"A Man of Tried Courage, Patriotism, and Fidelity: Major" Topic

… Thomas Maxwell and the War of 1812

" On July 7, 1818 Colonel Joseph L Smith, commanding officer of the 3rd Infantry Regiment and of Detroit, wrote to Daniel Parker, the Adjutant and Inspector General of the Army at Washington, D.C., regarding an aged man who was setting off on a journey back east: "Sir, Major Thompson Maxwell who has been on duty at this place for the last two or three years in the capacity of principle barrack master is about to visit- walking, too…" The man he spoke of claimed to have been a survivor of at least four wars: the French and Indian War (1754-1763), Pontiac's Rebellion (1763-1766), the American Revolution (1775-1783), and the War of 1812 (1812-1815). He had fought as one of Roger's Rangers; had been one of the disguised Sons of Liberty who participated in the Boston Tea Party; had been a captain in the Massachusetts militia during Shay's Rebellion in 1787.

Whether Maxwell was present at all these events is not undisputed by historians. One recent web article calls him "the Forrest Gump of the American Revolution" (https://www.newenglandhistoricalsociety.com/thompson-maxwell-the-forrest-gump-of-the-american-revolution/ accessed 5/5/2021). However, what is easier to verify is his service during the War of 1812, which is verified by both primary and secondary sources. Most of the latter remark on his presence with William Hull's army when it marched to Detroit. However, in the aftermath of Hull's surrender of Detroit, a local mob singled out Thomas Maxwell for reprisal and burned his house down. Homeless and destitute, in his 60s, Maxwell remained with the American army throughout the rest of the war…"

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Armand

A wonderful article on this intrepid volunteer that covers his involvement throughout the War of 1812. It also gives insight to vigilantism and how cowards can turn the ignorant public against a genuine hero. A great web site as well!

A good find T, thanks.

A votre service mon ami…

Armand