HISTORY

September 10, 1814
Battle of the Potomac

Two or perhaps three burning ships were sent in the direction of British frigates in the Potomac River. The plan was that the frigates, unable to maneuver in the narrow section of the river opposite the remains of Ft. Washington, would catch fire and be lost to the Royal Navy.

Although true, the British simply sent out three small boats and towed the burning hulks to the river's edge and beached them, where they burnt out without causing any damage to their fleet.