Battle of River Canard facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Battle of River Canard
Part of the War of 1812
Date July 16, 1812 Location River Canard Result Stalemate - British Held Firm
Belligerents
United States	Great Britain
Commanders and leaders
Colonel Lewis Cass Colonel James Miller	Colonel T.B. St. George
Strength
280	Unknown
Casualties and losses
none	1 killed 1 wounded prisoner

The Battle of River Canard was a series of small fights. It happened on July 16, 1812, during the War of 1812. This was the first armed conflict in Canada during that war. American soldiers fought against British forces and their allies.

What Was the Battle of River Canard?

The Battle of River Canard was more like a few quick fights than one big battle. It took place near a bridge at River Canard. American forces, about 280 men, were led by Colonels Lewis Cass and James Miller. They fought against British soldiers and their Canadian militia and First Nations allies. The British forces were led by Lieutenant-Colonel T.B. St. George.

The First Skirmish

Before the main fight, American General William Hull sent Colonel Cass to look for British troops. Cass found British outposts. He quickly moved his troops to attack the British from the side. This surprise attack worked well. It forced the British soldiers to retreat to a nearby fort called Fort Malden.

This attack also opened a path for the Americans to reach Amherstburg, which was controlled by the British. However, General Hull realized his troops were too far from the main American army. So, he ordered them to pull back.

Casualties and Prisoners

During this first skirmish, two British soldiers were captured. Their names were James Hancock and John Dean. Sadly, James Hancock died later that day from his wounds. He was the first British soldier to die in the War of 1812.

John Dean was taken as a prisoner to Detroit. His left arm had to be removed because of his injuries. About a month later, he was freed. This happened when the British captured Fort Detroit. Both Hancock and Dean were praised for their bravery by Sir Isaac Brock.

Sir Isaac Brock: A War Hero

Sir Isaac Brock was a very skilled soldier and leader. He was known as "The Hero of Upper Canada." He played an important role in the early parts of the War of 1812. Sir Isaac Brock died later that year, on October 13, 1812. He is still remembered as a brave war hero.

Another Skirmish at Turkey Creek

A second small fight happened at Turkey Creek. This area is now part of LaSalle. In this skirmish, four American soldiers were killed. They were attacked by First Nations warriors who were allied with the British.