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Hull Invades Canada
On July 12, 1812, forces under General Hull crosses into Canada at Sandwich. The invasion is quickly stopped, and American forces are forced to withdraw. By August 16, Hull surrenders Detroit.
The American plan to attack Canada had three parts to it. The first a thrust to capture Montreal, the second an attack across the Niagara River and the third across the other end of the Lake Erie at Detroit. William Hull, who stated that he did not believe it could succeed without control of Lake Erie, commanded the Western thrust. Despite that statement he set off. Unfortunately he sent the schooner Cuyahoga ahead with some sick men and more importantly his correspondence. When the British captured it they became aware of Hulls plans.
Hull entered Canada unopposed. He entered Canada triumphant. He headed south along the Detroit River. He attempted to lay siege to Fort Malden, but failed to capture it. At this point he began to fear that his supplies long were too long. He sent a force of 150 to meet a supply train coming from Ohio. They were beaten back by Indian forces led by Tecumseh. Hull then sent a second larger force of 600 they to were attacked and forced back. Hull then learned that the American post on Mackinac Island had surrendered. Hull was truly feeling cut off and ordered Fort Dearborn located on what would become Ohio evacuated. Captain Nathan Hall followed orders, but Indians soon surrounded his forces. Hall surrendered but most of his command and two woman and the Indians killed 12 children.
Hull withdrew to Detroit. British General Brock arrived with additional British troops and laid siege to the fort. On August 15th 1812 he demanded that Hull surrender the fort. Hull originally said no, but after a British bombardment Hull surrendered.
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