Death of Sir Isaac Brock

One of the greatest battles of the War of 1812 was the Battle of Queenston Heights, in which the British forces turned back the American invasion of Canada. However this victory came the cost of their commander, Sir Issac Brock. One history of Canada recorded his death in this way:

General Brock had, as was his custom, risen before day-break; and hearing the cannonading, had summoned his aides Major Glegg and Lt.-Col. Macdonell, of the militia; and hastened towards the scene of action, arriving at the battery just as the Americans, under Captain Wool, had reached the heights in its rear. General Brock and his two officers had not time to remount, but were obliged to retire hastily with the twelve men who had been stationed in the battery, which was now immediately occupied by the enemy. Orders were now sent to Major-General Sheaffe to hasten up, from Fort George ; and also that a fire should be maintained from that point upon Fort Niagara opposite. Retiring, the British general met Captain Dennis’ party, and, placing himself at its head, advanced on foot to dislodge the Americans, who were keeping up a brisk fire of musketry. Conspicuous by his dress, his height, and the enthusiasm with which he animated his little band, General Brock furnished a ready mark for the enemy’s riflemen. He had not advanced far before he fell mortally wounded by a shot through his chest. As he fell he gave the order, “Push on, brave York Volunteers.” One of the men running to him, asked “Are you much hurt, sir?” but his only reply was, as he pressed his hand on his side, “Push on ; don’t mind me.”