The British Raid
on the
American Naval Base at
Sacket’s Harbor, 1813
When the campaign season opened in April 1813, the United States planned to exploit their control of Lake Ontario by attacking Kingston, York and Fort George in the Niagara, with a force assembled at Sackets Harbor. As American intelligence indicated the defences at Kingston were formidable, it was decided to first attack York and then hold it until a relief force was detached from Fort George to reclaim it. The Americans would then make a lightening move across Lake Ontario, reduce that fort and, aided by an army that would cross the river, secure the Canadian side of the Niagara. Afterwards, a blockade was to be established at Kingston to contain the British naval squadron. American Commodore Chauncey would then proceed direct to Lake Erie and then “destroy” British naval power, take Malden and Detroit, and then proceed into Lake Huron and attack Mackinac. Continue reading Crown Forces 2nd Battle Sackets Harbor→
Michael Harris was born into a distinguished family in Dublin, Ireland in 1795. Little is currently known of his younger years there.
Michael enlisted with the 100th (H.R.H. Prince Regent’s, County of Dublin) Regiment of Foot (later renumbered as the 99th). Michael was only ten years old when the regiment sailed from Ireland to British North America for garrison duty in the colonies. It is unclear at this time if Michael actually sailed with the regiment in 1805 because of his young age but it was not uncommon for young boys to enlist. (and an actual date of enlistment has not been found)
William Fiegehen was stationed with the British Garrison in Lower Canada and later on Drummond Island on Lake Huron, Upper Canada. He received a grant of land in appreciation for military service of the 200 acres on Lot 16 Conc 13, West Gwillimbury in 1837.
The British Raid
