To retaliate for the capture of York, Sir George Prevost, the British
general-in-chief, determined to make a descent on Sackett’s Harbor, the
chief American depot for stores, on the lakes. Accordingly, on the 27th
of May, 1813, Prevost, with nearly a thousand men, embarked in small
boats, and proceeded, under convoy of the British fleet. The fleet
being seen on the lake, preparations were made for the defence of the
post. General Brown, with six hundred militia, came to the aid of the
few regular troops, and made wise disposition for the reception of
the enemy. Prevost arrived, and commenced the attack on the evening of
the 28th. The first line of the militia fired, and then gave way. But
Brown, with the rest of his troops, maintained his ground against the
assault, and poured such a well aimed fire into the enemy, that they
were checked. The success was followed up, and at length, the British
were driven to their boats. Through some mistake the American stores
were burned by the officer set to guard them. This victory brought the
military talents of General Brown to light.
[Illustration: DEFENCE OF FORT STEPHENSON.]