The British Get Surprised at Battle of Craney Island, Virginia-- Part 3

From the June 22, 2013, Stars and Stripes "War of 1812: An American Surprise at Craney Island" by Mark St. John Erickson.

The first two parts were posted in June 2013, so it is about time I finished the story.  To see the first two parts, click on the Battle of Craney Island label on this post.  The battle took place on June 22, 1813.

The American fortifications were hastily thrown up to thwart the British advance and consisted of three large caliber naval guns, four 6-pound field pieces manned by militiamen of the Portsmouth Light Artillery.  Also, there were 150 sailors and Marines from the USS Constellation and the Navy yard.

They had just finished getting the three naval pieces in place when the 2,500 Royal marines and soldiers arrived.

British Colonel Sir Thomas Sidney Beckwith arrived at the creek, only to find he couldn't ford it at high tide.  he opened fire at long range with Congreve rockets and the American guns replied and pounded the British who suffered heavy casualties.  The naval guns were particularly effective.

More to Come.  --Brock-Perry