Following Pontiac’s attack on Fort Detroit, word quickly spread to Indian villages across the region and other tribes followed suit. On May 16, Wyandot warriors approached Fort Sandusky, on the south shore of Lake Erie, and asked to smoke a peace pipe with the commandant, Ensign Paully. Unaware of the rebellion and on friendly terms with the Wyandots, Paully opened the gates and the warriors massacred the fifteen-man garrison. Similar stories began to unfold throughout the region.

Tom Hand, creator and publisher of Americana Corner, discusses how tribes were able to capture British outposts across the Great Lakes region during Pontiac’s Rebellion, and why it still matters today. Read Tom’s blog to learn more.

Photo Credits:
Library of Congress
New York Public Library
National Army Museum