In 1812, British forces were heavily engaged in the war in Europe with the Emperor Napoleon and could not deploy more forces in Canada to counter American attacks.
These events, seemingly so far away, conspired against Elizabeth Benton and her family’s lives.
Lake Erie at Long Point in September 1813. Elizabeth’s tranquil home would soon become a treacherous place.
Elizabeth’s world had been serene along the tranquil footpaths of the local forests.
The world had been idyllic, so far, for the young woman.
For everyone in the Long Point Settlement, and the Canadas, the forces of warfare were silently encroaching.
Huge trees proliferated in Upper Canada, like this cottonwood.
Trees like this sycamore, as well as oak, maple, and white pine were common in the thick Carolinian forests of the Long Point Settlement area.
Dense undergrowth and difficult terrain made land travel arduous, at best. It would not be uncommon for anyone to become disoriented or lost.
Most travel was done via waterways in vessels of whatever form.
Rivers provided excellent travel paths.
Most of the travel and freight happened along the lakeshores. They were major thoroughfares.
The Battle of Lake Erie on September of 1813 put an end to that. The Americans now controlled the lake and its traffic.
Elizabeth’s modest family home was in grave danger.
Young women in 1812 had very limited options in peacetime — let alone during a war.
Widows, like Aunt Catherine, and their families experienced hardship during war. Many of them lost or abandoned their homes.
It was time: Elizabeth Benton had to find her father.
Commander James Benton was lost in the battle for Lake Erie.
The Americans were coming. They were a real threat.
No one could foresee the web of deceit and treachery that would befall Elizabeth.
Marauders and traitors lurked everywhere. One could never really tell friend from foe.
Her new friend, Myles Jarvis, would not help her.
Everyone was leaving, travelling to the stronghold of Burlington Heights.
Not Elizabeth! With Robbie’s help, she would go in the still of night.
She would travel the trails to the fort at Amherstburg and find her father.
She needed no one’s help. She could succeed. She was certain.
