William was born in 1788 in Vermont. In July 1812, he became a captain and engineer in William Hull's army at Detroit. Ill health prevented him from action in the campaigning that led to Detroit's surrender
Before he decided to surrender, Hull called a council of war with his officers to get their opinions. Not a single one was in favor of surrender. Hull then announced his intention to surrender anyway and ordered Captain Snelling of the 4th U.S. Infantry "to cross the river under flag."
Snelling replied, "I'll see you in hell first." Then Hull ordered his aide-de-camp, Captain Hull to to it. (I wonder if this Hull was related?)
Captain Partridge, one of those in attendance at the council, angrily broke his sword over his knee and threw the pieces at Hull's face.
Partridge became a prisoner and died a month later.
--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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