The Battle on the West Bank

After discovering American militia and artillery on the west bank of the Mississippi River, British General Pakenham ordered Lieutenant Colonel William B. Thornton to lead an attack force across the river to capture the American guns and turn them against Major General Andrew Jackson’s line on the East Bank. The Americans under Brigadier General David B. Morgan made a stand, but they were routed, pursued, and their guns were taken. The British called off the engagement when they were defeated on the East Bank, and the assault of January 8, 1815, remained their only victory. American casualties numbered 49, while the British reported losing 83 men. Had the success on the West Bank been exploited, the Battle of New Orleans might have ended in a British victory.

Chalmette, Louisiana · United States