Raid on Haverhill

In the quaint town of Haverhill, Massachusetts, a dramatic chapter of early American history unfolded on August 29, 1708. This was the day of the infamous Raid on Haverhill, a significant event during Queen Anne's War that left an indelible mark on the town and its inhabitants. As you walk through Haverhill today, it's almost impossible to imagine the chaos and turmoil that once gripped this serene community.

The Prelude to the Raid

The early 18th century was a turbulent time in the New England colonies, with tensions running high between the English settlers and the French, who were allied with various Native American tribes. Queen Anne's War, part of the larger War of the Spanish Succession, was the backdrop against which the Raid on Haverhill unfolded. French military officers, along with their Native American allies, frequently launched raids on English settlements, aiming to destabilize the English presence in the region.

The mastermind behind the Raid on Haverhill was Jean-Baptiste Hertel de Rouville, a seasoned French military officer known for his daring tactics. Originally, the French had grander plans to target the communities along the Piscataqua River, but logistical challenges and the reluctance of some Native American tribes to participate forced them to scale down their ambitions. Thus, Haverhill, a smaller and less fortified target, was chosen.

The Attack

In the early hours of August 29, 1708, the residents of Haverhill were jolted awake by the sounds of gunfire and shouting. The raiders, a force of about 160 French and Native American warriors, had successfully sneaked past the outer garrisons and were now descending upon the village. The element of surprise was on their side as they launched their brutal assault.

The first victim of the raid was a villager who spotted the approaching attackers and fired his gun to raise the alarm. Unfortunately, he was quickly overtaken and killed. The raiders then spread out, targeting the homes of the villagers. One of the most harrowing incidents occurred at the home of the minister, Benjamin Rolfe. Despite his attempts to barricade the door, the raiders broke in, killing Rolfe, his wife, and their infant child.

Captain Simon Wainwright, the local militia commander, was among those who tried to organize a defense. However, he was killed by gunfire before he could rally the villagers. Despite the chaos, some residents managed to escape by hiding in cellars or fleeing into the surrounding woods. The raiders continued their rampage, looting homes and setting the town meetinghouse on fire before making their retreat with prisoners and plunder in tow.

The Aftermath

The raid resulted in the deaths of 16 villagers, with another 14 to 24 taken captive. However, the attackers did not escape unscathed. As they retreated, they were pursued by a hastily assembled militia from neighboring communities. In a skirmish later that day, nine of the raiders were killed, and some of the captives managed to escape. Among the casualties was Hertel de Rouville's brother, a significant loss for the French.

The return journey to Canada was arduous for the raiders, who had to contend with the loss of their baggage and supplies. Some of the Frenchmen, unable to continue, surrendered to Massachusetts authorities. The raid, while initially successful, proved costly for the French, who suffered higher casualties than in previous raids, such as the 1704 attack on Deerfield, Massachusetts.

Legacy and Reflection

The Raid on Haverhill was one of the last large-scale attacks by the French on Massachusetts during Queen Anne's War. It highlighted the vulnerability of frontier settlements and the resilience of the colonial militia. For the residents of Haverhill, the raid was a traumatic event that underscored the harsh realities of life on the frontier.

Today, Haverhill is a thriving community that has long since moved past its turbulent beginnings. However, the memory of the raid remains an integral part of the town's history. Visitors to Haverhill can explore various historical sites and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the town's past. The story of the Raid on Haverhill serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by early settlers and the enduring spirit of those who built the foundations of modern-day Haverhill.

As you stroll through the streets of Haverhill, take a moment to reflect on the bravery and resilience of its early inhabitants. The Raid on Haverhill is not just a tale of conflict and loss; it's a testament to the strength and determination of a community that, despite the odds, persevered and thrived. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual visitor, the story of the Raid on Haverhill is sure to leave a lasting impression.