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A VETERAN OF THE WAR OF 1812 SUBMITS A SKETCH

Autograph Letter Signed, "Yours very truly, J. Van Cleve." One page, 7 3/4" x 9 3/4". "Lewiston N. York" October 4, 1860. To "Benson J. Lossing Esqr." Accompanied by pencil sketch of the Battle of French Creek with hand written caption. Van Cleve writes, in part: "Agreeable to my promise I send you a sketch of "Bald Island" A sketch of the encampment of Gen. Wilkinson's Army at French Creek (now Clayton) with Bartlets Point upon which Wilkison mounted some guns + played away upon the Gun boats Nov. 1st +2nd 1813 – see his report in "Niles Register" – Also a small sketch of "Fort Henry" + "Cedar Island" Kingston – It has occurred to me since so much interest is taken in all that relates to Perry's fleet + Victory that a correct sketch of that celebrated place "Put in Bay" would add to the interest of your work, I have taken the liberty to send you a sketch I made upon the spot on the 10th Sept. 1859 … " Accompanying pencil sketch described by Van Cleve as follows: " Attack by Gun boats on Wilkinson Army which encamped at French Creek N.C. Nov 1st + 2nd 1813 – The Americans drew some guns to the top of Bartlets Point (see smoke) and played upon the flotilla." On November 1st 1813, a British squadron arrived at the mouth of French Creek with two schooners, two brigs and four gunboats. Three ships anchored in the bay and began firing on the American position. The Americans responded with cannon fire from two brass 18 pounders which were located on the west side of the creek. After ceasing fire for the night, the British began firing on the American position the next morning. However, the Americans had placed more cannons on the west side of the creek under the cover of darkness, forcing the British to withdraw once again. Benson J. Lossing (1813-1891) was a wood engraver, editor, and historian working in New York throughout much of the 19th century. Among his books was Pictorial Fieldbook of 1812 (1868), which drew upon the information provided in this letter from Van Cleve, a participant in the Battle at French Creek. Mounting trace on verso of letter and adhesive paper strip at bottom right of sketch. Else Fine.