James Fontaine facts for kids

James Fontaine (1757–1790) was a brave officer who served in two important conflicts: the American Revolutionary War and the Northwest Indian War. He is remembered for his military service and for a county in Indiana named after him.

Early Life and First Steps in the Military

James Fontaine was born in 1757 in Hanover County, Virginia. From a young age, he chose a military path. In 1775, he joined the first special rifle company formed in Buckingham District, Virginia. This company was created to help defend the American colonies.

Later, in October 1775, his company became part of the 2nd Virginia Regiment. He served with this group until March 1776, near Williamsburg, Virginia, during the early days of the American Revolutionary War.

Service in the Northwest Indian War

After the Revolutionary War, Fontaine moved to Kentucky. There, he continued his military career, becoming a Major in the Northwest Indian War. This war involved conflicts between the United States and Native American tribes in the Ohio Valley region.

In 1790, Major Fontaine served under General Josiah Harmar. They led a march north from Cincinnati to fight against the Miami tribe. The Miami were led by a famous chief named Little Turtle.

His Final Battle

Major Fontaine was killed in battle on October 22, 1790. This fight is known by several names, including Harmar's Defeat, the Battle of the Maumee, or the Battle of Kekionga.

The battle took place near where the St. Joseph River and St. Marys River join together to form the Maumee River. This area is close to what is now Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Legacy

To honor his service and sacrifice, Fountain County, Indiana was named after James Fontaine.