Make your own free website on

The Battle of Forty Mile Creek

After their defeat at the Battle of Stoney Creek, the American forces, now under the command of General Lewis, camped at Forty Mile creek.

On the morning of June 8th, 1813 Commodore Yeo's squadron arrived off shore of the American camp.

Yeo's arrival combined with the continual harassment from small groups of British forces on land convinced General Lewis it was time to retreat to Fort George. The British squadron could not get close enough to shore to bombard the U.S. camp. Captain Francais Spilsbury had the "Beresford towed close to shore where he could now fire at the encampment.

The Americans quickly made a furnace where they could heat shot, then fired "RED HOT SHOT" from four field guns at the British ship. A group of native warriors that were firing at the American camp from above were driven off by the light infantry units. The ships pulled further away from shore to avoid the American cannon fire.

Later, in the afternoon the British landed two companines of the 49th and 41st regiments with two light field guns. These forces were under the command of Major Dennis. As the Americans retreated, Major Dennis pursued them, while the guns from the ships harassed them from Lake Ontario.

**NOTE** The "Beresford" managed to capture 20 of the American bateaux, which contained hospital stores and supplies.

CLICK HERE to see the monument for this battle.