|
The Niagara Campaign of 1814 Fort Niagara
Further Reading The Americans Take Fort Erie: Prelude to the Battle of Chippawa
Books
|
The Road to Lundy's Lane: Introduction to the Niagara Campaign of 1814In fact, both armies are short of many supplies. The British lack men, as well as the necessary materials to reinforce their defenses. The Americans lack important equipment such as artillery, and less crucial provisions like the blue broadcloth used to outfit the regulars (Winfield Scott’s men will have to settle for the gray material used by the militia). No shortage though, is felt more deeply than the lack of adequate food. This is a fate that is shared with the inhabitants of the Niagara region.The Niagara peninsula has suffered greatly from the two years of warfare. Farmers have barely endured the steady raiding of crops and livestock by both armies. Many of the once-abundant fields and orchards have been so ravaged that they simply can not produce enough flour and grain to feed their owners, let alone an army. The ever-tenuous British alliance with the First Nations is also being strained due to this lack of adequate rations. Ironically, most of the food that does make it to the area comes from New England farmers whose allegiance to the highest bidder outweighs that of their country. Popular sentiment in the Niagara peninsula has changed considerably since the outbreak of war. The regular looting was difficult enough, but with the torching of homes and villages such as at Newark, feelings of helplessness have turned to anger. Some inhabitants are so enraged with what they see as a plundering Yankee army, that they have formed vigilante groups that will harass the Americans when they invade Canada once more in July of 1814. No can predict that within two months the Americans will return to their country and the war on the Niagara will slowly wind to a close. This however, will not occur before some of the war’s bloodiest battles have been fought.
|
