Stag Island residents also got a bird’s eye view of the only naval engagement on the St Clair River.It took place during the Penian troubles, when a group of Irish – Americans secured a ship and began raiding Corunna, Courtright and Mooretown.
They’d come ashore, rob local banks and flee back across the St Clair River.
The
practice came to a halt after a number of Corunna residents, led by John Gurd,
took to canoes and boats to intercept the Penian Ship off Stag Islands.Musket fire was exchanged and the American
boat was run aground on the U.S. side of the river.The raiders escaped into nearby woods, leaving behind two chained
prisoners, who were freed by the Lambton County Boys.