Title

Brocks Last District General Orders

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http://www.nflibrary.ca/nfplindex/show.asp?b=1&ref=oo&id=297974

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1-48

Bibliographic Citation

Brock's last district general orders.

10167810

Brock's last district general orders.

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Text

extracted text

A CONTMTORART CCOUNT OF THE NAVY Intaili IFISODIS, 1837.
R. Riddell

By From

--

The Royal. Society or Canada, 1919.

PREFATORY NOTE
These orders, with other papers, were sent to Sir Isaac
Brock's family in England by his aide-de-camp, Major Glegg,
who, with his cousin and private secretary, James Brock, took
charge of his personal effects in Upper Canada. They are
now in the possession of his great niece, the daughter of his
biographer F. B. Tupper, by whose kind permission we are
enabled to print them.
Certain of these orders—in whole or in part—have been
printed in Col. E. Crulikshank's Documentary History of
Niagara.
The map is copied by kind permission from one in the John
Ross Robertson collection in the Reference Library.

I

LHC
971.034
B864

Brock's Last District General Orders
Orders by Major-General Brock.
D.G.O.

NIAGARA,

27th June, 1812.

No. 1. Colonel Proctor- will assume the command
of the troops, between Niagara and Fort Erie. The Honorable
Colonel Claus will command the ,militia, stationed between
Niagara and Queenston; and Lieut.-Colonel Clarke from
Queenston to Fort Erie.
No. 2. The Commissariat, at their respective posts, will
ration and fuel, for the numbers actually present; the Car Brigade horses, and those of the Provisional Cavalry are included
in this order. Officers commanding corps or detachments, will
sign the necessary certificates previous to issuing the rations.
3. The detachments of the 41st Regiment stationed at
the two and four-mile points, will be relieved, by an equal number of the 1st Lincoln Militia to bring blankets with them on
service.
4. The troops will be kept in a constant state of readiness
for service, and Colonel Proctor will direct the necessary guards
and patrols, which are to be made down the bank, and close to
the water's edge.
5. Lieut.-Colonel Nicholl is appointed Qr.-Master General
to the militia forces, with the same pay and allowances as those
granted to the Adjutant General.
By order of the Major-General,
(Signed) Thos. EvANs, B. Major.

5

NIAGARA, 29th June, 1812.

D.G.O.

Lieut. McClean, of the 41st Regiment, is appointed to act
as aide de camp to Colonel Proctor, and is to be obeyed as such ;
he will receive pay and allowances accordingly till further
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. Major.
orders.
NIAGARA, 2ND JULY, 1812.
D.G.O.
The troops will be formed into four divisions to be COIL:
posed of regulars and militia as follows:
First, or right division, commanded by Capt. Derenzey,
41st Regiment:
200
Detachment 41st Regiment
200
Detachment of Militia ......
With two three-pounders.

300

Third, or left centre division, commanded by Capt. Chambers, 41st Regiment:
100
Detachment of 41st Regiment
200
Detachment of Militia ............
With two three pounders.
Fourth, or left division, commanded by
Detachment of 41st Regiment ....
Detachment of Militia ...................
With Artillery

First, or right division .................... Fort Erie
Second, or right ................................. Chippewa
Third, or left centre ........................ Height of Queenston
Fourth, or left ................................. Fort George
These detachments of militia for the first division will be
furnished by the Third Lincoln Regiment and will be commanded by—
The detachment of militia for the 2nd Division will be
furnished by the 2nd Lincoln Regiment, and will be commanded by—
The detachment of Militia ,for the 3rd Division will be
composed of the flank companies of the 5th and 6th Regiments
of Lincoln, and will be commanded by Captain Hall. *

400

Second, or right centre division, commanded by Capt. Bullock, 41st Regiment:
100
Detachment of 41st . Regiment
200
Detachment of Militia ............
With two six pounders.

These divisons to be posted in the following manner:

300
200
300
500

*Probably a mistake of the copyist for Hatt.
Samuel Hatt came from England about 1798 and settled near
Ancaster. His sister, Susannah, married Col. Johnston Butler, who
was killed November 20th, 1812,, in the attack on the batteries opposite
Black Rock by Gen. Smythe. !Samuel Hatt married Margaret Thompson,
of Niagara. He commanded the detachment of the 2nd York and 5th
Lincoln, which accompanied Sir Isaac Brock to Detroit, consisting of
three officers, three N.C.'s and fifty-nine rank and file. He commanded
the 3rd Militia Division at Queenston from July, 1812, until after the
Battle of Queenston. After the war he settled at Chambly, L.C.
His brother, Richard Hatt, came with him to Ancaster about 1798.
He was the first to utilize the water privileges of the Dundas Valley,
where he erected saw, grist, and carding mills. In 1799 he was
married at Ancaster to Mary Cooley, U.E. Peter Desjardins, the projector of the canal which bears his name, was associated with him
commercially, beginning apparently as his bookkeeper. In the war
Major Hatt commanded the militia at Fort Erie under Colonel Bisshopp,
when the attack under General Smythe was repulsed and Colonel
Johnston and Captain John Lottridge were killed. At Lundy's Lane
Major Hatt's command formed part of Colonel Hercules Scott's reinforcement which after much counter-marching arrived on the scene
of battle at 9 p.m. Here he was severely wounded. After the war
both brothers Hatt became J.P.'s. Richard was also 1st Judge of the
Gore District Court, and in 1816 he represented the Gore District in
the Legislative Assembly. The silver communion service of 1St. James'
Church, Dundas, was presented by Richard Hatt and his wife in 1817.
—From papers of the late H. H. Robertson.

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The detachment of Militia for the 4th Division will be composed of the flank companies of the 1st and 4th Lincoln Regiment, and will be commanded by Lieut.-Col. Butler.
The 1st and 2nd Divisions will receive their orders from
Lieut.-Col. Clarke, the 3rd and 4th from Col. Claus, to whom
the said Divisions will respectively report.
Reports of all occurrences of consequence will at the same
time, be made to Major-General Brock and to Col. Proctor.
Morning States will be regularly transmitted to the Brigade
Major's office by Col. Claus and Lieut.-Col. Clarke.
Officers in command of Militia Regiments will direct the
officers of their respective corps (not embodied) to use every
exertion to discipline the men under their command, and to
have them in constant readiness to march to their respective
posts on the shortest notice; they will at the same time give
orders for their moving to the point attacked on the first alarm
without waiting for orders to that effect.
Colonel Proctor will appoint the stations of the detachments of light dragoons and will particularly direct that they
shall not be detached from their posts, except on urgent occasions.
James Muirhead, Esq., is appointed surgeon to the militia
forces, and will be stationed at Chippewa with the pay of 10s.
per dieni and the usual allowances.
The officers in command of divisions will be allowed forage
for one horse on furnishing the usual certificate.

ESTABLISHMENT :-

Capt. Sub. Sergt.
For every company embodied for service consisting of 30 rank and file ..
For ditto consisting of 45, and not exceeding 80 ..........................................
For ditto consisting of 80 men and
upwards ...............................................

GEORGE,

9th July, 1812.

The following proportions of officers and non-commissioned
officers will be entitled to receive pay and allowances :—

2

1

2

3

1

3

4

(Signed) Thos. EvANs, B. Major.
Memorandum—
In consequence of the above order the circular letter
from his Honor the President to officers commanding regiments dated April 8th, 1812, is rescinded, and officers
commanding regiments are directed to transmit to headquarters
an account of the actual expenses which have been incurred
under it.
D.G.O.

Foal,

2

For every 250 men, one field officer, and so in proportion.
The difference of pay between a subaltern and adjutant will be
allowed for every 200 men. A paymaster will be appointed for
the district of Niagara, who will muster on the 23rd or 24th of
every month all the corps stationed between Niagara and Lake
Erie; pay lists are to be certified on oath by the captains of
companies, and the officer commanding division (whether of
the line or militia) will examine and certify their belief as to
the correctness of the accounts.

(Signed) THos. EVANS, B. Major.
D.G.O.

1

FORT GEORGE,

9th July, 1812.

The militia forces in the district will be provisioned in the
same manner both as to quantities and species of provision as
the regular troops.
There being no branch of the Commissariat establishment
in the London district, from whence supplies may be derived,
the proportion of troops called out for the defence of that dis-

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trict will be allowed their full pay so as to enable them to
supply themselves.
(Signed) Thos. EvANs, B. Major.

unless such passengers should be officers in his Majesty's employ.
2. It having been reported to the Major-General commanding that one or two of the sentinels placed on the bank of
the river Niagara have fired upon persons on the opposite shore
without orders for so doing, he has been pleased to express his
disapprobation of such irregular conduct, and to direct that
officers commanding at the different posts on the communication will take the necessary steps to prevent a repetition of
such discreditable practices.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. Major.

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

23rd July, 1812.

No. 1 Grand Rounds will be established along the
whole line, from Four Mile Creek to above Fort Erie; the
officers to perform this duty betwixt Four Mile Creek and
Queenston are Lieut.-Col. Short, Cols. 'Claus and Butler, and
Major Merritt; the hours at which these officers make their
rounds are left to their own discretion, only that they are not
to commence before 11 o'clock. Captain Saunders will select
from his command the necessary officers for the performance
of this duty from Queenston to the extent of his command on
the Chippewa Road, and Lieut.-Col. Clarke will make arrangements for the performance of this duty, betwixt the port at
which his command commences on this side Chippewa to above
Fort Erie.
2. Lieut.-Col. Myers, Deputy Quartermaster-General, being
arrived, all reports and communications relating to that department will be directed to that officer agreeable to the standing regulations, dated 12th August, 1811.
3. Lieut.-Col. Walter Kerr, of the Glengarry Light Infantry, will continue to do duty with the 41st Regiment until
further orders.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

12th July, 1812.

No. 1. At all times when vessels shall arrive at any of
the ports in this command, a boat will be immediately
dispatched by the officer commanding the post with a
proper person on board, to ascertain the number and description of the passengers on board, and who will not be permitted
to land until leave is first obtained from the commanding officer

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

12th July, 1812.

Mr. John Symington is appointed paymaster to the
militia forces stationed in the Niagara district with the
pay of 10s. per day and allowances as captain, to take place
from the 1st inst. Mr. S. will afford every assistance to officers
in command of militia corps, so as to enable them to make
exact returns (paying particular attention to the broken
periods), and on which he will take his measures for immediately bring (ing) forward his pay list to 24th July.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. Major.
D.G.O.

NIAGARA,

16TH July, 1812.

The officers on duty this morning were exceedingly
remiss in allowing a boat within four miles Mississaga
Point without reporting it until too late for it to be intercepted.
Col. Claus will 'adopt the necessary measures to guard against
its recurrence in future; a proper person will be stationed at the
top of the lighthouse half an hour before it is daylight, to remain throughout the day, who will be particularly instructed to

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watch whatever passes on the lake and on the enemy's side of
the river, the officer en duty will frequently visit him to assist
him in making the necessary observations.
The Major-General was surprised this morning to find that
the order for the apprehension of all strangers travelling on any
part of this communication was not complied (with), and that
avowed Americans were permitted to parade the streets and
examine the works with impunity. Col. Claus will explain to
every officer and militia man that it is expected (whether on or
off duty) that they will stop all suspicious characters and take
them before a magistrate for examination.
Officers commanding posts will not only examine the arms,
accoutrements, and ammunition in use, but likewise those which
the men or furlough have left in store, and see that the whole be
in a state fit for service, they will report having done so.
Notice will be taken on the back of the morning report of
any orders that have reached them during the day, the date
and purport of the days already received will be inserted on
the back of the morning report of next Monday.

the command on the division stationed at QUeenston, to which
post he will instantly repair.
3. Lieut. Lenn, of the 41st Regiment, is attached to, and
will proceed with, the forces under the immediate orders of
Major Chambers.
4. Heads of departments and officers commanding corps
will attend every morning at 9 o'clock at Government House,
there to receive the Major-General's commands.

By Order,

By Order,

(Signed) Tnos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

Mr. Cyrus Sumner is appointed surgeon to the division
under the command of Major Chambers, with the pay of 7s. 6d.
per day and the usual allowances.
By Order,

(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 22nd July, 1812.
No. 1. Captain Chambers, of the 41st Regiment, is
appointed to the command of a division of the army, to serve
in the western and London districts, with the local rank of
major.
Major Chambers will exert ilimself so as to be able to march
this evening, and will make the best of his way with the forces
to be put under his command to the Moravian Village. Major
Chambers will in the first instance receive his orders from the
Major-General Commanding.
No. 2. Captain Saunders will succeed Major Chambers in

FORT GEORGE, 23rd July, 1812.

FORT GEORGE, 26th July, 1812.

All reports and communications relating to the Guards
(to go) through the field officer of the field offices of the
Grand Rounds, to the Major-General, or officer in the immediate command of the forces.
By Order,

(Signed) Mos. EVANS, B. Major.
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 31st July, 1812.

The garrison clerk at York being for the present discontinued, the Major-General commanding approves of Corporal Henry Glover, of the 41st Regiment, being appointed to
act as such at Fort George, with the pay of 1s. army pay, per

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diem, in addition to his present pay, and until further orders is
attached to the Brigade Major's office from the 24th inst.
By Order,
(Signed) Tiros. EVANS, B. Major.

4. Mr. James Cummins is appointed to act in the Commissariat Department, with the pay of 10s. per day and forage for
one horse, from the 25th inst.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. Major.

D.G.O.

•

FORT GEORGE,

31st July, 1812.

No. 1. The Major-General commanding is happy to
announce to the troops under his command the surrender of
the fort at Michilimackinac, together with its ordnance, stores,
etc., to his Majesty's arms, the garrison prisoners of war. Too
much praise cannot be given to Captain Roberts, who commanded, as well for his firmness and judgment during the preparations made for the attack, as to his prudence which controlled the feelings of his forces after the enemy surrendered.
The Major-General thanks those gentlemen, etc., in the neighborhood who so honorably contributed to Captain Robert's exertions, and is pleased with the conduct of the Indians who on
this occasion (directed by the generous feelings of Britons)
spared that enemy, which otherwise they would have annihilated.
No. 2. The Major-General announces with pride and satisfaction the complete repulse of the enemy by that part of the
army stationed at Amherstburg, on two separate occasions, and
thanks them for their gallantry. The militia behaved honorably, the Indians with the most determined spirit, but the
conduct of the 41st Regiment commanded the admiration of all
who witnessed their heroic valor. If the enemy is thus made
to sustain severe losses at the threshold of our territory by a
small but determined band of united troops, what has he to
expect from the whole physical force of the province actuated
by ardour and loyalty worthy of their sires.
3. Commanding officers will be attentive in ascertaining
that all general orders are read to the troops composing the
militia force.

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

1st August, 1812.
Paymasters to the militia will be appointed at York,
'Fort George, Amherstburg, and Kingston, who will regularly
muster the militia on the 24th of each month, or as soon
after as possible; the officers in charge of the Commissariat
at Fort George, Amherstburg, Kingston, and York will issue
to the paymasters the amount of the monthly estimate of the
militia, which are to be certified by commanding officers of the
post, whether of the line or militia.
The pay list will be certified on oath by the captains or
officers in command of companies, and the officers commanding
the militia will examine and certify their belief as to the correctness of the account.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. Major.
1st August, 1812.
No 1. During the absence of Col. Proctor, Lieut.-Col.
Myers will take upon himself the general superintendence and direction of the forces stationed on the line of
communication betwixt Fort George and Fort Erie.
2. A subaltern will be directed to make visiting rounds
from Fort George, commencing with the white house guard and
ending at Four Mile Point once during the day, once during
the night, and once in the morning, the latter to be male between the hours of 1 and 4 o'clock. Captain Saunders will
direct a subaltern to perform the same duty from Queenston to
the Four Mile Point, subject to the same regulations; the officer
for this duty will be taken from the 41st Regiment and the

16
militia agreeable to their strength, and will report to the field
officer of the Grand Rounds.
3. The sick of the militia stationed at Fort George pronounced as hospital cases, will be admitted as patients into the
41st Regiment Hospital, subject, however, to the same regulations and orders with respect to stoppages, etc., as those established for soldiers of the line.
4. Mr. Lafferty is appointed assistant surgeon to the militia
forces, and to do duty with the division stationed at Chippewa.
No. 5. Until further orders all guards and sentinels
stationed at the outposts are excused from turning out, or paying compliments to any officer, whatever may be his rank.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. M.
.

YORK, 5th August, 1812.
D.G.O.
Lieut.-Col. Myers will assume, during the absence of Col.
Proctor, the command of the district of Niagara.
Major-General Shaw, having offered his services in any
manner in which they may be useful, Major-General Brock is
pleased to appoint him to command between Chippawa and
Sugar Loaf, as colonel of militia, with the pay and allowances
of lieut.-colonel.
It is to be understood that no officer in the militia when
embodied, will receive a higher rate of pay than lieut.-colonel,
and that officers of every rank are subject to the same deduction
as the line, including the income tax.
The field officer of the Grand Rounds will collect the written
reports from the officers and non-commissioned officers in charge
of guards, and in the performance of other duties, who will enclose them in his own written report to the officer in command
of the post where he may be stationed.
By Order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.

D.G.O. YORK, 4th August, 1812.
The business of the Commissariat at this post having
been decreased, Major-General Brock has appointed Mr.
William Stanton to act as paymaster to the militia for the York
district until further orders. Mr. Stanton is to receive no pay
for performing this duty, other than what he derives from his
situation in the Commissariat Department.
By Order,

(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 12th August, 1812.
No. 1. The sick of militia capable of attending will
assemble every morning in rear of their respective parades,
for examination by a medical officer, and the quarters of those
not able to attend will be signified' by an officer of the company
to which such sick belong, to the attending medical officer.
2. Fort Major Kemble will be pleased to take charge of the
letter box, to whom heads of departments and officers belonging
to the garrison having letters to forward to the east or westward
will send them. Major Kemble will be pleased to receive such
letters and forward them by the first opportunity.
3. Commanding officers of the militia and officers in the
command of companies who have not already provided themselves with orderly books, will do it without delay, as it is expected they will be produced at all general inspections.
By Order,
(Signed) Taos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 5th August, 1812.
No. 1. The troops in the Niagara district will be under
arms so as to fall in on their respective parades every
morning at daylight, an hour after which time the men for

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guards, picquets, and fatigues will assemble, and be regularly
marched off for their respective duties.
No. 2. All drills for the militia will take place after guard
mounting in the morning, and at 6 o'clock in the evening, at
which time the officers will be most particular in the examination of the men, arms, appointments, etc., and report forthwith
every deficiency discovered..
3. Captain Holcroft, of the Royal Artillery, will arrange
as to the manner and place of parade for the field artillery,
and will also make arrangements for the distribution and drill
of that proportion of the militia allotted for the service of the
different batteries and car brigades.
No. 4. The places of parade will be considered, the alarm
posts, to which in cases of alarm the troops will instantly repair,
and it is to be understood that no commanding officer of a corps,
or any other, will, for a moment, leave their division, corps, or
company without orders for so doing, from the officer commanding at the post.
No. 5. It having been reported to the officer in command
that the quarters of the militia are in a very dirty state, he
cannot too thoroughly impress upon the minds of the officers
generally that on cleanness alone is to be expected health and
comfort to the men; they will therefore see a necessity for the
utmost vigilance and attention on their part to this essential
particular.
6. The officer in command holds the officers and non-commissioned officers in charge of posts along the line of communication responsible that both the men attached to their post
and guns are in every sense of the word at all times completely
ready to meet the open attacks of the enemy; no excuse can be
received for the want of any species of appointment and ammunition. At this moment commanding officers of detachments are enjoined to look to this, as it is the intention to make
frequent and general inspections of corps and posts in order

to ascertain that attention has been paid to this necessary com
mand, and it is further ordered that a weekly inspection be
made by the officer commanding at each post, and the result
transmitted to the Brigade Major.
No. 7. Should any of the batteries be attacked, they are to
be defended to the last extremity, but in the event of any one
being completely overpowered, the men defending such battery
will fall back in a cool, regular manner to the next one, and so
on till they are enabled by increased strength to resist the
enemy.
8. All requisitions for ball cartridge and flints are to be
transmitted in the first instance by officers commanding corps or
posts to the officer commanding for his approval, which will
afterward be transmitted by them to Captain Holcroft commanding Royal Artillery, who will give directions for the issue.
9. No officer or soldier is to be permitted to sleep out of
quarters without special permission being first granted by the
officer in command of the post, to which such officer or soldier
makirg the application may belong.
10. Major Merritt will be pleased to keep two dragoons
in constant readiness, saddled, etc., during the day and night
for the immediate performance of any duty required of them.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B. M.

D.G.O. FORT GEORGE,

17th August, 1812.

Lieut.-Col. Myers, in the absence of Major-General
Brock, has the heartfelt satisfaction to congratulate the troops
in general of the Niagara District on the further brilliant successes obtained over the enemy by the brave band stationed at
Amherstburg. On two recent occasions detachments from the
force have penetrated thirty miles into the enemy's territories,

21.
20
D.G.O.
and although contending against 4 times their numbers, have
invariably put them to flight with a loss of from two to three
hundred in killed and wounded ; the fruits of these victories
have been the desertion of the Indians from the American interest, the capture of their supplies of provisions, and the interception of Governor Hull's despatches, wherein he describes the
deplorable situation of his army. Regulars, militia, and Indians vied with each other in feats of valor and enterprise, our
loss compared with that of the enemy has been trifling, though
it is to be regretted those brave officers, Capt. Muir and Lieut.
Sutherland, 41st Regiment, should have been wounded in these
services.
By Order,

Orders having been received for a cessation of hostilities, commanding officers of corps and those at the head
of departments will give the necessary directions to the troops
under their orders of the event, so that ignorance may not be
pleaded in excuse for any act of hostility committed by them
after the receipt of this order. It is by no means to be understood, however, that the least relaxation is to take place in our
exertions; on the contrary, the Major-General expects unremitting vigilance and attention to discipline from all ranks, by
the aid of which we may look forward with confidence to an
honorable issue should hostilities be recommenced.
By Order,

(Signed) THos. EvANs, B. Major.

(Signed) Thos.
D.G.O.

D.G.O.

Fon'r GEORGE, 18th August 1812.

Until further orders the following captains will take their
tour of Grand Rounds, viz., Captain Hamilton, Dragoons ; Captains Crooks, Nelles, Moore, and McCuen, of the flank companies.
By Order,

(Signed) Thos.

D.G.O.

EVANS,

B. Major.

FORT GEORGE, 19th August, 1812.

Major-General Sheaffe having arrived at this post
to assume command of the Niagara District, all reports
and communications will, until further orders, be made to him.
By Order,

(Signed)

FORT GEORGE, 20th August, 1812.

B. Major.

B. Major.

FORT GEORGE, 21st August, 1812.

Major-General Sheaffe has very great satisfaction in announcing to the troops the surrender of the Fort Detroit,
with Brigadier-General Hull and the N.-Western Army
of America under his command, consisting of 2,500 men. This
important success was gained by Major-General Brock at the
head of 700 of the 41st Regiment and volunteer militia, with
the co-operation of 600 Indians, it in no small degree contributes to the joy of which such an event is calculated to excite
that brilliant achievements have been effected without loss on
our part, it also affords particular gratification to the MajorGeneral to add that the commander who so nobly planned the
enterprise bestows the highest commendation on the gallant
little band that executed it.
By Order,

(Signed)
THOS. EVANS,

EVANS,

THOS. EVANS,

B. Major.

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G.O. HEADQUARTERS, POINT AUX PRINCE, 12th August, 1812.
It is Major-General Brock's intention, should the wind continue fair, to proceed during the night, officers commanding
boats will therefore pay attention to the order of sailing as
directed yesterday; the greatest care and attention will be required to prevent the boats from separating or falling behind.
A great part of the bank of the lake where the boats will this
day pass is much more dangerous and difficult of access than
any we have passed, the boats will therefore not land except
in the most extreme necessity, and then great care must be
taken to choose the best place for beaching.
The troops being now in the neighborhood of the enemy,
every precaution must be taken to guard against surprise.
By Order,
(Signed) J. B, 'CLEGG, A.D.C.
G.O. HEADQUARTERS, AMHERSTBURG, 14th August, 1812.
Major-General Brock announces his arrival to the troops
in the western district, and directs officers in command
will immediately transmit returns of their respective corps.
The Major-General congratulates the troops on the evacuation
of the country by the enemy, he is persuaded that nothing but
the spirit manifested by those who have remained doing duty,
and the judicious measures adopted by Col. Proctor, have compelled him to so disgraceful a retreat. Col. Elliott, Major McKee, and the officers of the Indian department are entitled to
his best thanks for their judicious management of the Indians,
and for the example of gallantry which they have uniformly
shown before the enemy. 'The Major-General cannot avoid expressing his surprise at the numerous desertions which have occurred from the ranks of the militia, to which circumstance the
long stay of the enemy on this side of the river must in a
great measure be ascribed. He is willing to believe that their
conduct proceeded from an anxiety to get in their harvest, and

predilection for the principles or government of
from
any p
r
nitedStates.
U
nthet
He requests officers commanding corps to transmit to him
the names of such militia men who have remained faithful to
their oath and duty in order that immediate measures may be
taken to discharge their arrears of pay.
The enemy being still in the neighborhood, the whole physical force of the country will be employed to drive him to such a
distance as will ensure its tranquillity. Officers commanding
militia corps are responsible that every individual bound to embody himself according to the law does immediately repair to
his station, in default of which he will be treated as a deserter
and subjected to all the penalties of the new militia laws.
Captains Muir, Tallon and Chambers, 41st Regiment, Capt.
Glegg, 49th Regiment; Capt. Mockler, Royal Newfoundland,
and Capt. Dixon, Royal Engineers, are appointed to the rank
of majors so long as the local service on which they are employed continues.
The troops in the Western District will be formed into
three brigades:
1st Brigade. The first under Lieut.-Col. St. George to consist of a detachment Royal Newfoundland Regiment and of the
Kent, 1st and 2nd Regiments of Essex militia.
2nd Brigade, under the command of Major Chambers,
consisting of fifty men 41st Regiment and the whole of the
detachments of the York, Lincoln, Oxford and Norfolk militia.
3rd Brigade, under Major Tallon, will consist of the remainder of the 41st Regiment.
Col. Proctor will have charge of the whole line under the
orders of the Major-General.
James Givens, Esq., late Captain of the 5th Regiment,
is appointed Provincial Aide de Camp with the rank of major
in the militia.
By Order,
(Signed) J. B. GLEGG, A.D.C.
not

24
G.O. HEADQUARTERS, AMHERSTBURG, 15th August, 1812.
The troops will be in readiness to embark at McKees
Point at 3 o'clock to-morrow morning, Col. Elliot will proceed
during the night, with the Indians to the eastern shore of the
River Rouge and upon his communicating with the general,
the boats will immediately commence crossing the Detroit River
and land the troops between River Rouge and Spring Wells.
Col. Elliot will place the Indians in a position to take the
enemy on flank and rear, should he be disposed to oppose the
landing. Lieut.-Col. St. George will march his brigade this
evening and canton them in the houses close to the spot at
which the embarkation is to take place. The Officers of the
Commissariat will make the necessary arrangements to supply
the troops with provision and every other article required by the
different departments during the operations of the troops in the
field.
Each man will receive one gill of spirits per day ; the number for which provisions are to be drawn may be calculated at
2,000.
By Order,
(Signed) J. B. GLEGG, A.D.C.
G.O. HEADQUARTERS, DETROIT, 16th August, 1812.
Major-General Brock has every reason to be satisfied
with the conduct of the troops, he had the honor to lead this
morning against the enemy. The state of discipline which they
so eminently displayed and the determination they evinced to
undertake the most hazardous enterprise decided the enemy, infinitely more numerous in men and artillery to propose a capitulation the terms of which are herewith inserted for the information of the troops.
The Major-General requests Col. Proctor will accept his best
thanks for the assistance he derived from his experience and intelligence.

25
The steadiness and discipline of the 41st Regiment and the
readiness of the militia to follow so good an example were
highly conspicuous, the ability manifested by Captain Dixon,
Royal Engineers, in the choice and construction of the batteries
and the high state of the Royal Artillery under Lieutenant
Troughton, afforded the Major-General much gratification and
reflects great credit on those officers.
The willing assistance given by Captain Hale and the Marine
Department during the whole of the service has been very conspicuous and the manner the batteries were served this morning
evinced a degree of steadiness highly commendable.
Lieutenant Dewer, Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General, afforded strong proof by the local knowledge he has acquired of the country of an unremitting attention to his duty,
and the care and regularity with which the troops were
transported across the river must in a like manner be ascribed
to his zeal for the service. To Lieutenant-Colonel St. George,
Majors Tallon and Chambers, who commanded brigades, every
degree of praise is due for their unremitting zeal and attention
to their several commands. The Detachment of the Royal
Newfoundland Regiment, under the command of Major
Mockler, is deserving of every praise for their steadiness in the
field as well as when embarked in the King's vessels.
The Major-General cannot forego this opportunity of expressing his admiration at the conduct of the several companies
of militia, who so handsomely volunteered to undergo the fatigues of a journey of several hundred miles to go to the rescue
of an invaded district, and he requests Major Salmon, Captains
Hatt, Reward, Bostwick and Robinson, will assure the officers
and men under their respective commands that their services
have been duly appreciated and will never be forgotten.
The Major-General is happy to acknowledge the able assistance he has derived from the zeal and local information of
Lieutenant-Colonel C. Nicholl, Acting Quartermaster General

26

27

to the Militia; to his personal staff the Major-General feels himself under much obligation, and he requests Lieutenant-Colonel
McDonald, Majors Glegg and Givens that their zealous exertions
have made too deep an impression upon his mind ever to be
forgotten.
The conduct of the Indians under the command of Colonel
Elliot, Captain McKee and the other officers of that department,
joined to that of the gallant and brave chiefs of their respective
tribes, has since the commencement of the war been marked
with acts of true heroism and in nothing can they testify more
strongly their love to their great father than in following the
dictates of honor and humanity by which they have hitherto
been actuated ; two fortresses have already been captured from
the enemy, without a drop of blood, being shed by the hands of
the Indians, the instant the enemy submitted his life became
sacred.
By order,
(Signed) J. B. GLEGG, A.D.C.

The Commissariat will provide the necessary conveyance for
the baggage upon the movement taking place, of which they will
be made acquainted by the officers commanding the respective
detachments and the Barrack Master will make the necessary arrangements for their reception at the different posts.
The Major-General commanding impresses upon the officers
i n Barracks that under existing circumstances they must not
expect the indulgence of additional quarters, they must in the
first instance be confined strictly to the regulations requiring
rooms and if requisite be prepared for doubling up.

HEADQUARTERS, FORT GEORGE, 27th August, 1812.
D.G.O.
Lieutenant Fowler, 41st Regiment, is appointed Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General to the forces in Upper Canada
from the 24th inst. until further orders.
By order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
FORT GEORGE, 27th August, 1812.
D.G.O.
The detachment of the 49th Foot, under the command of
Major Ormsby, will march to Fort Erie on Sunday morning at
daylight, there to be stationed until further orders. Immediately
on its arrival at Fort Erie, the detachment of the 41st Regiment
under the command of Captain Derenzy, will march to Fort
George, leaving one subaltern, two sergeants and thirty rank
and file at Chippewa.

(Signed) Tnos. EVANS, B.M.

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 28th August, 1812.

Major-General Brock having been pleased to order the
formation of a company of people of colour of which Robert
Runchy is appointed to command with rank and pay of captain
for the time, the said company may be embodied.
By order,

(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
■

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 31st August, 1812.

The Detachment of the 49th Regiment on board of Glouster, under the command of Captain Wall will disembark immediately and occupy the Quarters at Navy Hall. This detachment will hold itself in readiness to march for Fort Erie on
Wednesday morning at daylight, the Commissariat will provide
the necessary conveyance for their baggage.
By order,

(Signed) Thos. EvANs, B.M.

D.G.O. •

28
FORT GEORGE, 1st September, 1812.

The 41st Regiment will take the whole of the garrison duties
until further orders.
(Signed) Tilos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 2nd September, 1812.

The Detachment of the 49th Regiment on board the Royal
George and Earl Moira, under the command of Major Plenderleath will disembark this forenoon and until further orders
will occupy the council house and store at Navy Hall.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.

29
Regiment, will on Mr. Steel's arrival proceed to join the divigion of his regiment at Fort George.
Acting Staff-Surgeon Thom will give any further necessary
directions to these officers.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 4th September, 1812.
No. 1. The Detachment of the 49th Regiment, will take
their share of the garrison duties at Fort George, agreeable to
their strength.
2. An intelligent person from heads of Departments, Corps
and Detachments will attend every day at 2 o'clock at the orderly room in the Fort for the purpose of receiving orders.
Captain Vigereaux will be pleased to order a person in attendance at the hour pointed out in the D.G.O. of the 5th ultimo
to receive the men and point the fatigues, for the performance
of which the party is furnished
.

Heads of Departments and Officers commanding corps will
attend at the Government House at 11 o'clock this day.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.

By order,
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 3rd September, 1812.

No. 1. Captain Chambers, of the 41st Regiment, will resume the command of the second division stationed at Queenston on Monday, 7th inst.
Captain Saunders will immediately afterwards join that
part of the 41st Regiment stationed at Fort George.
2. Civilians and aliens taken upon suspicion, or for having committed offences liable to military cognizance, are to be
brought to Fort Major Kemble to whom every necessary information concerning them is to be given, and he will report their
cases without delay to the officer commanding that he may receive his further directions thereon.
3. Hospital Mate Steel will proceed and do duty with the
division stationed at Fort Erie and Acting Surgeon Moore, 41st

(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 5th Sept., 1812.
An intention of renewing hostilities having been declared by
the General commanding the forces of the United States, the
Armistice will terminate at noon on the 8th inst; after which
the most active operations may be expected on the part of the
enemy, to counteract which, the utmost vigilance and activity
will be requisite and are confidently expected.
Commanders of Corps by personal inspection will immediately ascertain the state of their arms, accoutrements and
equipment in general, and whatever may be requisite to put
them in a fit state for active service it is to be provided with all
possible expedition.

31

30
Returns of the ammunition in the possession of each corps
and requisitions for such articles as they may want from any
of the departments are to be sent to Headquarters without delay.
The Major-General will inspect the part of the 41st Regiment stationed at Fort George at 3 o'clock to-morrow afternoon
in marching order, after which he will inspect the flank companies of the 49th Regiment in similar order. He also proposes
inspecting the Corps of Militia and other troops of the line in
the district, the periods for which will hereafter be notified.
By order,
(Signed) Taos. EVANS, B.M.

111

utmost exertions to render them perfectly effective, and by
their own personal efforts and example to support the Officers
of the Marine in establishing that energy and zeal on board
the several vessels, which can alone ensure success against the
enemy in the moments of trial.
The Major-General commanding having witnessed the
most shameful blasphemy on board the vessels without it
being noticed by the officers, he desires that those of the Newfoundland Regiment and of the Marine do use their best endeavors to put a stop to so disgraceful a practice; and he is
pleased to order that Divine Service be regularly performed
by an officer on board each vessel every Sunday.

( Note on margin states that " This D.G.O. is by MajorGeneral Sheaffe. ")
By order,
(Signed) Taos. EvANs, B.M.

D. G. 0. FORT GEORGE, 4th Sept., 1812.
It having fallen under the observation of Major-General
Brock that a considerable portion of the men of the Newfoundland Regiment doing duty on board the vessel of war on Lake
Ontario, are by no means calculated for that service, it is his
order that Colonel Vincent may be pleased to take the earliest
opportunity of selecting from that corps in the district under
his command such men as appear the most efficient for the per .
formance of that important duty, as well as from their bodily
strength, as from the knowledge of the particular service in
which they are to be employed. Lieutenant King, Deputy Assistant Quartermaster General at Kingston, will, with officers
commanding the vessels, make a minute inspection of the men
now on board them, and report thereon to 'Colonel Vincent,
furnishing him with the names and companies of those whom
they consider as unfit for their present situations, in order that
they may be exchanged for those more effective.

FORT GEORGE, 7th Sept., 1812.
D.G.O.
All officers and soldiers belonging to the different corps
stationed at Fort George not employed on other duties are directed to attend the works going on in the Garrison until they
shall be completed.
Taos. EveNs, B.M.

.

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 8th Sept., 1812.

Captain Williams, of the 49th Regiment, with the light
company under his command, will march from Chippewa tomorrow morning at daylight for the camp at Queenston, where
he will be stationed till further orders. Captain Chambers
with the whole of the detachment of the 41st Regiment will
march from Queenston to Chippewa at 3 o'clock to-morrow
evening. Captain Bullock will select sixty men of the 41st
Regiment and order them to march early to-morrow in charge

Major-General Brock having observed that the system of
discipline amongst the men of the Newfoundland Regiment
on board the vessels of war on Lake Ontario is extremely
relaxed and irregular, he calls upon the officers to use their

11111.

rY

.,

32

33

of a subaltern to the head of Navy Island; application will be
made to Deputy Assistant Quartermaster Fowler for quarters for this Detachment.
Major Plenderleath is appointed to command the whole of
the forces from Browns on this side Queenston to the Falls,
the troops at both of these posts included.
Captain Chambers on his arrival at Chippawa, will, himself
proceed to the head of Navy Island and assume the command
of the troops stationed at that post.
By order,
(Signed) Tiros. EvANs, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE,

8th Sept., 1812.

Major-General Brock was disposed to view the Armistice as
the forerunner of a restoration of peace and amity with the
United States, the pretext on which their declaration of war
was chiefly founded having been removed by the British Government and an opening offered by it to an adjustment of all
differences of minor importance between the two countries ; but
in vain has Great Britain thus held out the hand of conciliation,
it has been rejected. The President of the United States having thought fit to direct their troops to resort again to active
warfare and what motive can now exist for his authorizing a
renewal of hostilities at the time too (as is confidently asserted)
that he has sent an ambassador to treat for peace. Is it to
facilitate its attainment, that he, by his own voluntary act,
places two countries in a situation to inflict mutually the horrors
of war, thereby to have their minds more embittered towards
each other; perhaps he may imagine that by conquest on the
side of Canada he can indemnify the United States, for the loss
to which they are exposed on the Atlantic side from the superiority of the naval power of Great Britain, and that with a
proportion of her Provinces in their possession more favorable

terms would be obtained frr negotiating for peace. But the
militia of the Province have too just and manly a sense of what
they owe to their own personal dignity and independence to submit to be disposed of at the will of the Chief Magistrate of any
foreign country, they will not sink to the degradation of being
unresistingly a weight to be thrown by his hand into the scale.
Such baseness belongs not to them, they have already offered to
the world an instance of what can be effected by the aid of their
loyalty and valour, and Major-General Brock relies with confidence on their continued exertion of those ennobling qualities
for defeating any designs on this Province, and for contributing no less honorably for themselves than useful to their families
to their King and country towards bringing the contest, in
which the implacable enmity of the American Government has
engaged us to a favorable issue.
By order,
(Signed) Tiros. EVANS, B.M.
1).0.0.
FORT GEORGE, 9th Sept., 1812.
Captain Saunders is substituted for Captain Chambers in
command of the forces stationed at the head of Navy Island as
expressed in D. G. 0. of 8th September and will proceed to
Queenston without delay. Captain Chambers will return to
headquarters at Fort George.
His Honor the President has been pleased to confer the rank
of Lieutenant-Colonel on Major Plenderleath, 49th Regiment,
during the local service on which he is employed.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 9th Sept., 1812.
No. 1. The detachment of the York Militia under the command of Capt. Cameron, will march forthwith to Brown's
Point where quarters are prepared for their reception, the
.

34
Deputy Commissary General will be pleased to furnish a
waggon for the conveyance of their baggage.
2. The Deputy Commissary General will give directions
that the whole of the scarlet and other cloth for military purposes and all military appointments in the possession of the
commissariat now in store in York may be brought over to Fort
George by the first opportunity.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 11th Sept., 1812.
No. 1. Major-General Gordon and Mr. Conductor Bryson,
of the Field Train Department, will be allowed forage for one
horse each ,on furnishing the usual certificate.
2. The attention of heads of departments and officers commanding Corps, is called to the D.G.O. No. 4 of the 22nd July.
3. Commanding Officers of Corps, Detachments, etc., are
directed to adopt every possible precaution for turning out their
men at a moment's warning, either by night or day ; for this
purpose it is essentially necessary that each man's arms and
appointments should be so arranged that in case of alarm he
might know where to seize on them in an instant. It is also of
the utmost importance that the officers of the militia generally
should satisfy themselves that the arms of the men are at all
times in good and efficient order.
4. One subaltern, one sergeant, one corporal and twelve
privates from the Militia stationed at Fort George to be furnished a guard over the Batteaux at two mile Creek, their duty
will be to furnish sentries and patrols for the protection of the
Batteaux and coast during the night.
By order, (Signed) Tnos. EVANS, B.M.
FORT GEORGE, 13th Sept., 1812.
D.G.O.
Lieutenant-Colonel 'Short and Lieutenant Taylor, 41st Regiment, with the detachments of the 41st and 49th Regiments as

35
iv previously ordered, will embark on board the Earl of Moira this
day at two o'clock, the Darlington Company of Militia, stationed
at Brown's Point, will march so as to arrive at Fort George to
embark at the same time; the necessary boats will be furnished
by the Quartermaster General's Department.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 14th Sept., 1812.
Appointments in the Commissariat from 25th June,
Militia, Jacob Natharvit to be storekeeper at Queenston at 4s.
8d. per day.
Edward Hartney to be clerk at York at 5s. per day, Chas.
Van Kenin to be issuer at Fort George at 2s. 6d. per day.
Whenever a corps or detachment is ordered to march from
one station to another or to embark or disembark within the
Province, the officers commanding such corps or detachment will
i mmediately transmit to Lieutenant-Colonel Myers, the Deputy
Quartermaster-General and to the Brigade Major, an exact return of the number to move agreeable to such order.
Mr. Augustus Thompson is attached to the 49th Regiment
as a volunteer and will do duty with the detachment of that
corps stationed at Fort George.
Mr. S. Jarvis is attached to the 49th Regiment as a
volunteer and will do duty with the detachment stationed at
Queenston.
Departments, staff and other officers of the line stationed
within the limits of the upper Province and entitled to forage
for horses, will transmit returns for the same to the 24th to
Fort George, addressed to Lieutenant-Colonel Myers, Deputy
Assistant Quartermaster-General, and will henceforth continue
to do so at the regular periods until further orders.
By order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.

37

36
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

16th Sept., 1812.

No. 1. The detachments of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, arrived in the Royal George, will disembark without
delay ; the Deputy Quartermaster General will furnish the boats
for this service, and will fix a spot for their encampment when
landed.
2. In cases of alarm a blue pennant will be hoisted
on the flag staff at Fort George, and a field gun fired from one
of the batteries ; if by night a lanthorn and a gun, on which being done, every officer in command will repair to his post and
be ready with the men to act according to circumstances and
the orders which they shall receive from their superior officers;
Captain Holcroft, of the Royal Artillery, will be pleased to
give such directions as in his judgment will ensure most prompt
attention to the making of the above signals when necessary.
By order,
(Signed)

D.G.O.

THOS. EVANS,

FORT GEORGE,

B.M.

17th Sept., 1812.

The detachment of the 10th R. V. B.,* arrived from Kingston, will march this morning for Chippewa and will proceed
to-morrow morning for Fort Erie, where they will embark on
board the Queen Charlotte, the Deputy Quartermaster General
will provide the requisite means for the "conveyance of their
baggage, etc.
Major-General Sheaffe will inspect the detachment of the
Royal Newfoundland Regiment at 3 o'clock this day, in marching order, at the garrison at Fort George.
By order,

(Signed) Tilos. EVANS, B. Major.
•10th R.V.B. Royal Veterans Battalion.

D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 18th Sept.,. 1812.
No. 1. An arrangement having been entered into between
Major-General Brock and Major-General Van Rosselear (Van
Rensselaer), commanding the American forces stationed on
the Niagara Frontier for the mutual prevention of so unmilitary
and degrading a practice as that of individuals indiscriminatingly firing across the river without orders:—
The Major-General henceforth positively forbids a continuation of such practices, and calls upon officers in command
of posts to give directions to every individual under their orders, that no one can plead ignorance of the Major-General's
intentions and instructions on this head. The officers in charge
of the Indian Department will take every pains to explain and
prevent the Indians from a commission of this wanton practice.
2. The detachment of the Royal Newfoundland, stationed
at Fort George, will take their proportion of the duty and
fatigues of the garrison; an effective return of their strength
will be sent to the Brigade Majors this evening and an intelligent person will attend at the orderly room in the garrison every
evening at 2 o'clock for the purpose of receiving orders.
By order,
(Signed) THOS. Everls, B.M.
X.D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

20th Sept., 1812.

No. 1. The Grenadier Company of the 49th Regiment will
hold itself in readiness to march in an hour's notice for Queenston, where it will remain under orders of Lieut.-Col. Plenderleath.
2. Sixty men of the 41st Regiment under the direction of
Lieut. Bullock will march for Chippewa, and on their arrival
at that place Captain Bullock will be pleased to strengthen the
detachment stationed at the head of Navy Island under. Captain
Saunders, with 20 additional men from the 41st Regiment.
3. Captain Selby's company of York Militia will hold itself

38

39

in immediate readiness to march to Brown's Point.* The
Deputy Quartermaster-General will be pleased to signify the
route of march and point out the quarters to be occupied by the
above detachment, the Commissariat will provide for the necessary conveyance for the baggage.
4. A Board of Survey to assemble at 10 o'clock to-morrow
morning at the Barrack Master's quarters for the purpose of
ascertaining the extent of damage done to barrack articles.
By order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.

4. The Major-General acknowledges with thanks the willing
manner in which that portion of the troops stationed at Fort
George have contributed by their exertions to the accomplishment of the present works established there, and directs that
in future as small a number as possible may be furnished in
finishing them, in order that the militia last joined may have
the opportunity of perfecting themselves in their drill.
By order;
•
(Signed) Trios. EVANS, B.M.

D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 20th Sept., 1812.
No. 1. The Major-General Commanding most earnestly
calls the attention of the officers in command of divisions, and
that of the officers in general, to the state of the men's arms,
ammunition, and appointment under their immediate superintendence as he expects every soldier, whether of the line or
militia, will be at all times in the most efficient state in this
essential particular, and every way prepared to meet the
enemy's attack should he venture to make it.
2. The Major-General trusts that the officers in charge of
the different divisions use their best exertions in forwarding
the drill of the several detachments of militia placed under
their orders, and that the non-commissioned officers and men
selected by them from the line for this important duty are very
qualified to give the instruction required.
3. It is expected that officers in command of companies
both of the line and militia are provided with orderly books,
and that the orders are regularly read to the men, in conformity
to No., 3 of the D. G. 0. of the 31st July.
The Major-General cannot too strongly impress on the minds
of the several commanders the necessity of their attention and
punctuality in this part of their duty.

D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 22nd Sept., 1812.
The Major-General Commanding returns his particular
thanks to the militia for the handsome manner in which they
have on all occasions volunteered their services for duties of
fatigue, and is pleased to direct that for the present, service for
such duty shall be dispensed with.
No. 2. Colonel Claus will give the necessary directions for
the hour and place of drill for the militia, and Sergts. Lyons,
41st Regiment, and Thomas, Royal Newfoundland Regiment,
will attend as instructors at the hours pointed out by Colonel
Claus; the 41st will also furnish a second non-commissioned
officer capable of instructing the men for this particular duty.
By order,
(Signed) Taos. EVANS, B.M.

*Probably near Stamford, where the road branched toward the
Palls passing Brown's at an angle. Barracks not far distant covered
the road leading to interior.

FORT GEORGE, 25th Sept., 1812.
D.G.O.
No. 1. Major Merritt will be pleased to furnish daily an
orderly dragoon to be at the Brigade Major's office. by 12
o'clock each day for the transmission of orders, etc. Heads of
departments, officers in command of corps and others having
letters on the public service to forward to any part of the line
betwixt this post and Fort Erie, and to Amherstburg and Detroit will send to the Brigade Major's office any time before half
past 11 o'clock. Officers in command of divisions and posts

40

41

stationed along the line will avail themselves of this orderly
express to forward their communications to headquarters.
No. 2. Until further orders the tattoo will beat at 8 o'clock
in the evening.
By order,
(Signed) Mos. EVANS, B.M.

the arrival of this detachment at Chippewa Captain Bullock
will detach one subaltern, 2 sergts., and 40 rank and file of the
41st Regiment to Millers,* where they will receive their further
orders from Major-General Shaw. The Deputy Quartermaster
General will be pleased to have the necessary conveyance prepared for the carriage of the baggage of this detachment.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.

FORT GEORGE, 27th Sept., 1812.
No. 1. The Major-General having observed great deficiencies in the ammunition issued generally to the troops of the
militia, he cannot too strongly impress on the minds of the
officers commanding divisions the necessity of their explaining
to the men under their orders, that at a period like the present a
greater military offence cannot possibly be committed than a
careless negligence or wilful waste of any ammunition that may
be delivered out to them for the use of the public service.
2. Whenever cartridges may be injured by wet or otherwise
the balls of such cartridges will be carefully preserved and sent
in with an account of their number to the ordnance storekeeper,
who will give a receipt for the same.
By order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 29th Sept., 1812.
D.G.O.
Until further orders the Grand Rounds will go their rounds
betwixt the hours of 10 and 2 o'clock, and the visiting rounds
betwixt 2 and 5 in the morning.
By order,
(Signed) Thos. EVANS, B. Major.
FORT GEORGE, 30th Sept., 1812.
D.G.O.
A subaltern and 30 privates, with a due proportion of noncommissioned officers of the 41st Regiment, will march this
day, immediately after the men have dined, for Chippewa. On

D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE, 1st Oct., 1812.
the Major-General Commanding forbids the practice of
individuals firing in the swamp, or in any other place within
the limits and neighborhood of the garrison.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.

FORT GEORGE,

2nd Oct., 1812.

No. 1. Major-General Sheaffe, having noticed in the reports frequent inattention of the visiting rounds in not visiting
the different batteries established at the head of the lake, he
trusts that in future they will be more exact in their performance of this essential part of their duty.
2. Until further orders one third of the troops off duty will
sleep in their clothes fully accoutered and ready to turn out at
a moment's notice.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 5th Oct., 1812.
Quartermaster-sergeant Pointer, of the 49th Regiment, is
appointed to act as barrack master at Fort Erie with an allowance of 1s. 6d. per day.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
-

*Millers' store between Palmer's and Fort Erie, on the line of com-

munication.

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42

D.G.O.

FOR74 GEORGE,

6th Oct., 1812.

No. 1. Until further orders the regular troops and militia
force in this command are to be under arms in their quarters
at the first break of day, and are not to be dismissed till broad
daylight and distant objects seen. The guards are to turn out
and mount as usual, and the strictest attention is enjoined to the
order requiring one-third of the men in quarters to be clothed
and accoutered during the night with their arms at hand, in
readiness to turn out in a moment's warning, which commanders of corps or detachments are directed to regulate in
such a manner as to avoid, as much as may be practicAble, including men for guards in that number
2. The 41st Regiment will give up the quarters lately occupied as a hospital to the detachment of the Newfoundland Regiment, who will occupy it this evening.
The commanding officer of the 41st Regiment will distribute
his men in the most convenient manner in the barracks now
occupied until additional rooms can be appropriated for them.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 8th Oct:, 1812.
The undermentioned gentlemen are appointed volunteers in
his Majesty's regular forces from the period specified opposite
their respective names, they will continue to do duty with the
41st Regiment until further orders.
Henry Proctor, gentleman, 1st July, 1812 ; Alexander Wilkinson, 1st July, — Richardson, 9th July.
THOS. EVANS, B.M.
Surgeons at the several posts where hospitals are established
will receive from the Commissariat stores as much fresh beef
as they may judge necessary for the use of the sick.
The remainder of the rations due to the sick will be left in

store and paid for to the surgeons at the contract prices. For
the future an ounce of salt will be added to the rations of
the fresh meat.
D.G.O. FORT GEORGE, 9th Oct., 1812.
The flank companies of the Newfoundland Regiment will
march at 2 o'clock to-morrow morning for Fort Erie, and on
their arrival there will receive further orders from MajorGeneral Shaw; the Deputy Quartermaster General will have the
requisite conveyance ready for the carriage of their baggage.
The 41st Regiment will relieve the men of the Newfoundland
on duty after the men have dined this day.
Tilos- Evers, B.M.
D•G•O• FORT GEORGE, Oct. 9th, 1812.
Officers in command of the several divisions will call for,
from officers in command of corps and detachments serving
under their orders, a return of armourers belonging to the
same, which will be transmitted to the Brigade Major's office
without delay.
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.
D•G•O. FORT GEORGE, 12Ith Oct., 1812.
Major-General Brock directs that no communication be held
with the enemy by flag of truce or otherwise than by his special
permission unless such an occurrence should arise as to render
delay prejudicial to the service, of which officers commanding
posts are to be the sole judges. It is understood that in the
boat captured on the morning of the 9th from the enemy, arms
of various descriptions were found which have not been accounted for. Major-General Shaw will institute the necessary
inquiry and retain them for the Major-General's disposal, and

44
it must be clearly understood by every officer and soldier that
all property taken from the enemy must be reported to the
Major-General before they can be applied to any purpose, and
that arms in particular are at all times to be returned for the
public service.
Major-General Brock receives Major-General Shaw's report
of the spirited conduct of the troops of the militia on the morning of the 9th with the utmost satisfaction. Cornet Pill Major
was particularly conspicuous, and he has much pleasure to find
that the wounds he received on that occasion are not likely to
deprive the service very long of his gallant exertions.
THos. EvAns, B.M.
D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 13th Oct., 1812.
A cessation of firing having been agreed on by MajorGeneral Sheaffe and Major-General Van Ransselear, commanding the American troops at Lewiston, etc., for 3 days ending on
Friday, the 16th inst., at 4 o'clock p.m. The officers commanding the several posts on the line will regulate their conduct accordingly.
THOS. EvaNs, B.M.
I.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 14th Oct., 1812.
A return of the general and regimental staff officers, also one
from the different corps and detachments engaged in, the action
of the 13th Oct., of the killed, wounded, and missing will be
immediately sent in to the Brigade Major's office.
THOS. EVANS.
D.G.O.
FORT GEORGE, 14th Oct., 1812.
Major-General Sheaffe offers his best thanks to the troops
for the bravery and good conduct so eminently displayed by all
ranks and descriptions in the action of yesterday, which terminated in the complete overthrow of the enemy, their General

45
with many officers and about 800 men having been made
prisoners, and a considerable number killed and wounded, and
a stand of colors and 6 prisoners taken.
This brilliant success is, however,, clouded by the ever-to-belamented death of Major-General Brock, who gloriously fell
whilst foremost in the ranks gallantly cheering his troops whilst
opposing far superior numbers. The zeal, ability, and valour with
which he served his King and country render this a public loss
which must be long deplored, and his memory will live in the
hearts and affections of those who had an opportunity of being
acquainted with his private worth.
Major-General Sheaffe has also to regret that Lieut.-Col.
McDonald, aide-de-camp to Major-General Brock, whose gallantry and spirit rendered him worthy of his chief, received a
wound in the action, and which there is reason to sear will prove
mortal.
All arms, accoutrements, ammunition, and articles whatever
of a public nature taken from the enemy in the action of yesterday to be delivered into the ordnance store without delay.
In consequence of the death of Major-General Brock, the
command of his Majesty's troops serving in U. Canada devolves
on Major-General Sheaffe, to whom all reports and communications will be made accordingly.
Lieut.-Col. Myers will take upon himself the superintendence of the troops of the line from Fort George to Chippewa
inclusive, all reports and details for that portion of the Niagara
district to be made to him and for the greater facility and despatch of the public service Major-General Shaw, acting as Col.
of Militia, and commanding between Chippewa and the Sugar
Loaf, will be pleased to report to and communicate with MajorGeneral Sheaffe through Lt.-Col. Myers as Deputy Quartermaster-General.
(Signed) Tilos. EVANS, B.M.
*Sugar Loaf a conical hill north side Lake Erie.

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47

FORT GEORGE, 16th Oct., 1812.
A prolongation of the cessation of hostilities having been
agreed upon between Major-General Sheaffe and Major-General
Van Ransselear for an undefined period, the officers commanding posts along the line will strictly govern themselves accordingly until further orders.
Captain Glegg, 49th Regiment, aide-de-camp to the late
Major-General Brock, will be pleased to act in that capacity
with Major-General .Sheaffe until further orders; Lt. Wm.
Kerr, of the Glengy. Lt. Infantry, when his duty of assistant
engineer will permit will attach himself to Lieut.-Col. Myers,
and will receive his directions.
By Order,
(Signed) THOS. EVANS, B.M.

pewa, but I cannot imagine that a force of any magnitude will
attempt in crowded boats to stem so strong a current, and expose itself to an attack in that situation.
The imminent danger which boats liable to attack from
our batteries would encounter from the rapidity of the waters,
and vicinity of the Falls, in crossing from the north point of
Navy Island, would almost lead one to conclude that no officer
could be found hardy enough to direct an enterprise from that
quarter. But if we weigh well the character of our enemy we
shall find him more disposed to brave the impediments of
nature when they afford a probability of accomplishing his end
by surprise in preference to the certainty of encountering British troops ready formed for his reception.
The prospect of success by this route is not only more probable than the tedious course of the south channel, but the
incitements to undertake it are so great, that no officer will
allow himself to be lulled into security, under pretense, by the
evident risk attending such an attempt.
Once in complete possession of both sides of the Chippewa
the enemy would obtain an advantage, not only as it regards
military operations, but likewise over the feelings of the militia
that might be productive of fatal consequences. It is, therefore, our first object to prevent by every means such an occurrence—so long as he is confined between Fort Erie and the river
we may confidently look for hourly support, but if allowed to
spread, the disaffected will assume a tone and posture that cannot fail to operate in deterring the loyal from active exertions.
Should the enemy, however, reject such a hazardous mode
of attack and confine his operations, as has already been suggested, to the upper part of the river, under cover of his artillery, the officer in command will, of course, oppose him to the
utmost in his endeavors to obtain a footing, but should he be
at length compelled to retire, he will, if practicable, fall back
upon Chippawa disputing manfully every step. The nature of

P.0.0.

General Brock's last instructions to Officers
Commanding Forts.
This MS. is labelled:—" 1812. Instructions sent to Officers
commanding Forts, by Major-General Brock, some days prior
to the attack on Queenston."
Should the enemy determine on a serious invasion of this
part of the Province, it appears likely to me (now that the
season is so far advanced as to render any attempt to turn
either of our flanks extremely dangerous) that his principal
attack will be made between Fort Erie and Painters.* He may
at the same time attract our attention by sending a small force
in light gun boats up the channel between Navy and Grand
Island with a view likewise of impeding our retreat to ChipNotes, p. 2, Palmer's Tavern not far from Black Creek on a creek
opposite Grand Is.

48
the ground is particularly favorable for a small force to impede
the rapid advance of any number. The several detachments
stationed along that line will arrive in rotation to his support,
and will enable him to check the enemy until such a force is
collected as cannot fail making him repent his temerity.
Sufficient attention has not been paid to ensure the destruction in case of necessity of the numerous bridges upon that
communication.
Should the troops composing the garrison of Fort Erie be
cut off and prevented joining and retreating with the detachment stationed at the Ferry side, the officer commanding will
be left in a situation requiring his utmost prudence and activity.
He will have either to annoy the enemy as he advances, or to
retire before a superior force; the fort is only tenable against
musketry, it will therefore be most expedient to give up the
place rather than expose the troops to capture. The back road
leading to Palmers has, of course, been minutely examined,
and although, at this season very bad, may afford a safe retreat. Temporary footbridges might likewise be constructed near such places along the skirts of the wood as are
otherwise impassable, this precatition may be the means of
preserving the detachment.
An alarm from the right will not induce the force at Navy
Island to move until it be ascertained that no attack is meditated in that direction, and measures are taken to station sufficient parties to watch narrowly the approach of any enemy.
The possession of and safety of Chippewa must be considered a primary object, consequently only such portions of
its force will march as can with perfect safety be spared.
On the contrary the troops quartered on the road between
Queenston and Chippewa will repair thither with the utmost
rapidity on the first alarm, and half of the force at Queenston
will follow the same route without waiting for further orders.