Historian's Corner



Charlene Cole
Sandy Creek/Lacona Historian
Historian's Corner
May 30, 2014

Photo: Paul Lear and comrades on Sandy Creek

On May 30 I was invited to speak about the Battle of Big Sandy 1814, at the monument located at the South Landing Bridge off Rt. 3, Ellisburg to “kick-off” the Cable Carry events for the following weekend. The day was warm and beautiful and everything went as planned when we were surprised by the arrival of Paul Lear (Fort Oswego) and his comrades dressed in period costume coming up Sandy Creek in a boat!

I read an account of the battle at the mouth of Big Sandy Creek; Al Johnston (Commander of Cable Trail Post 8534 VFW) read the names of Sandy Creek Cable Carriers and War of 1812 Veterans and Ann Davis, Vice President General Jacob Brown Chapter of the US Daughters of 1812, placed a wreath. Don Whitney gave an overview of the upcoming cable carry event and we enjoyed lemonade and cookies by the water.

The Great Cable Carry scheduled for Sat. June 7th and Sun. June 8th, 2014, to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Great Cable Carry that took place between May 29-June 1, 1814 after the British were surprised by an American attack at Big Sandy. The goal was to secure supplies as the British continued to block their arrival to Sackets Harbor. After Americans defeated the British, supplies needed to be carried to frigates in Sackets. All other supplies were taken by oxen, horse and cart; but the 5 ton cable was much too large to be carried by wagon. Over 200 men were commissioned to carry the cable 20 miles to Sackets; over a three day period. Residents along the route came to watch and cheer as the enormous rope was carried by many local militia; many who were local farmers. The men were paid $2 and received a hearty welcome and celebration upon their arrival in Sackets Harbor.

Participants will carry the cable from Big Sandy (Route 3) to Sackets Harbor. Water, snacks and bathrooms will be provided along the way. To participate contact: cablecarry1814@yahoo.com.

All stops are sites of 1812 monuments that were placed by the Northern Frontier Chapter of the Daughters of 1812 to mark the route of the cable carry. Beginning on Route 3, DEC parking lot, to route 289, continuing on to Smithville and onto Sackets in a two day period. Begin at 8:00 am, 1812 re-enactors, local public officials, historians and members of the Oneida Nation will be joining to make an authentic experience that you will not want to miss! Commemorative patches will be provided to all who participate.


Charlene Cole
Sandy Creek/Lacona Historian
1992 Harwood Drive
Sandy Creek, NY 13145
315-387-5456 x7
office hours: Friday 9am to 2pm
www.sandycreeknyhistory.com