De Salaberry: Canadian-Born Hero of War of 1812-- Part 2

But, the English had allowed French-Canadians to keep all things French as long as they swore allegiance to the British Crown.

Charles-Michel de Salaberry was at the Battle of Crysler's Farm, referred to as the Battle That Saved Canada, but his most famous fight was at the Battle of Chateauguay in October 1813.  His win there caused the Americans to give up their Saint Lawrence campaign.

The Americans had 4,000 men under General Wade Hampton.  De Salaberry had 250 Voltigeurs, 150 Mohawk warriors (and another 1500 in reserve), but even so, was so sure of victory, he did not tell his superiors of the impending battle.

He anticipated an American move on Montreal and had been receiving a steady stream of intelligence so figured Hampton's  (father of the Civil War Wade Hampton?) intentions and movement.  He took up position along the Chateauguay River which afforded a natural defensive position southwest of Montreal.

De Salaberry had his men construct a fort of abatis from felled branches. Hampton tried to surround the British force with 1500 men.  In the darkness, de Salaberry had buglers sent out to sound like he had more troops.  The American attack became confused and their soldiers killed piece-meal before retreating.

De Salaberry became a hero and famous.  He died in 1829.

A French-Canadian Hero.  --Brock-Perry