An early failed American attempt to seize Montreal in 1775 that resulted in Ethan Allen's capture and imprisonment for nearly three years.
Key Facts
- Date
- September 25, 1775
- American force size
- Approximately 110 men
- Allen's captivity released
- 1778
- Montreal fell to Continental Army
- November 13, 1775
- British commander
- General Guy Carleton
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Ethan Allen, tasked only with recruiting Quebec militia during the American invasion of Canada, saw an opportunity to seize the lightly defended city of Montreal. He coordinated with Major John Brown, who was supposed to provide reinforcing troops, and crossed the St. Lawrence River with roughly 110 American and Quebec militia fighters.
On September 25, 1775, Allen's force crossed the St. Lawrence to the north shore near Longue-Pointe. Brown's promised reinforcements never arrived. British General Guy Carleton dispatched a predominantly Quebec militia force that cut off Allen's retreat, surrounded his isolated men, and captured Allen along with a number of his soldiers.
Allen was transported as a prisoner to England and later to New York City, remaining in captivity until his exchange in 1778. Despite this setback, Carleton ultimately abandoned Montreal, and Continental Army forces occupied the city without a fight on November 13, 1775, achieving the strategic objective Allen had failed to take by force.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Ethan Allen, Major John Brown.
Side B
1 belligerent
General Guy Carleton.