Warning French Inhabitants Before the Siege

Depiction by painter Frederick Coffay Yohn.

Upon finally arriving in Vincennes, Clark had a letter delivered to the French inhabitants, warning them that “if any there be, that are friends to the king of England, will instantly repair to the fort and join his troops and fight like men....On the contrary, those who are true friends to liberty may expect to be well treated as such, and I once more request that they may keep out of the streets...”

Next, he sent Lt. Bailey forward with 14 men and fired on the Fort, which confused the British forces who were unaware of the presence of American troops. Clark confused Hamilton even more by parading his forces around on different sides of the Fort, making it seem as if he had more men than he actually did.

Click Here to hear about how Major Bosseron and the Vincennes militia aided the Americans during the siege.

Was Clark’s strategy for confusing the British clever or sneaky? Or both? Is it ever alright to trick your opponent in battle?