Spirit Rising From the Ruins

Chapter 2: The Americans

Despite the deplorable conduct of the regular infantrymen during the attack on York in April, officials in Washington were pleased with the outcome of the invasion headed by General Henry Dearborn. An ageing veteran, and a preferred appointee by the President and his cabinet to lead the Northern theatre, Dearborn was not a popular choice among Federalists. Heading up a concentrated assault was no place for an ailing man of Dearborn’s years.

Taking York with few losses did little to silence his critics because no bounty was gained. Powder magazines had been ignited and the shipyard was set on fire. Worse still was the unruly behaviour of his own men. Still, America’s fortunes had finally turned positive. Henry knew it was time to build momentum with a fresh approach.

Now that US naval commanders had proven their worth on Lake Ontario by taking York, the General’s plans for Fort George came sharply into focus. Commodore Isaac Chauncey was gaining greater command of the waterways. His fleet of twelve schooners proved to be an integral part of Dearborn’s next campaign. The General anticipated a front-row seat view of the next campaign. Dearborn was just finishing a light lunch on the afternoon of May 25, when he summoned Major General Morgan Lewis to his quarters. Time was now of the essence, and Dearborn found the weather was cooperating deliciously.

General Lewis entered the room and began speaking without prompting from his superior. “General, we must be away immediately if we are to rendezvous with the Madison, sir.” Lewis seemed almost ready to jump out of his skin from anticipation. “We could not have asked for better cover than this fog, but if we are to join the ship…”

“Yes, yes. Very well, General. Let’s be off then. I find myself equally restless.” Without another word, the two men made for the docks at Fort Niagara. They boarded the largest schooner, the Madison just before dusk. A thickening blanket of mist began to envelop the lake. Once safely aboard, the two generals took observer positions at the bow.

“I trust Chauncey and Perry have been thoroughly briefed?” asked Dearborn.

“All is in readiness, sir,” Lewis replied, “The schooners will tack toward the buoys left by…

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