Existing comment:
A British General Is Killed
Before the Battle of North Point, both sides traded 'light' fire, or skirmished, in order to determine the position and strength of the opposing force.
Major General Robert Ross, commanding the British forces, heard the skirmishing at Gorsuch Farm and rode ahead to survey the terrain and direct the upcoming battle. As the gunshots rang out, Ross fell mortally wounded. Respected by his men for leadership and bravery, his death proved a blow to British morale.
Although the British won a tactical victory at North Point, the death of General Ross, fierceness of the Maryland militia and loss of 300 casualties made the British high command reluctant to attack the American entrenchments on the outskirts of Baltimore the following day.
" ... my gallant and highly valued friend, the Major General, received a musket ball through his arm into his breast, which proved fatal to him... Our country sir, has lost one of its best and bravest soldiers..."
-- George Cockburn, Rear Admiral, 1814 |