The Mississippi offered the Royal Navy a route inland toward St. Louis. Ships could move troops upriver, following an approach compared with operations at Quebec and in China. One estimate suggests that a couple of 64-gun ships might have been intended for the passage. Escorting movement along the river was considered easier than supplying forces in Appalachia or farther across the Louisiana Purchase.
Notable Point · 4:03:55-4:04:50
The Mississippi route in Britain's War of 1812 plans
A Mississippi approach toward St. Louis would give the Royal Navy a river route for troops and supplies, with 64-gun ships suggested as possible participants.