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Raid on Haverhill (1697) facts for kids

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Raid on Haverhill (1697)
Part of King William's War
Date March 15, 1697
Location
Result French and native victory
Belligerents
 British colonists  French colonists
 Algonquin
Commanders and leaders
Chief Nescambious
Strength
approximately 20
Casualties and losses
27 colonists killed
13 captured
unknown

The Raid on Haverhill was a surprise attack that happened on March 15, 1697. It was part of a bigger conflict called King William's War. This war was fought between the French and their Native American allies against the English colonists in North America.

The attack on Haverhill was ordered by Louis de Buade de Frontenac, who was the Governor General of New France (a French colony). French soldiers, along with Algonquin and Abenaki warriors, attacked Haverhill. At that time, Haverhill was a small town on the edge of the settled areas in the Province of Massachusetts Bay. During this raid, the Abenaki killed 27 settlers and captured 13 others. They also burned six homes. This event became well-known later because of Hannah Dustin's story of being captured during the raid.

What Happened After the Raid?

The last major battle of King William's War happened on September 9, 1697. It was called the Battle of Damariscotta. In this fight, Captain John March and his men defeated 25 Native American warriors.

Even after the war officially ended, some Abenaki groups continued to raid English settlements. For example, on March 4, 1698, a chief named Escumbuit led about 30 Native Americans in a raid on Andover, Massachusetts. This was the last and most serious Native American attack on Andover. There was also another raid by Native Americans from Acadia (a French colony) on Hatfield, Massachusetts in 1688, where two settlers were killed.

Why Is This Event Remembered?

The Raid on Haverhill and the story of Hannah Dustin became important in American history and literature. Many writers later wrote about these events. Here are some examples:

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