Delay Tactic

In preparation for a probable British landing at North Point, defensive earthworks were partially dug at a narrows in the Patapsco Peninsula three miles south of here. Midway between North Point and the American defenses at Baltimore, British forces met American defenders on this battlefield at a strategic second narrowing of the peninsula on September 12, 1814. The action successfully delayed the British advance toward the city. Maryland’s 5th Regiment of militia, bolstered by battle experience at Bladensburg, anchored the American right flank during the Battle of North Point. The last unit to leave the battlefield, the 5th protected the rear as the Americans withdrew. Back River, Bread and Cheese Creek, and Bear Creek formed the narrow Patapsco Neck where the Battle of North Point occurred. Artist Thomas Ruckle, who painted scenes of the Battle of Baltimore, saw the action firsthand as part of the 5th Maryland Regiment.

Dundalk, Maryland · United States