The Battle of Frenchtown: The Fight at River Raisin
In January 1813, American troops gathered at Maumee Rapids, ready to launch a campaign to reclaim Detroit from the British. The United States had declared war on Britain several months earlier in what would later be known as the War of 1812. Detroit had fallen to British forces back in August 1812. General Winchester received urgent news that settlers at River Raisin were under attack and promptly dispatched over 500 troops to provide support.
The battle erupted chaotically along the banks of the Raisin River. Despite being undertrained, the Kentucky volunteers managed to snatch a victory, though it came at a cost—13 were killed and more than 50 wounded. Canadian and Native troops retreated, and the remaining American forces regrouped, bringing their total strength to over 100 soldiers.
The Second Battle
The British, Canadian, and Native forces were far from defeated. Determined to reclaim the lost territory, they prepared a counterattack. This counterstrike arrived on January 22nd, only four days later, with approximately 1,400 Canadian and Native troops advancing on the American camp at River Raisin.
The Americans spotted the approaching force and managed to kill one Canadian soldier with their first volley. However, the Canadians quickly charged toward Frenchtown, initially repelled but undeterred. They re-aimed their artillery at the American flank, causing havoc and sending American militia into disarray. Despite their efforts, the Americans couldn’t hold the line as the Canadians and Native troops stormed through.
Overwhelmed on multiple fronts, the American retreat across the river became frantic. Hundreds were caught in the chaos, with over 200 killed and about 150 captured. Faced with no other options, the Americans surrendered. Although the British victory was short-lived, fearing imminent reinforcement from American troops.
Out of the 1,000 American soldiers, nearly all were injured, maimed, or captured. It wasn’t until September 1813 that American forces retook River Raisin and Frenchtown.
River Raisin National Battlefield
Located in Southeast Michigan, the River Raisin National Battlefield preserves the site of what was deemed a “National Calamity” by both the commanding officer and the president. It is the only War of 1812 battlefield in the United States protected as a National Battlefield. Officially added to the National Park system in 2010, it covers about 40 acres.
Visitor Information
Visitor Center: 333 N Dixie Hwy, Monroe, MI 48162.
The visitor center is a newer facility, offering a map, a movie, and more historic sites associated with Frenchtown and the battle.
Hours: Open from 10 am – 6 pm (Summer) and 10 am – 5 pm (Winter). The grounds can often be visited outside of these hours if not too late.
Fees: Free admission.
Website: Official NPS Website.
Getting There
River Raisin is near Monroe in Southeast Michigan and is relatively easy to find. It’s advisable to stay on the north side of the river to reach both the battlefield and the visitor center, as Google Maps can sometimes route you incorrectly across the river.
Other National Parks in Michigan