On January 9, 1838, a force of Canadians and Americans sympathizing with Mackenzie's rebellion sailed from United States territory and landed on Bois Blane Island. The schooner Anne, supporting the invasion, cruised along the Canadian mainland firing on structures near Fort Malden. Defending militia under Col. T. Radcliff returned the fire, disabling the helmsman and damaging the rigging. The Anne grounded on Elliott's Point and those aboard were captured. Their leader, Dr. E.A. Theller, an American citizen of Irish birth, was later imprisoned in the Quebec Citadel but made a successful escape.