Skirmish at Farnham Church facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Skirmish at Farnham Church
Part of War of 1812
North Farnham Church, site of the battle
Date December 6, 1814 Location Farnham, Virginia 37°53′11″N 76°37′31″W / 37.88639°N 76.62528°W / 37.88639; -76.62528 Result American victory British withdrawal
Belligerents
United Kingdom	United States
Commanders and leaders
Sir George Cockburn	Unknown
Strength
4 Royal Marines 10 Regulars	Around 30-40 Militia
Casualties and losses
12 Killed 6 Wounded 4 Taken prisoner	5 Killed 3 Wounded

The Skirmish at Farnham Church was a small but important fight during the War of 1812. It happened on December 6, 1814, near Farnham, Virginia. In this skirmish, British soldiers tried to attack North Farnham Church, but American local fighters, called militia, successfully defended it. The British were forced to leave, making it an American victory.

What Was the War of 1812?

The War of 1812 was a conflict between the United States and Great Britain (and its allies) that lasted from 1812 to 1815. It was fought over several issues, including trade restrictions, the impressment (forced service) of American sailors into the British navy, and British support for Native American tribes against American expansion.

The Chesapeake Campaign

The Chesapeake Campaign was a part of the War of 1812. It involved British attacks along the Chesapeake Bay area, including raids on towns and cities in Maryland and Virginia. The goal of the British was often to disrupt American trade and military efforts.

The Skirmish at Farnham Church

On December 6, 1814, a group of British soldiers tried to attack North Farnham Church in Virginia. The British force included about 14 soldiers, made up of Royal Marines and regular troops. They were led by Sir George Cockburn.

The American Defenders

The church was defended by a group of American militia. Militia are ordinary citizens who are trained for military service, ready to defend their local area. There were about 30 to 40 American militia members defending the church. Their leader is not known.

The Battle

The British attacked the church, trying to take control of it. They even fired cannons at the church building. However, the American militia fought back bravely. The fight was intense, but the Americans managed to hold their ground.

Why Was It Important?

The Skirmish at Farnham Church was a small battle, but it showed that American local forces could successfully defend their homes against British attacks. The British failed to capture the church and had to retreat. This was a win for the Americans, even though the War of 1812 continued for a bit longer.

Casualties

Both sides suffered losses in the skirmish.

• The British lost 12 soldiers who were killed, 6 who were wounded, and 4 who were taken prisoner.
• The American militia had 5 soldiers killed and 3 wounded.