(War of 1812)

2 pages (9 3/4 x 8 in.; 248 x 203 mm), Chateaugay, New York, 30 September 1813, signed  as adjutant on behalf of Major General Wade Hampton; repairs to folds, few small holes to text.

GENERAL ORDER ANNOUNCING PERRY’S VICTORY IN THE BATTLE OF LAKE ERIE.

"Maj. General Hampton has much satisfaction in announcing to the Army the glorious naval victory of Commodore Perry on Lake Erie, who has captured the whole of the enemies squadron, consisting of two ships, two Brigs, a sloop, & a schooner, with a greater number of prisoners than he had men engaged in the combat.
 The Commodores official dispatch arrived last night. The General has the additional satisfaction of assuring the army that events are anticipated with confidence, which can but give a glorious termination to the campaign, and perhaps to the war- He entreats that a moment may not be lost in preparation for the part this army is to act. It will require to move with rapidity, and without baggage. A second shirt and a blanket, is all that can be allowed. Some hardships may be encountered, but they will be short, and the reward will be in proportion. …"

On September 10, 1813, Perry’s success against the Royal Navy on Lake Erie came at a high price. He was forced to abandon his flagship, the USS Lawrence, transferring his colors to the USS Niagara instead of surrendering. Once aboard, Perry ordered the Niagara’s commander to bring the rest of the fleet into closer action while he steered the Niagara towards the British line. Perry’s bold move effectively broke the line and pounded the British to the point they could no longer resist and surrendered.  Although he had won the battle aboard Niagara, he received the British surrender on the Lawrence to allow the British to see the terrible price his men had paid. Perry’s battle report to General William Henry Harrison has become one of the most famous lines in American naval history: “We have met the enemy and they are ours; two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop."