The fort's commander, James Rhea, a habitual drunk, then became completely so and took to his quarters for the duration of the attack and siege. Indian Agent Benjamin Stickney took command. That night, the Indians tried to set the fort's walls afire and the 70-man garrison spent the hours fighting both the fires and enemy. This fight lasted until 3 PM the next day
William Henry Harrison had been appointed major general of the Kentucky militia and was ordered to relieve Fort Wayne with his 2,200 troops. Word was received that Tecumseh had a force on its way to the fort so Harrison quickly set off.
The fighting had continued off and on and on the 11th, the Indians had made one last attack and then withdrew. Harrison's approach to the fort was completely uncontested. He immediately relieved Rhea from command and later had him stand trial but allowed him to resign.
On September 14th, Harrison sent out punitive expeditions and destroyed two Indian villages.
Total Indian force was estimated at 500. The fort's garrison consisted of 100 and there were 2,200 in the relief force. Indian losses were about 25 and American unknowm.
Another Fort Saved. --Brock-Perry
2012 marks the 200th anniversary of America's "Forgotten War," the War of 1812 that took place over three years, 1812 to 1815.
Battle of New Orleans.
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