Aug. 15 – Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
At what is now Prairie Avenue and 18th Street, about 500 warriors attacked the column, defended by 54 soldiers and 12 militiamen. The battle lasted perhaps 15 minutes. At least half of the evacuees were killed. Afterward the warriors killed some of the prisoners, including those who were badly wounded. On Aug. 16, 1812, the victors burned down the fort.
This event is known as the Fort Dearborn Massacre. A little-known incident of the War of 1812, is it still unfamiliar to those outside Chicago. Most Chicagoans are at least vaguely familiar with the story. Anyone seeking to learn details should read Jerry Crimmins’ historical novel, “Fort Dearborn” (Northwestern University Press 2006).
Read more: Prof. Lousin for Chicago Daily Law Bulletin: Fort Dearborn a Chicago Tragedy and Controversy?
