Public Library of Fort Wayne and Allen County
St. Clair's Defeat
"St. Clair's Defeat" prepared by the Staff of the Public Library of Fort Wayne and Allen County is a historical account published in the mid-20th century. It chronicles the disastrous battle that took place in 1791, detailing the experiences of soldiers and their encounters with Native American forces during a tumultuous time in American history. The topic revolves around a significant military defeat faced by General Arthur St. Clair's army, which significantly impacted frontier relations and the subsequent military strategies employed in the region. The pamphlet presents firsthand accounts from survivors and historical data to illustrate the chaos of St. Clair's Defeat. It recounts the preparation and the lead-up to the battle, including the army's misestimations and lack of discipline that contributed to their downfall. Key moments highlight the confusion among troops as they faced a surprise attack from a numerically superior Native American force. Various narratives illustrate the bravery of individual soldiers, the desperation of the retreat, and the aftermath of the battle, where nearly a thousand men, women, and children were either killed or wounded. This comprehensive account provides a vivid portrayal of the human experiences surrounding one of early America's most severe military failures.