The Battle of Chippewa

Battle of Chippewa, 5 July, 1814

 

After a sojourn of three weeks since the Battle of Vimeiro we started the Battle of Chippewa using General de Brigade Rules with a War 1812 addendum.

 

The Situation

 

On the British/Canadian side Paul M. as Major-General Riall commanding the main force of 1st Foot, 8th Foot, 19th L.D. and artillery consisting of a 6 pdr, 24 pdr and a howitzer (an unidentified unit is in reserve) and Rod as LCol Pearson commanding the Light Brigade consisting of combined Light companies of the 1st, 8th and 100th; 2nd Lincoln Militia, Grand River Indians and Norton's Mohawks.

 

On the American side Paul G takes the role of Major-General Brown and First Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Scott while Steve is Brigadier-General Porter commanding the New York Volunteers and a large Seven Nations warriors horde led by Red Jacket.

 

This battle started with Porter's Brigade (actually half the brigade the rest are in camp)  pushing back and engaging the 2nd Lincoln Militia and Grand River Indians in the wooded areas. After a few turns Pearson's Light brigade joins this fire fight in the woods.

 

While the engagement in the woods is developing, Riall sent his brigade across the Chippewa River with the aim of attacking Scott's Brigade, which is hopefully still encamped on the south side of Street's creek. At the same time MGen Brown has been observing the progress of Porter's Brigade mopping up the annoying Canadian Militia and Indians. From his position on the lake shore road, Brown is surprised to observe a significant British force coming down the road toward him. Brown immediately dispatches his aide to bring forward Scott's Brigade without delay.

 

After about ten fast turns the following photos represent the Phase One end state.

 

 

Riall's left flank on the shore road with a 6pdr and howitzer on the road. In front of the guns is (l to r)the 1st Foot, 24 pdr and 19th L.D. In the distance Scott's Brigade is deploying.

In the woods to the right of Riall's main force, is Pearson's Light Brigade. From left to right; Grand River Indians, Light Companies, 2nd Lincoln and mid upper right is Norton's Mohawks working around Porter's left flank.

In center the 8th Foot is formed in line along the fence marking the edge of the woods. The 8th can hear a lot of musketry and so appear to be protecting Riall's right flank. To the right Porter's and Pearson's brigades are heavily engaged.

Brown's aide having already passed the commander's orders to Scott, appears to ordering more unnamed units forward.

No Man's Land. Looking west, the British to the left and the American's to the right.

Looking north-east; Porter's and Pearson's brigades are heavily engaged. Bottom left, Norton's Mohawks are working their way around Porter's left flank. However, the N.Y. Volunteers have wheeled left to receive the Mohawks.

 

Ropes' coy (21st) are still by the house while an American howitzer and six pounder unlimber near the lake. At the same time the 11th regiment is marching along the fence line while the 25th is crossing Street's Creek. To the left Scott and Brown Observe.

Another look at the same area with American Light Dragoons to the left of Scott and Brown.

 

Summary

Porter's and Pearson's brigades remain heavily engaged in the woods. The main British force under Riall looks  prepared to unleash its guns at Scott's brigade as it moves into position along the rail fence. In support, the American 6pdr and howitzer are about fire on the British.

Phase Two bodes well for a major clash between the two main brigades. 

Until next time, which will no doubt be sustained by beer and pretzels.