Star-Spangled Banner Historic Trail

— War of 1812 —

On the night of August 13, 300 British troops marched towards Queenstown where a large American militia force was said to be encamped. The cornfields provided a perfect cover for a picket guard of 20 Queen Anne's County Maryland militia troops watching for the advancing British Army at Slippery Hill Farm.
Upon encountering the picket guard, British soldiers fired to begin the skirmish that would become known as the Battle of Slipper Hill. The greatly outnumbered Americans used their knowledge of the landscape to take cover while firing repeatedly, causing panic in the British ranks. The horse of British Colonel Sir Sidney Beckwith was shot out from under him leaving only Lieutenant Colonel Sir Charles Napier on horseback in the attempt to restore order. The American militia in Queenstown, under the command of Major William H. Nicholson, was able to retreat safely to Centreville.
"It shall be known that a piquet guard...stood firm at their posts, received the attack, and returned the fire of a column of British troops of 2000 strong, supported by four field pieces; retreated, formed again and gave the Enemy their second fire.
If anything I could say would add to the reputation of those Gentlemen, how freely would I say it." Major William H. Nicholson to Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Thomas Wright, August 16, 1813.
(Inscription under the photo in the upper left) The only road from Kent Narrows to Queenstown in 1813 was a two wagon width strip of dirt that passed through Slipper Hill Farm, pictured here in late 1800's.
(Inscription under the image in the lower left) "My picket guard killed two of the enemy and wounded five and their commander in chief Sir Sidney Beckwith had his horse killed."Major William H. Nicholson to Governor Winder, August 20, 1813.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. The member who adopted this marker listing is responsible for adding pictures.

Show me all markers in:  Grasonville, MD  |  Queen Anne's County  |  21638  |  Maryland  |  United States of America

Protecting the Homefront
British Command
Lure of Freedom
Battle of Slippery Hill
Road to Battle
Governor William Grason
"Lord's Gift"
Colonial Courthouse
Queenstown
Surprise at Queenstown

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.