John Chrystie

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John Chrystie was an officer in the United States Army, who played a major although controversial part in the Battle of Queenston Heights, during the War of 1812.

He joined the United States Army in 1808, and rose to the the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the 13th U.S. Infantry by 1812. At the Battle of Queenston Heights, he was intended to command the regular contingent in the initial crossing of the Niagara River, but crew of the boat carrying his party panicked under fire and returned to the American side of the river. Chrystie was to be accused of cowardice after this incident.

He later crossed to the Canadian side once a secure foothold had been established and took command, but subsequently returned to the American bank and was absent when the American troops who had crossed the river were cut off and forced to surrender. He was blamed for the American defeat by Colonel Solomon Van Rensselaer and other officers.

Chrystie died (of natural causes) in July, 1813.