The enemy took possession of the fort (Freeland), and allowed the women and children to remain in an old building outside of the fort, on the bank of the (Warrior) run. At a preconcerted signal, Capt. Hawkins Boone, who commanded a fort on Muddy run, (about 600 yards above its mouth, and two miles above Milton,) came up to the relief of Freeland's fort, with a party of men. Perceiving the women and children playing outside of the fort, he suspected no danger, and incautiously approached so near that the women were obliged to make signs to him to retire. He retreated precipitately, but was perceived by the enemy, who with a strong force waylaid him, on the Northumberland road, at M'Clung's place. Boone's party fell into the ambush, and a most desperate encounter ensued, from which few of the Americans escaped. William Miles, (now of Erie co.,) was taken prisoner in Freeland's fort, and afterwards, in Canada, Col. McDonald mentioned to him, in the highest terms of commendation, the desperate bravery of Hawkins Boone. He refused all quarter - encouraged and forced his men to stand up to the encounter; and at last, with most of his Spartan band, died on the field, overpowered by superior numbers.
Cornelius Vincent and his son, Bethuel Vincent, (father of Mr. Vincent of M'Cuneville,) Capt. John Lytle, William Miles, and others, were taken prisoners at the capitulation (at Fort Freeland). Capt. Samuel Dougherty and a brother of Mr. Miles were killed in the fight. Peter Vincent escaped in the flurry occasioned by Hawkins Boone coming up. Sam Brady, James Dougherty, and James Hammond had cautioned Boone against keeping the road, in his retreat; and they themselves, refusing to accompany him along the road, took the route through the woods, and escaped.
https://www.miltonhistory.org/tng/getperson.php?personID=I5994&tree=miltonfamilies
