With over 1,000 men to assist, the construction of the new fort at what is today Peoria was completed quickly by September 23, 1813. A brass six-pound cannon was mounted in the fort and fired in celebration of the accomplishment. The fort was named Fort Clark in honor of General George Rogers Clark, the celebrated hero of the American Revolution who had victories against the British at Vincennes and Kaskaskia.
General Howard sent a force in two boats under Major William Christy to pursue the Indians on the upper Illinois River. Another force under Major Nathan Boone (was this Garner's unit?), followed the course of the Spoon River for fifty miles.
Upon their return to Fort Clark, both officers reported that their troops had been unable to overtake the fleeing Indians. The rangers were relieved of their duty at Fort Clark in mid-October, and returned to their home stations, leaving the regular U.S. troops to garrison the post.
--Brock-Perry
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