Existing comment:
Maryland Invaded... it appears the enemy have taken possession of Kent Island, and that the inhabitants of every description have removed to the main land... From the circumstance of landing cannon on Kent Island, it appears to be the intention of the enemy to keep possession of it for some time; and certainly a more eligible situation could not have been selected for their own safety and convenience or from which to annoy us.
-- Captain Charles Gordon, USN, August 13, 1813
Before now, the people of Prince George's County had not really felt the effects of the war, though business had slowed and the compulsory militia service had brought hardship on some. After the blockade was effectually established, conditions became much worse. Merchant vessels could no longer come into the Chesapeake and the price of food increased enormously. Many businesses came to s standstill as they no longer could receive shipments of goods to sell. |