George Croghan-- Part 5: "When the Fort Is Taken, There Will Be None to Massacre"

George Croghan had but one cannon at Fort Stephenson, a six-pounder named "Old Betsy."  It is believed by some that this is where Davy Crockett got the name for his rifle.

General William Henry Harrison was so angered by Croghan's refusal to follow orders that he afterwards had him arrested, but the "Boy major" talked his way out of it.  First he said he had made his defiant reply because he feared his message would be intercepted by the enemy.

On August 1, 1813, British General Proctor arrived at Fort Stephenson with about 500 regular troops and 700 Indians.  He demanded the fort's surrender, but Croghan had no such intention.  He replied that there would be no surrender.  He and his men would hold the fort or die in the attempt.  Noting the Indian tendency to massacre prisoners, Croghan continued, "When the fort is taken, there will be none to massacre."

A Six-Pounder Named "Old Betsy."  --Brock-Perry