200 Years Ago: July 5, 1814, the Battle of Chippawa

An invading American Army led by Major General Jacob Brown clashed with British forces under Major-General Phineas Riall.  Each side had roughly 2,000 men engaged in the battle in which American regulars, militia and U.S.-allied First nations were victorious.

The main battle was a European-style conflict, fought in the open, where the British were thought to be nearly invincible.  All that training by General Winfield Scott must have paid off.

The inspiring American victory is still commemorated by the gray uniforms worn by the cadets at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

The battle caused the greatest loss of life in the War of 1812 up until that time, with about 800 casualties.  More Canadian militia were killed and wounded here than in any other battle.  First Nations losses on both sides were also very heavy.

--Brock-Perry