The Battle of Georgian Bay, 1802 (Fictional)

The year is 1802 and the United States is about to grow. The acquisition of millions of acres of Native land and the Louisiana purchase in 1803 will double the size of the young republic. Will Britain contest the expansion into the Great Northwest or, as she is involved with France in the war with Napoleon, will she quietly give up any claims to the west?

Britain, by terms of the peace treaty with the United States, has given up the forts to the south and west of the Great Lakes and is struggling to maintain her far-flung possessions, and keep them secure. Plans are made to build a base on Georgian Bay to construct and maintain a fleet on the Upper Great Lakes.

When the American expansionists hear this news, their reaction is swift and decisive. An armed reconnaissance is mounted to discover the truth of the matter and to prevent any attempts to upset the balance of power in the Northwest.

British reaction to the news of an armed incursion is typical. Belatedly, an expedition is assembled to dispute this "invasion" and re-assert imperial authority. The Loyalists settlers in Upper Canada and the soldiers of the last war with the U.S. are marshalled together with the few regulars and militia that garrison the colony. This rag-tag army is sent north to cast out the usurpers.

Thursday, August 23rd - American scouting parties have been reported along the shores of Nottawasaga Bay. British commanders worst fears become a reality as the advance guard of the American army land by bateaux at Balm Beach in an attempt to control this key supply depot.  The few defending British troops and Native allies are no match as they are overwhelmed and surrender or flee. Looting and pillaging of the depot stores and local merchants ensues as the Americans plan and supply themselves for the anticipated larger confrontations to come.  The advance American guard begins to march west towards Penetanguishene.

Friday August 24th - The main American fleet sails into Midland Bay and commences a bloody Tall Ship battle with British ships stationed there. After a strong and steady battle the outnumbered and outgunned British ships are silenced and American troops storm ashore sweeping aside any further opposition and capture the town. Once the town is secure, American troops begin to march west to join the advance guard converging on the village of Penetanguishene.

The two forces link up on the morning of the 25th, south of Penetanguishene and turn north to attack the village. Here, they meet their first serious opposition; the defenders having barricaded the streets of the village. One by one, the barricades fall to the superior numbers of the Americans, who begin to pillage the defenceless settlement. The defenders who have survived the attack melt away into the dense forest to plan their revenge. The invaders fall upon the unfinished British base and make camp.

At dusk, the relief force arrives, sailing boldly into the anchorage, guns blazing. The guns on Magazine Island prove to be a nuisance so the first assault is there. Soon the Americans abandon the island and come ashore. The British then mount a second assault, this time on the mainland beaches, and gain a foothold. As they move inland under heavy opposition, the cavalry counter-attack, halting the British advance and a truce is called.

Afternoon of August 26th - Both sides having regrouped, commences the struggle once more. Once again cavalry prevent a total victory by the superior British numbers, despite the deployment of rockets. After an hour of fighting, the two sides parlay again. The Americans are permitted to go home while the British are left in possession of what is left of the base.

FOR ALL WHO DARED TO COME!
GOD SAVE THE KING