(nodore again chased '• nem^^'s fleet for several days, and forced it to take < ge in Burlington bay; the next inornin;^, on sending the Lady of the Lake to recon- noitre, it was discovered that sir James had taken advan- tage of the darkness of the night, and escaped lo Ivingstou. Much pleasantry was indulged at this time, at the siiy- ncss of the British knight, and his ungallant escape from the Lady of the Lake. The chase was now renewed, and, favoured by the wind, the commodore came in siglit of seven schooners, and captured five of them, in spite of their eftbrts to escape by separating. Before sun-down, three of them struck to the l*ike, and another to the ^y\\ih and the Lady of the Lake, and a tilth was afteivvard* cap- tured by the Sylpii. They tuined out to be gun ve>sc!s, bound to the head of tlie Ijikc as transports. Two of them were the Julia and (srowler, which nail been lost by the Americans. On boird were three hundred soldiers, be- longing to the De Watteville regiment. It was ascer- tained that the ship of sir James Yeo, and the Royal George, had sutiered very considerable injury, as well as loss in killed and wounded. Commodore Chauncey re- mained master of the lake during the remainder of the season. It was not long before the consequences of leaving a large force in the rear, and withdrawing the troops from the Niagara, were felt. General Harrison reached Buf- faloe some days after the departure of the commander-in- chief; and was to follow immediately, but was compelled to wait until some time in November, in consequence of the deficiency of transports. It was not until jii;eneral Wilkinson had gone into winter quarters, that Harrison embarked; orders had been previously sent for him to re- main, but unfortunaiely these did not reach fort George until after his departure. The fort was left under the command of general M'Clure, his force consisting entirely of militia, whose term of service had nearly expired. By the tenth of December, the force under general M*Clure was reduced to a handful of men, and on a consultatiop of office no longc enemy v general blown u treat of which e excited States. • U'low th tiiation, had tliei it became the vilhji taking sh after givi effects, fii This act ^ was prom lowing, th himself to uith a fori To this, ar by the gov tion, that I of the burn ised b^ the American wanton anc the hounds to the infim fortunate st The diffe carried on I striking: th taliation for considering ledged by t Pntish proc inquire whe approved oi ^"V^ . 'Ti HISTORY OF THE WAR. Has I to watch X its re- Dber, tlie ■ several bay; tl»e to recon- i\ ailvan- dujijSion. the sliy- ape IVom renewed, e in sii^lit n spite of ^un-dovvn, the J^vlpii V a I'd a tap- W Ve^acl8, K) of them ost by t'oe »hiiers, bc- vvas astei- the R<)yai as well as \uncey re- cler of the leaving a oops from of officers, it was nnaniinously aj^reed, that this nlace was no longer tenable. It was moreover ascertained, that the enemy was on his marcli witli a considerable force. The general had scarcely time to pass the river after having l)U)wn up the fort, before the British appeared. 'I'he re- treat ot general M'Clure was also prece any miles, exhibited a scene of ruin and devastation. Here was indeed ample vengeance for the burning of Newark. Even the British •j;eneral was satisfied, as appears by his proclamation of \\h\ twelfth ol January: "the opportunity «)f punishment has occurred, ami a full meaxnrc of retribution haa tnfcpu placr:** nm\ he declared his intentiim of "|)ursuing no fur- ther a system of warfare so revolting to his own feelings, and so little congenial to the British character." It may l)e well to ask, whether the conflagrations and pillaging antecedently committed on lake Champlain, and the hor- rid outrages in the Chesapeake, in the course of the sum- mer, were also in retaliation for the burning of Newark? Certain it is that this att'air not only produced anticipated retaliation, but was followed up by subsequent retaliatory measures with insatiate vengeance. 'I'he devastating de- cree of admirfil Cochrane was founded in part on the allair of Newark, and the groundless charge of burning a brick house in Upper Canada, in whicli the Aineiicans found a human scalp. It waB not enough that ihe burning of tins unfortunate village should have been reprobated and disa- vowed by our government; it was not enough tliat it should be expiated by an extensive scene of murder and confla- !i;ration, which, according to the admission of sir George Prevost, amply glutted the vengeance of Biitain; but our extensive sea-coast of fifteen hundred miles, and our popu- lous and flourishing cities, must be i>;lven to destruction and pillage, to fill up the measure of British retaliation. These things will, however, be detailed in the proper place; but it is difficult to avoid anticipating events so closely connected with the present. 18 ii 1 1 i ;.f' >'■' . : 1 ; n[. A,, 'toiJiSteiK^kjHt, COG HISTORY OF THE WAR. ii CHAPTER XH. MMtiiif; ( icongresp. unci violence of pafty spirit. — Me}i"sures fur ciutv- ii'f; on ill." wn;- — ['i:frien(lly (Icpoilineiit of tlu' XfU England staU s— TliC sulij> ct of retaliation — A committee of coiigrt-ss iii(|uir(s into tite manner in Avluch tlie war lias heen carried on by the eiieniy — 'I'hu v> a;* g:iinii>g; };ro;md in the L'nited Suites. On the sixtli of December, the congress of the l^niied •States again assembled. The fever of party spii-it had almost reached its crisis, and the debates which took place were more distinguished for virulent animosity, than had been witnessed since the foundation of our govern- ment. It would be improper to enter minutely into a •subject, V. Inch had better be forgotten, at any rate; but in this simple narrative of the events of the war, there is scarcely room for such a discussion. On the one side, wc find tlie opposition accused of manifesting a spirit of hos- tility to their country, and a determined resistance to eveiy measure for carrying on the war, although at this time, from the peremptory rejection oi the Russian media- tion, there existed no hopes of peace. On the other hand, the party in power was accused of having ruined the coun- try, destroyed its commerce, involved it in debts v/hicli it could never pay, and of beinj^ engaged in a guilty jirojecf, of conquest, under the pretext of vindicating national lights. Every measure with respect to the wai-, was sure to involve in it a consideration of its causes, and the same discussions were renewed until they grew stale by repeti- tion. The opposition to every measure proposed for the prosecution of hostilities, turned unon the injustice ami v/ickedness of the war, topicks vvhich ought to liave been at an end when once declared, l^y some it was dciiied that any cause of war existed, and by others, that althoiinsiderabl ^^ t'te therefor I HISTORY OF THii: AN A U. t>07 • t'i\iTy- BluU S into tlic y— 'Ihe Ignited •it had h took opposition was carried on in a spiiit of animosity, \\ liicli occasioned a serious regret in the breasts of the more con- siderate. It was there not confined to tlie administration, but was directed against the federal constitution itself. They now discovered that this instrument was not calcu- lated to insure their happiness, and their conduct was !?uch as to lead Great Britain to believe, tliat they weie ripe for a separation. These sentiments did not, by any means, meet the concurrence of tlie opposition party in other parts of the United .States, and certainly not of the j;reat mass of the population of the states where they were expressed. The pressure of the embargo, wliicli was about this time adopted, and tlie non-intercourse, it was said, were infinitely more severe on the people of New Kri<,>;lanil,than on the southern districts; and the adminis- tration was accused of partiality. It was alleged in re- ply, that the smugglin4j; on the Canada lines, and the trade iVom the northern ports, by the connivance of the British, was carried on to such an extent as almost to put the i^o- vernment at defiance; that the British squadron, which had so mucli harassed the southern coasts, had been in a great measure supplied to the northward, and that without such assistance it would be difficult for them to remain on our coast. The war had hitherto been supported by means of loans; as the only resources of the government, from t!ie sale of publick lands and imposts, were altogether inadef[uate; and it was now beginning to be seen.tliat even as the se- curity upon which to suppoit a credit, these were insuHi- tieat. It was therefore proposed to create an internal re- venue. This, it may be said, ought to liave been coeval with tlie war; but the unwillingnesj of the people to sub- mit to taxation, had already been seen; it was tlierefore the wish of ^he administration to avoid this as long as pos- sible. At the declaration of war, it was believed that Eiiiiland Aould be satisfied with our having the ability to declare it, without waiting to ascertain whether we could carry it on. The proposals for a cessation of hostilities, and the Russian mediation, kept up the hopes of {je.ice lor a considerable time; measures disagreeable to the people were therefore delaved until unavoidai)le, or ratii'jr until ;;! i; r wm m li '^Ali4mti!it i, ii^y 5' I %' mi.. I ! !:C8 IIISTOUY OF Tin: WAR. called for by tlieinselves. Tlie expenses of tlie wai* ha<) also unexpectedly increased, from the unlooked for rever- ses of our arms to the westward, which rendered it neces- sary to create lleets on the lakes; and in consequence of (he unwillinii^ness of the New England people to join lieartiiy in its prosecution. Had we possessed ourselves of Upper Canada, there is very little doubt but that we should have had peace tiie lirst year of the war; and it Whs not until she discovered our weakness in that quarter, that Kn:^,laiid rejected the mediation, in hopes of being able to indict Ujjon us some serious injury. Not that the loss of Canada would have been a matter of so much con- sequence to Great Britain, but it would have furnished her with a conclusive proof, that .she could have no hope of f?everi;i;^- the union by sowing dissentions between the dif- ferent --lates. The vast expense which we had to incur on the laivcs, and on the Canadian frontier, could not have been easily foreseen. The next thing with which the national legislature oc- cupied itself, was the providing some means of filling the ranks of the army. The difficulty of enlisting men had been found to increase, and was even an argument in u^e, to prove that the war was not popular. But this could be easily accounted for, from the unwillingness of men, with- out being urged by their necessities, to enter into a posi- tive engagenjent to serve as common soldiers for a num- ber of years. The station of an enlisted soldier, fiom our long state of peace, had beside grown into disrepute; hard ly any but the most worthless could be prevailed upon to enlist. The farmers' sons, and the young mechanicks, were willing enough to engage as volunteers, or to turn out oji a tour of militia duty, but it was a very difficuli matter to induce them to enter into engagements whicli they regarded as disreputable. It would naturally re- quire a considerable length of time, before this opmion could be subdued. The profession of the common soklici during our long peace, and on account of the inconsidera- ble force kept on foot, had sunk very low in the estimation of the people: an enlisted soldier, was almost proverbial of a lazy worthless fellow. The only mode of combating this aversion, was the offering of extravagant bounties, not so much individui overconn ing the ( obligatioi very; at 1 this was s enterprisi passed di and givinj derable a produce ti About i red to the rican sold; autumn ol I^ritish sul for treasor ment, o'de like numbc to keep tht which was to the gov was no soo was orderei conimissior oftheBriti to general ^ been direct prisoners s the Anierici law of Grei lar circumsl can officers instant deat formation o been given war with u] American g 'lom putting ^'onlinement. fTISTORY OF THE WAR. i!09 so much with a view to hohl out a bait to the cupidity of individuals, as to furnish them with an excuse, and to overcome thepopuhir prejudice against this mode of serv- w^ the coujitry. An idea was also prevalent, that the obligations of tlie enlisted soldier created a species of sla- very; at least, were incompatible with republican freedom; this was sufficient to prevent a great number of spirited and enterprising young men from entering the army. A \a.\\ was passed during the session, increasing the pay of privates, and giving them bounties in money and lands, to a consi- derable amount. This, it was confidently hoped, would produce the desired eifect About this time a very interesting subject was submit- red to the consideration of congress. Twenty-three Ame- rican soldiers, taken at the battle of Queenstown, in the autumn of 1812, were detained in close confinement as British subjects; and sent to England to undergo a trial for treason. On this being made known to our govern- ment, orders were given to general Deai liorn to confine a like number of British prisoners taken at fort George, and to keep them as hostages for the safety of the Americans; which was carried into eftect, and soon after made known to the governour of Canada. The British government was no sooner informed of this, than governour Prevost was ordered to place torty-six American officers and non- commissioned officers in confinement, to ensure the safety of the British soldiers. Governour Prevost, in his letter to general Wilkinson upon this subject, stated, that he had been directed to apprise him, that if any of tlie Britisli prisoners should sufter death, in consequence of any of the American soldiers being found guilty, and the known law of Great Britain and of every other country in simi- lar circumstances executed, double the number of Ameri- can officers and non-commissioned officers, should sufibr instant death: he further notified the general, for the in- formation of the American government, that orders had been given to the British commanders to prosecute the war with unmitigated severity, if after this notice, the American government should unhappily not be deterred from putting to death any of the British soldiers now in conlinement. General VVilkinson, in his reply, forbore to 18* 4,> :.f' ! ; , ^. 11 i - 1- ^^^Jdm^Mmji^^i, 210 HISTORY OF THE WAR. animadvert on the nature of the procedure, but could not help expressing his surprise at the threat by which the British government supposed the United States could be awed into submission. "The government of the United States," said he, "cannot be deterred by any consideration of life or death, of depredation or conflagration, from the faithful discharge of its duty towards the American peo- ple." The arrogance and haughtiness of Britain, in hold- ing this language, justly excited the indignation of every American; this language might be addressed to the mise- rable nations of Asia, upon whom she has been in the liabit of practising every species of lawless violence; but when addressed tO a people who are proud of their inde- pendence, and jealous of their national honour, which every individual feels as his own, so far from intimidating, it was only calculated to awaken resistance. General Wilkinson soon after informed governour Prevost, that, in consequence of orders he had received fiom his go- vernment, he had put forty-six British officers in confine- i»ent, to be detained until it should be known that the American officers were released. On the receipt of t!iis information, the governour ordered all the Americari pri- soners into close confinement, and a similar step was soon after taken by our government. This interesting subject gave rise to warm debates in congress. One party insisting that Great Britain had a right to her subjects, in all situations and under all cir- cumstances; tliat tkey were in fact her property, and without her consent they never could free themselves from her authority; they contended furtiier, that man cannot divest himself of allegiance to the government or prince, of the country in which he happens to be born: that although he may leave the country of his birth for a .time, he never can expatriate himself. The proceduie of government was condemned in attempting to oppose the British, in punishing the natives of Great Britain, who have becR naturalized in this country, and have taken up arms in its cause; their having resided amongst us ten years, or twenty years before the war, being immate- rial, they must be regarded in the same light as deser- ters from her armies. It was answered on the other * HISTORY OF THK WAR. 211 W lid not ch the )uld be United eration om the an peo- in hold- )f every le mise- n in the nee; but eir inde- r, which nidating, General ost, that, I his go- I confine- tliat tl\e ,t of this icaii |)rir was soon side, that it ill became Americans to deny the right of expatriation on principle, however we mii^ht from neces- sity yield to the unjust laws of other nations, where the individual is regarded as a slave; for he that has an owner whom he cannot change, is indeed a slave. Can it be possible, it was asked, for an American to contend on principle, that a free man cannot change his allegiance, and attach himself to the country of his choice, but must draff a chain after him at every remove? This doctrine could only originate in that species of slavery, called the feudal system, or under an absolute despot, who consi- ders ilia subjects as without any rights. The doctrine indeed is closely allied to that of the divine right of kings, or rather of legitimate sovereigns; for, according to some individuals, even in this country, no government is law- ful unless it exists in tlie hands of some one who claims it by birthright; at least, that this is the only just foun- dation of European government^i. Whatever may exist in other nations, and beyond our controul, we ought never to forget, that such a state arises from their cor- ruption or weakness, and that we ought sincerely to wish with the great Washington, in his farewell address, that they could be altogetlier as we arc. If we ougiit not to reprobate their S3'stems, let ns view them with compas- sion; but how can we admire them, without at the same time despising our own noble institutions! The principle of American liberty is, tha' no man is born a slave, and that allegiance is a matter of choice, not force; and how- ever we might unavoidably give way, vv^liere we inter- fered with the slavish practices of other nations, we ought never to approve the principle. But, it was con- tended, that according to the laws of nations and their uniform practice, the right of expatriation was acknow- ledged. Numerous instances were cited, where the sub- jects of a nation were taken in arms against her, and regularly exchanged; the practice of Great Rritain, in naturalizing foreigners was cited, by which they were placed on tlie same footing with her native citizens, and equally entitled to protection. She could not object to our practice of naturalizing her subjects, for she practis- ed the same thing with respect to our citizens, unless t ' ■ 1 <1v 1 i I- '■(■ ! r i! ■ 1 ti 'y (»■■ !'■■ ''■) I" I !■..';!■ HISTORY OF THE WAR. iinleed it be contendec], that every thing she docs is law- ful, while the same thing in another would be unlawful: Would she not think herself bound to protect her adopt- ed subjects, wiiom she solemnly undertakes to protect against all the world, without exception. If the United States alone naturalized foreigners, the case might tiien rest on its principles; but when the same thin^ is prac- tised every where, v\ lio has a ridit to complain? A case in point was adduced; to shew tlie practice of the British government, where she was difterentlv situated; havins: engaged in her service a regiment of French emigrants, to serve against France, the c|iiestion was agitated in the house of commons, whether they should proceed to re- taliate, in case the French should put any of them to death, and it was agreed tiiat such would have been their duty. They went much further than the American government: Lord Mulgrave declared in debate, tliat, "while he had the command of the British troops at Tou- lon, and the French, who voluntarily flocked to their standard, under the authority and invitation of his ma- jesty's proclamation, he had always considered the lat- ter as entitled to the same protection in every respect, as the British troops. Thus it appears, that both in principle and practice, the conduct of Great Britain has been similar to that of the United States. The result of this debate was, a determination to maintain with firmness the position which the adminis- tration had taken; and if Great Britain persisted in the fell resolution of rendering the war bloody beyond the example of modern times; as they had already rendered it most barbarous and ferocious, the United States must reluctantly pursue a course to be lamented by every man of common (uimanity. Somewhat connected with this, an investigation was set on foot, as to the spirit and manner in which the war had been carried on by tiie enemy. The report of the committee enumerated the various instances, in which the British military and naval officers had violated the known usages of civilized nations, in the mode of prose- cuting this war against the United States. The massacres on the river Raisin, the depredations and conflagrations oiJ the lal, tJoji, and -noken of had been ( in the sani i?'e for ind cojitendinr of Americ imagined; i sc\etnl hui light or air, ed across t Africans, ir saiy transf eountrvmerj and all exp treatment v ti»h prisonei Jnore like ,« f^lared i^se that Great most flagrai pi'opriety o fhsgracelful of theenem^ the unfortu. Jicr before ^ ^'il^oiit two I and, on rfth\ pelled toun prison e IS o lage upon ou It \vei-e w service; on lieve, that b^ to obey the" Pi-etence tha ly «ubjnitted| ed to be t\\ 01' any othe w''ii^hed to b HISTORY OF THE WAR. 21:3 law- vtulr lopt- Dtect nited then piac- . case ritish aving rants, in the to re- em to ; been eric an , til at, t Toii- [) their is ma- :he lat- espect, joth in ain has tion to dminis- iu the ond the jndered es must ivy man ion the •t was war of the n which ated the )f prose- lassacres igration^ oil liie lakes, before tliore existed any pretext for retalia- tion, and the barbarous warfare of the sea coast, were -noken of in the strongest terms of indij?-nation. The wai* had been conducted, on the part of Great Britain, nearly ill the same spirit, as at the commencement of our strug- ; no furtlicr than bringing tlie parties l"i,''<'"L'raI ./;«• '"''fit-r! at il,n Creuk war, nu< Ol^r affairs i liad assumed nortiie.rn arm pnhViQk at tent ^vhich transp ^lie winter, open war. fn conseque >^i'tl), and thi ^'le Indians in •^''^chell, of G "'■•^^ to detach P"'"pose of cov( u HLSTOIIY OF THE W All. ^[3 eciia- ext of of ;m (1, the n% no ])rince londou to our e com- e Rus- Clay, sioucrs iott^'U- m this, , in (le- already or for a nt to it. her re- cuse fui on the ground; hostili- Amcri- |sta^52;ei- accept- at feca, Ind wove al\vay:5 [actuaUy and ac- I because liie their di^htlul ispected from a jarrinj^, 'S every (country « however he may dislike the present rulers. This senti- ment was j^raduaily gaining; j^round; the warlike appear- ances every where displayed, interested the ardent minds of the young aiul enterprisini:^, and the feats of arms vonnd slaugh tiikon ] cxpell(! assault tlie pic] the assf . The I disheaH their tlii f^iry to i ^d to cui hrcach ii a'va of i\ t'le hous( <'ie India Hon of th less. Th and chi'd] I-''v in thi Mtine fain the hoiToi terrour o hereft the 3t the reci these mon ^^^ infant, butchery; j i"to the tla pickets, w 'nassacre. ^^^^ and s ''idians, an caused at t catastrophe 'laf^/tants, r <^^ fancied s p"deavom-s <"' '^ufferin-. P'<»!)ab/v as '^"'•nt, and i S€ ■"-^ llliSTORV OF rilE WAU. jair was at , to tho ncil on t\ers in hI fiom {rrcattM- »fu»;;i^ in in forts, ;s8e*l by f'.ium\ in from an erroneous juaU forts er, on the rust it ^vas ' an attack .tail. Ti^e jrobably be LnViUesbail .uji^ust, bi- le about to y too little \\^Q momeu- .tlons were ,st impossi- ,\\cf of the nianded l)v brave olh- .ted.) ^vi^^^ Imand. ^) he badre- ^nd suftereO Tioon-day. lapproacb ot iarrison was [towards the .se it, and it fell niortaU! wounded. T\\^ gate was at Icnii^th closeulsed, a?id vSiav the most obstinate resistance, in which they would receive no quarters, ihey were slain almost to a man, and their women and children taken prisoners. There were nearly two hundred of their warriours killed in this affair. The loss of the Americans was five killed and fort^ wounded. Late in the morning of the seventh, a friendly Indian brouy;ht intelligence to general .lacks .., that about thir- ty miles below his camp, there were »i suiinber of Creeks collected at a place called Talledega, where they were enjiaged in besieging a number of friendly Indians, who must inevitably perish unless speedily relieved. Tins officer', whose resolutions were as rapidly executed as they were formed, maiched at twelve o'clock the same ni;:4lit, at the head of twelve hundred men, and arrived within six miles of the place the next evening. At midnight lie ajLi^ain advanced, by seven o'clock was within a mile of the enemy, and immediately made the most judicious arrangements for surrounding them. Having approach- ed in this manner almost unperceived, within eiL^hty yards of the Indians, the battle commenced on their part HISTORY OF TIIK WAU. C19 V some a!j!;!unst 11 of our j»;rouiul I'if own «(l tluMVl- owiHMs; .ictuat'^i 1 enemy, the Ten- kson ami ountrv of •a\ C'ortVe t the 'I'al- aay-Vii;l\t f his ap- lin a slioit him, with y were re- in which almost to prisoners. mrs killed five killcil uith Croat fMry, hut !)einq: repuNoiI on all sides, they at- te!ni>t!Ml to mako their es» ape, hut soon found llieniNclveis enelosed; two rompanies havini; at first iri^en way, a space was left through which a considerable nnmhcr of the eiXMny escaped, and were pursued to the mountains uiili y,reat slaui^hter. In this action the American loss was fifteen killed and eighty woumh'd. That of the (reeks was little short of three hundred; their whole foice exceeded a thousand. (ieneral Cocke, wlu> commanded the other division of tin' Tennessee militia, on the eleventh detached 2;eneral White from fort Armstronj^, where he was encamped, a"j;ainst the hostile towns on the Tallapoose river. After inarchin«»; the whole niu;ht of the seventeenth, he surnris- e,es which had been deserted, he returned ou the twenty-third, without h»sinj^ a sinii;le man. The Geor;^ia nulitia, under general Floyd, advanced into the Creek country, about the last of the montli. Receiving information that a great number of Indians were collected at the Autossee towns, on the Tallapoose river, a place which they called their beloved ground, aniift6fcMft.fcA. '.2^Q HISTORY OF THE W'AK. This just retribution, it was hoped, would biiiip; these u retailed creatures to a pro^^'er sense of their situations; but unfortunately it had not this effect, they still persist- ed in their hostilities against us. In the month of J)e- ( ember, general Claiborne marched a detachment against 1 lie towns of Eccanachaca, on the Alabama river. On the twenty-second, he came suddenly upon them, killed thir- ty of their warriours, and after destroying their villages, returned with a trifling loss. After the battle of Tallede^a, general Jackson was left with but a handful of men, in consequence of the term of service of the militia having expired. On the four- Leentli of January he was fortunately reinforced by eight Ikundred volunteers from Tennessee, and soon after by several hundred friendly Indians. He was also joined b^ '.'cneral Coft'ec with a number of officers, his militia h;n iiij^ returned home. On the seventeenth, with a view of midiing a diversion in favour of general Floyd, and at the same time of relieving fort Armstrong, which was said to be thrcatenetJ, he penetrated the Indian coun- try. On the evening of the tMenty-first, believing him- self, from appearances, in the vicinity of a laige body of Indians, he encamped with great precaution, and placed himself in the best attitude of , defence. Some time in the night, one of his spies brought information that he had seen the enemy a few miles off, and from (heir being busily engaged in sending away their women and children, it was erident they b^d discovered the Americans, and would either escape or make an attack before morning. While the troops were in this state of j-eadiness, they were vigorously attacked on their left riauk about daylight; the enemy was resisted with firm- ness, and after a severe contest, they lied in every di- rection. This was, howeve?-, soon discovered to he a i'cini; geneial Coft'ee having been detached with four hundred men, to destroy the enemy's camp, with direc- tions not to attack it, if strongly fortified, returned with iuloin^ation that it would not be prudent to attempt it witiout artillery; a half an hour had scarcely elapsed, when the enemy commenced a fierce attack on Jackson's left thuik. it seems they had intended, by the first onset, to drav create by Jac Genera vohinte two hu right. chariTcd fled wit the eont was sev( on being c(Hnpelj« ours on Gener fortified want of before ni gerous d had to c might ex he therefi «iost judi dispositio vvard tow guard, wi wounded, alarm wa;? orders for pivot, and the Hanks enclose th ^vhen the >i few guns unaccount along with ing not mo colonel Ca overwhelm ^0 the ene guard, the ^ HISTORY OF THE WAU. to draw the Americans into a pursuit, and l)y thai nican-^ croate a confusion; but this was complotvly preve^iled by Jackson's causinii; his loft flank to kci^p its po^itioi;. Goneral Coffee, with about fifty of his oiliceis, actin:; a-? vohinteers, assailed tlie fndians on the left, while a'joMt two hundred friendly Indians came upon them on the rijiiht. The wiiole line giving them one fire, resolutely charged; and the enemy being disappointed in their plan, fled with precipitation. On the left flank of the Indians the contest was kept up some time longer; general C^oiVee was severely wounded, and his aid, A. Donaldson, killeJ; on being reinforced by a party of the friendly imlians, he compelled tlie enemy to tiy, leaving fifty ot tlieir warri* ours on the ground. General Jackson, being apprehensive of another attack, fortified his camp for the night; the next day, fearing a want of provisions, he found it necessary to retreat, a.ul before night reached Enotachopco, having passed a dan- gerous defile witlnmt interruption. In the morning he had to cross a defile still more dangerous, where he might expect that the enemy had formed an ambuscade; he therefore determined to pass at some other point. Tl.e most judicious arrangements having been made for the disposition of his force in case of attack, he moved for- ward towards the pass which he had selected. Tlie front guard, witlt part of the flank c(dumns, together with Una Mounded, had scarceh'^ crossed the creek, when the alarm was given in the rear. Jackson immediately gave orders for his right and left columns to wheel on their pivot, and crossing the stream above and below, assail the flanks and rear of the enemy, and thus completely enclose them. But, to his astonisiimentand mortiiicatioih wiien the word was given for these columns to form, and a few guns were fired, they precipitately gave wi>y. This unaccountable flight had well nigh proved fatal: it drew along with it the greater part of the centre column, leav- ing not more than twenty-five men, who bein;^ formcMl by colonel Carrol, maintained their gromid for a time agai:ist overwhelming numbers. All that C(nild now b.' opposed to the enemy, were the few who remained of the rear guard, Ihe artillery company, and captain UujitJ's cQa> 19^ - m ,f.-. v 1; 1;: f ■■,^— •' ~!»lua6Sl«Jt»*iv«^i 222 HISTORY OF THE WAtt. paiiy of spies. Their conduct, however, was admirable. Lieutenant Armstron"-, with the utmost coolness and in- trepidity, drago-ed, with the assistance of a few more, the six pounder up tiie liill, althouu;h exposed to a heavy lire; and having gained his position, loaded the piece with grape, and fired it with such effect, that after a few discharges, the enemy was repulsed. The Indians wore j)ursued for several miles, by colonel Carrol, colonel Higgins, and captains Klliot and Pipkins. Captain Gor- don, of the spies, had partly succeeded in turning their flanks, and by this impetuous charge, contributed greatly to restore the day. The Araericans now continued their march without further molestation. In these difterent engagements, about twenty Americans were killed and seventy-five wounded; in the last about one hundred and eighty of tlie Creeks were slain. Meanwhile general Floyd was advancing towards the Indian territory, from the Chatahouchie river. On the I wenty-seventh of Januaiy Iris camp was attackeil by a large body of Indians, about an hour before day. They stofe upon the centinels, fired upon them, and then rush- ed Vvith great impetuosity towards the line. The action soon became general; the front of both flanks was close- ly pressed, but the firmness of the officers and men re- pelled their assaults at every point. As soon as it be- came sufticiently light, general Floyd strengthened his right-wing, antim vanced U vvhich stc §ave thei "rew up m HISTORY OF THE WAR. dor L'- ' and iii- ,v more, a heavy le piece ler a few ans were , colonel tain Gor- ling tl\e\r t(\ greatly lued theii- dift'erent killed and ndred and nvards the r. On the Lcked by a ^ay. They then nisii- _'he action was close- ud men re- m as it be- ^thened his 'r, then di- iVQ the bay ny of them s seventeen ided. That rty-seven ot d, but it ii Creeks had mt they ap- ordinary de- ts over theu' one ruinous lid at last ai- led into thciv hands. General Jackson having received considerable reinforcements from Tennessee, and being joined by a number of friendly Indians, set out on an expedition to the Tallapoose river. He proceeded from tiie Coose on the twenty-fourth of Marcli, reached the southern ex- tremity of the New Youca on the twenty-seventh, at a place called the Horse-shoe-bend of the Coose. Nature furnishes few situations so eligible for defence, and here the Creeks, by the direction of their prophets, had made their last stand. Across the neck of land they liad erect- ed a breastwork of the greatest compactness and strength, from live to eight feet high, and provided with a double Kow of port-holes artfully arranged. In this place they considered themselves perfectly secure; the assailants ffould not approach without being exposed to a double and cross lire from the Indians who lay behind. The area thus enclosed by the breastworks, was little short of one hundred acres. The warriours from Oakfuskee, Oakshaya, Hilebees, the Fish Ponds, and Flupata towns, had collected their force at tliis place, in number exceed- ing a thousand. Early in the irnrning of the twenty-seventh general Jackson having encamped the preceding night within six miles of the bend, detached general Coffee, with the mounted men and nearly the whole of the Indian force, to pass the river at a ford about three miles below tlieir encampment, and to surround the bend in such a manner, that none of them siiould escape by attempting to cross the river. With the remainder of his force, general Jack- son advanced to the point of the breastwork, and at half past ten, planted his artillery on a small eminence within eighty yards of the nearest point of the work, and within tv/o hundred and fifty of the farthest. A brisk cannon- ade was opened upon the centre, and a severe fire was kept up with musketry and rifles, when the Indians ven- tured to show themselves behind their defences. In the mear.'time, general Coffee having crossed below, had ad- vanced towards the village; when within half a mile of that which stood at the extremity of the peninsula, the Indians aave their yell; Coffee expecting an immediate attack, orew up his men in order of battle, and in tliis manner '«(!' Li' if I % I n ,^1 mi -i—iEZS, 224 HISTORY OF THE WAU. continued to move forward. The friendly Indians liad previously taken possession of the buik, for tlie purpose of preventing the retreat of the enemy; but they no sooner heard the artillery of Jackson, and the approach of Coffee, than they rushed forward to the banks; while the militia, apprehending an attack from the Oakfuskee villages, were obliged to remain in order of battle. The friendly In- dians, unable to remain silent spectators, began to fne across the stream, about one hundred yards wide, while some plunged into the river, and swimming aci'oss, brought back a number of canoes; in these the, greater part em- barked, landed on the peninsula, then advanced into the village, drove the enemy from their huts up to the fortiii- cations, and continued to annoy them during the whole action. This movement of the Indians, rendered it ne- cessary that a part of Coffee's line should take their place. General Jackson finding that his arrangements weie complete, at length yielded to the earnest solicitations of his men to be led to the charge. The regular troops led by colonel Williams and major Montgomery, were in a moment in possession of the nearest part of the breast- works: the militia acco.npanied them with equal firmness and intrepidity. Havitig maintai led for a few minutes a very obstinate cojitost, muzzle to muzzle through the port- holes, they succeeded in gaining the opposite side of the works. The event could no longer !)e doubtful; the enemy, tlthoug'j iwmiy of them fought with that kind of bravery which desperation insj)ires, were cut to pieces. The whole ma?gin of the river, which surrounded the pe- ninsula, was strewed with the slain. Five hundred and fiftv-sf^ven were found, besides those thrown into the river by their friends, or drowned in attempting to escape. Not more than fifty could have escaped. Among the slain vvas their great prophet Maiiahoe, ankees killed and thirty-six woujjded; and five friendly Creeks killed and eleven v. ounded. This most decisive victory put an end to the Cieek ■war. The spirit and power of tnese misguided men wero »onipl tries on tht 'I'lie gj (lirevv inent o foniMia Alaban: of Cree In th( tilted to agieed i for thQ ^ '1^" openii h"bcity o; ^i^hl no i {fairison, *''oni whi part of t\ >eiritory, tion of" til t^JUsly wi< )iu'e for th j'^g- houses, former sta| It is tru bribes, wh tion. Tin herds, whi "delves at a, *hey will bi ferexperi lll^sTOUY 0¥ TliE WAR. s had rpose oonev >)ftee, lilitia, , were lly In- to tire , wUUa n'oii^Ut art eui- uto the . fortiii- e \vlu)le d it ne- \v place. xU were at ions ct [•oops led jvere ma » breast- ftrmness Ininutes a the port- . siue of jtful; ^he tt kind of pieces. 'd the pe- dred and the river ape. ^'^^ slain was less note. [taken pn- n kilUnh Jhei >kees \\y Creeks |the Creek wen vvev'^^ I mnpleti'ly broken; Jackson soon after scoured the coun- tries on the Coose and Taliapoose; a party of the enemy, on the latter river, on his approach, lieu to Pensacola. The stale of our affaii's—- Commodore Hardy invudes the nor- tliern sea-r. )ast — Takes iiossessioii uf Eastport and Caiitiue— Callant defence of i5(o.'.iii|^ton. After the failure of the campaign against the British provinces, the northern army remained in winter quarters, without any material occurrence, until towards tlie latter end of February. General Wilkinson had submitted se- veral plans of attack, on the ditterent British posts in his vicinity, with a view of cu^'ing oft" the communication be- tween Upper and Lower anada; these, however, did not meet the approbation of the secretary at war: who y;ave orders that the American force shouldf be withdrawn from its present position, and stationed at Plattsburgh; and that two thousand men should be marched under general Urown to Sackett's Harbour, with a proportion of tiokl ai- tillery and battering cannon. The general, in obedience to these orders, after destroying his barracks, retired to the place appointed. The British, apprised of his move- ments, detached a large force under colonel 8cott, of the lOod, who destroyed the publick stores, and pillaged the private citizens, but on hearing of the approach of 'an American force, retreated in the most precipitate manner. The vvljole party suffered much fiom a severe snow storm, besides losing upwards of two hundred deserters. It is about this time, that desertions became one of the serious difficulties which the enemy had to encounter: their cus- tom of permitting their soldiery to plunder in almost every instance, may perhaps have arisen from the necessity of indulging them in this, as one method of retaining them in their service. Towards the latter end of March, general Wilkinson determined to erect a battery at a place called Rouse's point, where his engineer had discovered a position from 'ungs; iie HISTORY OV THE WAli. 22; k<* Lftnhcs t(^ )inia>i'- e — ^iillaiit ,e British ■ quarters, tlie latter knitted se- osts in his ication be- er, rabee and Sheldon, weie posted at the distance of two hunrJred paces from ihe house, and covered by the second brigade, with part of colonel Clark's command, under general Smith, on the right; and the third brigade under general Bissel, on the left. Colonel Miller was ordered to take a position with the twelfth and thirteenth regiments, in order to cut olf the enemy's retreat; while the reserve, composed of four select corps of the first brigade, was placed under the command of general M*Comb. These arrangements being made, the battery opened upon the house, and the fire was promptly returned. The diiVerent corps were greatly exposed to the fire from the house; it was found impossible to effect a breach, although tlie guns were managed with great skill. Captain M'Pherson was wound- ed at the commencement of the attack, but continued not- withstanding at his post, until a second sh.)t had broken his thigh; his next oificer, Larabee, was shot througl) the lungs; lieutenant Sheldon kept up the fire until the end of the affair, and behaved in a manner which drew forth the praise of his general. The British commander, perceiving that the Americans persisted in bombarding the house, made a desperate r>\ . «'" %k^.»«a.^L. ^28 HISTORY OF THE WAR. sortie, and seveial times char»(Ml upon the cannon, iu uliich he was repulsed by the coverinj^ troops, and com- pelled to retire to his fortress with loss. It bein^ now lonnd impracticable to make an impi-ession on this stron^* buiidinj!:, whose walls were of unusual thickness, the com- nuinder-in-chief, callinii; in ins dift'erent parties, fell bark in jrood order. The loss of the Americans in this aftair, was upwards of one hundred and forty in killed and wounded, that of the British is not ascertained. The unfortunate issue of this atfair, and the failure in the last campaio-n, brou«;ht general Wilkinson into disrepute with the pumick. One great fault inherent in the nature of our government, is the hasty and harsh decision re- specting the conduct and character of men; it no more ceases to be injustice when committed by ten millions, than if by ten individuals. Men are often ruined in pub- lick estimation, for slight causes, or for uncontrollable ac- cidents; and they are as often elevated to the highest pin- nicle of celebrity, f«r actions which may be better cojisi- sei,and er *hem- "atal (lis- l in bat- as at all ?m, regu- shmeiits, of all the scarcity, n expen- 1 upon to 1 in every IIIS'lORY OK THE WAR. ^•i9 -.ubordinate department, and whicli baflled every effort to relorrn. All this must be attributed to tlie true cause; to our seftled habits of peace, and to the slowness with M'liich the orp;anization of military establishments, must ever be eilected under a constitution like ours. We hud yet to learn and put in practice, the endless minutiae of the police of the camp, which varies according to a thousand circumstances. We had no regular soldiers until almost the close of the war. How could we expect that they should be formed? Our subalterns were at first, oeneral- ly men of little education of any kind, and required them- selves the instruction which they undertook to give. To these unavoidable misfortunes, we have to add the disgraceful conduct of many of the frontier inhabitants, who continued regularly to supply the enemy with every thing of which they stood in want. In spite of eviwy evertion to prevent it, a constant intercourse was kept up across the Canada line, and the British v/ere not only furnished with immense quantities of provisions, without which they could not have subsisted their armies, but were also regularly informed of every thing which trans- pired »n the Ameiican side. Shortly after the atiair of LaColle, the greater part of the British force was collected at St. John's, and Isle Aux Noix, for the purpose of securing the entrance of the squadron into lake Chamnlain, on tiie breaking up of the ice. This was eilected early in Ma}% Sometime before this, on the suggestion of general Wilkinson, commodore M'Donough had fortified the mouth of Otter river, so as to secure a passage for his flotilla, v\ hich then lay at Vergennes, higher up the river, waiting for its ar- mament. This precaution proved of great service. The commodore had laboured, with indefatigable industry, to provide a naval force on this lake, to cope with that of the enemy: the vessels had been built during the autumn and vvinter, but their armament did not arrive before spring. The first object of the enemy, when they found the navigation open, was to attempt the destruction of the fleet, before it could move upon its element prepared t(» meet them. On the twelfth of May, not long after the erection of the battery on the cape, at the cntt anct^of 20 1 r ■■ ■ ' 1 ^1^ lit-' H( il i|| || 1 ^i B r'' m '^ 11 ^,i P| i'. ffflf ' ikS^I '^ ^ wW '! i \, ^ VIMlLw iMM>«r ^ ., £30 HlSTOllV OF THE WAU, the river, a bomb vessel and eight large gal lies weiQ stalioned by the enemy across the creek, for the purpose of blockading'the squadron, and at the same time to in- ^'as com warmly boats We I the hand The sf for the ] iier as to nlere(l to ^K at tl\e ^my to as- » Vermont to o])pose the enemy •e so etTec- withdraw iies, . which the whole Lhout some ;ia, as they id attempt- the mouth 3peared be- ng on lake up with the ike Ontario. contest in ships. At ilding; for | with other oinmodoie ^ additional "arly as pos- ,8, however, us in ship strov by in- Americans. emy's boats, essels, suc- lour >ui<'ii^('t>- u-pos-.', tl'ey Dudley, the HISTORY OF TIIK WAU. 231 olficor of the guard, on which they threw their powder into the lake, and pulled ott*. Failing in all these at- tem{)ts, from the vigilance of the Americans, they next forn»ed the determination to intercept the naval stores on their way from Oswego, where they had been deposited. Hither sir Junes proceeded with his whole fleet, and haNJng on board a large body of troops under general Dnimmond, |»roceeded on the filth of May, with the de- termination of storming the town and capturing tlie e([uipments destined for the new vessels. The liritish commenced i heavy bombardment, which was kept up for several days; tlie unexpected and gallant resistance of the garrison, consisting of three hundred men under lieutenant colonel Mitchell, was in vain against such su- perior force. The schooner Growler, then in Oswego creek to receive the cannon, was sunk to prevent her from being taken, and all the tents that could be procured were pitched on the village side, to give the appearance of a laro;c force of militia. The sailors of the Growler, under lieutenant Pearce, were added to the garrison; the shore battery was commanded by captain Boyle, se- conded by lieutenant Legate. At one o'clock, fifteen barges ftlled with ^.roops, moved towards the shore, pre- ceded by several gunboats, while a heavy cannonade was commenced by tlie larger vessels. They were so warmly received by the battery on the shore, that the boats were twice repulsed, and one of the largest fell into the hands of the Americans. The squadron now stood oft*, but this was evidently for the purpose of renewing the attack, in such a man- ner as to render it effectual. They again approached on the sixth, having resolved to land under cover of thfiir ships; they accordingly kept up a heavy fire for three hours, while their land forces, two thousand in number, under general De VVatteville, succeeded in gaining the shore, after being gallantly opposed by lieutenant Pearce and his seamen. Colonel Mitchell now abando'iea the lort, and joining his corps to the niariiies and seamen, engaged the enemy's flank, and did gicat execution. Finding further resistance useless, he fell back, fi)rme\as |)ur(hasrd with a loss of two luindrcd ami tliiitv-live men, in killetl and wounded; ihcy wcvv. certairdv on* titled to tlu* victory, but they never tlion;;lit proner to (-.lain) if. The loss of the Anu'ricans was sixty-nnie in killed, wounded and nussin;;; anion^ the first, a promis- ing oliicer, lieutenant Ulanoy. On the evening; of the same day, a part of this forcp proceeded to Pultneyville, and demanded the publick stores. The inhabitants were unable to repel the inva- ders, who indulu;ed tluMuselves in their usual depreda- tions; when j^encral Swift, of the New-York militia, op- portunely arrivinir, with a part of his brijjadc, nut tliein to flight. The British soon after, hearinu; that the Snjo- riour, which had lately been launched, had received hor equipments from the interiour, broke up the blockade, and returned to Kingston. Another new ship, the Mohawk, was at this time on the stocks, and as she would have to be supplied with her ecjuipments from the same place, it was iletermined, since the British had disappeared, to transport them by water, and avoid the expense and de- lay 01 land transportation. To deceive the enemy, who had numerous gunboats hovering about the different creeks, a report was circulated that it was intended to forward the stores to the Oneida lake. Nineteen bar- iies were loaded at Oswego, and major Appling was des- patched by general Gaines, with a detachment to aid captain Woolsey, in their defence. On the twenty-eighth of May, captain Woolsey, finding the coast clear, reach- ed the village of Oswego by sunset, and taking advan- tage of the darkness of the night, put into the lake. The next day they reached Sandy creek, and ascend- ing it a few miles, despached a boat to look out for the I^ritish on the lake; this boat was discovered by some gun vessels, and immediately chased. Major Appling and captain Woolsey determined to draw them into an ambuscade. As had been anticipated, the enemy push- ed the landed JIOW SL after o and w consist ants of gethec for thif! .Sniilh, ( less applauded. A party of Oneida Indians had joined (!ie Americans in this atVair, and were the fust (o reach (Ik* IJritish, after their surrender; these were about to com- mence the nnxle of warfare practised by the Ani;lo In- diarjs, at tlie river Raisin, Lew istown, and Tuscaiora, bu( were compidled, ijreatly U) their displeasure, to desist.^ The bar«j;es soon after arrived at J^ackett's Harbour in safety. > The conscnuences of tliis alVair, were severely felt by the Rritish; they lost a number of tiicir best seamen and ollicers, and commodoie Chauncey was once more mas- ter of the lake. He accordingly sailed out, and several times presented himself before Kinj^ston, but sir James did not think it prudent to s(ir out, until his lar^e ship of one hundred and twelve guns, then on tlie stocks, should be Completed. This mode of w «rfare was ex- ceedingly expensive, but more to the British than to (he Americans; it is ascertained that it cost the former more than twice what was expended by the Americans; in consequence of their greater dilFiculties of transporta- tion. No event of any consequence transpired in tliiscpiarfer unlli late in the summer, save a skirmish, which was ren- dered important by the death of that active thou-h ec- * The cfiief, on this occasion, ex])reKS('cl himself in this iiinnnf';'. "When Mi'itisli come Buffrtloe, they kiH uhito mati, they lvi!l lii«li:i;i, they kill woman, they hum all lumse.'— W1k!» Hi-itish come hero, ywi no let Indian kill him — von j^ive eat — iVu no good.-' 20* -H i ■ ; } I I' It' .fl 234 HISTORY OF THE WAR. centrick jiarti/an officer, colonel Forsythe, who had boon H terrour to the 15ri(ish. Having made an incursion as far at Otielltown, he attacked a party of the enemy, and retreated witli a view of drawing tlieni into an ainbuscade; but not completely succeeding, a severe skirmish ensued, in which seventeen of - pling. General Brown had, in t!ie meantime, reached the Nir ;igara frontier, and it was expected that the enemy would be immediately expelle'l from the American territory; but his situation oid not permit the attempt, and with the excej)tion of a i\w partuil encounters, trannuillity pre- vailed along ti e Niagara frontier during the summer, ?<.t would be inj proper to pass over in silence, however, an aHair wliicli took place in this quarter. Colonel Camp- bell crossed the lake from Kiie, with about five hundred men, and landing at Dover, a small village on the ('ana- da side, proceeded to destroy the mills, together with the greater part of the ^/livate dwellings. The expedition was undertaken without orders, and as his conduct in thi^s aftair, though otherwise t meritorious officer, was gieatlj reprobated, a cour of inquiry, at which general Scott presided, was instituted, Tlie court decided, that the destruction of the distilleries and mills might be justi- fied by the usages of war, as they furnished the Biitish troops with their necessary supplies; but with respect to the other part of his comfuct, although excused in some measure by the example of the enemy, in the destruction of the villages on the Niagara, it was nevertheless con- (lemned. In the ojdnion of the court, "acts of retaliatioa on the part of a nation, proud of its rights, and co»sciou& of their power of maintaining them, should reluctantly be resorted to, and only by instructions from the highest, authority." The improper conduct of colonel Camp- bell was mitigated by his humane treatment to the de- fenceless part of tjie inhabitants, to the women and chil- (fren, in wliich he did not follow the example of the -Hritisli. HISTORY OF THE WAR. 52 s^ iJ been sion as iiy, luul uscade; ensued, nj;^ their i\loux,a J'ter tlie ijor Ap- the Nir ly Nvould erritory; with the lity pre- summev, .vever, an el Caiup- i hundred he Cana- • witli the ixpeditiuii act in thl;? liis greatlj ral Scott til at the t be justi- e Bntisti irespect to ,d in some' lestriictioii eless coii- etaliatioa coiiscious jluctantly Ihe highest. el Cauip- |to the de- . and chil- ple of the To the westward, but little of moment transpired (hning tlie remainder of the war, being once more in (jui(it possession of all our territory except Michilimack- inac. Early in the spring, however, intelligence was received by colonel Butler, who commanded at Detroit, that a considerable body of regulars, Indians, and mili- tia, was collected at the river Thames. Captain Lee, vi\i\\ a party of mounted men, was sent to reconnoitre, and succeetfed in gaining the rear of the British forces unobserved, and making prisoners of several ofiicers; among the rest, of colonel Baubee, who had commanded a party of Indians in their depredations on the New- York frontier. A gallant affair was soon after achieved by captain Holmes, a youth of the most promising talents, and brother to the governour of the Mississippi territory. With a party of about one hundred and sixty rangers and mounted men, he proceeded on the twenty-first of Feb- wwvy against some of the enemy's posts. About the be- ginning of March, he received intelligence, that a Bri- tish force, which afterwards ])roved to be double his own, was descending the river Thames. Captain Holmes, finding himself not in a situation to give battle, from the (iitigue which his men had alreadv encountered, and his ignorance of the strength of tlie enemy's party, fell back a few miles, and clujse a strong position, where he uas confident of being able to defend himself, until he could obtain the necessary information of the British. He despatched a small body of rangers for this purpose, but which soon returned, pursued by the enemy, but with- out being able to learn his strength. Tlie British per- ceiving the strength of c^^.tain Holmes' position, resorted to stratagem for the purpose of drawing him from it. They feigned an attack, and then retreated, taking care not to show more than sixty or seventy men: cap- |tain Holmes now pursued, but witli caution; and after j proceeding about five miles, discovered their main body drawn up to receive him, on which he immediately re- turned to his former position. Having disposed his troops in the most judicious manner, he firmly waited Ajr them; being protected in front by a deep ravine, aQd> i ['■|!| 2S» HISTORY OF THE WAR. ihe approaches on the other sides somevviiat difficult. The attack was commenced at the same moment on every point, with savage yells, and the sound of bugles, the re- gulars charging up the heights from the ravine; the other sides were rapidly assailed by militia and Indians. The first approached within twenty paces of the American line, against a very destructive fire; but the front sec- tion being cut to pieces, those who followed severely wounded, and many of their officers cut down, thev re- tired to the woods, within thirty or forty paces, and ihe firing continued with great spirit on both sides. The American regulars being uncovered, were ordered to kneel, that the brow of the heights might assist in screen- ing them from the enemy; but the enemy's covering was insufficient, a sinij;le tree aftbrding no shelter even to one, from the extended line of the Americans, much less to ihe squads that stood together. On the other sides, the attack was sustained with equal coolness, and with consi- derable loss to the foe; the Americans had, on three sides, thrown together some logs hastily, and no charge being made, they could aim their pieces at leisure, with that deadly certainty, which belongs to the backwoodsman. The British, after an hour of hard fighting, ordered a re- treat, and as the ni^ht appproached, captain Holmes thought it not advisable to pursue: besides, his men were much fatigued, and many of them had nearly worn out their shoes on the hard frozen ground. The American loss on this occasion did not amount to more than six kill- ed and wounded. According to the statement of the Bri- tish, their loss was sixty-five killed and wounded, besides Indians. In consequence of his good conduct, on this af- fair, captain Holmes was promc4ed to the rank of major. Hitherto nothing of moment had occurred, which could have much influence on the final result of the war. On the ocean, it had been glorious for us; on the lakes and on the frontier, our arms during the last year, had re- trieved our former disgraces; and on the sea-coast, the enemy had discovered that it was not an easy matter to make an impression. It is true, the disastrous issue of| the campaign against Canada, took away all hope of be- ing able to make an impression on that province, under I ii -T^, HISTORY OF THE WAH. 237 present circumstances; but the happy termination of the Indian war to the westward, and its success to the south, in some decree afforded a consolation. An important crisis, however, had arrived in the g;encral state of our af- fairs. The third year of the war found the situation of this country materially changed. The most dishearten- inir periods of the revolution scarcely' presented a state of Ihinf^s more painfully embanassin^. The distress of the northern states, whose subsistence, in a great measure, depended upon their shipping, and those of the people of the south, whose staples had almost ceased to be of any value, together with embarrassments of the banks in the middle states, had begun, at last, to make us feel that we were at war. To a people who had been for years in the most flourishing state, a check to their prosperity, how- ever it might result to their ultimate good, was felt as a positive affliction. To the great body of the farmers, in the interiour of the country, the effects of hostilities were rather beneficial; their produce was raised in price, and their lands in value; the wealth of the cities, no longer applied to commerce, was diverted to the interiour, and was soon discovered in the improvement of the lands, the increase of the inland towns, and the establishment of manufactures. But the number of those, whom the war distressed or ruined, was proportionally great; and as men are more loud in crying out against calamities, than for- ward in displaying 'heir good fortune, the unfavourable side of the picture only was exhibited. The philosopher might say, that what was lost to the nation, on the one side, n as gained in the other; but this reasoning could have little weight with the individual sufferers. In several of the New England states, complaints assumed a more serious cast; a convention was talked of, and it was even insinuated, that tiiey meant to secede from the union. This, indeed, would have been an event, which would have filled every American bosom with grief; a gi eater injury to our coin- mon country than a thousand wars. "Ihe collisions be- tween the state authorities and that of the union, were beginning to produce all the embarrassments, which had been predicted by Patrick Henry at the fornuition of the constitution. The supposed existence of such a temper, ^«8^**1*&M&* ,:*/,Jiaii^ ■ .^ ^'38 HISTORY OF THE WAR. at the perloi] of our utmost need, could not fail to weakea the hands of the administration, and ihcrease the disposi- tion of Enjtland to prosecute the war. The embarrass- Tnents in our fi.iancial system were alarminjr, and it was confidently predicted, that from a want of funds, the ad- ministration would be compelled to yield up the reins of government, or throw the nation upon the mercy of the enemv. A new event had occurred in Europe, wh' h could not be viewed with indifference, even on these (ii. tant shores; and its consequence threatened us with a serious dafiuer. The ambitious monarch of France had been hurled from his throne, by the combined powers of Europe, and the house of Bourbon restored. This event was received by some of our fellow citizens with open rejoiciii<]5, as thoutiji it brought sorae signal j^ood fortune to this country, or to the humm racev To this country it could bring no beiiel'if, for it wus not likely tliat the kiny; of France could, any more than Napoleon, feel a friendship for us, dlt!iou;;h he might not so cordially hate or despise us. Louis the eighteenth could not be expected to entertain much love lor republicks, and certainly not for oucs, the coutaj^ion of whose example is said to have contributed much to that dreadful revolution, in which his family had so severely suffered; indeed it is natural tiiat a rejniblick, like ours, should not be regarded with much complacency by ai y monarch; for, to use the expression of Demosthenes, *'v.e are considered as a spy upon their actions." Napoleon, having been already reduced within a reasonable con^pass, there was no longer any danger of his seizing the ships of England, and transporting several hundred thousand men to make a barren conquest of America: it is more probable that he would have paid a visit to the emperour of China. I am not the advocate of a cold and unfeeling policy. The unfortunate fan»;ly of the French Bourbons, have suffered enough to atone for many errours and faults; and as men, we might be permitted to express our satis- faction that providence had deigned to put a term to their miseries. It had, however, become a nmtter of indiffer- ence to us, whether the throne of France was occupied by an emperour or a king. But, as Great Britain had claimed iick rejoi( of a rejoii abstract s ancient u publican. national i the contin ed power her Vetera Aniciica; main for n ed republic yhile Brita I'his tuin « rather to ha ica. Grea waited, hov under the years, until would have daring to as no more of to be laid wj to be expec plentitude o; tion, and of was the situj time was ap strength of oi .and wjmt wa which would tions, which, j eti the highes I'he people oi ence, the fate fdand unfort The northe httJe molestat attack earlvir of sailors and ttlSTORV OF THE AVAR. i2S9 \i was the ad- reins of of the mUl not t shores; dan.^er. tVom Ills le house by some thou2;i« it or to ihe benefit, DuUl, any liou^h he ^ouid the luch h)\e :.<.)iita«;ion cU to tliat severely ,ikp, ours, |y Uy ary ?nes, "v.e apoleon, con^pass, [the ships thousand It is wore mperour lunfeeling _iOurbons, [ul faults; (ur satis- to their indift'er- occupied Ltain had claimed the chief merit of this wonderful operation, pub- lick rejoicin«j;s for the event had too much liie appearance of a rejoicing for the success of our enemies, and for the abstract success of royalty, \vhich whether of recent or ancient usuipation, ought to be equally nauseous to a re- publican. The event was, in reality, «>;reatly adverse to our national interests. Fired by the success of the wars of the continent, and extrava«rantly elated with her suppos- ed power and greatness, the enemy was at liberty to send her veteran troops, and her numerous .leets, to chastise America; while our commissioners were suffered to re- main for months in neglect, under a pretence, that despis- ed republicans might wait patiently in the anti-chamber, v'hile Britain was engaged with personages of im]>ortance. This turn of affairs, iiir from ])roducing exultation, ought rather to have depressed the friends of liberty and Amer- ica. Great Britain was highly incensed that we had not waited, how long no one could tell, with all due patience, under the numerous outrages she had perpetrated for years, until, disengaged from all her European wars, she would have leisure to give us a severe chiistisemcnt for daring to assert our riglits. It now behoved us to liink no more of invading Canada; our northern frontier was to be laid waste, our sea-coast devastateil, and the utmo-t to be expected, was a successful self-defence. In the plentitude of her arrogance, Britain talked of lecoloniza- tion, and of crippling us for iifty years to come. Such was the situation of America at this eventful period; the time was approaching, which would put to the test the strength of our confederation, and our ability for defence; ,and wliat was still more interesting, the time had come, which would try our attachments to our political institu- tions, which, although not yet veneiable from time deserv- ed the highest admiration for their justice and wisdom. The people of other nations coul 1 not view, with indiil'er- ence, the fate of this asylum and sanctuary of the oppress- ed and unfortunate throughout the world. The northern sea-coast, which had thus far exp^riencef! little molestation from tl.e enemy, became the object of attack early in tlie spring. On the seventh ui' April, a body of sailors and marines, to the number of two hundred. VV m k ^^■^^^^IBW^K '^^^*^.*^^i5fe^.*«.^w^,..«.. ..„. 240 HISTORY OK THE WAR. ascended the Connecticut river, as far as Saybrook, where, they spiked the cannon and destroyed the shipping; they proceeded thence to Brockway's ferry, where they did the same; anf sailors with the natives, who, by their assistance, def< ited tlieir enemies; and by the interference of the commodore, a peace was brought about between tliem. In conse([uence of this, tlie natives erected a viMage for tlie commodore, freely traded with him for provisions, and for some time the i^reatest harmony prevailed. His safety was again threatened by the conduct of the Typees, an inland tribe, one of the most warlike on the island, and which still continued hostile, and who were continually urging the friendly Indians to destroy the strani^ers. 'I'he commodore found his situation j;rowing every day more critical. He therefore resolved to pur- sue the course necessary to ensure his safety, and which has always been held justifiable in our intercourse with uncivil'.zed men, who are only to be restrained from vio- lence and injustice by terrour. He had succeeded thus fur by peaceable means, and by the permission of the natives, in placing his vessel in a state to be repaired; but should the tribes anmnd him become inimical, (and what confidence can any one repose in the faith of a savage, who regards only force,) he inight be in greater danger in his present situation. He was very unwilling to engage in a war with them; to prevent the necessity, he sent them a present, and requested that they would remain quiet and be at peace. This had no other effect than to increase their insolence to the Americans, whom they re- presented as a cowardly race, or they would not have condescended to bea: for peace. This enndty was natu- rally enough engendered by their jealousy of the tribes who had the benefit of thetraffick with the whites, and by this means obtained articles from them, according to their estimation, of great value. The commodore now discovered, that his safe y depended entirely upon mak- ing these people feel hfs strength, as it was impossible for him, in his present situation, to leave the island until his vessel could be repaired, and while the greater part of his eflfects were actually on shore. He therefore set 21* '■■■■ ',! A ft I % ir 246 HISTORY OF THE WAR. (Tff, at the, h(M(! of thirty-five men, against these peo|)1e, cletennitieci to give them battle, and, by shewinj!; the efli- cacy of iiis weapons, compel tliem to be at peace. 'J'hc tribes, heretofore frieiull v, were on the point of breaking out into iu)stilities, anil were only induced to wait the result of this cxpeilition, of wiiich they were little more than silent spectators. The commodore had in vain en- deavoured to convince them of rhe destructive nature of his fire-arms, by shooting at rocks and trees; war was absolutely unavoidable. Hut the small force with which he marched, was insufllcient to make any impression. Their country being exceedingly mountainous and aboundin<^ in thickets, rendered it easy for them to es- cape. The commodore was, therefore, compelled to re- turn in a worse situation tlian before. To prevent the friendly Indians from rising, he found it necessary to in- form them, that he would j)rocced the next day with the irreater part of his men. A large body was now marched across the mountains, notwithstanding the extreme difti- culties of the route, and penetrated into their valley; but the natives, as usual, took refuge in their inaccessible fastnesses. The only mode of causing them to feel the ronsequenf^es of their conduct, was in the destruction of their villages; nine of them were accordingly burnt, after which the party retreated. The Typees now gladly ac- (^epted terms of peace, and all the tribes on the island, soon after, were reconciled to each other; a '^ircumstance which the oldest amongst them did not recollect to have seen; and they vied with each otiier in friendship to- V.ards the whites while the connnodore remained. The destruction of the Typee villages has given rise^ on the part of the British writers, to the most scandalous abuse of commodore Porter and the American people, by which means they have endeavoured to bring tne acts of the Americans to a level with their own. The destruc- tion of a few wigwams covered with palmtrees, erected to shield the inhabitants from the heats or the rains of the torrid zone, effected by an American officer in self-de- fence, and for the sake of peace, is to be viewed with horrour; while the conduct of the British government in IiKlia, in America, and throughqut the world, withoat arf>' HISTORY OF THE WAR. 247 RU'i': lie eft'i- . '\y caking vait the Ic more vain en- lit u re of ^ar was h which >ression. ms and m to es- eil to re- vent the iiy to in- with the marched ime difti- lley; but ccessible feel the uction of rnt, after ladly ac- le islan^l, unstance to have Iship tu- I. iven riscj andalous leople, by ,e acts of destruc- erected ns of the self-de- ed with ment in loat any other motive than base rapacity, is to be passed over un* noticed. The destruction of the 'I'ypoe villae I* ir;ht himself secuie. He soon found, however, by the manner in which they approached, that he was mis- taken. With all possible despatch, therefoie, he prepar- ed liis ship for action, and endeavoured to get a sprin;?; on his cable, which he coukl not accomplish before tiie ene- my commenced the attack, at fifty-four ndnutes past three. At first the Phcebe placed herself on his stern, and the Cherub on his larboard bow; but the latter soon finding herself exposed to a hot fire, changed her position, and with her consort, kept up a raking fire ninler his stern. The American being unable to bring his broad- side to bear on the enemy, his spring cables having been three times shot away, was obliged, therefore, to rely for defence against this tremendous attack, on three bmg twelve pounders; which he ran out of the stern ports; but which were worked with such braverv and skill, as in half an hour, to do so much injury to the enemy, a« to compel them to haul ort" ajid repair. It was evident that commodore Hillyar meant to risk nothing from the dar- ing courage of the Americans; all his manoeuvies were deliberate and wary; his antagonist was in his power, and his only concern was to succeed with as little loss to himself as possible. The situation of the Essex was most vexatious to our brave countrymen; many of them wore, already killed and woundeil, and from the crippled slate of their ship, they were unable to bring her guns to bear upon the enemy. — Her gallant crew were not dishearten- ed, aroused to desiieration, they expressed their defiance to the enemy, and their determination to hold out iu the last. y *.*'! m '-,< ii! •i' Ff 1 1.' i; M i m k finmw^ >'iivas nd the ene- inutes past Throwing , they suc- d forty mi- ame down, were killed killed and men Lang- days after, unmanage- iteered for evvs. duable Bri- ll a fleet of •four and a bomb ship. He stood for them, and succeeded in cutting out of the scpiadron a brig laden with brass and ii on can- non and military stores, from Gibraltar; after taking out the prisoners and setting her on fire, he endeavoured to cut out another, but was cliased oft' by the seventy-four. In the evening, at half past six, he desciied two vessels, one on his staiboard and one on his larboard bow, and hauled for that which was farthest to windward. At se- ven she was discovered to be a brig of wai-, and at twenty- nine minutes past nine, she was under the lee b^w of the Wasp. An action soon after commenced, which lasted until ten o'clock, when captain Blakely, supposinghis an- tagonist to be silenced, rcased firing, and demanded if he had surrendered. No answer being returned, he com- menced firing; and the enemy returned broadside for broadside for twelve minutes, wlien, perceiving that the two last were not returned, he haiied again, and was in- formed that she was sinking, and that iier commander had struck. Before tlie Wasp's boats could be lowered, a se- cond brij^ of war wa?: fiiscovered: the crew were ir.?;tantl v sent to tneir quarters, and the Wasp was stand ini.-; f) for the approach of the stranger, when two other brig;; ap- peared: he now made sail, and endeavoured to draw the first one after him, but without effect. The name of the prize has since been ascertained to have been the Avon, captain Arbuthnot, of the same force as the Reindeer. She sunk immediately after the last man had been taken out of her. She had eight killed and thirty-one wounded, in- cluding her captain and several other officers. The Wasp soon repaired her damage, and contiiiiied on her cruise. On the tw^enty-firot of September, slie cap- tured, off" the Madeiras, her thirteenth prize, the Britisii brig Atalanta, eight guns, and the only one she sent into port. The return of this vessel, after her brilliant cruise, was for a long time fondly looked for by our country; but ail hope has at last vanished of ever seeing her again. There is but little doubt that the brave commander and Jhis gallant crew have found a common grave in the waste of ocean; but they will always live in the fond gratitude and recollection of their country. .<.ii ul 56 HISTORY (»F THE WAU. The blockade ot commodore Decatur*3 squadron at New-London, having been continued until after the season had passed in which there existed any prospect of escape, the ships were oitlered up the river and dismantled, while fhe commodore with his crew were transferred to the Pre- sident, then at New-York. A cruise was contemplated, in conjunction with the Peacock, the Hornet, and the Tom Bowliiie etorc-ship. The commodore thinking it more safe to venture out singly, appointed a place of rendez- vous, and ordered tha oUier vessels to follow. In conse- quence of the ntr :;^„t.' » of the pilot, the President struck upon the bar, and mt.n 2d there thumping for two hours, by v.'hich her ballasc was • .anged, and her trim for sail- ing entirely lost. The course of the wind prevented him from returning into port; he put to sea, trusting to the ex- cellence o(" the vessel. At daylight he fell in with a Bri- tish squadron, consisting; of the Endymion, Tenedosanc! Pomoue frigates, and tne Majestick razee. In spite of every exertion they gained upon him; the foremost, the Endymion, got close under his quarters, and commenced firing. The commodore determined to bear up and en- gage her, with the intention of carrying her by boarding, and afterwards escaping in her, and abandoning his own ship. In this he was prevented by the manceuvring of the enemy, who protracted the engagement for two hours, until the rest of the squadron were fast gaining upon them. He now assailed the Endymion, and in a short time completely silenced her, leaving her a wreck. The President was also considerably damaged, having lost twenty-five in killed and wounded; among the former, lieutenants Babit and Hamilton; and acting lieutenant Howell; among the latter, the commodore himself, and midshipman Dale, who afterwards died. On the approach of the squadron, the gallant commodore, unwilling to sa- crifice the lives of his men in a useless contest, on receiv- ing the fire of the nearest frigate, surrendered. On this occasion, we cannot pass in silence the dishonourable con- duct of the British officers of the navy, where such ou^ht least to have been expected. The generous and heroick character of Decatur IS acknowledged whereyer the Ame- rican flag is known, and requires no testimony in its sup- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 25; f? M] port, for the British themselves have often declared their admiration of this chivalrous officer. The commodore was taken on board the Endymion, for the purpose of act- ing the miserable farce of surrendering^ his sword to tlie officer of a frigate of equal size, but which would have fallen into the hands of the commodore, but for the ap- proach of the squadron. Decatur indignantly refused to give up his sword to any one but the commander of the squadron. Another artifice vvas actually resorted to, in order to satisfy the good people of England that the Pre- sident was a seventy-four in disguise: slie was lightened and laid in dock, along side of an old seventy-four, di- minished to appearance by being deeply laden. Thus it seems, a British frigate had captured an American sev* • ty-four. The naval supeiiority of Great Britain was the e- fore no longer doubted. Not the least amongst the exploits of our naval heroes, was the capture of two of the enemy's ships of war by ^he Constitution, captain Stewart. Having sailed on a cruise, he discovered two ships, one of which bore up r the Constitution, but soon after changed her course, to join her consort. The Constitution gave chase to both, and at six P. M. ranged ahead of the sternmost, brought her on the quarter, her consort on the bow, and opened a broadside, which vvas immediately returned. An ex- change of broadsides continued until both ships were en- veloped in smoke; upon the clearing; away of which, the Constitution finding herself abreast of tlie headmost ship, captain Stewart ordered both sides to be manned, backed topsails, and dropped into his first position. The shi|) on the bow backed sails also. The Constitution's broad- sides were then fired from the larboard battery, and in a few moments the ship on the bow, perceiving her errour in getting sternboard, filled away with the intention of tacking athwart the bows of the Constitution, while the other fell olF entirely unmanageable. The Constitu- tion then filled av/ay in pursuit of the former, and com- ing within a hundred yards, gave her several raking broadsides, and so crippled her that no further appre- hensions were entertained of her being able to escape; the captain therefore returned to the first, v hich iinme- '•r i », ^\ fMm* All ff, '; •um^ III ftim 258 HISTORY OF THE AVAlt. (liately struck. Possession was then taken of her by lieu- tenant Hoft man, and proved to be the frigate Cyane, cap- tain Gordon Falcon, of thirty-four guns. Captain Stew- art then steered in pursuit of the other vessel, and after a short resistance, in which she suiTered considerably, she struck, with five feet water in her hold. She proved to be the sloop of Mar Levant, of eighteen thiity-two pound carronadcs. The loss on board the two shins a»;jountcd to about eighty in killed and wounded, on board the Constitution there were four killed and eleven wounded; but the ship received a very trifling injury. On the tentli of March, captain Stewart entered the har- bour of port Praya, with his prizes, and on the eleventh a British squadron of two sixty gun sliips and a fngate, appeared oft' the entrance of the harbour; captain Stew- art, liaving no faith in his security, in this neutral port, made sail with his prize the Cyane, and though closely pursued, had the good fortune to escape into tne United States. The Levant was recaptured in the Portuguese port, in contempt of the neutral state. These are acts of injustice, in which no nation can ever prosper. The Peacock, Hornet, and Tom Bowline, left New- York a few days after the President, without having re- ceived informaUon of her capture. On the twenty-tnird of January, one thousand eight hundred and fifteen, the Hornet parted company, and directed her course to Tris- tan d'Acuna, the place of rendezvous. On the twenty- third of March, she descried the British brig Penguin, captain Dickenson, of eighteen guns, and a twelve-pound carronade, to the southward and eastward of the island. Captain Biddle hove to, while the Penguin bore down; at forty minutes past one, the British vessel commenced the engagement. Tlie firing was hotly kept up for fifteen minutes, the Penguin gradually nearing the Hornet with the intention to board, her captain having given orders for tliis purpose, but was killed by a grape shot: her lieu- tenant tnen bore her up, and running her bowsprit be- tween the main and mizzen rigging of the Hornet, gave orders to board; his men, however, perceiving the crew of the Hornet ready to receive them, refused to follow him. At this moment the hefivy swell of the sea lifted HISTORY OF THE \VAR. Cd9 lips the Hornet ahead, and the enemy's bowsprit carried away her inizzen ahrouds and spanker boom, and the Peno;uin hung upon the Hornet's quarter, with the loss other foremast and bowsprit. Her conimnnd . then called out that he had surrendeie.?i > ' I i . .'.•■1' ''ll§ % 'A 9teo HISTORY OF THE WAR. coverinwby flic liy^lii of fho iikhui that llin enemy had put out his barj^es, and was prepari'f^ to attack liim, cleared for action, and moved near the shore. Four boats filled with men approached, and makina; no answer on being hailed, a fire was openevurkii— AHiui'H uf ti>u wui^— LxpcUitiuu ajjaiunt Miuhiliiiiuckiiiuck. 1^ ROM reviewing the events of the war on the ocean, we return to the war on the northern frontier. Not to be without a plan of campaign, although experience had al- ready shown how little of the cabinet plans could b(; car- ried into execution, where they depended upon so many con.'ingencies, not susceptible of calculation, the follow- ing was adopted. Colonel Croghan, with the assistance of commodore Sinclair, was to proceed ai^aiiist the Bri- tish on the upper lakes, with a view of recorering the American posts of Michilimackinack and St. Joseph. The American army, under general Brown, was to cross the Niagara and take possession of Burlington heights; and afterwards, in conjunction with commodore Chauncey, proceed to attack the British posts on the Peninsula. General Izard, commanding the northern army, was to push a number of armed boats into the St. Lawrence, so as to command the Rapids, and cut oil' the communication between Montreal ana Kingston. A strong post, garri- soned with fifteen hundred men, would also co-operate in this object. Batteries were also to be thrown up for the purpose of protecting the American fleet on lake Champluin, and to prevent that of the British from enter- ing it. Some of these arrangements had been antici- pated; but the greater part was controlled by unforeseen circumstances. The spring passed away before o;eneral Brown was in a condition to attempt any thing against the British posts on the opposite side of the river; even fort Niagara still remained in their hands. He had, however, been assidu- ously occupied, with his gallant officers, general Scott and general Ripley, in disciplining his troops, and in col- lecting his force. By the beginning of Julj, this consist- ed of two brigades of regulars, and a brigade of New- .V ■■ ^iW:fi2 26'^ HISTORY OF THE WAR. York volunteers, under generals Porter and Swift, toj^e- tlier with a few Indians. In the meantime the force of the enemy, under |>;eneral Drummond, had heen greatly increased, by the addition of a number of veteran regi- ments, which since the pacification of Europe, Great Britain had been er^bled to send to this country. The first sti p i.o be taken, with a view to any future operations against Cinada, and to recover tlie posse ssion of Niagara, it was thought should be against fort Erie; for being once punscssed of this post, it was supposed tlic enemy would evacuate the American side, and it was ex- pected llat thii garrison would be carried with more ease than the ottrei', from the circumstance of an attack l)eing less expected. Fort Erie was at that time commar«led by captain Buck, with about one hundred and seventy men. The two brigades of regulars embarked on the morning of the third of July; general Scott with the first, and a detachment of artillery under major Ilindman, crossed to the Canuda shore, below fort Erie; and gene- ral Ripley, with the second brigade, above. The garrison was completely taken by sur])rise, and surrounded before the movements of the assailants were discovered, and was compellei' to surrender after firing a fev/ shot. It was next resolved to proceed im.mediately and at- tack major-general Riall, who at that time occupied an intrenched camp at Chippewa; having first made ar- rangements for the defence of the fort, which was intrust- ed to lieutenant M'Donough, and for securing the rear of the army. On the morning of the fourth, general Scott advanced i-vith his brigade, and captain Towson's artillery, and was followed in the course of the day by general Ripley, and the field artillery under major Hindman, together with general Porter's volunteers. The army was then diawn up in a regular order to receive the enemy, on the right of Street's creek, within two miles of the camp. The first brigade had encountered the advance corps, which re- treated, but not until after destroying the bridge. Cap- tain Crocker had crossed the stream some distance above, and, not conscious of his situation, was in pursuit of the British, who now tui-ned upon and surrounded him; but I appearc^ light ti purpost volunt( retire; sudder The V greatb Brown son's a tion 01 media Ma; the th of the warm tatcli in ch( the r( conte ace or HISTORY OF THE WAR. '263 r. H^ iei;i- ( he (lefeiuleil himself in so gallant a manner, that he was enabled to keep off' the enemy, until captains Hull and Harrison, and lieutenant Randolph, came to his relief. . The army remained in this position until the next day, when early in the morning, Ihe British commenced an attack upon the picket guards. A company, commanded by captain Treat, was suddenly fired upon by a party concealed in the high grass; one man fell, and the van- guard broke and retreated. The exertions of the captain to rally his men was mistaken for an act of cowardice, and he was stripped of his command. Being resolved to do away the imputation, he requested to engage in the approacning battle as a private, and was accordingly di- rected to lead a platoon. He was afterwards tried and honourably acquitted. The necessity of strict discipline, at such a moment, cannot be disputed. These assaults continued throughout tlie greater part of the day. Gene- ral Rial I, perceiving that an engagement was unavoida- ble, resolved to strike the first blow; he therefore issued from his encampment, with his whole force, and soon appeared on the left bank of Street's creek; sending his light troops to the left of the American camp, for the purpose of turning their Hank; this was frustrated by the volunteers, who after a sharp conflict compelled them to retire; but in pursuing on the Chippewa road, they came suddenly in contact with the main body of the British. The volunteers were now severely pressed by troops greatly superiour in numbers and discipline. General Brown perceiving this, ordered Scott's brigade and Tow- son's artillery to advance, and draw the enemy into ac- tion on the plains of Chippewa. This was effected im- mediately on crossing the bridge. Major Jessup, a gallant young officer, who commanded the third battalion, was ordered to turn the right flank of the British, which rested on a wood to the left; whilst warmly engaged in this service, he was compelled to de- tatch captain Ketchiim, to keep a superiour detachment in check; the major, having cleared liis front, moved to the relief of his captain, who had maintained an unecpial contest against superior numbers. His object was not accomplished here until after a severe struggle; being at -.■1 mm 'f /: S-JI ) ■ i- "I ' ''U J'Vl }♦ *4 H 2G4 HISTORY OF THE WAR. length closely pressed in front and in flank, he delibe- rately gave orders to his men to support arms and ad- vance, under a dreadful fire, until he gained a position of more security, whence he compelled the enemy to re- tire. The admirable coolness and intrepidity in his corps, was worthy of veterans, and proved the great pro- gress the Americans had made in discipline. The Bri- tish right flank soon after began to fall back, while the Americans pressed them closely. The battalion on the American right, under major Leavenworth, was not only engaged with the British infantry but often exposed to tlie fire of their batteries. One of his officers, captain Harrison, had his leg shot off by a cannon ball; but he considered the contest so doubtful, that he would not sul!*er himself to be taken from the spot, and continued to perform his duty with astonishing fortitude until the action ceased. After tlie lapse of an hour from the time tlie action became general, captain Towson having com- pletely silenced the enemy's most powerful battery, now turned upon the infantry, then much exposed to an oblique discharge of major M'Neill's musketry; the ene- my was at this moment advancing to charge, but the con- centrated fire which poured upon them, and the appa- rent issue on their right flank with major Jessup, com- pelled general Riall to retire, until he reached the slop- ing ground which led to Chippewa, when the British fled in confusion to their entrenchments. — Major Hindman and captain Towson pursued the enemy under the fire of his batteries, but which, on examination, were found too strong to be assailed. This may be considered tlie first regular pitched bat- tle, and furnished a convincing proof, that nothing but discipline was wanting to give to our soldiers on land, the same excellence wnich our seamen had discovered on the ocean. The battle was fought with great judg- ment and coolness on both sides, and its result, consider- ing the numbers engaged, was exceedingly sanguinary. The loss of the Americans in killed, wounded and mis- sing, amounted to three hundred and thirty-eight. Among the wounded were colonel Campbell, captains King, of the twenty-third, Read, of tlie twenty-fifth, Harrison, of the I'; ,,"lf '1 S*f HISTORY OF THE WAR. 20j turty-second; lieutenants Palmer and Brimliall, of the ninti), Harion, of the eleventh, and De Wit and Patcliim, ol the tweiity-lifth. Tiio total loss of the British, accord- in;^ to tije report of general Druinmond, was live hun- dred and five, of whom forty-six were niissinii;, the re- mainder eitlier killed or wounded. Their loss in oflicers was seven captains and seventeen subalterns; the n)ar- qiiis of Tweedale, colonels Gordon and Dickson, and captain Holland, aid of general Riall. Few occurrences since the war afforded a more lively gratification to the. people. The most honourable testimonials were bestow- ed upon the principal officers concerned; and the brevet rank of lieutenant-colonel was conferred upon majors Jessup, Leavenworth, and M'Neill: and of major on cap- tains Towson, Crooker and Harrison. Several other oflicers we?e named as having distinguished themselves: major Wood of the engineers, captain flarris, and lieu- tenant McDonald, acquitted themselves with much hon- our. The defeat of Riall having been communicated to ge- neral Drunimond, he sent a regiment to reinforce him, and enable him to repel any attack upon his works. Gen- eral Brown still remained at his encauipmenl, deter- mined to dislodge the Britisli; as tlie most elll^ctual mode, he detached general Ripley to open a road to the C!ii;)- pewa river, at a point thiee miles above the enemy's camp, and to construct a bridge tor the purpose of at- tacking the enemy on his right Hank and from. This was executed witii so much secrecy, that the bridge was nearly completed before it was discovered, when general Riall oi-dered his artillery to advance and prevent ;he Americans from completing their works; but the artiiiory of general Ripley compelled the Britisli to letlre. Gen- eral Riall soon after abandoned his works, which were occupied by general Brown tl>at evening. The enemy fell back to Queenstown, and afterwards to Ten Miie creek. The army encamped at Queenstown, and previous to any further movement, general Swift, at his own request, was detached with about one hundred and twenty meii, to reconnoitre the enemy's works. He surprised an out- '^1 • i' £ It' ill 0q 1.?;. ' « 1? '" Mim* '^ *: : 2(56 TIISTORY OF THE WAR. posi, and took pristmers a corporal and his au-ird: one c' tliesc, alter having asked and received quarters, ukJ. denly raised his piece, and j^avc the i;:!;eneral a mortal wound. The ji^eneral instantly killed the assassin, and on the approach of a party, brou^^ht by the filing of the soldier, he continued to figlit at the head of Ins detacli- nient, regardless of his wound, until the enemy was re- pulsed. This gallant officer dird soon after he wasbrou in-chie id in vres, enemy son, on the again s on th( eleven muniti being officer withdi ant- ad salves them illSTORY OF TilK WML iior ( ■ * i plies of general Drown, togetlui' with Iiis >i<.h and v.ouiul- ctl; tliis was done witli ihc expoc tarlon of imliicini.'; <^eiie- ral Brown to divide liis force; an advanced party was at tlie same time pushed forward on the Niagara road. Vt'itii a view of drawin*j; oft' the the enemy from his a'.tempt on the village across the river, general Scott was ordered to move tiiwards Queenstovvn, with his brij^ade, seven hun- dred strong, with Towson's artillery, tiic dragoons and the mounted men; with orders to report if tlie enemy appeared, and call for assistance. At four o'clock the brigade moved from the camp, and after proceeding about two miles and an half from the Chippewa, and within a short distance of the cataracts of Niagara, the enemy "was discovered to occupy an eminence near Lundy's- lane, a position of gicat strength, selected by general Rlall, were he had planted a most formidable battery of nine pieces of artillery, two of which were brass twenty- four pounders. On reaching a narrow strip of woods, which intervened between them and the British line, captains Harris and Pentland, whose companies formed a part of the advance, were first fired on, and engaged the enemy, who retreated for the purpose of drawing the American column to the situation at Lundy's-lane. General Scott resolutely pressed forward, first despatch- ing major Jones with the intelligence to the coinuiander- in-chief. lie had no sooner cleared the wood, and foim- t*d in line on a plain finely adapted to military manceu- vres, than a tremendous cannonade commenced from the enemy's batteries, which was returned by captain Tow- son, but V ithout being able to bring his pieces to Ijeur on the eminence. The action was continued for an iiour, against a force three times that of the American brigade, on the ground to the left of Queenstown road. The eleventh and twenty-second having expended their am- munition, colonel Brady and lieutenant-colonel M'Neill being both severely wounded, iiud nearly all the other oflicers eillier killed or wounded, both rei^iments were, withdrawn from action. Lieutenant Crawford, lieuten- ant-adjutant Sawyer, and a few others, attached them- salves to the ninth, in such stations as were assigned them. This regiment, under its gallant leader, liiuten- H" '. M.m ■>o3 fllbTOllY Ui^ THE WAR. ;ui<-r<>tom*l Leavenworth, was now obliged to maintain /ho whole brunt of the action, when orders were given to advance and charge on the hciy;hts, and, with the other regiments, break t1ie enemy's line. But general Scott, on receiviiig infonnation of tlie shattered condition of tlie elevcnlh and twenty-second, countermanded his order. Colonel Jessup, at the commencement of the action, liad l)ecn detached with tlie twenty-Ufth, to attack the left of the enemy's line. The British now pressed forward on the nint'j, wliicli vvith wonderful iirinncss withstood the attack of tiieir overwhelming numbers; but reduced at lengHi to nearly one half, and being compelled at every moment to repel fresh cliarges of the British, colonel licavenworth des- f;atc!ied a nie^Jsenger to general Scott, to communicate ii:> cundilion. 'J'he general rode up in person, roused ihc flagging spirits of his brave men with tlie pleasing in- lelligencc that reinforcements were expected every mo- loent, and besought them to hold their ground. Lieu- tenant Riddle, already well known as a reconnoitring olficer, was vhe first to come to the assistance of his fel- lovv- soldiev?, having been drawn to the place by tl^e •^ound of the cannon, while out with a scouting party. The same cit cumstances induced general ]5rowii to pro^ feed rapidly to the scene of action, giving orders to 2;erieral Ripley to follow with the second brigade. On his way he was met by major Jones, and from his infor- •^ation, he was induced to order up general Porter, v^ith the volunteers, together witli the artillery. The situation of the brigade became every moment more crificnK They had repulsed every attack of the enemy witii desperate courage; but tlieir strength must soon Fail, wiien continually obliged to engage a fresh line. For cUnately, .i?;*:'ncr d Riall, from the obstinacy of the re- sistance, had by fhh time over-rated tlieir force, and had despatched a messer.^er to genei-al Drummond foi rein- forcements; his nunibers enga';ed thus far having been more than double the Atncrican. About t-u's time an awful Vf UiSe e.jsaod between the two armies; for a time no soDid broke upon the still f»ess of the nii.\;ht, but the groans of the wounded, mingling with the distant din oj HISTORY OF THE WAT?. 2G0 tho. cafaiact of Niagara. The sijattered re<^imcn(s wore- consoliditted into one brigade, and placed as a reserve under colonel Hra^W, who, though severely wounded, re- fused to quit the field. The sdence was once more in- terrupted by the arrival of general Ripley's brigade, n.a- jor Uindman's artillery, and general Porter's volunteers, and at the same time of general Drummond with rein- forcements. In the meantime, that accomplished young ofticer. uki- jor Jessup, who had been ordered in the early part of the action, to take post on the right, had succeeded, during the engagement, after encountering great difficulty, in burning the left flank of the enemy. At the present Uio- ment, taking advantage of the darkness of the night and the incaution of the enemy, he threw his regiment in the rear of their reserve, and surprising one detachment at^ tor another, made prisoners of so many of their oilicers and men, that his progress was greatly impeded. The laws of war would have justified him in putting them to death; " but the laurel, in his opinion, was most glorious when entwined by the hand of mercy;" he therefore spared them, under circumstances where they certainly would not have spared him. One of his officers, captain Ketchum, had the good fortune to make prisoner of ge- neral Riall, and of the aid of general Drummond; the latter a most fortunate circumstance, as it prevented the concentration of the British force, contemplated by that officer, before the Americans were prepared for his re- ception. After disposing of his prisoners, major Jessup felt his way to the place where the hottest fire was kept up on the brigade to which he belonged, and drew up his regiment behind a fence, on the side of the Queenstovv road, but in the rear of a party of British infantry, drawn up on the opposite side of the same road; he suddenly gave thenj a destructive fire, on which they bioke and fled. "The major," says general Brown, "shewed himself to his own army, in a blaze of fire." He was ordered to form on the right of the second brigade. General Ripley's brigade had by this time been formed for action, when ordeis were given for it to advance to the support of general Scott, against whom a fire was uow 23* .'t ,':i >^ )'^(h > k I. : i'' h"' ■ " •.•■^T'O HISTORY OF THE WAR. tlirected which he could not lonji; withstand. GcniT.;! Ripley, with the cjuick discernment wliich characterizes tlie real commander, seeini; that too much time would be lost before he could make his way through the skiitof woods, in the darkness of the nij^ht, decided at once upon his own responsibility, to adopt the only measure from which he saw a hope; and which beinj^ made known to the commander-in-chief, he instantly satictioned. The enemy's artillery occupied a hill which was the key to the whole position, and it would be in vain to hope for victory wlule they were permitted to retajn it. Address- ing himself to colonel Miller, he inquired whether he could storm the batteries at the head of the twenty-first, while he would himself support him with the younger re- giment, the twenty-third. To this the wary, but intrepid veteran replied, in an unaftected phrase, I wii,l try sir; Avords, which were afterwards given as the motto of his regiment. The twenty-third was formed in close co- lumn, under its commander, major M'Farland, and the fnst regiment, under colonel Nicholas, was left to keep •the infantry in check. The two regiments moved on to one of the most perilous charges ever attempted; the whole of the artillery opened upon them as they advanc- ed, supported by a powerful line of infantry. The twenty-first advanced steadily to its purpose; the twen- ty-third faultereil on receiving the deadly fire of the ene- my; but was soon rallied by tlie personal exertions of ge*- neral Ripley. When within a hundred yards of the sum- mit, they received another dreadful discharjie, by which major M*Farland was killed, and the command devolved on major Brooks. To the amazement of the British, the intrepid Miller firmly advanced, until within a few paces of their line, when he impetuously charged upon the ar- tillery, which, after a snort but desperate resistance, yielded their whole battery, and the American line was in a moment formed in the rear, upon the ground previ- ously occupied by tlie British infantry. In carrying tl e larger pieces, the twenty-first suffered severely; lieute- nant Cilley, after an unexampled eft'ort, fell wounded by ihe side of the piece which he took: few of the officers of thi^ reaiinent were not either killed or' wc»ufld(il. By HISTORY OF THE WAll. <57 t the united effcrts of tlie two lo^lincnts tho Hiitish in- t'anti'V w'Xi iu a short time driven down the onnricnce, out of the reach of musketry, while tlieirown cannon was liirncd upon tliein. This admirable ellbrt comjiletely clian^ed tlie nature of tlie battle; every movement wa** now ilirected to this point, as upon the al)ility to maintain the hci};ht, tlie result entirely depended. While con- tcndinj; for the hei,u;!»ts, the capture of j^eneral Iliall had been announced by loud huzzas, on the part of the American troops below, wliich broii<»;ht a shell amoni^ ma- jor Ilindman's corps, exphtded a caison, and unfortunate- ly killed the brave captain Ritchie. Major Hindman was ordered to brinr^ up his corps, to post himself with his own and the captured cannon, to the rijijjht of Ripley's hrii^ade, and between it and the twenty-fifth, while the volunteers of general Porter were drawn up on the right. The British commander, stung with rage and mortifi- cation at this unexampled exploit of the Americans, now considered it absolutely essential to the credit of the Bri- tish army, and to avoid insupportable disgrace, that ho shoidd make a desperate effort. Having been greatly re- inforced, and placing his troops in the best p5ssible order for the execution of his purpose, he now advanced upon Ripley, with a heavy and extended line, out-flanking him in both extremes. The Americans stood silently await- ing his approach, having received orders from the gene- ral to reserve their fire, until it could be rendered effec- tive and deadly. The whole division of the British now advanced with a brisk step, until within twenty paces of the summit, when it poured in a rapid fire, and prepared to rush forv/ard with the bayonet; the American line, be- ing directed by the fire of the enemy, returned it with deadly effect; they were tin-own into confusicm, but be- ing again rallied, furiously returned to the attack, and a most tremendous conflict ensued. For twenty minutes the action continued with violence indescribable. Tlie British line was at last compelled to yield, and to retire down the hili. General Porter's volunteers emidated the conduct of the regulars. Tlie gallant maji)r Wood, of the Pennsylvania corps, and colonel Dobbin, of the Ne^T-York, gave examples of unshaken intrepidity. Tt ..') y| ( , -.1 ^^M^ .V| -m:^ '.■» HISTORY OF TIIK WAIi. was not suppostMl, howoviT, that this would be the last ef- fort of the liritish jteneral; the line was instantly restor- ed, and the wounded transported to the rear. Gencr.il Scott's brigade, durlnj^ this period, had been held in re- serve under colonel l^eavenworth, colonel Brady having been compelled by the severity of his wound, to resi<;ri the command; the general's brii^ade-major, lieutenant Smith, and his aid, captain Worth, were both compelled to retire in consctjuence of their wounds; this i)ri<;a(le was now ordered to move to Lundy's-lane, with its rij^iit On the Niaj^ara road. After the lapse of half an hour, o;eneral Drummond was aii;ain discovered ad\ancing to th.e assatdtwith reno- vated vigour. The precaution at lirst adopted by gene- ral Ripley, was again observed; the fire oi HTul ntill more desperate struggle. After takinj^ an hour to refiv^li tliemsi'lves, iun\ recovorinj; from their fatigue, they advamed with a new and nune extendt'd line, and with confident iio})es of beinii; ahlc to overjmwer the Americans, who thus far had l)een denied both jtfiesh- uient and repose. Our count rynven had stood to their arms during; all this time, their canteens exhausted, and niaiiy almost faintiiij; with thirst; and from the Uuiu: in- terval, they had I)e2;an to cherisii hopes tliat tlie enemy had yielded. In this they were dihapjjoiiited; but on •liscoverin^- the approach ot the l'*riti^h, their courayeous spirit returned, and they resolved never to yield the glorious trophies of their victory, until they could con- tend no longer. The British delivered their liie at the Siime distance as on the last onset, which was returned by the Atnericans with the fcume deadly ellect; but they (lid not fall back with the same precipitation, a fresli line supplied the place of the first, and the whole sfeadily advanced. A conflict, dreadful beyond description, en- sued; the twenty-first, under its brave leader, firndy w'itlistood the shock. The right and left re])eatedly fell back, but were again rallied by the general, by colonels Miller, Nicholas, and Jessup. At length the two lines dosed with each other on the very summit of the hill, v^ Inch they contested with terrifick violence at tiie point of the bayonet. Such was fhe obstinacy of the contest, that many battalions, on both sides, were forced back, and t!ie contending parties became mingled with each othc. Nothing could exceed the desperation of the conliict at the point where tlie cannon was stationed. The enemy having forced himself into the very midst of nip.jor Hiiidman's artillery, this officer was compelled to spike two ot his pieces, and was warmly engaged across the carriages and guns. General Ripley now pressing upon the enemy's ilanks, compelled them to give way, find the centre soon following the example, the whole British line iled a third time, and no exertions of their oflTiceis could restrain them, until they placed themselves out of the reach of the musketry and artillery. The British being now completely beaten, retired beyond the borders of the field, leaviog their dead and wounded. I ■ :.'■ Ai ■M ^>. IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) // // Y- ,v M/ .V4 .*'' 4- ,# ^ ^ti ^ 1.0 I.I |50 "^^ Iffl^^ Ui 1^ III 2.2 Hf U£ III 2.0 1.8 1.25 1.4 !'•* "* 6" - ► V] # > /^ % J^V# 7 Photographic Sciences Corporation m t \ O ^ /"^ 6^ 33 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, NY. 14580 (716) 872-4503 o ^4 HISTORY OF THE WAR. i General Brown had received two severe wounds at tlie comnjencemeiit of the last char<»;e, and was compel- led to follow j^eneral Scott, leavin*;^ the command to Hip- ley. This ofhcer had made repeated efforts to obtain the means of removing the captured artillery, but the horses having been killed, and no drag-ropes to be pro- cured, it was delaved until after the last contest, wlien orders were received from general Urown, to collect the wounded and return to camp. I'he Biilish cannon were therefore spiked, and the smaller pieces rolled down the hill by major Hindman, who returned in good order witii his corps; the whole reaching camp about midnight. It is much to be regretted, that these trophies of victory could not have been secured, as the circumstance gave occasion to the British, surprising as it may seem, to claim the victory. To high praise they certainly were entitled, but to claim the merit of "a comj)lete defeat of the Americans," was outiaging trutli; and to be com- plimented for this, ought to infuse the blush of shame into the cheek of an honourable soldier. The British force engaged was little short of five thousand men, in- cluding fifteen hundred militia and Indians: nearly a third greater than that of the Americans. The loss on either side was proportioned to the nature of this dread- ful i-nd sanguinary battle; its aggregate amounted to one thousand seven hundred and twenty-nine; and the killed and wounded alone to one thousand three hundred and eighty-four. On the side of the British, one assis- tant adjutant-geiitral, one captain, three subalterns, and seventy-nine non-commissioned officers and privates, were killed; lieutenant-general Drummond, major-gene- ral Riall, and three lieutenant-colonels, two majors, eight captains, twenty-two subalterns, and five hundred non- commissioned officers and privates, were wounded: the prisoners and missing, one aid-de-camp, (captain Loring) five captains, nine subalterns, and two hundred and twenty non-commissioned oflicers and privates; making in all eight hundred and seventy-eight men. In the records of the most bloody conflicts, we seldom meet with so great a number of officers killed and wound- ed. The American loss was one major, five captains, five HISTORY OF THE WAR. S175 :^: ftubalternfl, and one hundred and fiftj-nine non-commis- sioned officers and privates, killed; major-general Brown, brij^adier-a;enerals Scott and Porter, two aids-de-camp, one brigade-major, one colonel, four lieutenant colonels, one major, seven captains, thirty-seven subalterns, atid five hundred and fifteen non-commissioned officers and privates, wounded; and one brij^ade-major, one captain, six subalterns, and one hundred and two non-commis- sioned officers and privates, missing; making a grand to- tal of eight hundred and fifty-one, and a difference of twenty-seven only, between the contending parties. On arriving at the ramp, the commander-in-cliief order- ^d general Ripley to refresh the troops, and proceed to the ground in the morning, and to engage the enemy, if circumstances permitted. On examining his troops, ge- neral Ripley found he had but fifteen hundred men fit for duty; and reconnoitring the enemy, he found them drawn up in their first position, presentin;r a foimidable appearance; it therefore would have been madness, with his men in their present state, to have renewed tjie com- bat; he therefore properly declined it. His conduct was hastily censured by general Brown, in his despatches to the government; and general Ripley, unlbrtunately, had for a lono; time to contend with the oblo(|uy of publick opinion; it was not until lately that the full extent of his merit was known; it is now generally acknowledged, that much of the praise, of the most brilliant victory that ever crowned our arms on the land, is due to the skill and valour of this officer. General Ripley, finding himself unable to make a stand against the superiour force of the British, retreated to fort Erie, and anticipating the approach of the enemy, immediatelv set about extending its defences. The cue- my, notwithstanding their pretended victory, did not think proper to follow up the Americans, until they had been reinforced by general De Watteville, with upwards of a thousand men, their whole force about five thousand. This formidable body appeared on the third of August, before a fortification, which, a few days pi oviously, had been considered untenable, and commenced with regular approaches, hopeless of being able to prevail otherwise ''''^JHfiUiHIiiV^'^ ^76 HISTORY OF THE WAK. tiian by a formal sioge. The besieged, at the same time, liibonred incessantly to complete their defences. The position which the American army had taken, for the pur- pose of defending itself against so great a superiority, pos- sessed few natural advantages, and the work called fort Erie was little more than a small unfinished redoubt It was situated about one hundred yards from the lake shore at its nearest angle, and on a plain of about fifteen feet of elevation. The f(ut could be considered as no- thing more than the strongest point of a fortified camp, for a line of works was yet to be constructed in front, and extending to the right and left to the lake; the rear on the shore being left open. The fort itself probably did not occupy more than a sixth of the space taken up in the line of defences: the remainder could not be other- wise than hastily constructed, and, indeed, notwithstand- in•'' 'I poaitions were rapidly made, and the troops manifested j^reat enthusiasm to engage the assailants. General Drummond had made arrangements to assail every part of the American fortifications at the same in- stant; and general Gaines, not knowing where the ene- my would make his attack, was prepared to meet him at every point. The fort and bastions were placed under the command of captain Williams, of the artillery: the battery on the lake was assigned to captain Douglass; a blockhouse, near the salient bastion, was occupied by major Trimble; the batteries in front, under captains Biddle and Fanning, supported by general Porter; and the whole of the artillery througiiout the garrison, under major Hindman. The first brigade, consisting of parts of die eleventh, ninth, and twenty-second infantry, lately commanded by general Scott, now under colonel Aspin- wall, was posted on the right; and general Ripley's bri- gade, supported Towson's battery and the line, upon the left. A few hours before the commencement of the as- sault, one of the enemy's shells exploded a magazine within the American works, which was succeeded by a loud shout from the besiegers, under the belief that the magazine of the fort had blown up. The shout was re- turned by the Americans, and captain Williams, amid the smoke of t!ie explosion, renewed the contest by an animated roar of his heavy guns. At half after two in the morning, tlie approacli of the enemy's right column, which was one thousand three hundred strong, was distinctly heard on the left of the garrison. In this quarter, nothing but a line of loose brush, representing an abattis, intervened. The second brigade (major Wood cominaading the twenty-first) and Towson's artillery, were ready to receive them. The British, under colonel Fischer, were permitte'' to ap- proach within a short distance, when a tremendous fire was opened upon them, and their column fell back in confusion. The colonel, rallyina; his men, fls, firm- ly advanced to the point of the fort, which was strength- ened by a temporar}^ parapet breast-work, with two bat- terics and six field pieces. Suddenly applying his scal- ing ladders, he mounted the parapet, his officers calling out to the line at the Douglass battery to cease firing; tliis artifice for a few moments succeeded; the Ameri- cans, supposing tlie order to come from their own officers, suffered colonel Scott, who had rallied his men, to ap- proach their line, by which the trick was discovered; it however availed nothing, for this column was assailed with so much effect, as to be compelled again to retreat, with the loss of its commander, and a third of its num- bers. The fiont column was, in the meanwhile, with <>;reat difliculty thrown back, and the troops within the fort were reinforced from general Ripley's brigade, and general Porter's volunteers. Repeated assaults were made by colonel Drummond, and repulsed by colonel Ilindman's artillery, and the infantry under major Trim- ble. After the defeat of colonel Scott's cohunn, lieuten- ant Douujlass was engaged in giving such directions to his guns, as to cut off the communication between colonel Drummond, and the reserve intended for bis support, un- iier colonel Tucker. already \.:^ HISTORY OF TUK WAR. or '.I Colonel Drummond, althoui^h throe (itnes ivpnl-eil, was unwilling to renounce his undertaking;. Avdiliiu; himself of the darkness of tlie hour, whicli was increased by the smoke, he stole silently alony; the ditch, and sud- deidy applying his ladders once more, rapidly j^ainetl \\\e parapet, crying; out to his men to rush forward, and in the eleji^ant phrase, in which the British arc in the habit ol' expressin£5 their esteem for us, ij;ir^ the d d Yankeea no quarfevfi! This order was faithfully executed; and the most furious strife now ensued, that had been wit- nessed since the commencement of the assault. All the efforts of major Hindman, and the corps supportinj^ him, could not dislodge the enemy from the bastion, though he could approach no further. Captain Williams was mor- tally wounded; lieutenants Watmouth and M'Donough, severely; tlie latter, no longer able to fight, called for quarters. This was positively refused by colonel Drum- mond, who repeated nis instructions to his troops to deny it in every instance. The declining and almost exhaust- ed strength and spirits of the lieutenant, being restored and roused by the shocking barbarity of this order, he seized a handspike, and with the desperation of madness, defended himself against the assailants, until lie was shot by the colonel himself. This man survived an act, that was little better than assassination, only a few minutes; he received a ball in his breast, wliich terminated his in- glorious life, lirutal courage deserves only our ablior- rence; it is only when tempered with mercy, that valour is estimable among men. The enemy still maintained their position, notwithstanding the death of their leader, and repulsed every attempt to dislodge them until day- light: they had, in the meantime, suffered excessively; and the contest along the whole line of defences, with this exception, having ceased, considerable reinforce- ments were ordered up. The enemy began at last to re- coil, and many were thrown over the bastion. The Bri- tish reserve was now expected to come up to their sup- port; the result, however, by this time, scarcely admitted a- doubt. The cannon of the Douglass battery infiladcd their approach, and the artillery of lieutenant Fannini;; already played upon them with great effect. A part of '•Pi i.:.>n *':i- '•);-; 60 III.^TORY OF THE WxvR. i tlio rv\sorvc was about to advance, when an explosion took place under the platform, which carried away (he bastion, rnd all who were on it. The reserve fell back, itnd the contest, in a short time, terminated in (he entire defeat of (be enemy. Tbe British left on the field two hundred and twenty- fwo killcfl, anion^ tliem fourteen olficers of distinction; one iiujulred and seventy-four wounded^ and one hun- ^.\ivd and eighty-six prisoners, making; a total of five hiin- • lied and eiu:hty-two. Tbe official statement of general Diinnmond makes it in all, nine hundred and five. The Vmerican loss amounted to seventeen killed, fifty-six uotmdt'd, and one lieutenant, Fontain, thrown out vvbihi 'lefojtding the bastion, and ten privates, prisoners; in all, ciiility-foiir men. It was not until all hopes of carrying iiie Out v/ere at an end, that they deigned to take prisori- < MS of a r»'w wounded men> who fell into their power. 'J'iio explosion fin-nish the British with an excuse for rhcir dcleat; and they represented its constMjdences as iriu -h more serious than they really were, in cider to hear them out; but it is well known, tliat the assault had already failed in every part, and the small body of men, in possession of the outer bastion, could net expect to subdue the v^hole garrison. Nor was the number killed by the explosion, so great as represented. The slaugliter of the enemy took place during the assault, which had already lasted upwards of an hour. But is it not won- derful, that an enemy, who intended to put the garrison to the sword without mercy, should complain of any mode of annoyance, which would prevent the perpetration P»f their fell design? The enem> now remained cpnet in his entrenchments, until he received a reinforcement of two regiments, when he continued to assail the fort from his batteries, with little intermi.-sion, until the latter end of August. About this time, general Gaines was severely wounded by the bi'rstiog of a shell, which compelled him to retire to Buf- faloo. The situation of the army in fort Erie had begun to excite considerable uneasiness; but the operations of sir Georse Prevost, about this time, in the vicinity of Cham- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 281 stire to Buf- plain and Pl.ittsburg;, rendered it for some time very un-- certain whether any relief could be sent by "general IzarcL It afterwards aj, geared, that orders had been given to this ofTicer by tiie secretary at var, but he was prevented, by a variety of causes, from proceedinj;^ as rapitlly as could have been desired. The troops, however, were daily strengthened by the arrival of militia and volunteers; and general Brown, havinis; sufficiently recovered from his wounds, returned to the command. The sic^e still con- tinued with vigour on the part of the Britisl), who hcd abandoned the idea of carrying the place otlierwise than by regular approaches, although their force had been con- siderably augmented since their last defeat. The Ame- ricans laboured, with no less assiduity, to complete their fortifications; frequent skirmishes occurred, and a can- nonade on either side was kept up, but nothing of im- portance took place until the seventeenth of September. General Brown ooserving that the enemy had just com- pleted a battery, which could open a most destructive fire the next day, planned a sortie, wl ich has been considered a military chef d'tjeuvre. The British force consisted of three brijjades, of one thousand five hundred men each, one of wliich was stationed at the works in front of fort Erie, the other two occupied a camp two miles in the rear. The design of general Brown was to "storm the batteries, destroy the cannon, and roug'ily handle the brigade on duty, before those in reserve could be brought up." A road had previously been opened by lieutenants Riddle and Frazer, in a circuitous course through the woods, within pistol shot of the flank of the line of batte- ries, and with such secrc y as to have escaped the notice of the enemy. At two o'clock the troops were drawn up in readiness to make ^he sortie. The division command- ed by general Porter, was composed of rillemen and In- dians (under colonel Gibson,) and two columns, one on the right commanded by colonel Wood, t!ie left command ed by general Davis, of the New-York militia; this was to proceed through the woods by the road which had been opened; while the right division of the troops, in the ra- vme already mentioned, was to be stationed between tlie fort and the enemy's works, under general Miller, with 24* :\M \H fg 282 HISTORY OF THE WAR. I ^ orders not t(» advance until general Porter should have engaged their flank. The command of general Porter advanced with so nuicli celerity and cautioii, that \v\\cn they rushed upon the ene- my's flank, they gave the first intimation of their ap- proach. A severe conflict for a moment ensued, in which those gallant officei's, colonel Gibson and colonel Wood, Tell at the head of their columns, and the command devolv- ed on lieutenant colonel M'Donald and major Rrooks. In thirty minutes possession was taken of both batteries in this quarter, together with a block-house in the rear, and the garrison made prisoners. Three twenty-four pounders were renderecl useless, .ind their magazine blown up by lieutenant Riddle, who narrowly escaped the effects of the explosion. At this moment the division of 2;eneral Miller came up; general Brown having heard the tiring, had ordered it to advance. In conjunction with colonel Gibson's column, he pierced between the second and third line of batteries, and after a severe contest, car- ried the first of these: in this assault general Davis fell, at the head of his volunteers. The whole of these batteries and the two block-houses, being in the possession of the \mericans, general Miller's division inclined to the mote J'ormidable batteries toward the lake shore; at this moment rhey were joined by the reserve under general Ripley. Here the resistance was more obstinate, the work being exceedingly intricate, from the successive lines of in- trenchments, contrived with studied complexity; a con- stant use of the bayonet was the only mode of assailing fhem; the enemy had also, by this time, received conside- rable reinforcements. General Miller continued to ad- vance, although suffering severe loss in some of his valu- able officers: colonel Aspinwall was badly wounded, and major Trimble dangerously. The twenty-first, under lieutenant colonel TJpham, forming a part of the reserve, and part of the seventeenth, uniting with the corps of ge- neral Miller, charged rapidly upon the remaining battery, which was instantly abandoned by the British infantry and artillery. General Ripley now ordered a line to be /orni?d, for the protection of the detachments engaged in df'str«>ying the batteries, and was engaged in making ar- IIISTO .Y OF THK WAR. 283 rangements for following up, a«5aiiist the rear of o;cMieral Drunimond, the success which nad so far transceiMled ex- pectation, when he received a wound in the neck, and fell Uy tlie side of major Brooks: he was immediately trans- ported to the fort. The objects of the sortie havinj; been completely effected, general Miller called in his detach- uients, and retired in jt^ood order, with the prisoners and the trophies of this signal exploit.^ Thus, in a few hours, the result of forty-seven days incessant labour w«is de- stroyed; and in addition to the loss of their cannon, up- wards of a thousantl of their men were placed hors de combat. The American loss amounted to eighty-three killed, two hundred and sixteen wounded, and a like number missin^i;. Besides the gallant officers already mentioned, several others of great merit fell on this occa- sion: captain Armistead, of the rifle corps; Hall, of the eleventh infantry; Bradford, of thi twenty-first, and Buel, of the volunteers; ensign O'Flinjt, of the twenty -third in- fantry, a meritorious officer; and lieutenants Brown, Belk- nap, and Blakesley, of the volunteers. The loss on the part of the British has not been accurately tiscertained, but must have been very great; three hundred and eighty-five were taken prisoners. A few days after this splendid victory on the part of the British, for as such it was claim- ed by them, they broke up their encampment, and march- ed to fort George! Soon after this affair, general Izard arrived with rein- forcements from Plattsburg, and being the senior officer, superceded general Brown in the command. By this ac- cession of force, and the completion of the defences of fort Krie, all apprehensions of any further attempt f»gainst it were removed. About the latter end of July, the secretary of war, hearing that the British were send- ing strong reinforcements from Montreal to Kingston, had intimated to general Izard, thd propriety of moving the principal part of his force to Sackett's Harbour for the purpose of forming a junction with general Gaines, of threatening Prescott and Kingston, and at the same time detaching a part of his force to the aid of general Brown, in the prosecution of his part of the campaign. In pursuance of this intimation, the general moved to 1 • ' ■ k ^58 4 HISTORY OF THK WAR i Si^ Siickett's TIaiboiir, with iioarly all lus efllocflvo force, ;im()unlinjj; to four thousand men, wlierc he arrived on th« sovent«'ci»tl» of Septmihor. The events which imd in the ineantiuu! occurred, and wluch have iseen already' de- tailed, had t^iven a new face to the canipaign. Shortly before the arrival of the ;;cneral, he had received a letter fr(un y;eneral IJrown, j^ivini; information of his critical position, and callinii; for speedy relief. It Mas not be- fore tlie twentieth, tiwit'j^encral Izard was enabled to em- bark his troops, and it was sometime in October before he actually reached fort Krie. It will be seen, (in a sub- secjuent chapter) that the post which he left was, soon af- ter his departure, placed in a situation as critical as that wliicli he ha; fr'>m the ))rosccution of a war with a liandful of men, alon«»: a frontier of such immense extent, and the absurdity of expecting these small corps to march to their mutual relief, or to act on concerted plans, at the distance ol four or live hundred miles, sub- ject to innumerable contiiiijencies. Fortunately, before the arrival of general I/.ard, the success of the sortie planned by general Brown, had compelled the enemy to raise the siege. The approach of general Izard, in all probability, contributed somewhat to this event. Leav- ing a sulHcicnt ganison under colonel Hind man, the army moved towards Chij;pewa, to operate offensively against the enemy; but notiung of noment was achieved for some time, in consecjuence of their acquired shyness. Before the close of the campaign, a gallant affair was achieved by general Bissil, of the second brigade of the first division, On the eighteenth of October, lie was de- tached with nine hundred men, to the neigbourhood of Cook's mills, at Jjyon's creek, for the purpose of destroy- ing the enemy's stores in that quarter. After driving in a picket-guard, and ca'^turing its oiKcers, he threw across the creek two light co)L,)anies under captains Dormart and Horrell, and a rifle company under captain Irvine, and then encamped. The next morning the detachment was attacked by the marquis of TweCv'-de, with twelve hundred men; the companies on the other side of the creek received the enemy's tire, and sustained their at- ill* POKY OF TIIK WAU. 285 tack until aonoral Hissil had fonned his men, and brought lIicMu to thi'ir support. Coh)nel Finknev, with the til'th, was ordered to turn t!ie enemy's iii!;lit llank, anposed of the fifteenth, under major Grinda^e, and the sixteenth under colonel IVarce, was no sooner discovered advancinj;, ihau the mar(|uis gave orders to retreat to his intrenchments at the mouth of the riv(;r; he fell hack in disorder, leav- iiiu; his killed and wounded behind. After pursuin;^ a small distance, j^eneral 15issil proceeded to the execution of his orders, in the destruction of the stores at the mills; after which he retreated, with a loss of sixt^-sevon killed, wounded and missing. .^oon after tins affair, the weather growing cold, and t'le season for njilitary operations drawing to a close, it was (letormii^ed to transport the whole army to the Ame- rican side; which was accordingly etl'ected, after the de- j-huction of the fort. The troops were distributed at HutV;:!(je, Hjack f^ock, and Batavia. Thus tcirminated the third invasion of Canada, if it can be pioperly called so; for it was not generally expected that any thing fuither would be accomplished, than keep- ing in check the forces of the enemy, and regaining what we had lost on our own side. At tlie opening of the cam- paign, general Brown indulged a hope of being able, in conjunction with commodore Chauncey, to subdue the British forces in the neighbourhood of lake Ontario, and possess himself of Kingston; but towards the beginning of autumn, so material a change had occurred in our situ- ation, in consequence of the great augmentation of the British force on our borders, and the invasions of our ter- ritory on the sea-coast, and the ('anada frontier, that all idea of making an impression on Canada, with the force then on f:)ot, was abandoned. It was stated by the friends of the administration, that the best mode of protecting the Atlantic coast, was to threaten Canada, by which means. Great Britain would be compelled to concentrate : .'.'f V I 'I'. 1 ! '^ !"■ 'Mi .iU ••jMBKrifur" ■288 HISTORY OF THE WAU. the greater part of her force, in that province. Tlu" American ref^ulars did not exceed ten thousand, while those of the British, it has since been ascertained, exceed- ed tvventv-thousand; nearly all veterans. The whole American army distributed in the different Atlantic cities, would not alford much dependence for defence, from the troops which mii;ht be sent aj^Lainjt them, if Great Britain had been relieved from the defence of Canada, As to the conquest of this province, it is very questionable whether it would materially have benefitted us. It is well known that it contains the bitterest enemies to the American government and people, many of whom tied from this country during the contest for independence, and it is not likely that they would willingly be incorpo- rated into our republick. The most important results, however, followed the campaign on the Niagara. The developement of the character of American troops, under proper discipline, was productive of as much glory for tliis country, as of surprise io the enemy. During tlie two iirst years tliere was scarcely time to form otlicers, and during the last period of the v.ar the army was composed of better ma- terials; the aversion to eidistnjents was gradually subsid- ing, and commissions were sought by young men of edu- cation and talents; another year would h{«.vc given an army, which Great Britain might have regarded with un- easiness. That spirit, which bestows superiority to man in every station, was beginning to discover its resistless powei-; the closing scenes of this campaign placed the army or a level with the heroick charactei- of the navy. What is that spirit? It is the spirit of freedom; it is tliat which gives conscious dignity and worth to the soldier and the citizen. It is that which gave victories to Greece, and gained triumphs for Rome, and which has carried the power of Britain round the globe. This enno- bling spirit animated the sons of freedom, and gave them strength to conquer in two pitched battles, on ground chosen by the veteran troops of England; and twice more to baffle and defeat the utmost eftbits of their skill and courage: for each Jimerlcan felt, that he could not return to mingle with his countrymen without honour or HISTORY OF THE WAR. 287 tlisii;race. Such was the valour wliich they displayed, that it was declared by the BritisI )tlficers who had seen severe service in Spain, that they uad never encountered men like these. But as Britain falls below America in the liberality and wisdom of her institutions, so her sons must yield the Americans the wreath of valour. Worth here, alone, is nobility. Our Hulls, our Oecaturs, our Browns, are not obliged like the WellinjGjtons or Nelsons, to share their well earned honours, with the creatures of accident; periiaps with the worthless descendants of worthless ancestors. I am far from supposing that there is no intrinsick good among the hereditary English nobili- ty, but certainly too many of them are born only to usurp the place of merit, and indulge the most idle and vicious propensities. It was proved to tlie world, that we could concjuer upon the land as well as upon the sea. The bat- tles of Niagara and Chippewa, were both won by a com- bination of military skdl and personal courage; the defence of Erie, and the sortie, if achieved by the arms of great Britain, would have been ranked amongst the most distingnished acts of valour, since even their defeats are deemed worthy of applause. They have at last con- descended to place us on an equality with them; the na- tion which never owned an equal beiore; they have even arrogated to themselves a share of our victories, by re- garding our contest as a war between Greek and Grerk; but we cannot admit that we arc both alike actuated by that spirit of liberty, which distinguished Greece in the days of her renown. In the course of the summer, several expeditions were undertaken to the westward. An attempt was made, with the co-operation of commodore Sinclair, to regain possession of Michilimackinack, by major Croghan. But the enemy was found too strongly fortified for any im- pression to be made by a force so inconsiderable. The gallant young officer effected a landing on the island, but soon found that the enemy was in such strength; as to ren- der the capture of the place hopeless; he therefore, after a severe contlict, returned lo the shipping, with the loss of a valuable officer, major Holmes, and about sixty in killed and wounded, among the latter nuijer Dashea, of Kentuc- •!« '•hi '■, t'K. fn;. li k,>k 111 388 HISTORY OF THE WAU. ky. The expedition was not altogether useless; the IJiv tish establishments Df Mary's ana St. Joseph, were de stroyed. After leaviniaj the island, commodore Sinclair loft "two of his schooners, the Scorpion and Tygress, to cut oft' the supplies of the British garrison. These were unfortunately surprised by a very superiour force of the enemy, anti carried by boarding, after great slaughter. About the same time, general M*Arthur, with about seven hundred men, marched from Detroit into the ene- my's country, and after dispersing all the detachments in the neighbourhood of the Thames, destroying their storcjs, and taking one hundred and fifty prisoners, re- turned without loss. CHAPTER XVII. 11 War on the sea-coast — ^Engagements between the enemy and Har- ney's flotilla in the Chesapeake — Plunderings of the British— \Vashington and IJaltimore threatened— (aeneral Winder appointed to comin>an(l the tenth district — Serious apprehensions from the Bri- tish — Difficulties in collecting an efficient force for defence — Cap- ture of \\ ashington— I he plunder of Alexandria. J. HE shifting scenes of this war, carried on over a sur- face so extensive, and with objects so various, once more brings us back to the Atlantic sea-coast. With the re- turn of spring, the British renewed their practice of petty plundering and savage devastation on the waters of the Chesapeake, but carrying it to an extent still greater than the year before. The flotilla already spo- ken of, for the defence of the inlets and smaller rivers, consisting of a cutter, two gunboats, and nine barges, was placed under the command of that gallant veteran, commodore Barney, and who, on several occasions, se- verely repressed the inroads of the enemy. On the first of June, ne gave chase to two of the enemy's schooners, but on the appearance of a large ship, which despatchetl a number of baraes to cut him off', the commodore order- ed ills llotilia b) signal to sail up the Patuxent. Here he HISTORY OF THE WAR. i289 engaged the enemy's schooners and barn;es, and succeed- ed in beating them oft*, inflicting considerable injury on them. The enemy, having been reinforced, made an- other attempt upon the flotilla with all their barges, but were again compelled to retire, being pursued to their ships. On the tenth, the enemy made a still more for- midable attack upon the flotilla, with two schooners and twenty barges. After a smart action, the barges were driven to take shelter in the St. lieonard's from an eigh- teen gun vessel, which was then so roughly handled, at long sliot, that her crew ran her aground and abandoned her. These attempts were frequently repeated until the twenty-sixth, when the commodore, having received a reinforcement of artillerists and marines, moved against the enemy's squadron, of which two of the vessels were frigates, and after an action of two hours, drove them from their anchorage. The commodore findine: the blockade of the St. Leonard's raised, sailed out and as- cended the Patuxent. After this, the enemy was constantly engaged in mak- ing inroads on the defenceless and unprotected settle- ments and villages along; the bay, and its various inlets. Benedict and Marlborough, on the Potomack, were plun- dered of considerable quantities of tobacco, merchandise, and stock. In the detail of their operations given by themselves, it appears to have been the uniform practice to destroy the shipping, carry away the tobacco, and other staples, and induce the negroes to join them, who were afterwards, it is said, retained in slavery in the West Indies. A great number of individuals, in easy and even affluent circumstances, were reduced to pover- ty. Several gallant attempts were made by general Tay- lor, and general Hungerford, to repress their incursions in Virginia, but the militia, hastily assembled, was gene- rally tound inefficient. At Kinsale, general Taylor was wounded and unhorsed, narrowly escaping capture. At this place, at Tocomoco, at St. Mary's, and various others, admual Cockburn obtained a respectable booty of tobac- co, negroes, and household furniture. Towards the latter end of .lune, apprehensions began to be entertained, that the enemy had in view some more 25 mm .'.-'Mil ^HHpi^ 'O 90 HISTORY OF THE VVAll. seiious object of attack, either Baltimore or Washing- ton. Much alarm had been felt in these places the year before, but after it had subsided, an opinion was inclulg- ed, probably well founded, that a land force, greatly more considerable, than was then at the commancl of the Bri- tish, would be required to make any serious impression upon cither of these places, or even upon Annapolis and Norfolk; this was particularly proved in the attack upon the latter. It was justly thougnt that the enemy had re- ceived a lesson, which would render him cautious in at- tacking; the more considerable towns. But the sudden and unforeseen events of Europe, had entirely changed the face of things; Britain was now able to supply what she was not possessed of the year before, a powerful land force. Towards the latter end of June, our government received certain intelligence from Messrs. Gallatin and Bayard, that our enemy was determined not to let slip the opportunity of gratifying revenge, and was about to send powerful reinforcements to America. From the English prints it appeared, that England was extravagant- ly elated by her success, and toot to herself the whole merit of the great events on the continent, and in reality believed herself the mistress of the world. She was well acquainted with our situation; she knew that the regular troops on the Canada frontier could not at this moment be withdrawn, leaving powerful armies to penetrate the northern states; and she knew that it was impossible in the short space of time, which had elapsed since the oc- currence of the singular change in the state of Europe, which no statesman had foreseen, to imbody a considerable and efficient force. The American cities were all exposed to attack by land, although tolerably fortified against any approach by water. A few thousand regulars were scat- tered along a coast of fifteen hundred miles, and the only force to be opposed to their veteran soldiers, was inexpe- rienced militia, drawn together on the spur of the occa- sion. There is no doubt that the militia constitutes the best materials for armies, because individually they are actuated by hi?her motives, than the enlisted soldier can always be; but in order to be efficient, to use the words of the great fiiend of this species of force^ (Fletcher of Sal- HISTORY OF THE WAR. 29 1 [)r Washing- ices the year I was indulg- greatly more ■I of the Bri- s impression nnapolis and J attack upon nemy had re- autious in at- t the sudden irely changed ) supply what powerful land ir government Gallatin and jot to let slip was about to 1. From the s extravagant- self the whole and in reality She was well »at the regular ; this moment penetrate the impossible in since the oc- ite of Europe, a considerable jre all exposed ■d against any ars were scat- , and the only s, was inexpe- of the occa- constitutes the ually they are ed soldier can se the words of letcher of Sal- ten) "they must be on a right foot;" they must be encamp- ed, disciplined, harmonised, accustomed to see danger, and the different corps taught to rely on each other, to obey and confide in their officers. This is not the work of a day. In the open field, where military evolutions are necessary, the novelties of the scene, as well as the want of reliance on each other, renders it impossible for this description of force to encounter, with effect, an army of veterans, used to dangers, and regularly compacted by discipline, so as to act, as it were, by one luind. The attention of the president, being thus seriously awakened by the danger, to be apprehended if the news of the reinforcements, intended for the fleet then in the Chesapeake, should be true, called a council of the heads of departments, and suggested the propriety of collecting all the regulars within reach, of forming a camp of at least three thousand men, at some point between the Eastern Branch and the Patuxent, and of imbodying at least ten thousand militia at Washington. These ideas appeared to meet the approbation of all; and there is lit- tle doubt, that had they been, or could they have been carried into execution, both the cities of Baltimore and Washington would safely have bid defiance to the Bri- tish arms. Steps were immediately taken in furtherance of these views; a requisition was made of the whole quota of the state oi Maryland, of six thousand; five thousand of that of Pennsylvania; two thousand of Vir- ginia; besides the whole quota of the district of Colum- bia, amounting to two thousand more; making in the whole fifteen thousand, which it was thought would scarcely fail of bringing at least ten thousand into the field. It was ascertained, that about a thousand regulars could be depended on, besides a squad roi of horse then in Pennsylvania, and some regulars who were ordered from North Carolina, and in addition, the men of Bar- ney's flotilla, in case it should be found necessary to abandon it. Here was a formidable army on paper; but, with the exception of the regulars, these soldiers were yet quietly at their homes, the greater part at a consi- derable distance, and the work of drawing them out, im- bodying, arming and disciplining, yet to be performed;: •:!■..»■ ir \.'-sntc^-u.-^'-:>:^^ '«fcut3 '■WTSnCT'-XS 292 HISTORY OF THE WAR. h ■. each of these operations requiring time, .and causing; uiii- voidable delav. A new military district, composed of Maryland, the district ot C(tlumbia, and part of V'ir<^inia, was formed, and on the fifth of July the command was j;ivcn to gene- ral Winder, who had been a short time before exclian<>;- ed. The duties assigned to this otiicer were amon;':=5t the most important ontjusfed to any one (hninj:; the vvor; and were, in their nature, exceedin'^ly arduous and dijli- tult. The ar.'.iy, with which he was to defend the im- portant cities of Baltimore and VVashinjiiton, existed only on paper; and whether they could he brought into the liehi, or not, ccretary at war, that in consequence of the deranged state of the militia law, the executive had at that moment no power to enforce a draft; but that he would appeal to the patriotism of the people, in hopes that the legal objec- tion would not be made. By a letter of the seventeenth of July, eight or ten days alter the general had assumed the command, he was authorized to call upon the gover- nour of Pennsylvania for the proportion of that state; but this letter did not reach him until it was too late. The effect, however, of the call, is mere conjectural, as it could be founded upon no authority, but merely depended on the inclination of individuals. Thus seven thousand men were at once thrown out of the question, and of the remaining eight thousand men of this army on paper, tvvo-thirds at least must be deducted, in alloM ing for other failures. Towards the beginning of HISTORY OF TlIK WAU. iiOo causing uiii- Auijjust, the p;eneral had about, a tliousaml ro2;u!ars upon u'hicli !u* coiihi count with certainty, and alioui four thou- sand niiliUa, the {greater part yet at their homes; beside^ this disappoint nent in the contemplated force, he was in- volved in |)erplexity by not knowing where the enemy in- tended lo strike, Baltimore or Washinu;ton; for a'''uittinu; that this force iiad been suflicient to defend one place, it: was not suflicient to (h^fend both at the same time. On the failure of the draft in the state of Maiyland, trie force then imbodied at Annapolis was, by consent of tiie i^o- vernour, taken as part of the state requisition; and a bri- gade of Maryland militia, under general Stansbiiry, was also placed at the disposal of general Winder; but the in- habitants of Baltimore, near wh'.cli they were collected, could not think of permitting them to leave the city, with- out reluctance, considering tlieir own exposed situation. Here is an impartial statement of the causes which re- sulted in the subsequent disaster; for under the circum- stances, it scarcely could have happened otiierwise, with- out one of those extraordinary turns of fortune, upon which we have no right to calculate. It is wroijg in us to throw the blame exclusively on all, or any of the .^euts on the occasion. The blame must be shared by the na- tion, and partly by our political institutions; nor do 1 think the worse of them for their want of ener<2;y in as- suming promptly a military attitude: we should have to resign too many blessings to possess t!ie capacity; unless our militia can be regularly classed and disciplined. 'J'he expected reinforcements arrived in the Cliosa- peake about the beginnini»; of August, under admiral Cochrane, who was soon joined by the fleet in great force, under admiral Malcom. The expedition was destined against Baltimore or Washington; but until the last mo- ment, it was uncertain against whicl\ in particul.'vr. To increase this perplexity, the enemy divided his force into three parts, sendi ig one up the Potomack, under captain Gordon, for the purpose of bombarding fort Warburton, and opening the way to the City of Washington; th(j other, under sir Peter Parker, as if to threaten Baltimore; while the main body ascended the Patuxent, apparently with the intention of attackina; commodore r>arnev*s ilo- 25* %ii% ■ f;;*.! \n * . I' '•mm^: K I * ^94 HISTORY OF THE WAR. tilla, wliich had takeii refiige at the head of tliat river, but vvitli th»i real intention, as it was soon discovered, of attaclvin^ Wasli'n^i-on. They proceeded to Benedict, which they reached on the nineteenth of Auj^ust, and by the next day, lia(i completed the debarkation of tlieir land forces, under a;eneral Ross, to the number of six thousand; on the twenty-first they moved towards Nottin«rhani, and on the following; day reached Marlboroufijh. The British flotilla, consisting of launches and barges, ascendina; the river under Cockburn, keeping on the right flank of the army. The day following, on approaching the flotilla of commodore Barney, it was set fire to by sailors left for the purpose, the commodore having already joined gene- ral Winder with his men. General Winder was at this time, while the enemy was within twenty miles of the capital, at the head of (lo more than three thousand men; fifteen hundred of whom were militia just drawn into camp. The Baltimore mili- tia had not yet arrived, and those from Annapolis, and the Virginia detachment, were on their way. The gene- ral's camp was at the Woodyard; he was still in doubt whether tlie British intended an attack upon fort War- burton, which could make but little resistance to the land forces, but could be formidable to the ships of the enemy, or intended to march directly to Washington. The first was certainly the safest mode of attack on the part of the enemy, and that he did not make it, can only \/e account- ed for, from his perfect knowledge of the incapacity of the city at this moment for defence. The city could make no defence, but that of repelling the assailants in the open field: the only hope was in taking advan- tageous positions in the broken ground, bordered 'vith woods, along the road through which they had to pass; but, as their numbers were such as to enable them to push out flanking parties, this would not avail in the end. The only mode of resisting them effectually, would have been by interposing sufficient numbers, to compel them to repeated engagements, and to harass their flanks and threaten their rear. On the afternoon of the twen- ty-second, the British amy again set out, and after with the Americans, halted for the niglit, skirmishing HISTORY OF THE WAR. 29J that rive;-. :overe(l, of Benedict, ust, anil by ; their land X thousand; iijrham, and rhe British :endini!; the lank of the )c flotilla of lors left for oincd gene- thc enemy » head of (i(» ?id of whom timore mili* tiapolis, and The gene- ill in doubt [1 fort War- i to the land f the enemy, 1. The first i part of the iie account- ricapacity of city could assailants cing: advaii- rdered -vith had to pass; 3le them to avail in the ually, would s, to compel their flanks of the twen- t, and after r the niglit, five miles in advance of Marlborough. General Win- der now retired oy the Woodyard, where he had before encamped, to a place called the Old Fields, which co- vered Bladensburgh, the bridges on the Eastern Branch an.l fort Warbu'ton; for it was uncertain which of these directions the enemv intended to pursue. Colonel Mon- roe, the secretary of state had been with him for several (jays, assisting with his counsel, and actively engaged in reconnoitring the enemy; on the evening he was joined by the president and heads c " departments, who remain- ed until the next evening. The anxious and painful situation of tlie general, rendered him desirous of bene- fiting by tlie counsel of the first ofticers of the nation; and their uneasiness in the urgency of the moment, in- duced them to hazard their opinions, perhaps too freely, in matters merely executive. In a critical moment, where prompt decision is necessary, too many minds, suggesting their various expedients, do more harm than good. But this was an interference, considering the anx- iety of the moment, for which no one can be blamed. On the twenty-third, major Peter was detached with some field pieces, and captains Davidson and Stull's compa- nies, to skirmish with the enemy near Marlborough, who advanced on him, and took a position near Old Fields, menacing it with an attack either that night or early in the morning. Apprehensive of a night attack, which might be fatal to iiim, general Winder retired to the city, intending to clioose a position between it and Bla- densburgh, where he could oppose the enemy with his whole force. On the evening before, general Stansbury arrived with his brigade, at Bladensburgh, after a very fatiguing march, and immediately despatched his aid, major Wood- year, witli the intelligence; and on the evening following, was joined by colonel Sterett's regiment, five hundred strong, and a rifle battalion under major Pinkney, late atwOrney-general of tlie United States. His command amounted to two thousand men. About twelve o'clock at night, the secretary of state arrived at the general's quarters, and communicating the circumstance of the pnemy's advance on ji;eneral Winder, advised him to fall Hi mm •ft'-' ■ i^ ; ■ .- *»<■ , ' :.f< " i i: 1 ^9G lilSTORV OF TIIK WAR. in the ciioiny's roar linnKMliatcIy; l)ut the t^oiieral ob- jectetl, on the scoie of having bee»» ordered to this post, 'iiiul besides, that liis men wert .luch harassed and fati«;,ucd by their niateli, a considerable portion having just arrived, tliat it would be impossible. During the iii^ht, seveial false alarms vvcie ji:;iven, by which the troops were |)revented from takinj*; repose, which they so much required after their fatigues, to the greater part of them unaccustomed. On the receipt of the intelli- gence of the retreat of general Winner, Stansbury, in consultation with his officers, determined to move towards the city. Hefore day, he crossed the bridge, and after securing his rear, halted for a few hours. Early in the morning he again moved forward, with a view of taking possession of some ground for defence, when orders were received iVom general Winder, to give battle to the ene- my iit liladensburgh; he therefore retraced his steps, and between icri and eleven o'clock the troops were halted in an orchard field, to the left of the road from Washington to that place. About this time, colonel Monroe, at the request of general Winder and of the president, reached the brigade of general Stansbury, and ollered his assistance in formin"; the brigade, so as to dis- pute the pass w ith the enemy; liis aid was thnnkfully ac- cepted; the enemy was then within three miles, in full march. The best arrangements the time would pern\it, were made. About five hundred yards from the bridge, the artillery, consisting of six six-pounders, under the com- mand of captains Myers and Magruder, was posted be- hind a kind of breast-work; mryor Pinkney's riliemen were placed in ambush to the right and left, so as to an- noy 'he enemy in attempting to ford the stream, and at the same time to suppc.t the artillery. The fifth regi- ment was drawn Uj» about fifty yards in the rear; and atferwards, perhaps unjudiciously, removed much fur- ther; the olher par^s of the brigade were so disposed, as to support the artillery, and annoy the enemy in his ap- proach. Shortly aftei' this order was formed, major Beall anived with about five hundred men from Annapolis, and was posted higher up in a wood on the right of the le lariie coin were ton I of the oftl to ra but u ment be br( no tr bee an follow tiller upon volun upon chard, HISTORY OF THE \VAR. sor »o{ul. Gencni! \Viii(l(»r, by this time, liabury's brigade, and the (Ic- tacliinent under Jieall, with the heavy artiUery, under commodore IJaiiiey, posted on an eminence near tlie road. Tiiis line had scarcely been formed, when the cnjjagc- ment comnuMiced, and the president and heads of de- partments, wh(» liad until now been present, withth'ew; (he |)r( sident conceivin:»; it proper to leave the direction of the combat to the military men. Ab;)'it twelve o'clock, the enemy's column made its appearance on the hill wiiich overhangs the stream, and nK)>ed down towards the bridge, throwing lockets, and a[>j>arently determined lo force the passage. He now ujaile an attempt to throw a strong body of iidantry across the stream, but a few well directed shot from the artil- leiy, cleared the bridtic, and compelled the eneiny pre- cipitately to shelter himself behind some houses near it, and apparently having sulfered considerably. The fire Mas briskly kept up, and aiier a ( onsiderable pause, a large column rapidlj- advanced in the face of the batte- ry, which, although managed with great spirit by oflicers of acknowledged skill and courage, was unable to . - press them; they still continued to push forward theii' column, which was constantly reinforced, until they Mere able to form a considerable body on the Washing- ton road. The enemy had not advanced far, when a part of the rifle corps discluirged their pieces anury*H bri- ckets, and tl'.ey took I Winder, •ally them, jor' Pink- with great gr.Uant re- outttankcd fortunately dable con- ic first line cry had be- ll. On the he Annapo- nient under its ground enemy, re- treat of this long the ire of com- undcr upon al attempts it loss. In the Ameri- open field; with three nuing flank- of Annapo- The com- ain the con- 3d in front; few scatter- was wound- ivcral of his was by this mtusion, the is men were therefore ordered to retreat, the commodore himself was taken prisoner, and his pieces fell into the hands of the enem}', 'rhe Georgetown and city militia, and the regulars, »till remained firm, having been stati(»ned in the rear of tlie second line, in positions the most convenient for an- noving the enemy, and supporting the other corps. These being in danger every moment of being outranked, or- ders were sent to genera! Smith, to retreat towards the city. Had the state of the British troops been known, ihis order would have been highly injudicious; it has since appeared, that they were at this moment, fainting with fatigue, and that, supposing the whole of the American force routed, they had only pushed forward a detachment of their army; there is no telling what effect might have bee!i produced, by their coming thus suddenly in contact with what would have appeared the main body of the Americans. After proceeding a few hundred paces, thev were joined by a regiment of Virginia militia, which haci arrived in the city the evening before, but Imd not been ready till now to take the field. General Winder still entertained hopes of being able to rally his troops, and of fighting the enemy between this place and Wash- ington; he had ordered the Baltimore artillery to move on towards the city, and expected to find that the cavalry and Stansbury's command, had fallen down the road to that place; he thought that they might yet be rallied on the regulars, and city and Georgetown troops, so as to make another struggle to save the capital. With this view, he rode forward for the purpose of selecting a po- sition, but he soon found, that instead of moving towards Washington, they had scattered in every direction, and, as it afterwards appeared, the greater part had fled to- wards Montgomery court-house. No words can pourj tray the griet of the city and Georgetown militia, at being thus compelled to retire, without having had the slightest opportunity of defending their fire-sides and their homes. On arriving at the city, the general was met by the sec- retary at war, and the secretary of state, and after a con- sultation, it was agreed, that, with the small remains of the army, it was in vain to think of making a stand; the 300 HISTORY OF THE WAR. I few scaitortMl villaf>;os \viricli compose the city, ocnipy- iiia; an extensive open plain, there was no position to be taken, at which the enemy 'nij^lit i>e opposed, and the Capitol was a detached buildinj^, which could be easily set on tire; and even if troops were stationed in it, they rould !K>i prevent the enemy from procecdini; to any ])art of the citv thev mi^ht choose to assail. It >vas there- tore proposed to rally the troops on the heij^hts of Geor^e- lown. But the general soon found, that but few of the militia could be collected, the greater part had strayed o\Y in search of food or refreshment, after haviny; suf- fered much during the day; and others were almost ex- hausted, after the privations and fatigues which they had experienced. The next day he proceeded, with such as he could collect, to Montgomery. Thus did we experience the mortification of having our capital enteretl by a hostile army. The wound to our national pride was great; for it was more a matter of feeling than of actual injury. It was at most but a des- perate bravado on the part of the enemy, who was com- j)elled to retire as rapidly as lie had approached, and which had no effect upon the contest, otlier than to ex- asperate the people of this country, and of disposing both parties to join in carrying on the war. To use the com- mon language, it was the name of the thing which duced mortification; for there was nothing wondei n pro- •ful in a large body of veteran troops stealing a march upon a new and unfortified town, and defeating an equal num- ber of raw militia. The greater part of our force ar- rived on the spot so short a time before the battle, as not to have been permitted to take even some slight repose after their fatigue; the different corps and their officers were unknown to each other, and to the commander; the arrangements for meeting a powerfi^l regular force, had to be made at the very moment of battle. That we should have been defeated under such circumstances, is not to be wondered at, and furnishes no inference unfa- vourable to militia, or to the officers who commanded. The British force would probably have met with the same success, had it movetl at that moment against any of the larger cities, which were no more aware of their danger that or foi for a ingtor and h; half the he to rec by Gr- tropoli withoi houses and tw of arcl unfinis dent's Europe these HISTORY OF TItE WAR. sOi y, occuj.y- tioii to bo I, and tlu', be easily in it, they ng to any \vas tlierc- of Geovjie- few of tl>o ad strayed bavin;; sut- almost cx- :h tbcy bad \[i\\ sucb as I of baving ,e wound to a matter of ;t but a des- 10 was com- Dacbed, and tban to ex- posing botb se tlie coni- wbicb pro- onderful in arcb upon a equal nunv- lur force ar- lattle, as not ligbt repose heir oflicers commander; jvular force, Tbatvve mstances,is .rence unfa- Icommanded. ith the same ,i any of the heir danger tlian AVasliinftton. The president and beads of depart- nients, on reviewing tbe force brought out for defence, despaired of success, and set about removing the ar- chives of the government. The severe censure passed on general Winder, who had been unfortunate, but al- ways meritorious, was highly unjust. Success is not tbe proper criterion in all cases; in Turkey it is regarded as such; but tyranny of no kind should find its way into America. Tit is the consternation, which the arrival of the city militia, from the field of battle, was not likely to allay. A moment of silent, gloomy despondency prevailed, which cannot be described. In the midst of this dishearteninj^ panick, the citizens, notwithstanding, rejected all thouj^hts of ca- pitulation, and under generals Smith and Strieker, they prepared themselves to oppose the enemy, and in all pro- bability, they would have made that desperate resistance, wliich renders even inexperienced troops superionr to veterans, when fijchtins: for their families and their homes. General Winder, with all the force he could collect, pro- ceeded rapidly to Baltimore; by this time, however, it appeared tliat the British had retired to their shipping. The squadron under captain Gordon, consisting of eight sail, passed fort Warburton two days after the re- treat of the British. The fort had been abandoned and blown up by captain Dyson, in a most extraordinary manner; probably under the influence of the dreadful pa- nick which generally prevailed. His orders had been to abandon it only, in case of an attack by the land forces, but on a mere rumour, and without waiting the enemy's approach, he thougiit proper to take this measure. ()n the twenty-ninth, the squadron reached Alexandria; and the inhabitants of that place being completely in the pow- er of the captain, were compelled to offer terms for the preservation of the town from conflagration and pillage. The insatiable avarice of the enemy imposed the hardest conditions: all the merchandise of every description, whether in town, or removed since the nineteenth, was required to be put on board the shipping, then at the wharf, at the expense of the inhabitants, and the whole delivered to the enemy; that even such vessels as had been sunk, should be delivered up. These terms, some- what modified, were complied with; and the captain de- scended with a fleet of prize vessels, and a rich booty. In the meantime, preparations had been made in haste, by our naval heroes, captains Porter and Perry, to throw difficulties in the way of his descent. The first, at the battery of the White House, was assisted by general Hungerford's brigade of Virginia militia, and captain Huru|.hrey's rifle company; and at the battery at Indian ' I Mil f)4 flifn'^j 3G4 HISTORY OP THE WAR, li I !» R- . Head, captain Perry was supported by the bri«;ade oF j^eneral Stewart, and the volunteer companies of nuijor Peter and captain Burch. From tlie third, until tlie sixth of September, the British vessels were generally annoyed in ])assing these btitteries. Frequent atteu»pts were also made by coniniodore Jlodgers, by approaching the tleei Avith fireve^iiels; but owing to a change of wind, they proved ineffectual. These respective forces were altei- wards concentrated under comiiiodore Rodgers, at yVleiv- andriaj he determined to defend the place, should tl;e enemy, who was not yet out of the siii;ht of the batterv, iMink proper to return. Sir Peter Parker, who a-cended the Chesapeake, was not so fortunate as the other officers, lie lauded at niglit in the neighbourhood of Moor's Fields, witii the view of -urprising a party of militia, encamped under the coni- luaiul of colonel Reed. In this he was disappointed, fi/i- the militia having heard tiie approach of the barii;es, were prepared to receive him. Sir I'eter Paiker having land- ed, moved forward at the head of about tvvo hundred and iifty men; but on approaching within seventy yards of thc! Americans, they received a heavy fire; he endea- voured to piess forward on the centre of the line; in tl is he Vv'as foiled, and threw himself on the tiank, where he was also repulsed. Colonel Reed being informed, that the cartridges were neaily expended, ordered hii men to retire a small distance, until they could be supplied. In tl'.e meantime, the British having sul!ered a severe loss, thought proper to retire; carrying with them the wounded, among whom was sir Peter Parker, who died soon after. The capture of Washington, we have seen, excited the most painful sensations throughout the United States; the indignant feelings of the people were at first levelled against the whole administration, but soon settled in lay- ing the blame of the aifair on the secretary at wai-, and general Winder. We are willing to throw the blame any where, sooner than acknowledge ourselves in the fault. It was not the fault of the secretary at \ar that the mi- litia could not be called out, nor was it the fault of gene- ral Winder, that the greater piirt of his troops would not m '\:\w' HISTORY OF THE WAR. 30J ..i^ik of vnajor I the sixth y aiinoyc'l ^vc^•e also the tker wiiui, thi'V ,ere al'Ui- s, at Aleiv- b1u)uM th« he battery, peake, Nva* led at nij^lit the view ot r the corn- pointed, {'i' I* ,ar?i,e^, were iuuiig huul- Luudied and ity yards of ; he endea- line; in tl is k, where he 01 mecS, that [ed hi'i ipeii Ibe supplied, d a severe h them tlie r, who died excited the iited State;^; hrst levelled Ittled in lay- lat war, and ke blame any [in the fault, that the mi- lult of j^ene- is would not stand their ground; nor was the administration to blame in not foreseeing the events of Kurope, which no man in the world ever conceived. The president was abused in tJie newspapers of the day, for not suffering himself to be shot by tlie enemy, ov at least taken prisoner. He did all, and more than his station, or years, required. What could he have done, after the city was abandoned by the American troops? The question is ridiculous. l{e re- turned immediately to the city after it had been evacu- ated by the ene?ny, and from its smoking ruins issued a proclamation, which did honour to his heart and head, and which tended to raise the desponding mind of his country. Against the secretary at war, the cry was every where so loud, that the president, from motives of pi'u- dence, intimated to him the propriety of suspending his functions tor a time; this his pride would not permit him to do, and he therefore resigned. It appears from tlie ofHcial letter of general Ross, since published, that he had not conceived the idea of the attacK on Washington, until within sixteen miles of it, and informed of its de- fenceless state; that the destruction of commodore Bar- ney's flotilla had been his real and sole object. It was on his part, notwithstanding, a piece of unparalleled rash- ness, without a commensurate advantage to be gained. From the improbability of the attempt, it is said, that the secretary at war could not be persuaded, until the last moment, that it was seriously intended. General Win- der demanded an examination of his conduct, and a court, of which general Scott was president, honourably acquit- ted him. The character of Great Britain will not soon recover from the infamy cast upon it, in consequence of the viola- tions of the laws of civilized warfare, committed on our coast. The conflagration of Washington, and the plun- der of Alexandria, not to mention the despicable species of bucaniering practised on the defenceless inhabitants, are without a parallel in modern wars. Napoleon, whom the British denouiinate the modern Atilla, entered the ca~ pitals of the principal nations of Europe, but was never disgraced by such wanton and unjustifiable destruction These acts, grossly barbarous as they are, assumed still a 26* M 'i.n 1 .- ' 1 ' (iM ^•&f m mi \ri ' .. ■'», 306 HISTORY OF THE WAR. deeper infamy by the effrontery and faUehood with which they were justified. A letter from admiral Cochrane to the secretary of state, dated the day previous to debarka- tion, though not delivered until after the burning of the capitol, stated, that having been called upon by the gover- nour-general of the Canadas, to aid him in carrying into effect measures of retaliation against the inhabitants of the United States, for the wanton destruction committed by the army in Upper Canada, it became imperiously his duty, conformably with the nature of the governour-gene- ral's application, to issue to the naval force under his com- mand, an order to destroy and lay waste such towns and districts upon the coast, as might be found assailable. The secretary of state, colonel Monroe, had no other difficulty in answering this extraordinary letter, than such as arose from the shocking depravity, which could thus unblushingly publish its falsehoods in the face of day. He could with truth reply, that in no instance had the United States authorised a deviation from the known usa- ges of war; that in the few cases in which there had been even a charge against them, the government had formally disavowed the acts of its officers, at the same time sub- jecting the conduct of such officers to punishment or re- probation; that amongst those few, the charge of burning the parliament house in Upper Canada, was now for the first time brought forward; until now, such an accusation had not been made against the Americans; on the contra- ry, one of the most respectable civil functionaries at that place, had addressed a letter of thanks to general Dear- born, for the good conduct of his troops;* and moreover, that when sir George Prevost, six months afterwards, pro- fessedly proceeded to measures of retaliation, the affau* of the bricK-house was not mentioned. But what in the meantime, it was asked, were the aftairs of the river Rai- sin, the devastations on the shores of lake Champlain, the * The malignant fulsehoods resorted to by the British to cover their outrages, are truly astoiushitig. The chancellor of the exchequer as- serted in the British parliament, that the Americans at Yoik, "had not only burnt the house of the governour, but also every house belonging to the meanest individual, even to a shell, and left the populace in a most wretched condition." Mora devotJ emplj HISTORY OF THE WAR. 307 conflagrations and plunderin^s on the 8ea-co..st; were these in retaliation for burning the parliament house? Was this building of such immense value, as to render it impossible for the nation to atone for its destruction? But we were told, that there were, besides, the burning of a few sheds and huts at J' * The burning of the Indian village on the river Thames, called the Moravians — not the Moravians whom our countryman Huckeuwclder devoted his life to civilize and improve, but a horde of savaijcs in the employment of Great Britain. 308 HISTORY OF THE WAR. very openinj^ of the war, the British oflicers permitted tiie savages to fight by tlieir sides, while we declined their aid; tliey not only made them their allies, but did not interfere to prevent their commission of horrours, whose recital must shock every sentiment of humanity. When the Bri- tish admirals visited our sea-coast, and no complaints had been made against us; when the complaints were on our side; when there could not have been even a pretended ftrete.vt of retaliation, they plundered and burnt the vil- ages on the Chesapeake, they plundered the defenceless planters of their stock, of their negroes, of their furniti'.re, and at Hampton even transcended the abominations oi the river Raisin. On the borders of Canada, the same course of burning or plundering was pursued, and under the rage excited by these series of outrages, an Ameiican of- ficer ventured at last, under a misconstruction of t!ie or- ders from his superiour, to destroy an English village; this unhappy affair, was gladly seized as the pretext, for the jirst avowed retaliation, and in consequence, a whole frontier was laid waste! Their outrages, until this time, were without pretext for retaliation. In the meantime, what was their treatment to American prisoners, and to those who were dragged from their ships to be enslaved, and what was the treatment of British subjects prisoners with us? What pretext of retaliation covers the violation of neutral ports, in the capture of our vessels confiding in their sanctuary.^ What pretexts warrant the barbarous ciders of their officers, to refuse quarter to uien oppo>:ed to them in honourable battle? When is the measure of retaliation to be filled, for a few unauthorised acts by in- dividuals, acts which would occur in the best regulated war? It now appears by the letter of admiral ('ochrane that nothing short of the entire devastation of our whole sea-coast, containing many populous cities, and several millions of people, would satisfy this unrelenting enemy. No; these unfounded pretexts only served to aggravate the outrages which that enemy had committed. The letter of admiral Cochrane scarcely deserved the notice of the se- cretary of state, but the refutation was certainly most am- ple. It is impossible to suppose, that such conduct was not as severely reprobated by the great mass of the English HISTORY OF THE WAR. 309 people, as it was by us. The minority in parliament (who, by the by, with them represents the majority of the nation) prononnctj] it to be disj^ruceful to their country. It has been the opinion of some, that our government was reprehensible in not resorting, at an early period, to Retaliatory measures; but there la no American at this day, who does not reflect with pleasure, that in no in- siaiice did our government resort to such measures; had the war continued much longer, it would perhaps iiave been unavoidable. It is ditiicult to refrain from drawin^:; a coinpariiion between the devastatin*; order of admiral Cijcluane, and the order of general Brown, issued about the same time, on his entering ('anada. "Upon entering Canada," said he, "the laws of war will govern: men found in arms, or otherwise engaged in the service of the enemy, will be treated as enemies; those behaving peaceably, and following their private occupations, will be treated as tViends. Private property wdl, in all cases, be held sa- cred; publick property, wherever found, will be sei'zed and dispi>sed of by the commanding general. Any plun- derers shall be punished with death, who shall be foumi violating tliis order." i i •i '1 1 : ':>]>!! W CHAPTER XVIII. bensatoiis produced by the capture of \Vashinp:tOii, l-Airope, and in Eiit;l;uid — r-ffcct of this event in tlie United States — (ilorious defence of Baitiniore— sWf 310 HISTORY OF THK WAR. trators to shelter themselves from publick odium, by the basest falsehoods: the ministry were compelled to make a statement, tliat instructions had been sent to the coast ol America, to desist from further inilictions of vengeance. But if the eftect was powerful abroad, it was unexam- fded throughout the United States. Party spirit, that po- itical fiend, instantly fled, and with it fled the dissensions which almost paralyzed the efforts of the nation. But one voice was heard from one end of the continent to the other; a glorious union was brought about, and a nation of freemen was seen to rise in its strength. Those who had at first opposed the war, from an opinion of its impolicy, or who condemned the invasion of Canada, now saw only a powerful nation about to precipitate her armies on Ame- rica, with the avowed intention of desolating our fair pos- sessions. The poison of political dissensions, was uttad with tke political death ot Napoleon; and who could now say, thitt Britain was not actuated by the mere thirst for revenge, or the less honourable thirst for plunder? The war now came home to the interests and feelings of every man, and the scenes of preparations, which were exhibited over he continent, were the most animated that could be conceived. The whole country was in motion; every town was a camp; and in the cities, the peaceful avocations of the citizens, which the war until now had scarcely inter- rupted, were laid aside. All the principal cities selected their committees of defence, and the whole of the popula- tion moved in bands, to the sound of martial musick, to the daily occupation of labouring on the entrenchments and fortifications. The New England states, at first so much averse to the war, now exhibited their characteristick activity and ener- gy, 9,nd gave at once a satisfactory proof that nothing was further from their intentions, than seceding from the con- federation. The governour of Vermont, wno had the year before made an attempt to recall the militia of the state from the service of the United States, and on which occa- sion the militia nobly refused to obey him, now endeavour- ed to atone for his conduct, by calling them ftvth in the most animated manner, to join the standard of their coun- try. The American ladies, always conspicuous in the HISTORY OF THE WAR. Sll history of America, for their patriotick conduct in times of tlifliculty and danger, never appeared so lovely in their zeal tor their country. The first object of attack, it was rij»;htly conjectured, would be Baltimore; the cities of Philadelphia and New- York waited the result with as much anxiety, as if their fate depended upon its successful issue; in tliis, they per- haps had reason; for should Baltimore fall, during the pan- ick which succeeded the capture of Washington, ana be- fore the other cities would haveUime to place themselves in an attitude of defence, they could make but a feeble re- sistance. After the first moment of despondency, occa- sioned by the capture of Washington, had subsided in Bal- timore, and it was discovered that the place would not be assailed immediately, the inhabitants set about making preparations for defence. Under the direction of genersd Smith, a ditch was opened, and a breast-work thrown up by the inhabitants, on the high ground to the north-east (to eft'ect which every class of people united,) so as com- pletely to protect the town in the only quarter in which it was accessible by land forces. In a few days, a considerable rumber of militia arrived from Pennsylvania and Virginia; and the spirits of the in- habitants were greatly animated by the arrival of the naval veteran, commodore Rodgers, with his marines, who took possession of the heavy batteries on the hill. A brigade of Virginia volunteers, together with the regulars, was as- signed to general Winder, and the city brigade to general Strieker; tlie whole under the command of major-general Smith; the two latter, distinguished revolutionary officers: general Strieker had served from the commencement to the conclusion of that war, and shared in many important battles. The approach to the city by water was defended by fort M'Henry, commanded by major Armistead, with about sixty artillerists under captain Evans, and two com- panies of sea fencibles, under captains Bunbury and Ad- dison; of these, thirty-five were on the sick list. As this number was insufficient to man the batteries, major Arm- istead was furnished with two companies of volunteer artillery, under captain Berry and lieutenant Pennington, and a company under judge Nicholson, (chief justice of ■'"''4 ''■ , » I li !••*■( ■' 'II inn HISTORY OF TIIK AVAR. T^altimorc county) wlilrh had fondorcd its s(»rvirpn. Ke- sidoa tlie«o, tlipic was a detacliment of coininodoie Har- ney's flotilla, under lioutonant l»(Mlinan. (t(»neral Windor liad also furnishod about six hundred infantry, under lieutenant colonel Steuart and major liane, consistina; of detachments from the twelfth, fourteenth, and thirty- sixth regiments of the United States troops, which vvei-e enrampjMl under the walls of the fort. The total amount- ed toalmut one thousand men. Two batteries to the ri«rht of fort M'llenry, upon the Patapsco, to prevent the ene- my from landing; durin<|;the niu;ht, in the rear of the town, were mannee city tlie cav; three m near th encamp o'clock, [re th HlsroUY OF rUE WAIi. re«. Re- dore Ri\r- [\ NVindcr ry, under [^sistina; of 111 thirty- ;lii(l^ vvero al amount- tlio rij^ht nt the enc- f the town, mb, with a t Webster, ington; the ie city, that forces, both iry was si- Y to prevent orces of the ;r be of any defence of sli from the ependently the recent city was a y, in conse- ^ during the ictureofthe d people of which would city. And t painful in- ere to risk ercenaries, jir sons and |s, who could [lie commit- life, and the he respecta- , took a large :hing danger. The British anny having rc-cmbarkod on board the lleet in tlio Patuxent, admiral Cochrane moved down the liver, and proceeded up the Chesapeake; and on the morning of the eleventh of Sopteuiber, appeared at the mouth of the Patapsco, about fourteen miles from the city of Ualtimore, with a ileet of ships of war and transports, amounting to fifty sail. On the next day, the land forces, to the number ot*^ at least six tliousand men, the veterans of Wellington, debarked at North Point, and under the command of general Ross, took up their march for the city. General Strieker claimed for the city brigade, un- der his command, the honour of being tlie first to meet the invader, and was accordingly detached by general Smith, in anticipation of the landing of the Britisli troops. On the eleventh, general Strieker proceeded on the road to North Point, at the head of three thousand two hundred effective men; consisting of the tifth rei'^iment, under lieutenaiit-colonel Sterett, five hundred and fifty strong; six hundred and twenty of the sixth, under lieutenant- colonel M'Donald; five hundred of the twenty-seventh, under lieutenant-colonel Long; five hundred and fifty of the thirty-ninth, under lieutenant-colonel Fowler; seven hundred of the fifty-first, under lieutcnant-coloHel Amey; one hundred and fifty riilemen, under captain Dyer; one hundred and fifty cavalry, under lieutenant-colonel Biays; and the Union Artillery, of seventy-five men, and six four-pounders, under captain Montgomery, (attorney ge- neral of the state.) A light corps of ritlemen and mus- ketry, under major Randal, taken from general Stansbu- ly's brigade, and the Pennsylvania volunteers, were detached to the mouth of Bear creek, with orders to co- operate with general Strieker, and to check any landing w hicii the enemy might effect in that quarter. At six o'clock, P. M. general Strieker reached the meet- ing-house, near the head of Bear creek, seven miles from tlie city. Here the brigade halted, with the exception of the cavalry, who were pushed forward to Gorsuch's farm, three miles in advance, and the riflemen, who took post near the blacksmith's shop, two miles in advance of the encampment. The next morning (the twelfth) at seven o'clock, information was received from the videttes, that 27 •I i L^ 'K 1:!!; SJ4 HISTORY OF THE WAR. ihe enemy were debarking troops under cover of tlieii gun vessels, whicli lay oft' the bluff at North Point, within the mouth of the Patapsco river. The baggage was im- mediately ordered back under a strong guard, and gene- ral Strieker moved forward the fifth and twenty-seventh Regiments, and the artillery, to the head of Long Log lane, resting the fifth with its right on the head of a branch of Bear creek, its left on the main road, while the twenty-seventh was posted on the opposite side of the road, in a line with the fifth. The artillery was posted ^t tlie head of the lane, in the interval between these two regiments. The thirty-ninth. was drawn up three hun- dred yaids in the rear of the twenty-seventh, and the fifty-first, the same distance in the rear of the fifth; the sixth regiment was drawn up as a reserve within sight, half a mile in the rear of the second line. Thus judi- ciously posted, the general determined to wait an attack, having given orders, that the two regiments composing the front line, should receive the enemy, and if necessary, fall back through the fifty-first and thirty-ninth, and form on the right of the sixth, posted in reserve. The general now learned, that the British were moving rapidly up the main road, and at the moment when he expected their approach to be announced by the riflemen, stationed in the low thick pine and firs, in advance, greatly to his chagrin, he discovered this corps falling back upon tlie main position, having listened to a ground- less rumour, that the enemy were landing on Back river, to cut them off. This part of the general's plan having beer frustrated, he placed the riflemen on the right of his front line, by this means better securing that flank. The videttes soon after bringing information, that a party of the enemy were in a careless manner carousing at Gor- such's farm, several of the ofticers ofter^ their services to dislodge him. Captains Levering's and Howard's companies, fiom the fifth, about one hundred and fifty in number, under major Heath, of that regiment; captain Aisquitli's, and a few other riflemen, in all about seventy; a small piece of artillery, under lieutenant Stiles, and the cavaliy, were pushed forward, to chastise the insolence of the enemy's advance, and to evince a wish, on the iVV of tllt'll 'oiiit, within ^jre w.'is im- I, and gene- nty-seventh Lonff Log head of a d, while the side of the was posted n these two three huu- th, and the he fifth; the vithin sight, Thus judi- it an attack, s composing if necessary, th, and form were moving nt when he the riflemen, in advance, lorps falling to a ground- Back river, plan having ! right of his flank. The it a party of jina: at Gor- leir services d Howard's and fifty in ent; captain ►out seventy; tiles, and the le insolence wish, on the ■.]rV] /. ?!.:,>/ : /, y HISTORY OF THE WAR. 315 part of tlie American army, fo en^jjage. The detachment had scarcely proceeded half a mile, when they came in contact with the main body of tlie enemy; a sharp skir- mish ensued, in which major Heath's horse was shot un- der him, and several of the Americans killed and wound- ed, but not unrevenged, for in this aifair the enemy lost their commander-in-chief, general Ross. This ofti- cer had imprudently proceeded too far, for tlie purpose of reconnoitring, when he was killed by one of the com- pany of captain Howard, who was in the advance.* Af- ter the death of Ross, the command devolved on colonel Brook, who continued to push forward, notwithstanding this occurrence. The American detachment fell back, and the general conceiving the two companies of How- ard and Levering, to be too much fatigued to share in the approaching conflict, they were ordered to form on the reserve, not without a request on their part, to be per- mitted to share the perils of their townsmen. At half past two o'clock, the enemy commenced throwing rock- ets, which did no injury, and immediately captain Mcnt> gomery's artillery opened his fire upon them, which was returned by .! six-pounder and a howitzer upon the left and centre. The fire was brisk for some minutes, when the general ordered it ti3 cease on his side, with a view of bringing the enemy into close cannister distance. Per- ceiving that the efforts of the British were chiefly direct- ed against the left flank, the general brought up the thir- ty-ninth into line on the left of the twenty-seventh, and detaclted two pieces of artillery on the left of the thirty- ninth; and still more completely to protect this flank, which was all important, colonel Amey, of the fifty-first, was ordered to form his regiment at right-angles with the line, resting his right on the left of the thirty-ninth. This movement was badly executed, and created some confu- sion in that quarter, but was soon rectified with the as- sistance of the generaKs aid, major Stevenson, and the brigade-majors, Calhoun and Frailey. * The death of general Ross hail been ascribed to an apprentice boy, armed witii a riile, who fired from behind a tuft of bus1)es,rtnd forfeited his life for his temerity. This matter is si ill in dispute, — having no op- portunity of investigating it, I must leave it so. ,11)1' : U ■ ill! , -m\ m m HISTORY OF THE WAR. The enemy's right column now displayed, and advanc- ed upon the twenty-seventh and thirty-ninth. Unfortu- nately at this juncture, the fifty-first, "frouj some sudden panick, after giving a random fire, broke and retieated in «uch confusion, as rendered it impossible to rally it, and occasioned the same disorder in the second battalion of the thirl v-ninth. The fire by this time became general from right to left; the artillery poured an incessant and destructive str( am upon the enemy's left column, which endeavoured to shelter itself beliind a log house, but this was instantly in a blaze; captain Sadtler having takeji the p^-ecauiion to fire it, as soon as it was abandoned by him and his yagers. About ten minutes past three, the British line came on with a rapid discharge of musketrv, which was well returned by the fifth, the twenty-seventii, and the first battalion of the thirty-ninth, who maintained their ground in spite of the example set by the intended suppuit on the left. The whole of the general's force with this diminution, scarcely amounted to fourteen hun- dred ta \K "T-- •■-- - -' ■«^* ' ' .• .1 uicu, u» vvu.*^.^ ^^^^ opposed iiie wnoie oi me enemy. The fire was incessant, until about twenty-five minutes before four o'clock, during wh'ch time general Strieker gailantly contended against four times his numbers; but finding that the unequal contest could be maintained no longer, and that the enemy was about to out flank him, in conserjaence of the flight of the fifty-first, he was compel- led to retire upon his reserve, which he effected in good order. Here he formed his brigade, but the enemy not thinking it advisable to pursue, he fell back, anl took post on the left of the line, a half a mile in advance of the entrenchments, where he was joined by general Win- der, who had been stationed on the west side of the city, but was now ordered, with the Yiri^inia brigade and cap- tain Bird's United States dragoons, to take post on the left of general Strieker. The conduct of the Baltimore brigade, with the excep- tion of the fifty-first, and the second battalion of the tlur- ty-nintii, who were seized with the panick to which raw troo])« are so much subject, deserveJ the highest ]jraise. Veterans could not have done more; their loss, in killed and wounded, amounted to one hundred and sixtv-three, HISTORY OF THE WAR. i^ 17 (amonGjst whom were some of the most respectable citi- zens 01 Baltimore,) about an eighth of the force engaged. Adjutant James Lowry Donaldson, of the twenty-seventh, (an eminent lawyer,) was killed in the hottest of the fight; major Heath and major Moore, and a number of other oflicers, were wounded. The loss of the British was nearly double that of the Americans, according to their own acknowledgment, and probably much greater. T'his unexpected resistance had a happy effect upon the enemy; in their official statements, they computed the American force at six thousand, a great proportion regulars, and estimated our loss at one thousand, from which "e may infer their opinion of the manner in which they were re- ceived. The general in his report particularly mentioned the good conduct of lieutenant-colonel Sterett, and major Heath, and major Barry, of the fifth; captain Spander, of the York (Pennsylvania) volunteers; adjutant Ches- ton, who was slightly woundecf; lieutenant-colonel I^ong, of the twenty-seventh, which regiment "was unsurpassed in bravery, resolution, and enthusiasm;" lieutenant-colo» nel Fowler and major Steiger, of the thirty-ninth, and the volunteer companies attached to this corps; of captain Quantril, from Hagerstown, and captain Metzgar, from Hanover, (Pennsylvania) the former of whom was wound- ed; captain Montgomery had a distinguished share in the action, and gained great honour for himself and his com- pany. Majors Calhoun and Frailey, and the general's aid, major George P. Stevenson, were highly complimented in general orders; majors Moore and Robinson, of the twen- ty-seventh, were conspicuously active throughout the en- gagement. Many were the acts of patriotism that would deserve to be remembered.* i r,y'« * It is difficult to pass in silence the conduct of the venerable James H. M'Culloch. Although nearly seventy years of age, and of a v.cakly frame, he proceeded with a few old men like himself, and rucju.vsted permission to stand in the ranks of the company, which he had con;- manded twenty years before; he was severely wounded, and fell into the hands of the enemy. The old gentleman was, at first, a subjoct of* mirth to the Bi'itish officers, who je8ttre properly speaking, pirates,* had fixed themselves on an island, almost inaccessible. These desperadoes, to the number of five or six hundred, were headed by a ferocious fellow of the name of Lafitte. From an accurate acquaintance with all the secret passa- ges to the Mississippi, they could with facility smuggle their booty to New-Orleans, and with their aid an enemy might be guided to the very entrance of the city undisco- vered. Lafitte, however, with that lawless boldness of character, mixed something of magnanimity. He had for several years been outlawed, and his establishment had been broken up in the course of the summer, by a detach- ment under colonel Ross, of the 44th, and a naval force under commodore Patterson; but the force was no sooner withdrawn, than the pirates returned to their old occu- patio.i. The British had been solicited to join in extir- pating these publick enemies, but they declined, probably intending to use them in due season. This had now ar- rived, and to the disgrace of the British government, an alliance was proposed by colonel Nichols, with extrava- gant offers of reward to Lafittel But what was most hu- miliating to those who could stoop so low, this alliance was indignantly rejected. Lafitte at first dissembled, until he had drawn from the colonel important informa- tion, when he dismissed him With disdain, and immedi- ately despatched a messenger to governour Claiborne, who had some time before offered five hundred dollars for his apprehension, and laid before him incontestible proofs of the truth of hie declaration. TJie governour was agreeably surprised at this unexpected trait of generosity, but at first hesitated as to the course to be pursued: on the approach of danger, however, he issued his proclamation, in which he pledged himself, that those engaged in this illicit course of life should be forgiven, provided they would come for- ward and aid in the defence of the country. This was joyfully accepted by the Barratarians, as they were call- * They pt'etended to have uuitbrmly acted as privateersmen. under ^.he flagof Cui'thageua, b'lt they coudemucd then* prizes in thiir own ■-'•ay. HISTORY OF THE WAR, 335 <•(!, \vlio tendered their services, and were found eminent- ly useful. General Jackson havinj^in vain remonstrated with the jlijovernour of Pensacola (or his unprecedented conduct, (Ictermined to march against that place. Having receiv- ed a reinforcement of two thousand Tennessee militia, which had marched through the Indian country, he ad- vanced to Pensacola, to demand redress. On the sixth of Novemher he reached the neidibourhood of that post, and immediately sent major Peire with a flag, to commu- nicate the object of his visit to the governour; but he was forced to return, being fired on from the batteries. Jack- son then reconnoitred the fort, and finding it defended both by British and Indians, he made arrangements fur storming it the next day. The troops were put in mo- tion at day-light, and being encamped to the west of the town, the attack would be expected from that qtiarter; to keep up this idea, part of the mounted men were sent to show themselves on the west, whilst the remainder of the troops passed ta the rear of the fort, undiscovcned, to the east of the town. Ilis whole force, consisting of a few regulars, a body of militia, and some Choctaw Indians, appeared in view when within a mile of the fort, and ad- vanced firmly to the enemy's woiks, although there were seven British vessels on their left, and strong batteries of cannon in front. On entering t!ie town, a battery of two cannons, loaded with bail and grape, was opened on the centre column, composed of regulais, and a shower of *(iusketry was poured from the iiousesand gardens. The battery was soon carried and the musketry silenced. The gove nour now made l»is appearance with a flag, begged for mercy, and offered to surrender the town immediately. This was granted, and every protection afforded to the persons and property of the inhabitants. The command- ant of the fort refused to suriender until midnight, when he evacuated it with his troops, just as the Americans were preparing to make a furious assault. The British withdrew their shipping, and Jackson, having accomplish- ed his purpose, returned to Mobile. ]>y the first of September it was reduced to a certainty, tliat, notwithstanding the negotiations pending at Ghent, i 'I 336 HISTORY OK THE WAIt serious preparations were making for a formidable inva- sion of Louisiana. Governor Claiborne ordered the two divisions of the militia, the first under general Villere, and the second under general Thomas, to nold themselves in readiness to march at a moment's Winning. He also sent forfh an animated address, calling on the inhabitants to turn out en masse, for the defence of their families and homes, from the lawless violence of the invader. On the sixteenth of September, a number of the citizens convened in order to devise measures, in co-operation with the civil authorities, for the defence of the country. Mr, Edward Livingston was chosen president of the meeting; and af- ter an eloquent speech, he proposed a spirited resolution, which would repel the calumny of the insinuation, of their being disaffected to the American government, and would prove their determination to oppose the common enemy. This, when made publick, was received with universal demonstrations of applause. The war had, thus far, been felt in one of the most peaceful portions of the globe, only by its effects on com- mercial and agricultural prosperity. In consequence of the suppression of trade, and the low price of all kinds of produce, the people liad suff*ered much. The banks had stopped payment, and distresses of every kind in this country of abundance, had begun to be felt. The great mass of the planteis, (at least of the French part,) of an amiable and gentle disposition, had paid but little atten- tion to the existing war; the militia could scarcely be said to be organized, much less disciplined or armed. Noth- ing short of an actual invasion could rouse them. In the city the case vvas different; from the commencement of the war, as if sensible of the feeble help which they could ex- pect from the gener?' government, they manifested the greatest alacrity in qualifying tiiemselves for taking the field against an invader. Every man capable of bearing arms, had become a soldier, and perhaps in none was there such frequent and elegant displays of well disciplined vo- lunteer companies, dressed in uniform. The wonderful aptitude of the Fiench for the profession of arms, was ne- ver more fully exhibited. There were interminded with them, a number of men who had served in the French HISTORY OF THE WAR. 337 nidable inva- crcd the two eral Villere, (I themselves ng. He also »e inhabitants families and der. On the ens convened with the civil Mr. Edward etins;; and af- ed resolution, ation, of their nt, and would mmon enemy, vith universal le of the most ffects on com- onsequence of of all kinds of le banks had kind in this The great h part,) of an it little atten- ircely be said •med. Noth- hem. In the cement of the Jiey could ex- anifested tlic r taking; the [le of bearing ,ne was there sciplined vo- e wonderful Inns, was nc- [ningled witli tlie French armies. Tlic free people of colour, a numerous class, were permitted, as a privileji^e of which they were proud, to form volunteer companies and wear their uniform; some of these were natives, but the j^reater part had been refii- jJiees from Saint Dominj^o. The Ameriv .m and French inhabitants, although sometimes at variance with each other, on this occasion united heartily in dislike to the Ena^lish, and in a disposition to frustrate their designs. The chief dependence of the inhabitants for safety, was iu the nature of their country itself, being exceeding- ly difficult of access, for an enemy invading by sea. In Iront a shallow coast, and the principal entrance a river, which, after crossing the bar is narrow, deep and rapid, and of course so winding, as to render it easily suscepti- ble of being fortified. To the west, the country is com- posed of impassible swamps, and on the east, the low marshy coast can only be approaclied through a shallow lake. The most natural defence of such a country, would be gunboats, or vessels drawing little water, and capable of being easily transferred from place to place. At tlie sug- gestion of commodore Patterson, a block ship had been commenced, but was not yet completed. Great uneasiness, however, prevailed, on account of the powerful force ex- pected to attack them, and the deficiency of their means of defence. Louisiana iiad been left by the administra- tion, which had neither money nor men to send, like other parts of the union, to rely chiefiy on itself. It was cer- tainly, as it respected men, ai-ms and military works, in a most defenceless condition. The legislature had been convened, but instead of actively providing the means of defence, much of their time was spent in idle discussion. In these times of general alarm and danger, nothing is of so much importance, as a man at the head of affairs, possessed of firmness and decision of character, in whom all may safely confide. Happily, at this critical junc- ture, there was found such a man in general JacKson. This officer hastened hi§ departure from Mobile, on hear- ing of the danger of New-Orleans, and arrived on the se- cond of December. His presence was instantly felt in the confidence which it inspired, and the unanimity and alacFJty with which thev seconded evM'v di<;i;oT:^ioM cf a i> j 't 't! m i 338 HISTORY OF THE WAR. man so justly celebralcd for activity, prudence and good fortune. With wonderful rapidity, he put in operation all the resources of his fertile genius, for the defence of the country. lie visited in person, according to liis in- variable practice, every point where it might be necessary t(r erect works to oppose the invaders. All the inlets or bayous, from tlie Attakopas to the Chef Menteur and jManchack, were ordered to be obstructed. The banks of the Mississippi were fortified by his direction, in such a manner, as to prevent any of the enemy's vessels from as- cending, and a battery was erected on the Chef Menteur, so as to oppose the passage of the enemy in that direction. He then called on the legislature, to furnish him the means ot' expediting the difterent works which he had marked out. A number of negroes were furnished, and other requisitions promptly supplied. About one thou- sand regulars were stationed at New-Orleans, v/hich, to- getlier with the Tennessee militia, under Cottee and Car- roll, were distributed at the most vulnerable points. Colonel Monroe, in anticipation of the approaching dan- ger in the south, immediately after entering on the dutie« of secietaiy at war, had forwarded military supplies by the Oliio river, and called on the governours of Tennes- see and K.L»ntucky, for a considerable force, to be sent with all possible expedition to Louisiana. About the fifth of December, certain intelligence was received that tiie British fleet, consisting of at least sixty sail, Mas oft' the coast to the east of the Mississippi. Com- modore Patterson immediately despatched five gunboats under tlie command of lieutenant Catesby Jones, to watch the motions of the enemy. They were discovered in such force oft' Cat Island, as to induce the lieutenant to make sail for the passes into lake Ponchartrain, in order to op- pose the entrance of the British. The Sea-Horse, sailing master Johnson, after a gallant resistance, was captured in theb.iy of St. Louis. On the fourteenth the gunboats, while becalmed, were attacked by nearly forty barges and twelve hundred men, and after a contest of an hour, with this overwhelming force, the flotilla surrendered. The loss of tlie Americans was forty killed and wounded; among the latter, lieutenant Spidden, who lost an arm; HISTORY OV THK WAU. 339 ce and rooi!is of some fisliermen. It afterwards appeared, timt these wretches had been in the employment of the British.. On the twenty-second, guided by them, the ene- my came suddenly upon the American guard, and took thern prisoners. The division under general Keane, by four o*cIock in the morning reached the commencement of Villere's canal, and having disembarked and rested some hours, proceeded through the cane-brake, and by two o'clock reached the bank of the river. General Villere's house was suddenly surrounded, as also that of his neigh- bour, colonel I^a Ronde; but this officer, as well as major Villere, was so fortunate as to effect his escape, and hasten- ing to the head quarters, communicated the intelligence. The alarm-gun was fired, and the commander-in-chief, with that promptitude and decision for which he is so re- markable, instantly resolved on the only course to be pur- sued, which was, without the loss of a moment's time, to attack the enemy. Coffee's riflemen, stationed above the city, in one hour's time were at the place of rendezvous; the battalion of major Plauche had arrived from the bayou, and tlie re";ulars and city volunteers were ready to march. By six o'clock the difT'erent corps were united on Rodri- gue's canal, six miles below the city. The schooner Caro- line, captain Henley, at the same time dropped down the river. The command of general Coffee, together with captain Beale's riflemen, were placed on the left, towards the wo{>ds; the city volunteers and men of colour, under Plauche and Daquin; the whole under the command of colonel Ross, were stationed to the right of tliese; and next to them, the two regiments of regulars, the Svjventh and forty-fourtli; the artillery and marines, under colonel M'llea, occupied the road. The whole scarcely exceed- ing two thousand men. Tlic British force at this time amounted to three thousand, and instead of pushing di- thi HISTORY OF THE WaI{. at the distance of half a mVr V ' "'"f '' '■^*'«'' "n the ho",! neral assailed thei s" on"e ? n"' ". '"^ "''-''•■ "'"'^ tl^e "c- Ped down at the same time and « ,?/ '" ^^a'-ol'-'e, (Iron. t>e enemy as the signal rf'a«ack Tl ""«" '"'^ «'« "P"" of the approach of the AmeVir.! ^ '"^ *"*'' '"timation from the ,choo„er; tlt"'fi ^^"j. " 'f''^S broadside enabled the assailants to t,1 p ,ff ',"'"'.? f'""' the liver ">en, with their usual in pefuolv'^T'"','' "'"'■ CofToe's and entered their cam wliur^' ,'"''"''' "P"" the ri^ht ine enemy, althoiiwl, t,i? , "'""T. veral h„n,lreii; suddeK,," ^^ '?''"''^''' ""'" '-avins. se ed and their fires beinTex nlish 7"""''''''' '"»« f"'™- A th.ck fog, which arose soSlv*^' """"' """ »<='!»»• confusion Tn the difterent i. ^ ''^^'"'- P'oducin- son e •''^"tly called off h is troon; 7f"*" ?''«. Jacks^ p u- and at four in the Vontl' t/l "" *''' **''''' "'at "i^," SKle of the canal «fRo,j"L^ ?•'',>',''*''''''' »» the oC mill-race. The Ameiic,7f !' "^'' ''"f' '"'"merly b« T^ «"e hundred and fiS wou^ d T"' ?«'"J-'oui- kf led soners, among whon. wL '"'• »"•' seventv-fou, ,^; "'§ f tnnated JacksonVa,rce ,t ^fte' "T '""'""^- a - I lie general set to work imm .•?'! """'■■*and men. ^f on. This was effected vT -"""/^ '" ''<""''v h no- tl.e nver to the swamp, vWt, f,,1t^l"'''''^r'"'^^'-'*'^^''''<. f' m the construction of these woksc;." i""' '''" ''''^^ amioHd b^ the Caroline, tl ey set to ^ T"'"'>- ""^ -'d ng batteries to attack h,.,- ..„ i ."'"'^ "' constr'i ■( «"evv hot shot by .lu'c h': ;'\ •;;: tt v -'^-•'-.th" 29* "a^sct on fire and 1,1^,,,.,, t|;f 'id 342 HISTORY OF THia WAU. up, about an hour after she was abandoned by her crew. The Louisiana, which then took her station, sustained the (ire of all the batteries until in emminent danger: in lopinj^ her, the whole co-operative naval force would be lost; ner commander, lieutenant Thompson, after encountering ma- ny obstacles, finally succeeded in bringing her near Jack- son's position. After the destruction of the Caroline, sir Kdward Packenham, the British commander-in-chief, hav- ing landed the main body of his army, with a sufficient train of artillery, superintended in person the arrange- ments for fortifying his position. On the twenty-eighth, the British general advanced up the levee in force, with the intention of driving Jackson from his entrenchments, and at the distance of lialf a mile, commenced an attack with rockets, bombs, and a heavy cannonade, as he ap- proached the American works, which were yet unfinished. The Louisiana discharging her broadside upon the ene- my's column, caused great destruction; the fire from the American batteries was not less destructive; and after a violent struggle of seven hours, the British general retired. The loss of the Americans was seven killed and eight wounded, among the former colonel Henderson, of Ten- nessee; that of tlie British much more considerable. On the morning of the first of January, 1815, sir Ed- ward Packenham was discovered to have constructed bat- teries near the American works, and at day-light com- menced a heavy fire from them, which was well returned by Jackson. A bold attempt was, at the same time, made to turn the left of the Americans; but in this the enemy was completely repulsed. The British retired in the evening, from their batteries, having spiked their guns, and leaving behind a quantity of ammunition. The loss of the Americans on this occasion, was eleven killed and twenty-three wounded. On the fourth, general Jackson was joined by two thousand five hundred Kentuckians, under general Adair; and on the sixth, the British were joined by general Lambert, at the head of four thousand men. The British force now amounted to little short of fl:ftoon thousand of the finest troops; that of the Aniericans to about six thousand, chiefly raw militia, a considerable portion unarmed, and from the haste of their departure, HISTORY OF THE WAR. 343 badly supplied with clothing. All the private arms which the inhabitants possessed were collected, and the ladies of New-Orleans occupied themselves continually in making different articles of clothing. The mayor of the city, Mr. Girod, was particularly active at this trying moment. The British general now prepared for a serious attempt on the American works. With great labour he had com- pleted, by the seventh, a canal froin the swamp to the Mississippi, by which he was enabled to transport a num- ber of his boats to the river: it was his intention to make a simultaneous attack on the main force of general Jackson on the left bank, and crossing the river to attack the bat- teries on the right. The works of the American general were by this time completed; his front was a straight line of one thousand yards, defended by upwards of three thousand infantry and artillerists. The ditch contained five feet water, and his front from having been flooded by opening the levees and frequent rains, was rendered slip- pery and muddy. Eigb*diaunct batteries were judiciously disposed, mounting in all twelve guns of different calibres. On the opposite side of the river, there was a strong bat- tery of fifteen guns, and the entrenchments were occupied by general Morgan, with the Louisiana militia, and a strong detatchment of the Kentucky troops. To guard against an'attack from any other quarter, colonel Reuben Kemper, with a few men, encountering infinite difficulties, had explored every pass and bayou, and on this subject had placed at ease the mind of the commander-in-chief. On the memorable morning of the eighth of January, general Packenham, having detached colonel Thornton with a considerable force, to attack the works on the right bank of the river, moved with his whole force, exceeding twelve thousand men, in two divisions, under major-gene- rals Gibbs and Kean; and a reserve under general liam- bert. The first of these officers was to make the princi- pal attack; the two columns were supplied with c ng- ladders, and fascines. Thus prepared, the Americai la- tiently waited the attack, which would decide the late of New-Orleans, and perhaps of Louisiana. The British deliberately advanced in solid columns, over an even ■a;,.,:;^!- 344 HISTORY OF THE WAR. plain, in front of the American entrenchment«i, the men carrying besides their muskets, fascines, and some of them ladders. A dead silence prevailed, until they approached within reach of the batteries, \vhich commenced an in- cessant and destructive cannonade: they, notwithstanding, c *'nued to advance in tolerable order, closing up their ranks, as fast as they vvert opened by the fire of the Ame- ricans. When they came within ieach, however, of the musquetry and rifles, these joined with the artillery, and produced such dreadful havock, that they were instantly thrown into confusion. Never was there so tremendous a fire, as that kept up from the American lines; it was a continued stream; those beliind loading for the men in front, enabled them to fire wih scarcely an intermission. The British columns were literally swept away; hundreds fell at every discharge. The British officers were now making an effort to rally their men, and in this attempt their commander, a gallant officer, general Packenham, was killed. The two generals, Gibbsand Kean, succeed- ed in pus'^ing forward their columns a second time; but the second approach was more fatal than first; the con- tinued rolling fire of the Americans, resembled peels of thilnder; it was such as no troops could withstand; the ad- vancing columns broke, and no effort to rally them could avail: a few platoons only, advanced to the edge of the ditch, to meet a more certain destruction. An unavailing attempt was made to bring them up a third time bj' their officers, whose gallantry on this occasion, deserved a bet- ter fate, in a better cause. Generals Gibbs and Kean were carried away, severely wounded; the former mortally. The plain between the front of the British, and the Ame- rican lines, was strewed with dead; so dreadful a carnage, considering the length of tiuie, and the numbers engaged, was perhaps never witnessed. Two thousand, at the low- est estimate, pressed the earth, besides a number of the wounded who were not able to escape. The loss of the Americans did not exceed seven killed, and six wounded. General Lambert was the only general officer left upon the field; being unable to check the flight of the British columns, he retired to his encampment. In the meantime, the detachment under colonel Thorn- S the men irae of them approached iced an in- thstandinff, ig up their )f the Amc- iver, of the tillery, and •e instantly tremendous Bs; it was a he men in itermission. f'f hundreds 1 were now lis attempt i'ackenham, Ln,succeed- I time; but the con- d peels of nd; the iid- hem could dge of the unavailing e by their ved a bet- [.ean were mortal ly. the Ame- |a carnage, engaged, [t the low- \cv of the jss of the Iwounded. left upon »e British I " t ! I; 1 • d Thorn- 1 \mm i"' 'Wnm >* ■ • . .'■ 'filr^tv niv^vv) WxWf •:K-yy. i 7. /. -^m mim&,^:% iV ;W HISTORY OF THE WAR. 345 J/^'l W% 1 ,#11 mm W;mi''^i m W IWM 7. y. /. ton succeetled in landinjs; on the right bank, and imme* diatcly attacked the entrenchment of general Morgan. The American right, believing itself outflanked, abandon- ed its position, while the left maintained its ground for some time; but finding itself deserted by those on the right, and being outnumbered by the enemy, they spiked their guns and retired. Colonel Thornton was severely wounded, and the command devolved on colonel Gobbins, who seeing the fate of the assault on the left bank, and re- ceiving orders from general Lambert, re-crossed the river. On the return of general Lambert to his camp, it was resolved, in consultation with admiral Cochrane, to retire to their shipping. This was etfected with great secrecy; and during^tne night of the eighteenth, their ca^np was en- tirely evacuated. From the nature of the country, it was found impossible to pursue them; they left eight of their wounded, and fourteen pieces of artillery. Their loss in this fatal expedition was immense; besides their generals, and a number of valuable officers, their force was dimin- ished by at least five thousand men. It was in vain, as in other instances, to conceal the truth of this aftair, and the sensations which it produced in Great Britain, are not easily described; the conduct of the ministry was regard^ ed as shamefully dishotiourable, in thus stretching forth one hand to receive the olive, which was tendered by America, and at the same time secretly wielding a dag- ger with the other. Commodore Patterson despatched five boats, under Mk. Shields, purser on the New-Orleans station, in order to annoy the retreat of the Britisli. This active and spirited officer succeeded in capturing seveial of their boats, and in taking a number of prisoners. The glorious defence of New-Orleans produced the most lively joy throujrhout the United States, mingled, however, with pity, for a brave enemy, who had encountered so disastrous a defeat. The British fleet had, at the same time, ascer.ded the Mis- sissippi, for the purpose of bombarding fort St. Philip, which was commanded by major Overton; but without being able to make any impression. Tlieie is but little doubt that the object of Great Bri- tain, was to possess herself of Louisiana, and obtaining a 346 HISTORY OF THE WAR* session from Spain, draw a cordon round the United States, and by that means strangle this young Hercules, as it were in the cradle. It is well known that on board the fleet, they had brought all the officers necessary for the establishment of a civil government, even a collector of the port! An American must, tremble for his country, when he looks back at the danger we have escaped. That the British intended to deliver the city of New-Orleans to be sacked by their soldiery, is very doubtful; and from the high character of sir Edward Packenham, it is highly improbable thhs. : i •,i"^uld have given, as the watchword of the occasion, 6( ty ard booty; this was more probably spoken by some jf the ;. feriour officers, with a view of producing an excitement among the soldiery. While these bloody affairs transpired on the Mississip- pi, admiral Cockburn was pursuing a more lucrative, but less dangerous warfare, in tlie Carolinas and Georgia. He took possession of Cumberland island, and menacing Charleston and Savannah, he sent out various detach- ments, several of which were bravely repulsed; but his rhief occupation was plundering the inhabitants of their staples, and household furniture. The letters of some of his officers, which were intercepted, display a species of vulgar cupidity, very mortifying to the better class of their countrymen, who could not but feel ashamed of their con- duct. The most usual topicks of these letters, were the amount and species of plunder which they procured; desks, looking glasses, bureaus, and cotton bales, exultingly enu- merated, as if they had been the ultimate glory and end of war. The momentous intelligence of the defeat of the Bri- tish at New-Orleans, had scarcely ceased to operate upon the feelings of the people of the United States, when they received the welcome news of peace. These two events were joyfully celebrated, by illuminations throughout this land of freedom and independence. Thus terminated a glorious and eventful war of three years. It is related of the wise Franklin, that heaiing some one speak of our first war with Britain, as the ivar of independence^ he reproved him: "Sir," says he, "you mean of the revolution; the war of independence is yet to HISTORY OF THE WAR. 347 he Unitetl w Hercules, at on board sary for the collector of lis country, :apecl. That [ew-Orleans il; and from , it is highly atchword of re probably th a view of le Mississip- acrative, but Georgia. Uc d menacing ious detach- sed; but his ints of their s of some of a species of lass of their of their con- rs, were the ured; desks, Itingly enu- ory and end of the Bri- Iperate upon ), when they two events i)ughout this ^ar of three |hat hearing as the ivar ^s he, "you [ce is yet to come." It is now over; we have burst our bands at last, and every hope on the part of Britain to brina; us back to the state of colonies, nas fled for ever. She has bean taught a lesson which she cannot forget, that it is much cheaper to do justice, than to practise her unwarranted oppressions. If she ilrovj| us into a war, by the capture during peace of a thousand of our merchantmen, and the enslaving seven thousand of our fellow citizens, she has found that during war, two thousand of her own ships have been lost, her publick vessels compelled to strike to those of the Americans, and her national debt increased by many millions. She has learned the painful tr h, that slie has a superiour on the ocean. She lias bee. t ght that her threats of burning our towns, and chas^isin^ our presumption, would only bring destruction upon !ier own head; she has seen the marketior her manufacturer greatly diminished in America — All this might have been saved by a timely repeal of her orders in council, ■ acceding to the friendly arrangement, so often proposed on our part, to provide against the abuse of the practice of impress- ment, by which the lieutenant or boatswain of a man of war, could decide, without evidence, and in a moment, upon the life and liberty of an American citizen. We have at last compelled this implacable enemy of our poli- tical institutions, to treat us with respect; and an Ameri- can may own his country with pride, in whatever portion of the globe his fortune may lead him. It is hoped that Britain will at last, treat us as she does other nations, if not with the civility, at least without superciliousness and scorn. Although a task by no means easy, let us forgive the ungenerous temper with which the last war has been con- ducted towards us, but let us not forget it; let us keep it in view, until Britain, by her frienilly deportment, mani- fests a wish to atone; let us not hastily charge those enor- mities upon the British nation; but rather consider them the disgraceful acts of a few ruffian individuals, or at most attribute them to the mistaken policy of a corrupt minis- try; let us, believe that every virtuous Englishman con- demns them. It is in vain for Britain to tell us tliat she is lighting the battles of the worlds while we see her the d48 HISTORY OF THE WAR. tyrant of the seas; it is in vain to tell us that she is the bulwark of our relii^ion, while she stirs up the fury of the savaj^es, to destroy the helpless and the innocent. We have no wish to be otherwise than on terms of friendship with England, while she refrains from insulting our na- tional independence. We have a common origin, a com- mon language, institutions nearly simdar, freed from gross corruptions and abuse, and to use the elegant language of Milton, we draw light from the same fountain. To us the war is pregnant with important lessons. We have acquired a knowledge of our weakness and of our strength. Our confederation will rise like a pyramid, its base eternal. Our best policy is peace, if honourable, but war sooner than the sligntest in^lt. Fair and honoura- ble policy to all nations, preferring justice to profit. One lesson we have been taught, which was worth the sum we have paid for the war, that we are weak in the pur- suit OF CONqUEST, BUT ALL POWERFUL IN DEFENCE. THE END. ,t she is the I I'ury of the )cent. We f friendship ing our na- igin, a corn- el from gross language of • essons. We and of our pyramid, its ourable, but id honoura- profit. One the sum we IN THE PUR- FENCE. #