Historical Significance:
This trail was a major route for Native Americans and early frontiersmen and was originally called the Sandusky-Scioto Trail. During the War of 1812, a portion of the trail become known as the Harrison Trail for General Harrison's heavy wagons used it to move the army.
Major Ball's Squadron was ambushed by Indians near this spot on the Harrison Trail along the Sandusky River, Fremont, OH July 30, 1813 . General Harrison had built several forts along a supply trail along the Sandusky River Valley. Troops were traveling from Fort Seneca to Fort Stephenson when the ambush took place. Major George Croghan was in command at Fort Stephenson, which was attacked by General Proctor. General Proctor retreated with many of his men killed or wounded at this significant point in the war.
Historic Marker:
The marker was placed on a rock at the spot of a noted battle from the War of 1812.
- Marker Organization: Colonel George Croghan Chapter NSDAR
- Marker Date: 1910
- Marker Text: BALL'S BATTLEFIELD Major Ball’s Squadron 2nd Light Dragoons U.S. Army while escorting Col. Wells 17th U.S. Infantry from Major General Harrison’s headquarters at Fort Seneca to relieve Major Croghan of the command of Fort Stephenson for alleged insubordination in refusing to evacuate the fort was ambushed by Indians near this spot but gallantly charging them killed seventeen with the sabre. 30th July 1813.