DESPATCHES FROM THE GOVERNOR - GENERAL.
No. 1
Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor-General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL, M.P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 1, 1866
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you that a body of 600
Fenians entered this Province this morning. They crossed
the Niagara at Black Rock, near Buffalo, in the State of New
York, and established themselves in the village of Fort Erie
in Canada. I am now occupied in taking measures for meeting
the emergency.
I Have, &c.
(Signed) MONCK.
No. 2
Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor-General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL, M.P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 4, 1866.
SIR,
REFERRING to my despatch of the 1st June, I have the honour
to state for your information, that the body of Fenian
conspirators who crossed the frontier from Buffalo to Fort
Erie on the morning of Friday, June 1st, proved to be between
800 or 900 men, and seem to have been well armed.
I had previously had information that some attempt would
shortly be made and a party of volunteers had been stationed
at Port Colborne in anticipation of an attack.
I have not yet had time to receive official accounts of the
military operations, but from telegraphic reports which have
reached me I am able to give the following statement of what
occurred which I think may be considered authentic.
Immediately on the receipt of the intelligence of the
invasion, Major-General Napier pushed on by rail to Chippewa,
a force consisting of artillery and regular troops under
Colonel Peacocke, 16th Regiment. Chippewa is about nineteen
miles from Fort Erie, and there is no railway communication
between the two places. On arriving at Chippewa, Colonel
Peacocke moved on in the direction of Fort Erie. On the
morning of Saturday, June 2nd, the body of volunteers
stationed as already mentioned at Port Colborne, left that
place by rail which runs parallel to the shores of Lake Erie
and went in the direction of Fort Erie as far as a place
called Ridgeway; here they left the railway and proceeded on
foot, apparently with the intention of effecting a junction
with Colonel Peacocke and his force.
They came upon the Fenians encamped in the bush and
immediately attacked them, but were outnumbered and compelled
tom retire on Port Colborne. This occured some time on
Saturday June 2nd.
Colonel Peacocke in the mean time was advancing in the
direction of Fort Erie from Chippewa along the banks of the
Niagara river, but was not able to reach the former place
before night-fall.
The Fenians however did not await his arrival, but re-crossed
the river during the night between the 2nd and 3rd June, to
the number of about 750 men, and as appears from the
accompanying telegram from Mr. Consul Hemans, were immediately
arrested by the authorties of the United States.
I am happy to be able to inform you that the officers of the
United States Government appear to have exerted themselves to
prevent any assistance being supplied to the invaders. I
transmit copies of telegrams received on this subject from Mr.
Consul Hemans.
I think it is creditable both to the military and militia
authorities in Canada, that they were in a position within
twenty four hours after the invasion of the Province at a
point of the enemy's own selection, to place opposite to him
such a force as compelled his precipitate retreat without
even risking an engagement.
I shall not fail to send you more full particulars when I
shall have received the official reports from the officers
engaged, but the main facts are as I have stated them above.
I have, &c.
(Signed) MONCK.
Inclosure 1 in No. 2
Telegram from Buffalo to Viscount MONCK, Ottawa.
June 3rd, 1866
WHOLE Fenian force, about 850 strong, evacuated Canada at
3 A.M., 700 of them, with the leaders, lying at this moment
in arrest under guns of Michigan war-steamer.
(Signed) H. W. HEMANS
Inclosure 2 in No. 2
Telegram from Buffalo to Viscount MONCK, Ottawa.
June 2nd, 1866
FENIANS broke up encampment at 2.30 A.M., and marched about
four miles down river, said to be half starved and much
demoralized. Possession of six guns is undoubted. River
patrolled all night by armed tug-boats chartered by United
States' Attorney. Several captures made, and no reinforcements
believed to have crossed over. Have uniformly telegraphed
to General Napier.
British Consul,
(Signed) H. W. HEMANS.
Inclosure 3 in No. 2
Telegram from BUFFALO to Viscount MONCK, Ottawa.
June 3rd, 1866.
FRONTIER from Erie to Oswego placed by General Grant in
charge of General Barry, of United States' Artillery today:
thirteen companies under his command under his command, with
power to add according to emergencies. A revenue cutter just
arrived to patrol river. A British gun-boat much wanted in
those waters.
(Signed) H. W. HEMANS.
No. 3
Copy of a DESPATCH from Governor-General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL, M.P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 8th 1866.
SIR,
IN continuance of the narrative contained in my despatch
No. 45 of the 4th June, I have the honour to report that no
further invasion of Canadian territory has taken place on
the part of the Fenians.
I am still without official reports of the proceedings at
Fort Erie, but the circumstances of the last week have called
so largely on the time of the military officers as to
render correspondence very difficult.
I have no reason to doubt the substantial accuracy of the
account which I sent you in my last despatch.
Immediately after the first news of the invasion reached
me the whole Volunteer force of the Province was placed on
active duty.
I have the utmost satisfaction in reporting to you the
admirable spirit in which the exigencies of the moment were
met both by the administration and the population of the
Province. The former placed unreservedly at my disposal, for
employment by the officers of Her Majesty's forces, the entire
resources of the country. The latter responded instantaneously
to the call to arms, and I am sure I do not exaggerate when
I say that, within twenty four hours after the issue of order
20,000 men were under arms; and that within forty eight hours
after the same time, they in combination with the regular
troops, were disposed by the Lieutenant-General Commanding
in positions which rendered the Province secure from attack.
With the assistance of the officers and men of the ships
of war now in the River St. Lawrence and the Lakes.
I am happy also, to be in a position to inform you that the
Government of the United States is exerting itself in an
energetic manner to arrest the further progress of the Fenian
movement in its territories.
I enclose a copy of a Proclamation which has been issued
by the President, and of an order addressed by the Attorney
General of the United States desiring the arrest of all
prominent persons connected with the conspiracy.
This latter has been acted on, as I am informed, but not
officially, by the arrest of General Sweeney and by the
stoppage on the railroads of members of the Fenian
conspiracy who are proceeding northwards.
Under the circumstances of our own complete state of
preparation, and of the steps which are being taken by
the Government of the United States, I am persuaded that all
real danger is at an end, unless the force of Fenians
assembled on the frontier should betake themselves to the
act of plunder which I do not anticipate.
Parliament is to assemble this day, and it is intended
at once to suspend the Habeas Corpus Act, and to extend
to Lower Canada the Act at present in operation in Upper
Canada ( Consolidated Statutes, Upper Canada, cap.99),
providing for the trial by Militia Courts-martial of the
prisoners.
I have & c.
(Signed) MONCK.
Inclosure 1 in No. 3.
A PROCLAMATION.
WHEREAS it has become known to me that certain evil-
disposed persons have, within the territory and jurisdiction
of the United States, begun and set on foot, and have provided
and prepared, and are still engaged in providing and preparing
means for a military expedition and enterprise; which
expedition and enterprise is to be carried on from the
territory and jurisdiction of the United States, against
Colonies, districts, and people of British North America,
within the domain of Great Britain and Ireland, with which
said districts, and people, and Kingdom, the United States
are at peace. And whereas the proceedings aforesaid constitute
a high misdemeanor, forbidden by the laws of the United
States, as well as by the laws of nations. Now, therefore,
for the purpose of preventing the carrying on of unlawful
expedition and enterprise aforesaid, from the territory and
jurisdiction of the United States, and to maintain public
peace, as well as the national honour, and enforce obedience
and respect to the laws of the United States. I, Andrew
Johnson, President of the United States, do admonish and warn
all good citizens of the United States against taking part
in or in any way aiding, countenancing, or abetting said
unlawful proceedings, and I do exhort all Judges, Magistrates,
Marshals, and officers in the service of the United States,
to employ all their lawful authority and power to prevent and
defeat the aforesaid unlawful proceedings therein, and
pursuant to the Act of Congress in such case made and provided
I do furthermore authorize and empower Major-General Geo. G.
Meade, Commandant of the military and naval forces of the
United States, and the Militia thereof, to arrest and prevent
the setting on foot and carrying on the expedition and
enterprise aforesaid.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused
the seal of the United States to be affixed.
Done at the city of Washington, this 6th of June, in the
year of our Lord 1866, and independence of the United States
the ninetieth.
( Signed ) ANDREW JOHNSON.
(By the President)
Inclosure 2 in No. 3
Attorney-General's Office, Washington, June 5, 1866
By direction of the President you are hereby instructed to
cause the arrest of all prominent or conspicuous persons
called Fenians who you may have probable cause to believe
have been or may be guilty of violation of the neutrality
laws of the United States.
( Signed ) JAMES SPEED, Attorney-General.
No. 4
COPY of a DESPATCH from Governor - General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL, M. P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 11, 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inclose four copies of the official
Canada Gazette, containing two Acts assented to by me in Her
Majesty's name: " An Act to authorize the Apprehension and
Detention until the 8th day of June, 1867, of such Persons
as shall be suspected of committing Acts of Hostility or
conspiring against Her Majesty's Person and Government; "
" An Act to Protect the Inhabitants of Lower Canada against
Lawless Aggressions from Subjects of Foreign Countries at
peace with Her Majesty. "
I have, & c.
( Signed ) MONCK.
Inclosure 1 in No. 4
( No. 3, 200 )
CAP. I
AN ACT to authorize the apprehension and detention until
the eighth day of June, one thousand and sixty seven, of such
persons as shall be suspected of committing acts of hostility
or conspiring against Her Majesty's Person and Government.
[ Assented to 8th June, 1866 ]
WHEREAS certain evil disposed persons being subjects or
citizens of foreign countries at peace with Her Majesty, have
lawlessly invaded this Province, with hostile intent, and
whereas other similar lawless invasions of hostile incursions
into the Province are threatened; Her Majesty, by and with the
advice and consent of the Legislative Council and Assembly
of Canada, enacts as follows: -
1. All and every person and persons who is, are, or shall be
within prison in this Province at, upon, or after the day of
the passing of this Act, by warrant of commitment signed by
any two Justices of the Peace, or under capture or arrest made
with or without Warrant, by any of the officers, non
commisioned officers or men of Her Majesty's Regular, Militia
or Volunteer Militia Forces, or by any of the officers,
warrant officers, or men of Her Majesty's Navy, and charged;
With being or continuing in arms against Her Majesty within
this Province;
Or with any act of hostility therein;
Or with having entered this Province with design or intent
to levy war against Her Majesty, or to commit any felony
therein;
Or with levying war against Her Majesty in company with any
of the subjects or citizens of any foreign State or country
then at peace with Her Majesty;
Or with entering this Province in company with any such
subjects or citizens with intent to levy war on Her Majesty,
or to commit any act of felony therein;
Or with joining himself to any person or persons whatsoever
with the design or intent to aid and assist him or them,
whether subjects or aliens, who have entered or may enter this
Province with design or intent to levy war on Her Majesty, or
to commit any felony within the same;
Or charged with high treason or treasonable practices, or
suspicion of high treason, or treasonable practices;
May be detained in safe custody, without bail or mainprize,
until the eighth day of June, one thousand eight hundred and
sixty seven, and no Judge or Justice of the Peace shall bail
or try any such person or persons so committed, captured, or
arrested without order from Her Majesty's Executive Council,
until the eighth day of June, one thousand eight hundred and
sixty seven, any law or statute to the contrary
notwithstanding; provided, that if within fourteen days after
the date of any warrant of commitment, the same or a copy
thereof certified by the party in whose custody such person is
detained, be not countersigned by a clerk of the Executive
Council, then any person or persons detained in custody under
any such warrant of commitment for any of the causes aforesaid
by virtue of this Act, may apply to be and may be admitted to
bail.
2. In cases where any person or persons have been, before the
passing of this Act or shall be during the time this Act shall
continue in force, arrested, committed, or detained in custody
by force of a warrant of commitment of any two Justices of the
Peace for any of the causes in the preceding section mentioned
it shall and may be lawful for any person or persons to with
such warrant or warrants have been or shall be directed to
detain such person or persons, so arrested or committed, in
his or their custody in any place whatever within thisrovince
Province, and such person or persons to whom such warrant or
warrants have been or shall be directed, shall be deemed and
taken to be to all intents and purposes lawfully authorized
to detain in safe custody, and to be the lawful gaolers and
keepers of such persons arrested, committed or detained, and
such place or places where such person or persons so arrested
, committed, or detained, are or shall be detained in custody
shall be deemed and taken to all intents and purposes to be
lawful prisons and gaols for the detention and safe custody
of such person and persons respectively; and it shall and may
be lawful to and for Her Majesty's Executive Council, by
warrant signed by a clerk of the said Executive Council, to
change the person or persons by whom and the place in which
such person or persons so arrested, committed, or detained,
shall be detained in safe custody.
3. The Governor may, by proclamation, as and so often as he
may see fit, suspend the operations of this Act, or within the
period aforesaid again declare the same to be in full force
and effect, and, upon any such proclamation, this Act shall be
suspended or of full force and effect as the case may be.
4. This Act may be altered, amended, or repealed during the
present session of Parliament.
Inclosure 2 in No. 4.
( No. 3, 201.)
CAP. II.
AN ACT to protect the inhabitants of Lower Canada against
lawless aggressions from subjects of foreign countries at
peace with Her Majesty.
[ Assented to 8th June, 1866 ]
FOR the protection of the inhabitants of Lower Canada against
lawless aggressions from subjects of foreign countries at
peace with Her Majesty: Her Majesty, by and with the advice
and consent of the Legislative Council and Assembly of Canada
enacts as follows: -
1. In case any person, being a citizen or subject of any
foreign state or country at peace with Her Majesty within
Lower Canada, or commits any act of hostility therein, or
enters Lower Canada with design or intent to levy war against
Her Majesty, or to commit any felony therein, for which any
person would, by the laws of Lower Canada, be liable to suffer
death, then the Governor may order the assembling of a Militia
General Court Martial for the trial of such person, agreeably
to the Militia laws; and upon being found guilty by such court
martial of offending against this Act, such person shall be
sentenced by such court martial to suffer death, or such other
punishment as shall be awarded by the Court.
2. If any subject of Her Majesty, within Lower Canada, levies
war against Her Majesty, in company with any of the subjects
or citizens of any foreign state or country then at peace with
Her Majesty, or enters Lower Canada in company with any such
subjects or citizens with intent to levy war on Her Majesty,
or to commit any such act of felony as aforesaid, or if with
the design or intent to aid and assist, he joins himself to
any person or persons whatsoever, whether subjects or aliens,
who have entered Lower Canada with design or intent to levy
war on Her Majesty, or to commit any such felony within the
same, then such subject of Her Majesty may be tried and
punished by a Militia court martial in like manner as any
citizen or subject of a foreign state or country at peace with
Her Majesty, is liable under this Act to be tried and
punished.
3. Every citizen or subject of any foreign state or country
who offends against the provisions of this Act, is guilty of
felony, and may, notwithstanding the provisions hereinbefore8
contained, be prosecuted and tried before " The Court of
Queen's Bench " in the exercise of its criminal jurisdiction
in and for any district in Lower Canada, in the same manner
as if the offence had been committed in such district, and
upon conviction shall suffer death as a felon.
No. 5
COPY of a DESPATCH from Governor General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL, M. P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 13, 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE to transmit herewith, for your information, a copy
of a despatch which I addressed to Her Majesty's Minister at
Washington, in reference to the proclamation of the President
of the United States relative to the Fenian organization.
I have & c.
( Signed ) MONCK.
Inclosure in No. 5
Viscount MONCK to SIR F. BRUCE.
Government House, Ottawa, June 11, 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE learnt from the public press the terms of the
proclamation which the President of the United States of
America has promulgated against the hostile designs of the
Fenians on the Province the Government of which I have the
honour to administer.
I have also, by the same means, been made acquainted with
the orders issued by the Attorney - General of the United
States and other officers of the Administration of that
country for the apprehension of the persons of Fenian
conspirators and the stoppage and seizure of arms and other
supplies intended to be used by them against Canada.
As these proceedings of the Government of the United
States have materially tended to defeat the hostile purposes
of the Fenians against this Province, I shall feel much
obliged if you will convey to the Secretary of State for
the United States my acknowledgements of the course which
has been adopted by that Government in reference to this
matter.
I have & c.
( Signed ) MONCK.
No. 6
COPY of a DESPATCH from Governor General the Right Hon.
Viscount MONCK to the Right Hon. EDWARD CARDWELL M. P.
Government House, Ottawa, June 14 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to transmit for your information the
reports * to the Lieutenant General commanding Her Majesty's
Forces of the several officers whose names are noted in the
margin relating to the proceedings connected with the late
Fenian invasion at Fort Erie, Canada West.
I think these documents substantially corroborate the
accounts which I gave you, from telegraphic and other
information, in my despatches Nos. 43, 45, and 47 of the 1st
, 4th, and 8th instant.
From all the information I have received, I am now satisfied
that a very large and comprehensive plan of attack had been
arranged by the party which is popularly known as the Sweeney
Roberts section of the Fenian Brotherhood.
This plan of invasion, in addition to the attempt on the
Niagara frontier - the only one which actually occurred -
appears to have embraced attacks on the line of the Richelieu
and Lake Champlain, and also on the frontier in the
neighbourhood of Prescott and Cornwall, where I have reason to
think the principle demonstration was intended.
For the latter object, large bodies of men sent by railroad
from almost all parts of the United States were assembled at a
place called Malone, in the state of New York, and at Potsdam,
also in the state of New York; and, with a view to the former,
St. Albans and its neighbourhood, in the State of Vermont, was
selected as the place of assemblage.
Large supplies of arms, accoutrements, and ammunition were
also attempted to be forwarded by railroad to these points;
but, owing to the active intervention of the authorities of
the United States, as soon as it became apparent that a breach
of international law had been committed by these persons, a
very large portion of these supplies never reached their
destination.
It is not easy to arrive at a trustworthy estimate of the
number of men who actually arrived at their different points
of rendezvous.
It has been reported at times that there were at Potsdam,
Malone, and the intervening country as many as 10, 000 men,
and similar rumours have been from time to time circulated of
the force at St. Albans and its neighbourhood.
From the best opinion I can form, however, I should be
inclined to think that the number of Fenians in the vicinity
of St. Albans never exceeded 2, 000 men, and that 3, 000
would be a fair allowance for those assembled at Potsdam,
Malone, and the surrounding country.
The men have been represented to me as having, many of them
served in the late civil war in the United States, to have had
a considerable amount of small arms of a good and efficient
description. I have not heard of their possessing any
artillery, and I am informed that they were deficient in the
supply
of ammunition, and totally destitute of all other equipments
of an organized force.
They appear to have relied very much on assistance from the
inhabitants of the province, as the force which invaded Fort
Erie brought with them, as I am told, a large quantity of
spare arms to put into the hands of the sympathizers whom
they expected to join them.
I have in my former despatches noticed the measures which were
adopted by the Provincial Government, in order to place at the
disposal of the Lieutenant General commanding Her Majesty's
forces the provincial resources available for defence both by
land and water.
The Reports of the officers of the army and volunteers,
which I transmit, will aquaint you with the manner in which
these means were used by the officers in command.
I am happy to be able to bear my tribute to the energy and
good faith exhibited by the American Government and its
officials in checking all infraction of international
obligations on the part of any portion of its citizens from
the moment that it became evident that an invasion of the
Province by the Fenians had actually taken place. The
determination of the government of the United States to stop
the transportation of men and supplies to the places of
assembly rendered even temporary success on the part of the
Fenians impossible, while the large forces which the
Lieutenant General commanding was able to concentrate on
each of the points threatened, had the effect of deterring
from an attack the portion of the conspirators who had already
arrived at their places of rendezvous.
No invasion force occurred, except at Fort Erie, a slight
incursion took place at a place called St. Armand, about
thirteen miles from St. John' s, on the borders of the county
of Missisquoi, which ended in the capture of about sixteen
prisoners without any loss on our side.
The latest accounts I have received announced that the men
who had congregated at the different points of assembly were
being transmitted to their homes at the expense of the
Government of the United States, most of the leaders having
been arrested and held to bail to answer for their conduct.
Although I deplore the loss which the Volunteer Force
engaged on the 2nd June, at Limestone Ridge, has suffered
amounted to six killed and thirty one wounded, I think it is
a matter for congratulation that a movement which might have
been so formidable has collapsed with so small an amount of
loss, either of life or property.
I think it is also a source of satisfaction that such strong
proofs have been afforded of the spirit which animates the
Canadian people, of their loyalty to the Throne, of their
appreciation of the free institutions under which they live,
and of their readiness at all times to prove their sense of
the value of those institutions by incurring expense and
personal risk in the defence of them.
The period of the year at which the people has been called
on to make these sacrifices of time by serving in the
Volunteer ranks has been the most inconvenient that could be
selected, yet I have never heard a murmur from any quarter at
the necessity for suspending industrial occupation involving
the risk of losing a whole year's production, while I have
received information of a good deal of discontent on the part
of those who were anxious to give their services, but whose
presence in the ranks was not considered necessary.
I have to express my very high sense of the services
performed by Lieutenant General Sir J. Michel and the officers
under his command in the able disposition of the troops both
regular and volunteers. The officers of the Royal Navy
stationed at Quebec and Montreal deserve the highest credit
for the rapidity with which they extemporized gun boats for
the defence of the St. Lawrence and the Lakes.
I have already spoken of the admirable spirit displayed by
the Volunteer force, both officers and men. I have every
reason to believe that their conduct as regards discipline
and order has entitled them to as much commendation as does
their spirit of patriotism and self reliance.
I desire particularly to bring to your notice the ability
and energy exhibited by Colonel MacDougall, Adjutant
General of Militia, with a view to having his services
specially mentioned to his Royal Highness the Commander in
Chief.
This officer has not yet been one year in Canada, yet so
admirable is the system of organization which he has
established, that he is able within a few hours to assemble
on any given point over a line of more than 1, 000 miles,
masses of Volunteers, who at the time the order was given were
scattered over the country pursuing their ordinary avocations.
While I attribute full credit to the excellent spirit of the
people for its share in this effect, I think the
administrative ability which has given practical operation to
the good feeling of the population ought to have its meed of
praise, and in the interests of the public service on some
possible future emergency ought not to be left without
official record.
There are prisoners in our hands to the number of about 150.
I have not yet received official returns on them, whose trial
will be proceeded with at an early day.
I confidently expect within a few days to be able to dismiss
to their homes the great majority of the Volunteers, and my
firm conviction is, that this disturbance will produce
beneficial effects by discrediting Fenian enterprises,
exhibiting the futility of any attempt at invasion of the
Province, and showing the absence of all disaffection amongst
any portion of the people of Canada.
I have & c.
( Signed ) MONCK.
* Lieutenant General Sir J. Michel to the Secretary of State,
June 8; Colonel Peacocke, June 4; Lieutenant Colonel Booker,
June 2, 1866. Lieutenant General Sir J. Michel to the
Secretary of State, June 8, 1866; Statement of Naval Force ;
Return of Troops. Lieutenant General Sir J. Michel to the
Secretary of State, Montreal, June 11; Lieutenant Colonel
Dennis, June 4; Captain Akers, June 7; Colonel Lowry, June 4
1866. Lieutenant General Sir J. Michel to the Secretary of
State, Montreal, June 11, 1866
Inclosure 1 in No. 6
Lieutenant General Sir J. MICHEL to the SECRETARY OF STATE
FOR WAR.
Head Quarters, Montreal, June 8, 1866.
My Lord,
I HAVE the honour to forward Reports, as per margin, *
referring to operations from the 1st to the 4th of June, on
the Niagara frontier.
It appears by those Reports that Colonel Peacocke, of the
16th Regiment, with a force, as per margin * 1 , arrived at
Chippawa on the evening of the 1st of June, and that hearing
a Fenian force was encamped at Black Creek, he endeavoured to
arrange for the morning of the 2nd a combined movement with
the Volunteer force, as per margin * 2, under Colonel Booker,
at Port Colborne. During the night, however, the Fenians
removed to Ridgeway, and circumstances did not permit Colonel
Peacocke to move so early as the hour proposed. I may here
incidentally state that some discrepancies exist between the
reports of Colonels Peacocke and Booker as to the time named
for junction, it will be seen by the slight sketch subjoined
that the Fenians had moved during the night, three miles
nearer Port Colborne, and three miles further from Colonel
Peacocke's force.
The consequence of this was that the Volunteers came on the
enemy unexpectedly; and although they attacked him with much
gallantry, and suffered severely, as may be seen by the
subjoined list of killed and wounded, were, from want of
support, and from other causes connected with their state
( as new to warfare ), worsted by the enemy and forced to
retire to Port Colborne, but without much molestation.
The enemy then turned their attention to a small party of
Volunteers under Colonel Dennis, who had seized Fort Erie,
to which place they had, in a steam tug, on the morning of the
2nd proceeded.
Colonel Dennis' party, I believe, took some forty prisoners,
but the report from that officer has not yet reached me.
Colonel Peacocke's column having been reinforced by
Lieutenant Colonel Villier's 47th Regiment with a force as per
margin,*3 arrived on the evening of the 2nd within two miles
and a half of Fort Erie, and on the morning of the 3rd
proceeded to that place.
The great body, however, of the enemy on the night of the 2nd
had recrossed the river. They were immediately seized by the
United States' authorities, and placed in arrest.
Colonel Peacocke in his march picked up a considerable
number of prisoners.
Although the result of these operations, in a military point
of view, were not so satisfactory to me as I could have
wished, still I feel that from the total want of cavalry the
change of the position of the enemy during the night of the
1st could not have been discovered, nor Colonel Peacocke's
change of hour for operations to commence have been made
known to Colonel Booker, and therefore that the partial
failure must be attributed to one of those mischances in
warfare, which it is difficult to provide against, and only
possible when all the appliances of war are within our grasp.
I have, & c.
( Signed ) J. MICHEL, Lieutenant General,
Commanding the Forces in British North America.
The Right Hon. the Secretary of State for War,
War Office, London.
* Colonel Peacocke's June 4; Lieutenant Colonel Booker's;
List of Killed and Wounded.
*1 400 Regulars, 6 guns *2 840 Volunteers
*3 150 Regulars, 750 Volunteers; total, 900 Infantry.
Inclosure 2 in No. 6.
Colonel PEACOCKE to Major General NAPIER.
Fort Erie, June 4, 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to make the following report of my
operations in the field since the 1st instant:-
In compliance with a telegram received from you, I joined
at 2 o' clock, at Hamilton, with 200 men of my own battalion;
the force proceeding from Toronto to st. Catherine's
consisting of one battery of Royal Artillery, under the
command of Lieutenant Colonel Hoste, C. B., and 200 men, 47th
Regiment, under the command of Major Lodder.
You had also placed under my command for the defence of the
frontier seven companies of Volunteer force stationed at St.
Catherine's, under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Currie,
the Queen's Own Regiment of Volunteers at Port Colborne and
the 13th battalion of Volunteer Militia, commanded by
Lieutenant Colonel Booker at Dunville, and you had informed
me that I should be reinforced at St. Catherine's that
evening by 800 men.
Your instructions were that I was to make St. Catherine's my
base, to act according to my own discretion as to advancing on
Clifton or elsewhere, and to attack the enemy as soon as I
could do so with a force sufficient to ensure success.
On arriving at St. Catherine's, I received telegrams to the
effect that the Fenians, about 800 strong, were marching on
the suspension bridge, and were actually two or three miles
from Chippewa. I pushed on immediately to the bridge, leaving
orders for all troops arriving at St. Catherine's to follow
me as soon as possible.
On reaching the bridge I heard the enemy had not yet reached
Chippewa; and being anxious to save the bridge over the creek,
I pressed on with four hundred Infantry in the train, preceded
by a pilot engine, the battery marching by road in consequence
of the reported want of platform accommodation at the Chippewa
station. It was dark when we arrived at Chippewa. We bivouaced
there that night.
I here received numerous reports from scouts sent out by Mr.
Kirkpatrick, the reeve. They agreed generally in the statement
that the Fenians had entrenched themselves roughly a little
below Fort Erie, at Frenchman's Creek, and had sent on a party
towards Chippewa. Their strength was variously estimated from
800 to 1, 500.
I resolved on effecting a junction with the force at Port
Colborne, to which place I had already ordered the battalion
from Dunville.
With this object in view, I selected Stevensville as the
point of junction, and having explained to Captain Akers,
Royal Engineers, who accompanied the force from Toronto, what
my object was, and that this point was chosen because, judging
from the information received, we could not be anticipated at
it till the evening.
I dispatched that officer at 12 o' clock to communicate with
the officer commanding at Port Colborne, to make him
conversant with my views, and to order him to meet me at
Stevensville between 10 and 11 o' clock next morning,
informing him that I should start at 6 o' clock.
I continued to send out scouts during the night and to
receive reports which made me believe that my information was
correct, and that the enemy had not left their camp.
At about 2 o' clock I received a telegram from Colonel Booker
, despatched before he was joined by Captain Akers, informing
me that he had given order to attack the enemy at Fort Erie.
At about half past 3, I received another one from Captain
Akers, despatched after he had reached Port Colborne, saying
that the enemy is at French Creek, and proposing that
Lieutenant Colonel Booker's force should advance on Fort Erie
, and join us at Frenchman's Creek.
At about half past 4 o' clock I was joined by the seven
companies of Volunteer force from St. Catherine's, formed into
a battalion 350 strong, under Colonel Currie, and by the
expected reinforcement under Lieutenant Colonel Villiers, 47th
Regiment, which consisted of 150 men, 47th, and of the 10th
Royals, 415 strong, under Major Boxall.
The Volunteers, being unprovided with means of carrying
provisions and of cooking them, had not been able to comply
with an order I had sent the previous evening, that they were
to bring provisions in their haversacks.
I saw that the absolute necessity of them with some would
cause a delay, and I telegraphed to Port Colborne that I
should be one hour later in starting.
We marched at 7 o' clock, leaving the garrison Volunteer
battery from St. Catherine's under Captain Stoker, to hold
Chippewa.
The day was oppressively hot, and our guides took us by a
road much longer than necessary. When about three miles from
Stevensville, at about 11 o' clock, I received a few lines
from Lieutenant Colonel Booker, written at half past 7 o'
clock, to the effect that he had just received my telegram,
but that he was attacked in force by the enemy at a place
three miles south of Stevensville; at the same time I
received information that he had retired on Ridgway. I
encamped a mile further on at a place called New Germany,
across a road leading due south to Stevensville.
At about 4 o' clock, having gathered information that the
enemy was falling back on Fort Erie, I left everything
behind which would encumber the men and started to follow
them.
At the moment of starting we received an important accession
to our strength by the arrival of the Cavalry Body Guard of
his Excellency the Governor General, fifty five strong, under
Major Denison.
We marched until dark, and halted two miles and a half from
Fort Erie, the men sleeping on their arms and due precaution
being observed.
During the night I sent out scouts to collect information.
It appeared that the Fenians on retiring had posted themselves
at once near the Old Fort, some said they had been reinforced,
some that they were attempting to recross into the United
States.
I also heard that three companies 16th Regiment, and three
companies 60th Rifles, had arrived at our vacated camp at New
Germany, and that a force had reached Black Creek, also that
ten more companies of Volunteer Militia had arrived at Port
Colborne.
The Volunteer garrison battery which I had left at Chippewa
joined me during the night.
Anxious to prevent the escape of the Fenians, I sent word to
the officers commanding at those three places that I was going
to attack Fort Erie and asked when they would be able to
co- operate.
Subsequently fresh reports of attempts of the Fenians to
escape having reached me, I determined on advancing at once.
We were about to move when Lieutenant- Colonel the Honourable
Hillyard Cameron came into camp and informed me that they had
escaped.
This information caused great mortification in my little
force. I desired Major Denison to scour the country and enter
the town, he sent me a message that he was informed that there
were still a body of Fenians about the Old Fort.
We at once marched in that direction skirmishing through the
woods, and though Major Denison soon informed me that they
really had escaped, as many scouts and farm people assured us
they had not escaped. We took a long sweep through the woods,
our right on Lake Erie, a few stragglers were seen and four
reported shot.
On entering the Old Fort, traces were found of its having
been recently occupied.
During the short operation which extended only over forty
hours, the troops under my command underwent very great
fatigue, and bore it with the best spirit and great
cheerfulness.
I received all possible support and co- operation from
officers of all ranks, the conduct of the men was excellent, a
great number of private individuals rendered me services
various ways, and the inhabitants generally displayed a good
and loyal feeling.
Mr. Swinyant, Manager of the Great Western Railroad, gave me
the benefit of his services in person, he placed at my
disposal the resources of the railway, and the officials on
the line exerted themselves to render these available.
I have the honour to enclose a report of Lieutenant- Colonel
Booker of his operation on the 2nd instant.
( Signed ) GEORGE PEACOCKE,
Colonel and Lieutenant-Colonel, 1st Battalion 16th Regiment.
Major- General G. Napier, C. B.,
Commanding 1st Military District, Toronto, Canada, West.
Inclosure 3 in No. 6
REPORT of Lieutenant- Colonel BOOKER.
Port Colborne, June 2, 1866.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to report that, in accordance with
instructions received from Colonel Peacocke, through Captain
Akers, I proceeded by train at 5 A. M. today, to Ridgeway
station, on the B. and L. W. railroad with the Queen's Own, of
Toronto, Major Gilmor, say 480 men, of all ranks; the York
Rifles, Captain Denis; the Caledonian Rifles, Captain Jackson,
and the 13th battalion, of Hamilton, together about 840 men,
in order to form a junction with Colonel Peacocke, at
Stevensville at 9 to 9. 30 A. M. On arriving at Ridgeway I
sent the Great Western train away, and as I could not obtain
a horse or waggon in the place for the conveyance of stores,
I was compelled to leave without the stores, and sent them
back to Port Colborne. At a little before 8 A. M. we were
feeling our way upon the Stevensville road, and were about
three miles from that village, when our advance guard felt the
enemy. Major Gilmor extended the Queen's Own in skirmishing
order, in admirable style; the men advancing in good spirits,
they were supported and relieved as required by the 13th of
Hamilton, and the Rifle Companies from York and Caledonia.
After Major Gilmor had expended much ammunition, he reported
to me that his ammunition was failing, at 9.30, after being
engaged under a hot fire for an hour and a half, I observed
the enemy throwing back his right and reinforcing his left
flank, I immediately ordered up two companies, in support to
counteract the movement; at this moment, I received a telegram
by the hands of Mr. Stovin, Welland railroad, on the field,
informing me that Colonel Peacocke could not leave Chippewa
before 7 o' clock, instead of 5 A. M. the hour named by
Captain Akers, on his behalf. The enemy was strongly posted
in the woods, on the west of the garrison road, the road
forming an entrance as it were, to a cul- de- sac. We
outflanked him, when he brought up his centre reserves, and
outflanked us, we drove them in the first place, over a mile,
and held possession of their rifle pits. A cry of cavalry from
the front, and retreat of a number of men in our centre on the
reserves, caused me to form a square, and prepare for cavalry.
This mistake originated from relieved skirmishers doubling
back. I immediately reformed column and endeavoured to deploy
to the right; a panic here seized our men, and I could not
bring them again to the front; I regret to say we have lost
several valuable officers and men, I estimate the strength of
the enemy as greater than ours, and from the rapid firing
they were evidently armed with repeating rifles.
I have, & c.
( Signed ) A. BOOKER, Lieutenant-Colonel,
Commanding Volunteer Militia.
P.S.- We are destitute of provisions here. A.B.
If I had only one gun of artillery I feel sure the result
would have been different. A.B.
List of Killed and Wounded in the Engagement at Ridgeway, on
the 2nd June, 1866.
13th Infantry Battalion.
Killed.- None.
Wounded.- Lieutenant Routh, dangerously; 6 privates.
Queen's Own Rifles
Killed.- Ensign McEachun; % privates.
Wounded.- Captain Boustead, Lieutenant Campbell, Ensign
Fahay, 1 Colour Sergeant, 3 sergeants, 2 Corporals,
15 privates.
Missing.- 1 private.
( Signed ) G. NAPIER, Major-General.
The return I received from the Queen's Own, does not, as you
will perceive, state the nature of the wounds, I will send
for another properly filled in tomorrow.
( Signed ) G. NAPIER, Major-General.
Toronto, June 6, 1866, 10.30 A.M.
Inclosure 4 in No. 6.
Lieutenant-General J. MICHEL to the SECRETARY OF STATE
FOR WAR.
Head-Quarters, Montreal, June 8, 1866.
MY LORD,
I HAVE the honour to forward a statement of the naval
force which has been placed on the St. Lawrence and Lakes
within the last week, chiefly owing to the valuable and
extraordinary exertions of Captain Hood of Her Majesty's
ship " Pylades. "
This flotilla is more valuable than any number of troops,
and quite places the line of the St. Lawrence in our hands.
Also a return showing the number and position of our troops.
The Proclamation just issued by the President of the United
States has had already very great effect.
The United States Government and Military authorities, are
acting on good faith, vigour, and promptitude.
I have, & c.
( Signed ) J. MICHEL, Lieutenant-General,
Commanding the Forces in British North America.
The Right Hon. the Secretary of State for War,
War Office.
Inclosure 5 in No. 6.
MEMORANDUM of Naval Arrangements.
These have been made under authority of his Excellency the
Governor-General.
Those at Montreal have been carried out under Captain Hood,
of Her Majesty's ship " Pylades " who has supplied the
accompanying tabular statement.
At Toronto the steamers " Magnet " and " Rescue " have been
taken up; crews, armaments, and stores for them reached
Toronto on 5th proximo, from Her Majesty's ship " Aurora "
Captain de Horsey, which is at Quebec.
The " Rescue " Lieutenant Heron Maxwell, R.N., has passed
into Lake Erie and is now at Windsor, C.W.
The " Magnet," Lieutenant Fairlie, R.N., is at Toronto,C.W.
The " Watertown," a ferry boat, has been taken up at Kingston
and armed with a 24-pounder brass howitzer, and 9-pounder
brass gun; she is manned by Royal Artillery and a Volunteer
Naval Company.
Vice-Admiral Sir J. Hope was to arrive in Her Majesty's ship
" Duncan " at Quebec this morning, with the 17th Regiment on
board from Halifax.
He has been telegraphed.
By command,
( Signed ) WM. EARLE, Lieutenant-Colonel,
June 8, 1866. Military Secretary.
( Signed for the Lieutenant-General, who has gone to
St John's )
Inclosure 8 in No. 6.
Lieutenant-General Sir J. Michel to the MILITARY SECRETARY,
Horse Guards.
Head-Quarters, Montreal, June 11, 1866.
SIR,
IN continuation of my despatch of the 8th June, referring
to affairs on the Niagara frontier, I have now the honour to
forward copies of the reports of Lieutenant-Colonel Dennis,
who commanded a party which proceeded in a tug from Port
Colborne on the morning of the 2nd June, and seized Fort Erie
and of Captain Akers, R.E., who accompanied him.
The latter report will give His Royal Highness some insight
into the want of preparedness of the Volunteer levies
hurriedly called out. Nevertheless, these levies behaved very
well, and, with very short experience in the field, would
make good troops. Their heart is in their business, and they
deserve much praise.
I have, & c.
( Signed ) J. MICHEL, Lieutenant-General.
The Military Secretary,
Horse Guards.
Inclosure 9 in No. 6.
Lieutenant-Colonel DENNIS to Colonel LOWRY.
Erie, June 4, 1866.
SIR,
AVAILING myself of the earliest moment, I have the honour
to report for the information of his Excellency the Commander
-in-Chief the following narrative of events connected with
the late Fenian invasion at this place in which I was directly
concerned subsequently to my leaving Toronto on the morning of
Friday last.
My orders were on that occasion to proceed with the 2nd, or
Queen's Own, 400, strong, to Port Colborne; occupy and, if
necessary, intrench a position there, and wait for
reinforcements and further orders before any attack was made
on the enemy, who, it was represented, numbered some 1,500 men
, and was advancing on that point. Although finding great
excitement at the different stations along the Welland
Railroad on the way up, at Port Colborne, where I arrived
about noon, things were to quiet; no definite news having
reached there, in consequence of the Fenians having cut the
wires at Fort Erie, out of which place they had driven the
officials at 5A.M. that morning. Report, however, said that
they had some two hours subsequently sent a party up the
track, and burnt a bridge crossing a small stream, known as
Sarwine's Creek, six miles from Erie on the railway to Port
Colborne. No news of any further approach having been
brought in by any of the numerous scouts sent out by the
villages during the forenoon, I proceeded to billet the men,
in order to get them dinner; and then, before determining to
commence the construction of any defences, I dispatched
messengers across to Buck's Tavern and Stevensville, between
Erie and the town of Welland, to ascertain and report any
movement of the enemy in that direction, which I thought
probable, as sufficient time had elapsed to enable him to
reach Port Colborne, had that been his intention; and
having, through the kindness of Mr. Larmont, the
superintendent of the line, obtained a locomotive, I started
down the railway upon a reconnaissance, getting down to
within six miles of Erie, the burning of the bridge mentioned
preventing ant closer approach. I then learnt that the bridge
had been destroyed by a party of some seven men, who had come
up at about 7 A.M., who, in addition, stole a number of horses
from the farmers in the vicinity, and then went back towards
the main body, from testimony I received, it appeared, had
gone down the river about a mile below the Lower Ferry, and
camped close to the River Road, on one Newbigging's Farm.
Their numbers were variously estimated at from 450 to 1,200
men. This testimony was corroborated by the statement of the
mounted scouts from Buck's Tavern and Stevensville, who
returned in the evening, and went to show that, with the
exception of parties out stealing horses, there had been no
Fenians seen in that direction, and was rendered certain by
the arrival about 10 P.M of Mr. Graham, the officer of
Customs at Fort Erie, who had been in their camp at 6 o'
clock that evening. Shortly before this time, however,
Colonel Booker, of Hamilton, had arrived with the 13th
Battalion of Volunteers, and, being senior officer, took
command, and continued the communication by telegraph
which had been going on between Colonel Peacocke and
myself, respecting position and strength of enemy, and best
method of attacking him. Colonel Peacocke, then at Clifton,
having at about 5 P.M. telegraphed me that he had ordered the
International Railway steamer up to Port Colborne for me to
put upon her a gun or detachment, in order to patrol the river
from Fort Erie to Chippawa- she not having arrived at 10.30
PM.- I ordered the " Robb" a powerful tug-boat, owned by
Captain McCollum, down from Dunville, for the purpose,
intending to place upon her the Welland battery, without guns
( the men armed with Enfield rifles ), and received a reply
that she would be down at 3 AM. the following morning. This
was the position of affairs when Captain Akers, R.E., arrived
from Chippawa, sent over by Colonel Peacocke, to consult and
to explain Colonel Peacocke's views as to the best mode of
attack.
After due consideration between Captain Akers, Colonel Booker
, and myself, a certain course was decided, arranging for an
attack in concert on that morning, and Colonel Peacocke was
telegraphed accordingly.
In accordance with this plan, Captain Akers and myself
embarked on the tug* ( which did not arrive, however, till
about 4 A.M., having been delayed in consequence of Captain
McCollum wishing to bring with him his naval company from
Dunville), and proceeded to reconnoitre the river and Fenian
camp, arranging to meet the Port Colborne force back at the
railway depot, three miles above the enemy's camp, at 7, or
at the latest, half-past 7. On our way past the village of
Fort Erie, we were brought to by the armed patrol tug-boat
from the United States' steamer " Michigan," who, on finding
out who we were, informed us that the Fenians camp on
Newbigging's Farm had been broken up at 3 A.M. that morning,
the enemy having marched down the River Road.
We proceeded down the river to the mouth of the Black Creek
, eight miles above Chippawa, where we learnt that they had
turned off the river to the west, a short distance above, and
were there, at a point two miles directly in the rear of a
place called New Germany. A messenger was at once sent off to
Colonel Peacocke, presumed then, under previously concocted
arrangements, to be near there moving up; and we returned with
the tug, in accordance with that arrangement, to meet Colonel
Booker and the Port Colborne force at the Upper Railroad Depot
at Fort Erie.
On our arrival there we could see or hear nothing of them.
This was accounted for subsequently by the fact that Colonel
Booker had received, after we left, an order from Colonel
Peacocke directing him to turn off the railroad at Ridgeway,
some eight miles above Fort Erie, and cross the country in
order to meet and attack in concert.
This being the case - presuming a combined attack would be
made in the course of the day, of the result of which we could
have no doubt, I considered, as I could not then join my
proper force, that important service could be rendered by
patrolling the river to intercept and capture fugitives, and
to prevent by every possible means the escape across the
river of any large body of the enemy.
This having been determined on, Captain Akers and myself were
engaged all day in patrolling the shore and scouring the woods
along the river as far down as Black Creek, arresting in all,
including six prisoners made about 9 o' clock in the morning
at Fort Erie, some twenty-three men; during the course of the
afternoon we learned through some of the prisoners that an
engagement had taken place at some point in the interior, in
which the Fenians had been utterly dispersed. This I was quite
prepared to believe, as I had from the steamer Observed
Colonel Peacocke with a strong Force on his way up from
Chippawa turn in from the river-road towards New Germany, and
I knew that Colonel Booker's force was coming down upon him
from the south.
Concluding that the action which had been known to come off
had resulted in the capture of the enemy, I returned to Fort
Erie about half-past 5 o' clock P.M., proposing to get what
information I could about the position of our troops, and to
telegraph for instructions as to what should be done with
the prisoners, who had amounted now, including those taken
in the village and neighbourhood during the day also, to
some sixty or sixty-five men. The numbers I cannot give
precisely, as I had only goy as far as those names given in
the margin *1, making out a memorandum of each case, and
( having in the meantime made up my mind to send the prisoners
by the tug to Welland Gaol) had brought down and embarked
those in confinement in charge of the Reeve, when the alarm
was given that the Fenians were entering the town in force.
In fact, the first messenger had hardly delivered the news,
when a second came in to say that they were within a quarter
of a mile, coming down the street along the river. I went
over from the pier to satisfy myself, and saw them in numbers,
as judged about 150, advancing upon the street indicated.
Supposing them to be of the material and the same miserable
character physically as the prisoners we had been taking all
day, I thought the detachment I had with the boat, even if
we had to resort to the bayonet, sufficient to do
for them, and concluded that my duty lay in making
a stand against them
This detachment consisted, as before mentioned, of the
Welland Field Battery, 54 men and 3 officers, and of a
portion, some 18 men and 1 officer, exclusive of the guard
over the prisoners on the boat, of the Dunville Naval
Company.
I first took the precaution to put the prisoners under
hatches, and then advancing to meet the enemy about 150
yards, drew up my little command across the street; as
they came within about 200 yards they opened fire on us,
when my detachment, by order, fired a volley from each
of the companies, upon which a severe flank fire was
opened on us from the west, and on looking in that
direction I observed for the first time two considerable
bodies of the enemy, running northerly parallel with the
river, evidently with the intention of cutting us off and
getting possession both of us and the steamer at the same
time. Under the circumstances, as I considered if we tried
to escape by the tug the enemy might be there as soon as we
and so achieve his double object, and I therefore concluded
that my duty lay in saving the prisoners we had on board and
preventing the enemy from getting possession of the vessel,
what I knew, and he probably also, was his only means of
escape; and I therefore ordered the captain to cast off and
get out in the stream, and ordered my men to retreat and do
the best they could, and to get away, each man for himself.
During this time a heavy fire was kept up on us both front
and flank, and I had the grief of seeing several of my men
fall. We retreated down the front street under a very heavy
though comparatively ineffectual fire; several of the men,
contrary to my advice, taking shelter in a house the door
of which stood open as they passed.
There being little or no cessation in the fire upon us in
retreat, I had no desire to remain under it longer than was
necessary, and accordingly turned into the premises of a
friend in the lower part of the village, where I lay
concealed although the premises were searched twice, the
ruffians stating their intention to come a third time,
threatening if I were not given up, as they had seen me
enter the gate, that they would destroy the property. Two
of my men, one of them wounded, had previously taken
shelter in the house, whom they captured.
Fearing another search, I dressed in disguise furnished
by my friend, and then came out and remained in the village
till nightfall, when I got through the lines and struck
across the country in search of Colonel Peacocke. Finding
his camp out about five miles back of Fort Erie; arriving
there at 3 o' clock A.M. I then accompanied his force back
to this place, during its operations later in the day, of
all which, as also of the escape of the enemy during the
night, that officer's report will doubtless inform you.
On my return I was able to learn, for the first time,
something of the casualties in the affair of the previous
evening.
I feel rejoiced not to have to report any loss of life in
my detachment, although I was given to understand that there
were some five wounded in the Welland Battery, three of them
so severely as to result in each case in the loss of a leg,
among which cases I regret to say Captain King of the Welland
Battery, and one man of the Dunnville Naval Company; none of
the officers excepting Captain King were wounded. A Return
of the casualties is appended hereto.
The enemy suffered more severly. Three of his number were
killed outright and four were mortally wounded, two of whom
died yesterday morning; the other two had been allowed, under
the circumstances, by the Reeve Dr. Kempson, with the
permission as I understood of Colonel Lowry, to be taken
to the Buffalo Hospital.
Mr. Scholfield, the Lieutenant of the Welland Battery having
gone to Welland to get his men together again, some of them
having escaped across country to their homes during the night,
is ordered without delay, when in a position to do so, to
prepare an accurate list of the casualties in the battery.
I have detained this report somewhat in order to get his
return.
Should there prove to have been any casualties not as yet
reported I will lose no time in sending forward a list of
the same
I append the report of Captain McCollum, commanding Dunnville
Naval Company, and owner of the steam tug referred to, to
whom particularly, as also to his Lieutenant, W. Robb, the
sailing master of the steamer, I have to express my
obligation for their zealous and efficient assistance
during the operations of Saturday.
I have also the gratification of saying that the officers
and men forming my little command, behaved most nobly in
the affair during the afternoon at Fort Erie. I firmly
believe that had I not ordered them to retreat they would have
remained steady and fought until shot down in their tracks.
I have, & c.
( Signed ) J. STOUGHTON DENNIS, Lieutenant-Colonel,
Commanding Detachment on Saturday 2nd June.
Colonel Lowry,
Commanding Niagara Frontier.
* Our object in this was to ascertain definitely the position
of the enemy's camp as preliminary to the attack.
*1 1. Dan. Drummond; 2. Pat O'Nally; 3. Berig.Perry; 4. Jno.
Corney; 5. John Mahoney; 6. W. Maddigan; 7. Jno. Hughes;
8. W.H. Harden or Shavin; 9. Denis Lanahan; 10. Jno. Murphy;
11. Owen Kennedy; 12. Francis Miles; 13. J.A. Heckman;
14. W. Baker; 15. w. Orr; 16. Jno. Maxfield; 17. Terin Mc
Carthy; 18. Michael Rilfather; 19. Jno. Gray; 20. Rev. Jno.
Lumoden.
Inclosure 10 in No. 6
Captain McCOLLUM to Lieutenant-Colonel DENNIS.
SIR,
AT your request I have the honour to make the following
report:-
On Saturday last 2nd of June, between the hours of 3 and 4
P.M., after your departure, I retreated down the river under
a galling fire, a distance of three miles, with two men of
Naval Brigade and thirteen men of the Welland Canal Field
Battery, the rest having been cut off, and consequently
taken prisoners, including the following officers, viz.,
Second Lieutenant Macdonald of Naval Brigade, and Lieutenant
Scholfield, and Ensign Nimmo of Field Battery being wounded
and one man of the Naval Brigade, Lieutenant Robb, with
steamer " Robb " commanding boats, and took us on board.
I then held consultation with Lieutenant Robb as to future
proceedings, we then determined, on account of being
encumbered with so many prisoners on board, fifty-seven in
number, and so very few men left to guard them, to run
to Port Colborne and send the prisoners to a place of safety.
In passing Fort Erie up the river, we, for a distance of
a mile's run were under a heavy fire of musketry from
the Canada shore, we passed without any casualties worth
mentio
