Barataria Island
Barataria, LA | Sep 16 - 20, 1814
On September 11, 1814, Comm. Daniel Patterson sailed to Grande Terre to stop the Barataria’s illicit trade. His flotilla was met by privateers under the command of Dominique You. The Americans were supported by a rogue group of Baratarians under the command of Jean Lafitte. You’s forces tried to scuttle their ships and retreat, but the American flotilla overcame You and captured the Baratarians’ vessels while American forces under the command of Col. George Ross captured Grand Terre.
The expedition was considered a success. The Americans had taken a number of boats, which could be utilized to fight the British for and pirate activity and commerce along the gulf was disrupted. It is important to note that the privateers led by Jean Lafitte had volunteered for service with the American cause after receiving the British offer of collaboration, and that when approached by the American expedition chose to flee rather than fire on American forces. These factors were noted when clemency was offered for those of the privateers who later joined and served with distinction for the American cause.
