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Harrison, William Henry (1773-1841) To the Editors of the National Intelligencer

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC05565 Author/Creator: Harrison, William Henry (1773-1841) Place Written: North Bend, Ohio Type: Manuscript signed Date: 12 June 1819 Pagination: 12 p. : docket ; 35 x 21 cm. Order a Copy

Defends himself against General James Winchester's attack on his character and conduct in the command of the North Western Army in the War of 1812 Ohio campaign. Concerns who was to blame for sending out a detachment of the army beyond the reach of support. The detachment was almost completely destroyed by the British and Indians. Includes a copy of a letter written to Harrison by Samuel G. Hopkins and dated 24 February 1813 that supports his views. With corrections and an autograph endorsement signed by Harrison on pages 11 and 12.

This statement refers to the Battle of Raisen River which occurred on 22 January 1813. General William Henry Harrison's subordinate, Brigadier General James Winchester, in an effort to protect the frontier, sent troops out beyond the reach of support. They were surprised by a British force and almost his entire army was killed or captured. In 1816, he was accused of negligence and military incapacity. Winchester demanded an official inquiry and wrote a defense of his conduct in which he attacked General Harrison for failing to send reinforcements.

Harrison, William Henry, 1773-1841
Winchester, James, 1752-1826
Hopkins, Samuel G., fl. 1819

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