Last Survivor of the Battle of Fort Stephenson-- Part 2: Thurman Gets His Head Blown Off

On July 18, 1812, William Gaines, then age 13, enlisted as a drummer boy in Captain Armstrong's Company of the 24th Infantry.

In June 1812, they were at Fort Meigs and in July at Fort Seneca, Harrison's headquarters.

When rumor of a British attack on Fort Stephenson circulated, William traded in his drum for a musket and went with the fort's relief.

A company member, Samuel Thurman, was the only member of the fort's garrison killed.  Thurman was in the blockhouse and was determined to shoot a Redcoat.  he climbed on top of the blockhouse and peered over when a six pound ball took off his head.

--Brock-Perry