The Battle of Chateauguay

De Salaberry’s Official Report
26 October 1813

by Rich Barbuto

[The following report has been updated for current grammar and punctuation.]

From de Salaberry to de Watteville, 26 October 1813 at 8 p.m.

Sir,

In the action of this day which began by the enemy attacking our advanced piquets in great strength on both sides [of] the river, the enemy has been obliged to abandon his plan. Our piquets supported in time by the Canadian Light Company, two companies of Voltigeurs, and the light company of the 3rd Embodied Militia behaved in the bravest manner. After the action we remained in quiet possession of the abbatis and posts we occupied previously.

The enemy’s force appeared to me to have been at least 1,500 men with 250 dragoons, and one piece of cannon. Three of our men who [saw] the American army passing, at least part, make it amount to more. There were about thirty axemen with them.

I cannot conclude without expressing the obligation I owe to Captain Ferguson for his cool and determined conduct and his extreme readiness in executing my orders.

Captain Daily of the 3rd Battalion in gallantry cannot be surpassed; he contended with 50 men against a force ten times in number. Captain Daily is wounded in two places. Captain Bruyere behaved with gallantry and was wounded. Captain Jean Baptiste and Juchereau Duchesnay have evinced great gallantry and so indeed has every officer employed, particularly aide Major Sullivan whose bravery has been most conspicuous. Captain Lamothe and many of the Indian warriors behaved well. In the evening Captain Lamothe with a few Indians exposed himself very much and so did Adjutant Hebden of the Voltigeurs.

By correct information there appears no doubt the enemy have returned to the Outade.

This report is made by wood firelight.

I have the honor to be,

Sir, your most obedient servant,

Charles de Salaberry

Lieutenant Colonel Commanding

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