Chalmette in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana — The American South (West South Central)

The Battle on the West Bank

Photographed By Bryan Olson, circa May 2007

1. The Battle on the West Bank Marker

Inscription. Discovering American militia and artillery on the west bank of the Mississippi River, British General Pakenham ordered Lieutenant Colonel William B. Thornton to lead an attack force across the river. Thornton was to capture the American guns and turn them against Major General Andrew Jackson’s line here on the East Bank.

The Americans under Brigadier General David B. Morgan made a stand, but they were routed, pursued, and their guns were taken. Fortunately for the Americans the British called off this engagement when they were defeated here on the East Bank. The American casualties numbered 49. This British reported losing 83 men.

The British assault of January 8, 1815, proved to be the only British victory. Had the successes on the West Bank been exploited, the Battle of New Orleans might have ended in a British victory.

Erected by National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: War of 1812. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #07 Andrew Jackson series list. A significant historical date for this entry is January 8, 1935.

Location. Marker has been reported missing. It was located near 29° 56.461′ N, 89°

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59.674′ W. Marker was in Chalmette, Louisiana, in St. Bernard Parish. Marker could be reached from Battlefield Road. Marker is located on Chalmette battlefield path. Touch for map. Marker was in this post office area: Chalmette LA 70043, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this location. Batteries Two and Three (a few steps from this marker); Chalmet Plantation (within shouting distance of this marker); Rodriguez Plantation and Macarty House (within shouting distance of this marker); The West Bank Assault (within shouting distance of this marker); Battery One and Forward Redoubt (within shouting distance of this marker); Batteries 2 and 3 (within shouting distance of this marker); Attack Along the River (within shouting distance of this marker); After the Battle (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Chalmette.

More about this marker. The marker features a map showing the course of troop movements in the battle and an illustration of Brigadier General David B. Morgan.

Additional keywords. Chalmette Battlefield

Credits. This page was last revised on January 14, 2023. It was originally submitted on March 15, 2008, by Bryan Olson of Syracuse, New York. This page has been viewed 2,148 times since then and 33 times this year. Photo 1. submitted on March 15, 2008, by Bryan Olson of Syracuse, New York. • Christopher Busta-Peck was the editor who published this page.