Existing comment:
Battle of Lake Champlain:
In contrast to most naval clashes during the war, the Battle of Lake Champlain was stationary. Macdonough anchored his fleet and awaited the British arrival. Having suffered extensive damage to one side of his flagship Saratoga, Macdonough swung his ship around and brought the undamaged guns to bear. The new firepower lead to the defeat of the British flagship, and three other enemy ships surrendered. Upon seeing the American victory, British land forces ceased their attack, signaling the end of the British offensives from Canada.
Thomas Macdonough, as he often did, personally aimed the first shot of the Battle of Plattsburgh and destroyed the steering wheel of the enemy's flagship Confiance.
The popular story of "Saratoga's fighting gamecock" features a rooster which was liberated from confinement by a rogue shot. The crowing rooster, viewed as a sign of victory, inspired the crew to continue fighting. |