Phineas Stevens facts for kids

Phineas Stevens was an important leader and soldier in early American history. He is best known for bravely defending a fort called Number 4 during a big attack in 1747. This happened when America was still a group of colonies, long before it became a country. Stevens was also one of the first people from England to settle in the area that is now New Hampshire.

Phineas Stevens: A Colonial Hero

Early Life and Settling Down

Phineas Stevens was born on February 20, 1706, in a town called Sudbury, Massachusetts. As he grew up, he became one of the first European settlers to move into a new, wild area. This area would later become part of New Hampshire. He helped to establish a settlement there, which included a fort.

The Famous Defense of Fort Number 4

One of the most famous events in Phineas Stevens' life happened in April 1747. He was in charge of the Fort at Number 4, which was a very important outpost. A large group of French and Native American soldiers attacked the fort. This attack was called a siege.

Stevens and his 32 British soldiers bravely defended the fort for several days. Even though they were greatly outnumbered, they managed to hold off the attackers. The French and Native American forces eventually gave up and left without capturing the fort. This victory made Phineas Stevens well-known as a skilled and courageous officer.

Role in Colonial Wars

Phineas Stevens played an active role in two major conflicts during his time. These were King George's War (1744–1748) and the French and Indian War (1754–1763). These wars were fought between Great Britain and France, often with Native American allies on both sides, over control of land in North America.

Stevens served as the commander of the local militia, which was a group of citizens who could be called upon to act as soldiers. He led these forces until 1750. His experience and bravery were very important in protecting the frontier settlements during these dangerous times.

Later Life and Legacy

Phineas Stevens continued to serve his community and the British colonies. He died on April 6, 1756, in Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia. Stevens is remembered as a key figure in the early history of New Hampshire and for his heroic defense of Fort at Number 4, which helped secure the frontier for British settlers.