The "1812 battle off Patuxent River" refers to a series of engagements, primarily known as the Battle of St. Leonard Creek, which took place in June 1814 during the War of 1812. The battle occurred where St. Leonard Creek meets the Patuxent River in Maryland, and involved both naval skirmishes and land battles. The Battle of St. Leonard Creek was the largest naval engagement in Maryland during the War of 1812.
It involved the American flotilla, commanded by Joshua Barney, engaging a British squadron in the Patuxent River.
The American flotilla, designed for shallow waters, initially had some success in skirmishes, but was eventually forced to retreat.
The battle was supported by American land units, including a gun battery on the shore, which also engaged the British.
The British ultimately retreated, allowing Barney's flotilla to escape.
Archaeological evidence of the battle, including cannonballs and musket shot, has been discovered on the grounds of the historic John Parke Pope Memorial property.
Battles of St. Leonard Creek - Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail (U.S. National Park Service)
Jan 13, 2022
Battle of St. Leonard Creek
It involved the American flotilla, commanded by Joshua Barney, engaging a British squadron in the Patuxent River.
The American flotilla, designed for shallow waters, initially had some success in skirmishes, but was eventually forced to retreat.
The battle was supported by American land units, including a gun battery on the shore, which also engaged the British.
The British ultimately retreated, allowing Barney's flotilla to escape.
(All this about 3/4 miles up stream from my home!)