Eventually, some sixty Americans gathered in town to defend it. Leadership of the group passed around.
When they first gathered they chose as leader the Rev. Seba Norton, called "Elder" Norton, the builder and pastpr of the Brick Church near Sodus Center (the oldest church in Sodus). He had been a soldier in the American Revolution and was known as a man of courage.
Later, however, Captain Elias Hull of Lyons, a regular member of the militia, arrived and took command.
"When the British were about to land at Sodus Point, Captain Norton was there with some 50 to 60 men. He divided them intosquads of about 10, placed them in different ambuscades, pointing out the way to retreat if assailed, and told them to pop away as fast as they could.
"Before the British landed, however, a Colonel from Seneca Fall arrived with reinforcements. Captain Norton told what he had done, and the colonel said he must recall the men and make what show they could in front..... The British advanced from the water with lanterns or torches at their head. Amasa Johnson shot down several of their lights, producing some delay and confusion."
--Brock-Perry
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