The Battle of Longue-Pointe was fought on September 24, 1775, during the American Revolutionary War and was a British victory. A detachment of General Montgomery's army under Ethan Allen was defeated by Quebec militia outside the gates of Montreal.
Allen's nominal objective was to secure the bank of the St. Lawrence River and to prevent British General Carleton from attempting a relief of Fort St. Jean, under siege by Montgomery. Acting on poor intelligence, the Americans decided to attack Montreal itself.
They were met in the field by a force of militia and British regulars. Allen's men, struck by musket fire, broke almost immediately. Allen surrendered and was taken prisoner.
This abortive attack on Montreal led to the full mobilization of local militia, which soon counted 2,000 men. But Carleton still refused to organize the relief of Fort St. Jean. Disgusted, the militias eventually disbanded to attend their harvests, and Carleton withdrew to Quebec. In November, Montgomery occupied Montreal without firing a shot.
Friday, August 17, 2007
What was The Battle of Mobley’s Meeting House?
The Battle of Mobley’s Meeting House is an engagement that occurred during the American Revolutionary War in the Mobley Settlement, Fairfield County, South Carolina during the Southern Campaign of Lord Cornwallis. On a date between 7 and 11 June, most likely 10 June 1780, a small body of Whig militia numbering between 100 and 200 in total was formed from the commands of Colonel William Bratton, Colonel (Captain) Edward Lacey, Captain (Colonel) John McClure, Colonel Samuel Watson, Colonel Cooper, and Colonel William Hill, with Majors Richard Winn and “Paddy” McGriff as the Field Majors and Adjutant James ‘Jemmy’ Johns(t)on. This group was comprised in large part of the Whig forces that had a few days earlier routed and scattered a Tory gathering at Beckhamville, South Carolina under the command of the Tory Colonel (or Captain) Houseman. Colonel William Bratton was elected overall field commander for the engagement, and this group attacked a formation of Tories who were plundering the greater Fairfield District neighborhood in the aftermath of the fall of Charleston under the active encouragement of Lord Cornwallis at Camden and British Colonel Turnbull at Rocky Mount.
The Tories had formed at a well-known rendezvous location called Mobley’s Meeting House in the Mobley Settlement, located on a high embankment on a branch of the Little River in Fairfield District. They were under the general command of Tory Colonel Robert Coleman of Fairfield District, Tory Colonel Joseph Fleuquinyan and Tory Captain William Nichols. This group had plundered many of the possessions of Whigs in the area, in particular members of the Hampton family and had sent John and Henry Hampton prisoner to Lord Cornwallis at Camden. Thus laden down with booty and awaiting British assistance, the Tories were hit by the combined Whig force more or less by surprise and, like at Beckhamville, scattered in retreat in short order. The attack occurred at daybreak with an assault on the Church and a nearby strong/block house or fortified building. The Whig forces attacked from three sides, leaving the fourth uncovered as it was thought that the embankment was too hazardous to climb for an attack or to descend in a retreat. However, during the confusion and panic, a number of Tories attempted just that and were injured in the process. Few casualties were noted on either side other than those resulting from falls down the embankment. Much of the plunder was recovered and restored to the owners, and a significant number of prisoners were taken and sent to North Carolina. After the battle, some of the Whigs immediately left for North Carolina while others stayed on. In the immediate aftermath, Colonel Turnbull, the regional British commander at Rocky Mount, sent the New York Provincials (the Green Coats Tories) under Captain Christian Huck in reprisal. They in turn destroyed the home and parsonage of the Reverend John Simpson and attacked the remaining Whigs at the Iron Works of Colonel William Hill. After the destruction of the Iron Works, the remaining Whigs were forced to withdraw into North Carolina and assist in Sumter’s rise and their vengeance on Huck in July.
The location of the meeting house is about 6 miles west of present-day Winnsboro on the waters of the Little River. A marker has been placed nearby, on SSR 18 at a point approximately 1.5 miles west of the site. At one time, there was a road or pathway that went past the meeting house, but it is inaccessible today. At the 16 August 1786 session of the County Court for Fairfield District (County), the inhabitants on Little River petitioned for a road from Mobley’s Meeting House to Winnsboro leading by James Rogers’ house. This order was granted, and a commission of Burr Harrison, Esquire, Thomas Shannon and Thomas Addison was empowered to view the road. Surveyors (maintainers) for the road were also ordered at this session as a Mr. Butler for the leg from the meeting house to Mr. Harrison’s on Little River, and for Benjamin Harrison for the leg from Harrison’s to the Winnsboro Road. It would appear that in the two centuries hence, this road has been discontinued at least in the part near the meeting house site.
While minor in scope, this engagement and others like it represented important symbolic victories for the Whigs. Mobley’s Meeting House and the Battle of Beckhamville were the first two Whig successes against a string of defeats at Monck’s Corner, the Waxhaws, Lenud’s Ferry, and the demoralizing fall of Charleston. Other setbacks at Brandon’s Defeat and Hill’s Iron Works after the Beckhamville and Mobley’s Meeting House successes continued to press the Whigs, but rallies at Huck’s Defeat (Williamson’s Plantation) and Ramsour’s Mill continued to provide strategically small, but much needed morale and spiritual, victories to keep the Patriots going through these dark days, especially after the whippings delivered on them by the British at Camden and Fishing Creek only two months later on 16 and 18 August 1780. It wasn’t until 7 October 1780 that deliverance came, with the decisive Whig victory at King’s Mountain that was, in retrospect, the turning point of Cornwallis’ Southern Campaign.
For a list of participants, see: http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/s/h/e/Kenneth-Shelton-VA/FILE/0028page.html
Source: Shelton, Kenneth, "All That Dare Oppose Them: The Whig Victory at Mobley's Meeting House, June 1780", (2005)
The Tories had formed at a well-known rendezvous location called Mobley’s Meeting House in the Mobley Settlement, located on a high embankment on a branch of the Little River in Fairfield District. They were under the general command of Tory Colonel Robert Coleman of Fairfield District, Tory Colonel Joseph Fleuquinyan and Tory Captain William Nichols. This group had plundered many of the possessions of Whigs in the area, in particular members of the Hampton family and had sent John and Henry Hampton prisoner to Lord Cornwallis at Camden. Thus laden down with booty and awaiting British assistance, the Tories were hit by the combined Whig force more or less by surprise and, like at Beckhamville, scattered in retreat in short order. The attack occurred at daybreak with an assault on the Church and a nearby strong/block house or fortified building. The Whig forces attacked from three sides, leaving the fourth uncovered as it was thought that the embankment was too hazardous to climb for an attack or to descend in a retreat. However, during the confusion and panic, a number of Tories attempted just that and were injured in the process. Few casualties were noted on either side other than those resulting from falls down the embankment. Much of the plunder was recovered and restored to the owners, and a significant number of prisoners were taken and sent to North Carolina. After the battle, some of the Whigs immediately left for North Carolina while others stayed on. In the immediate aftermath, Colonel Turnbull, the regional British commander at Rocky Mount, sent the New York Provincials (the Green Coats Tories) under Captain Christian Huck in reprisal. They in turn destroyed the home and parsonage of the Reverend John Simpson and attacked the remaining Whigs at the Iron Works of Colonel William Hill. After the destruction of the Iron Works, the remaining Whigs were forced to withdraw into North Carolina and assist in Sumter’s rise and their vengeance on Huck in July.
The location of the meeting house is about 6 miles west of present-day Winnsboro on the waters of the Little River. A marker has been placed nearby, on SSR 18 at a point approximately 1.5 miles west of the site. At one time, there was a road or pathway that went past the meeting house, but it is inaccessible today. At the 16 August 1786 session of the County Court for Fairfield District (County), the inhabitants on Little River petitioned for a road from Mobley’s Meeting House to Winnsboro leading by James Rogers’ house. This order was granted, and a commission of Burr Harrison, Esquire, Thomas Shannon and Thomas Addison was empowered to view the road. Surveyors (maintainers) for the road were also ordered at this session as a Mr. Butler for the leg from the meeting house to Mr. Harrison’s on Little River, and for Benjamin Harrison for the leg from Harrison’s to the Winnsboro Road. It would appear that in the two centuries hence, this road has been discontinued at least in the part near the meeting house site.
While minor in scope, this engagement and others like it represented important symbolic victories for the Whigs. Mobley’s Meeting House and the Battle of Beckhamville were the first two Whig successes against a string of defeats at Monck’s Corner, the Waxhaws, Lenud’s Ferry, and the demoralizing fall of Charleston. Other setbacks at Brandon’s Defeat and Hill’s Iron Works after the Beckhamville and Mobley’s Meeting House successes continued to press the Whigs, but rallies at Huck’s Defeat (Williamson’s Plantation) and Ramsour’s Mill continued to provide strategically small, but much needed morale and spiritual, victories to keep the Patriots going through these dark days, especially after the whippings delivered on them by the British at Camden and Fishing Creek only two months later on 16 and 18 August 1780. It wasn’t until 7 October 1780 that deliverance came, with the decisive Whig victory at King’s Mountain that was, in retrospect, the turning point of Cornwallis’ Southern Campaign.
For a list of participants, see: http://familytreemaker.genealogy.com/users/s/h/e/Kenneth-Shelton-VA/FILE/0028page.html
Source: Shelton, Kenneth, "All That Dare Oppose Them: The Whig Victory at Mobley's Meeting House, June 1780", (2005)
Who was William Grayson?
William Grayson (1740 - 12 March 1790) was an American politician of the Anti-Federalist faction.
Grayson was born in Virginia. He attended the University of Pennsylvania and Oxford University, studying classics. He practiced law in Dumfries, Virginia until the American Revolutionary War began. Serving as an aide-de-camp to George Washington, Grayson rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1777, he recruited a regiment for the Continental Army known as Grayson's Regiment, and served as its colonel through the Philadelphia campaign. In 1778, he served on a commission dealing with war prisoners, and in 1779 he resigned his military commission to serve on the Congressional Board of War. In 1781 he returned to Dumfries to practice law.
He was a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1785 to 1787. He was then appointed to the United States Senate, and served from 4 March 1789 until his death on 12 March 1790. He was also an original member of the Society of the Cincinnati.[citation needed]
His wife was Eleanor Smallwood, a sister of Maryland Governor William Smallwood. Grayson was the grandfather of William Grayson Carter, Kentucky state senator, and Confederate General John Breckinridge Grayson (General J.B. Grayson was also the grandson of Virginia/Kentucky Senator John Breckinridge (1760-1806) of the Breckinridge political family and related to Senators Henry Clay and Thomas Hart Benton (senator)).
Grayson is interred within a concrete covered vault on private property in Woodbridge, VA.
Grayson was born in Virginia. He attended the University of Pennsylvania and Oxford University, studying classics. He practiced law in Dumfries, Virginia until the American Revolutionary War began. Serving as an aide-de-camp to George Washington, Grayson rose to the rank of lieutenant colonel. In 1777, he recruited a regiment for the Continental Army known as Grayson's Regiment, and served as its colonel through the Philadelphia campaign. In 1778, he served on a commission dealing with war prisoners, and in 1779 he resigned his military commission to serve on the Congressional Board of War. In 1781 he returned to Dumfries to practice law.
He was a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1785 to 1787. He was then appointed to the United States Senate, and served from 4 March 1789 until his death on 12 March 1790. He was also an original member of the Society of the Cincinnati.[citation needed]
His wife was Eleanor Smallwood, a sister of Maryland Governor William Smallwood. Grayson was the grandfather of William Grayson Carter, Kentucky state senator, and Confederate General John Breckinridge Grayson (General J.B. Grayson was also the grandson of Virginia/Kentucky Senator John Breckinridge (1760-1806) of the Breckinridge political family and related to Senators Henry Clay and Thomas Hart Benton (senator)).
Grayson is interred within a concrete covered vault on private property in Woodbridge, VA.
Who was John Chavis?
John Chavis (c. 1763-1838) was a black educator and Presbyterian minister in the American South during the early 19th century.
The exact date of Chavis' birth is not known. It is believed that he was born in either 1762 or 1763. One source claims he was born on October 18, 1763, but with no evidence given.
Information about Chavis' early life is scant as well, with few records to document it. It is believed that he may have been the 'John Chavis' who was employed as an indentured servant by a Halifax lawyer named James Milner. A 1773 inventory of Milner's estate does list an "indentured servant named John Chavis." Since Milner possessed a large library, it is likely that Chavis received some schooling during his period of service.
Chavis served as a soldier during the American Revolution. He enlisted in December 1778 and served in the Fifth Regiment of Virginia for three years. Captain Mayo Carrington of the Fifth Regiment of Virginia, wrote in a bounty warrant dated March 1783, that Chavis had "faithfully fulfilled [his duties] and is thereby entitled to all immunities granted to three year soldiers."
A 1789 tax list of Mecklenburg County, Virginia, shows that he was listed as a free black man owning one horse. He had married a woman named Sarah Frances Anderson, and they had one son, Anderson Chavis. In 1789, he was employed by Robert Greenwood's estate as tutor to Greenwood's orphans.
Chavis arrived at the Liberty Hall Academy in Lexington, Virginia in 1795, one year prior to George Washington's gift of 100 shares of James River Company Stock. He was still a student when the institution changed its name to Washington Academy. (Washington Academy would change its name a third time long after Chavis left the school, becoming Washington and Lee University.)
Prior to 1795, Chavis had resided in New Jersey, where he had taken private classes under John Witherspoon in preparation for entering the Presbyterian ministry. In the recorded minutes of the meeting of the trustees of the College of New Jersey (later to become Princeton University) dated September 26, 1792, there is a recommendation by Reverend John Blair that "Mr. Todd Henry, a Virginian, and John Chavis, a free black man of that state, ... be received" on the school's Leslie Fund. Chavis transferred to Liberty Hall Academy after Witherspoon's death in 1794.
On November 19, 1800 Chavis completed with high honors a rigorous theological examination that began on June 11, 1800. On this date, he was also granted a license to preach by the Presbytery of Lexington in Virginia.
Six months later, with high character recommendations from the Presbytery of Lexington, Chavis was transferred to work under the Hanover Presbytery.
In April 1802, Chavis had applied for freedmen's papers and received them from Rockbridge County Court. It was recorded that "said [John] Chavis has been known to the Court for several years ... and that he has always ... been considered as a freeman, and they believe him to be such, and that he has always while in the county conducted himself in a decent orderly and respectable manner, and also that he has been a student at Washington Academy [sic] where they believe he whent [sic] through a regular course of academical [sic] studies."
Between 1801 and 1807, Chavis served as a circuit riding missionary for the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church to slaves and free blacks in the states of Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. He also converted whites as well.
Chavis came to Raleigh, North Carolina sometime between 1807 and 1809, where he was licensed to preach the Christian Gospel by the Orange Presbytery. While he was not given a parish, he continued to preach to Black and White congregations in Granville, Orange, and Wake Counties. Some of the white congregations included slaveholders.
In 1808, Chavis opened a school in his home where he taught both white and black children. He placed ads in the Raleigh Register to encourage enrollment. At first he taught both races together, but after some white parents objected, he taught white children during the day and black children in the evenings. He charged white students $2.50 per quarter, and black students $1.75 per quarter. As an educator, Chavis taught full time and instructed his college bound white students in Latin and Greek, which were required study in the colleges and universities of that time.
His school was described as one of the best in the state. Students from some of the most prominent white families in the South studied at Chavis' school. His students includes Priestly H. Mangum, brother of Senator Willie P. Mangum; Archibald E. Henderson and John L. Henderson, sons of Chief Justice Henderson; Governor Charles Manly; The Reverend William Harris; Dr. James L. Wortham; the Edwardses, Enlows (Enloes), Hargroves, and Horners; and Abraham Rencher, Minister of Portugal and Territorial Governor of New Mexico.
Chavis maintained a friendship with one of his white students, Senator Willie P. Mangum. For many years, they conducted a correspondence where Chavis often criticized the senator's political positions. Chavis, it seems, was opposed to the abolition of slavery, had a great dislike for President Andrew Jackson and was opposed to the states' rights advocacy of Mangum and his colleagues. In 1837, Chavis published "An Essay on the Atonement," though no copies are known to have survived.
After Nat Turner, an educated slave and preacher in southern Virginia, led a bloody rebellion in 1831 that saw the murder of dozens of white men, women and children, slave-holding states quickly passed laws that forbade all blacks to preach. Although Chavis was forced to give up preaching and teaching school, the presbytery continued to pay Chavis $50 a year until his death to support him and his wife. The presbytery even continued payments to his wife after his death until 1842.
Receiving charity was not a new experience for Chavis. In the past he had received financial assistance from his friend and former student, Senator Mangum. In 1825, Mangum helped him secure renewal on a bank loan for $270. Later Chavis asked Mangum to pay the interest of $30. Chavis was always able to turn to prominent friends when he was in need, and usually they were generous to him.
Chavis died in June of 1838. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
Both Chavis Heights apartments and Chavis Park in Raleigh, North Carolina are named after him.
The exact date of Chavis' birth is not known. It is believed that he was born in either 1762 or 1763. One source claims he was born on October 18, 1763, but with no evidence given.
Information about Chavis' early life is scant as well, with few records to document it. It is believed that he may have been the 'John Chavis' who was employed as an indentured servant by a Halifax lawyer named James Milner. A 1773 inventory of Milner's estate does list an "indentured servant named John Chavis." Since Milner possessed a large library, it is likely that Chavis received some schooling during his period of service.
Chavis served as a soldier during the American Revolution. He enlisted in December 1778 and served in the Fifth Regiment of Virginia for three years. Captain Mayo Carrington of the Fifth Regiment of Virginia, wrote in a bounty warrant dated March 1783, that Chavis had "faithfully fulfilled [his duties] and is thereby entitled to all immunities granted to three year soldiers."
A 1789 tax list of Mecklenburg County, Virginia, shows that he was listed as a free black man owning one horse. He had married a woman named Sarah Frances Anderson, and they had one son, Anderson Chavis. In 1789, he was employed by Robert Greenwood's estate as tutor to Greenwood's orphans.
Chavis arrived at the Liberty Hall Academy in Lexington, Virginia in 1795, one year prior to George Washington's gift of 100 shares of James River Company Stock. He was still a student when the institution changed its name to Washington Academy. (Washington Academy would change its name a third time long after Chavis left the school, becoming Washington and Lee University.)
Prior to 1795, Chavis had resided in New Jersey, where he had taken private classes under John Witherspoon in preparation for entering the Presbyterian ministry. In the recorded minutes of the meeting of the trustees of the College of New Jersey (later to become Princeton University) dated September 26, 1792, there is a recommendation by Reverend John Blair that "Mr. Todd Henry, a Virginian, and John Chavis, a free black man of that state, ... be received" on the school's Leslie Fund. Chavis transferred to Liberty Hall Academy after Witherspoon's death in 1794.
On November 19, 1800 Chavis completed with high honors a rigorous theological examination that began on June 11, 1800. On this date, he was also granted a license to preach by the Presbytery of Lexington in Virginia.
Six months later, with high character recommendations from the Presbytery of Lexington, Chavis was transferred to work under the Hanover Presbytery.
In April 1802, Chavis had applied for freedmen's papers and received them from Rockbridge County Court. It was recorded that "said [John] Chavis has been known to the Court for several years ... and that he has always ... been considered as a freeman, and they believe him to be such, and that he has always while in the county conducted himself in a decent orderly and respectable manner, and also that he has been a student at Washington Academy [sic] where they believe he whent [sic] through a regular course of academical [sic] studies."
Between 1801 and 1807, Chavis served as a circuit riding missionary for the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church to slaves and free blacks in the states of Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. He also converted whites as well.
Chavis came to Raleigh, North Carolina sometime between 1807 and 1809, where he was licensed to preach the Christian Gospel by the Orange Presbytery. While he was not given a parish, he continued to preach to Black and White congregations in Granville, Orange, and Wake Counties. Some of the white congregations included slaveholders.
In 1808, Chavis opened a school in his home where he taught both white and black children. He placed ads in the Raleigh Register to encourage enrollment. At first he taught both races together, but after some white parents objected, he taught white children during the day and black children in the evenings. He charged white students $2.50 per quarter, and black students $1.75 per quarter. As an educator, Chavis taught full time and instructed his college bound white students in Latin and Greek, which were required study in the colleges and universities of that time.
His school was described as one of the best in the state. Students from some of the most prominent white families in the South studied at Chavis' school. His students includes Priestly H. Mangum, brother of Senator Willie P. Mangum; Archibald E. Henderson and John L. Henderson, sons of Chief Justice Henderson; Governor Charles Manly; The Reverend William Harris; Dr. James L. Wortham; the Edwardses, Enlows (Enloes), Hargroves, and Horners; and Abraham Rencher, Minister of Portugal and Territorial Governor of New Mexico.
Chavis maintained a friendship with one of his white students, Senator Willie P. Mangum. For many years, they conducted a correspondence where Chavis often criticized the senator's political positions. Chavis, it seems, was opposed to the abolition of slavery, had a great dislike for President Andrew Jackson and was opposed to the states' rights advocacy of Mangum and his colleagues. In 1837, Chavis published "An Essay on the Atonement," though no copies are known to have survived.
After Nat Turner, an educated slave and preacher in southern Virginia, led a bloody rebellion in 1831 that saw the murder of dozens of white men, women and children, slave-holding states quickly passed laws that forbade all blacks to preach. Although Chavis was forced to give up preaching and teaching school, the presbytery continued to pay Chavis $50 a year until his death to support him and his wife. The presbytery even continued payments to his wife after his death until 1842.
Receiving charity was not a new experience for Chavis. In the past he had received financial assistance from his friend and former student, Senator Mangum. In 1825, Mangum helped him secure renewal on a bank loan for $270. Later Chavis asked Mangum to pay the interest of $30. Chavis was always able to turn to prominent friends when he was in need, and usually they were generous to him.
Chavis died in June of 1838. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.
Both Chavis Heights apartments and Chavis Park in Raleigh, North Carolina are named after him.
Who was Mary Willing Byrd?
Mary Willing Byrd (September 10, 1740-March 1814) was the second wife of Colonel William Byrd III, a colonial American military officer at the time of the American Revolution and son of the founder of Richmond, Virginia. Her father, Charles Willing, was the mayor of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, from 1748 to 1754, and her great-grandfather, Edward Shippen, was the second mayor of Philadelphia from 1701 to 1703.
After her husband committed suicide in January 1777, leaving considerable debts, she managed his plantations, including Westover Plantation, in Charles City County.
Although Byrd had many ties to the British and Loyalists during the American Revolution, she tried to remain neutral and to preserve her children's inheritance. After trying to recover property that had been seized by the British, she was charged in 1781 with trading with the enemy. Byrd defended herself eloquently in a letter to Governor Thomas Jefferson: "I wish well to all mankind, to America in particular. What am I but an American? All my friends and connexions are in America; my whole property is here—could I wish ill to everything I have an interest in?" Her trial was first postponed and ultimately never held.
Mary Willing Byrd had ten children: Maria Horsmanden Byrd, Evelyn Taylor Byrd, Charles Willing Byrd (died as child), Abby Byrd, Anne Willing Byrd, William Boyd Byrd, Charles Willing Byrd, Dorothy Byrd (died as child), Jane Byrd and Richard Willing Byrd.
After her husband committed suicide in January 1777, leaving considerable debts, she managed his plantations, including Westover Plantation, in Charles City County.
Although Byrd had many ties to the British and Loyalists during the American Revolution, she tried to remain neutral and to preserve her children's inheritance. After trying to recover property that had been seized by the British, she was charged in 1781 with trading with the enemy. Byrd defended herself eloquently in a letter to Governor Thomas Jefferson: "I wish well to all mankind, to America in particular. What am I but an American? All my friends and connexions are in America; my whole property is here—could I wish ill to everything I have an interest in?" Her trial was first postponed and ultimately never held.
Mary Willing Byrd had ten children: Maria Horsmanden Byrd, Evelyn Taylor Byrd, Charles Willing Byrd (died as child), Abby Byrd, Anne Willing Byrd, William Boyd Byrd, Charles Willing Byrd, Dorothy Byrd (died as child), Jane Byrd and Richard Willing Byrd.
Who was Abraham Buford?
Abraham Buford (July 21, 1747-June 30, 1833) was a Continental Army officer during the American Revolutionary War, most known as commanding officer during the "Waxhaw Massacre".
Born in Culpeper County, Virginia, Buford quickly organized a company of minutemen upon the outbreak of war in 1775, eventually rising to the rank of colonel by May 1778. Assuming command of the 11th Virginia Regiment in September, he would be assigned to the 3rd Virginia Regiment in April 1780 and sent south to relieve the British siege of Charleston, South Carolina.
Forced to withdraw following the surrender of Charleston on May 12, the 3rd Virginia Continentals were trapped on May 29 by British and American Loyalist forces under Col. Banastre Tarleton who demanded Buford's surrender. When Buford refused, Tarleton ordered an assault in which Buford's forces suffered casualties so severe, American forces were forced to surrender. However, British/Loyalist forces continued their attack against the routed American force as many soldiers were bayoneted to death as they attempted to surrender (resulting in the incident known as the "Waxhaw Massacre" or "Buford's Massacre"). From that time onward, "Tarleton's Quarter" (meaning give no quarter) was an American battle cry in the Southern Theatre.
The British claimed that an American militiaman fired at Tarleton after the Americans had signalled surrender, using that as an excuse for the ensuing slaughter. Escaping on horseback with his remaining men, Buford was not found culpable for the action and continued to serve as an officer in the Continental Army through the Battle of Yorktown. He eventually settle in the Bluegrass region of Kentucky on military bounty lands in excess of several thousand acres where he helped found that state's race-horsing industry and where he lived until his death at his home which he called "Richland" (National Register of Historic Places) in Scott County, Kentucky on June 30, 1833.
On Flag Day, June 14, 2006, descendants of Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton returned Col. Buford's regimental flags taken at the Waxhaw Massacre to the United States and sold them at Sotheby's New York for over $5,000,000 (US).
His relations were US Generals John Buford; Napoleon Bonoparte Buford; and CS General Abraham Buford
Born in Culpeper County, Virginia, Buford quickly organized a company of minutemen upon the outbreak of war in 1775, eventually rising to the rank of colonel by May 1778. Assuming command of the 11th Virginia Regiment in September, he would be assigned to the 3rd Virginia Regiment in April 1780 and sent south to relieve the British siege of Charleston, South Carolina.
Forced to withdraw following the surrender of Charleston on May 12, the 3rd Virginia Continentals were trapped on May 29 by British and American Loyalist forces under Col. Banastre Tarleton who demanded Buford's surrender. When Buford refused, Tarleton ordered an assault in which Buford's forces suffered casualties so severe, American forces were forced to surrender. However, British/Loyalist forces continued their attack against the routed American force as many soldiers were bayoneted to death as they attempted to surrender (resulting in the incident known as the "Waxhaw Massacre" or "Buford's Massacre"). From that time onward, "Tarleton's Quarter" (meaning give no quarter) was an American battle cry in the Southern Theatre.
The British claimed that an American militiaman fired at Tarleton after the Americans had signalled surrender, using that as an excuse for the ensuing slaughter. Escaping on horseback with his remaining men, Buford was not found culpable for the action and continued to serve as an officer in the Continental Army through the Battle of Yorktown. He eventually settle in the Bluegrass region of Kentucky on military bounty lands in excess of several thousand acres where he helped found that state's race-horsing industry and where he lived until his death at his home which he called "Richland" (National Register of Historic Places) in Scott County, Kentucky on June 30, 1833.
On Flag Day, June 14, 2006, descendants of Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton returned Col. Buford's regimental flags taken at the Waxhaw Massacre to the United States and sold them at Sotheby's New York for over $5,000,000 (US).
His relations were US Generals John Buford; Napoleon Bonoparte Buford; and CS General Abraham Buford
Who was Samuel Barton?
Colonel Samuel Barton (May 1749-January 1810) was a pioneer and Patriot of the American Revolution (1775-1783) but is remembered more for the exploration and settlement of what was to become Nashville, Tennessee. Little is known of his early youth. Family tradition holds that Samuel, born in Virginia, was left bound as an apprentice while his father returned to England for business only to be lost at sea. Recent y-DNA testing of a male descendent of Samuel Barton has shown that this branch of Barton’s are part of a lineage whose earliest known member in America was Lewis Barton of Maryland.
Barton may have first explored the Cumberland region as a teenager with the Scraggins Party of 1765. This is supported by the fact that biographical sources put him in Nashville “…when there were but four families residing in the place, and when it was necessary to take every precaution to guard against the Indians”. Regardless of the chronology it is evident that he vacillated between his native Virginia and the wilds of Tennessee. In 1774 he fought as a ranger against Indians in Lord Dunmore’s War. With the onset of the American Revolution he mustered in Virginia in June of 1775. He served as Sergeant in Morgan's Rifles of the 7th Virginia Regiment, the acclaimed snipers. As an explorer, hunter and frontiersman Barton proved an ideal soldier. Botetourt County, Virginia court records log his marriage to Martha Robertson on March 10, 1778.
With the advantages of military training and leadership he returned to Tennessee and contributed to the settling and development of Fort Nashborough, what was to become Nashville. As a testament to the American faith in written law Barton, General (early American)|James Robertson and other prominent men of the area drafted and signed the Cumberland Compact in May 1780. This document served as constitution until Tennessee became the 16th state of the Union in 1796. In 1846, historian Albigence Waldo Putnam found the original document in a truck that had belonged to Barton. The settlement was governed by the “Tribunal of Notables”, Barton being one of the twelve. In April 1781, a few days before the “Battle of the Bluffs” he suffered a shot in the wrist defending pioneers from Indians.
On January 7, 1783, a second Cumberland Compact was created and signed by Barton and nine other founders. Upon the creation of Davidson County in April of that year Barton was appointed as Justice of the Peace and Judge of the County Court. In October of 1783 he was elected as Court Entry-Taker and was sworn in as 2nd Major of the Militia. In 1784 Samuel Barton was designated as one of the five Directors as well as Treasurer of the fledgling city. He was later selected as a Colonel of the Militia.
In 1798, not yet 50 years of age, Samuel Barton resigned from civic life and moved his large family to what would the next year become Wilson County, Tennessee. For the last 12 years of life he farmed his extensive land holdings, having been granted more than 1000 acres. His large plantation was on Jenning’s Fork of Round Lick Creek. He took up the vocation of surveying and appraising land. His burial site is unknown.
Barton may have first explored the Cumberland region as a teenager with the Scraggins Party of 1765. This is supported by the fact that biographical sources put him in Nashville “…when there were but four families residing in the place, and when it was necessary to take every precaution to guard against the Indians”. Regardless of the chronology it is evident that he vacillated between his native Virginia and the wilds of Tennessee. In 1774 he fought as a ranger against Indians in Lord Dunmore’s War. With the onset of the American Revolution he mustered in Virginia in June of 1775. He served as Sergeant in Morgan's Rifles of the 7th Virginia Regiment, the acclaimed snipers. As an explorer, hunter and frontiersman Barton proved an ideal soldier. Botetourt County, Virginia court records log his marriage to Martha Robertson on March 10, 1778.
With the advantages of military training and leadership he returned to Tennessee and contributed to the settling and development of Fort Nashborough, what was to become Nashville. As a testament to the American faith in written law Barton, General (early American)|James Robertson and other prominent men of the area drafted and signed the Cumberland Compact in May 1780. This document served as constitution until Tennessee became the 16th state of the Union in 1796. In 1846, historian Albigence Waldo Putnam found the original document in a truck that had belonged to Barton. The settlement was governed by the “Tribunal of Notables”, Barton being one of the twelve. In April 1781, a few days before the “Battle of the Bluffs” he suffered a shot in the wrist defending pioneers from Indians.
On January 7, 1783, a second Cumberland Compact was created and signed by Barton and nine other founders. Upon the creation of Davidson County in April of that year Barton was appointed as Justice of the Peace and Judge of the County Court. In October of 1783 he was elected as Court Entry-Taker and was sworn in as 2nd Major of the Militia. In 1784 Samuel Barton was designated as one of the five Directors as well as Treasurer of the fledgling city. He was later selected as a Colonel of the Militia.
In 1798, not yet 50 years of age, Samuel Barton resigned from civic life and moved his large family to what would the next year become Wilson County, Tennessee. For the last 12 years of life he farmed his extensive land holdings, having been granted more than 1000 acres. His large plantation was on Jenning’s Fork of Round Lick Creek. He took up the vocation of surveying and appraising land. His burial site is unknown.
Who was James Armistead?
James Armistead, and occasionally also referred to as James L. Armistead (c. December 10, 1748–August 9, 1830) was an African American slave to William Armistead in Virginia during the American Revolution. After getting consent of his master, Marquis de Lafayette, he volunteered in 1781 to join the army under General Lafayette. He was stationed as a spy, acting as a slave in Lord Cornwallis' camp. He relayed much information about the British plans for troop deployment and about their arms. His intelligence reports espionage were instrumental in helping to defeat the British at the surrender at Yorktown. Most sources indicate that James was born in 1748 in NEW KENT COUNTY,VIRGINIA as a slave for William Armistead; other sources put his birth around 1760 in Elizabeth City, Virginia. He died on August 9, 1830 as a freed slave turned farmer. Because he was an intelligence agent and not technically a soldier, James could not qualify for emancipation under the Act of 1783, so with the support of William Armistead, he petitioned the Virginia State Legislature for his freedom. He received a letter of commendation dated November 21, 1784 from the Marquis de Lafayette;the facsimile of the letter of commendation can be viewed on the Lafayette College website [1]. On January 9, 1786, the Virginia State Legislature granted the slave known only as "James" his freedom for services rendered and bravery as a spy during the siege of Yorktown. It was at that time that he chose the name Armistead for his middle name and Lafayette for his surname, to honor the general.
He continued to live in New Kent County with his new wife, one son and several other children. He became a farmer and he at one point owned three slaves. By 1818 he applied to the state legislature for financial aid. He was granted $60.00 for present relief and $40 annual pension for his services in the Revolutionary War. In 1824, he was recognized and embraced by General Lafayette during his tour of Yorktown, the story of the event was reported by the Richmond Enquirer. It was also about this time that the artist John Blennerhassett Martin (1797-1857) painted an oil on canvas of James Armistead Lafayette. This painting is owned by the Valentine Museum. The artist also created a broadside including both the painted likeness and the facsimile of Lafayette’s testimonial.
Another possible likeness is John-Baptiste Paon’s 1783 portrait of Lafayette at Yorktown with James Armistead holding his horse. This portrait is owned by Layfayette College and can be viewed on their website [2] A discussion on the images of Armistead may be found on the Common-place website [3]
By 1828, James Armistead Lafayette was also featured as the general’s aide and sidekick in the novel Edge- Hill or the Family of the Fitzroyals by James Ewell Heath.
It has been suggested that some historians have tried to twist his full name to protect the Armistead families of Virginia from scandals. William Armistead, his owner, was the purser and chief financer of the Revolutionary War, and was secretly connected to the royal families of Prussia, who helped finance the war with English payments to mercenary Prussian troops, who surrendered upon command. William Armistead's only (white) daughter married Fairfax Washington, the son of Gen. Washington, after the Revolution and is believed to be a descendant of Shakespeare or King William I (The Silent) of Orange via John Armistead, The Councilor of Williamsburg. Some black Americans with the last name of Armistead are suspected of being descendants of James Armistead Lafayette as he is said to have had a number of children after the Revolution. Also it is possible that James was an illegitimate son of William Armistead, The Purser of the Virginia Troops.
Regardless of his birth, he is remembered as an American patriot. His intelligence contributions to Lafayette and Washington aided in the capture Gen. Cornwallis at Yorktown, Va. with few shots fired.
He continued to live in New Kent County with his new wife, one son and several other children. He became a farmer and he at one point owned three slaves. By 1818 he applied to the state legislature for financial aid. He was granted $60.00 for present relief and $40 annual pension for his services in the Revolutionary War. In 1824, he was recognized and embraced by General Lafayette during his tour of Yorktown, the story of the event was reported by the Richmond Enquirer. It was also about this time that the artist John Blennerhassett Martin (1797-1857) painted an oil on canvas of James Armistead Lafayette. This painting is owned by the Valentine Museum. The artist also created a broadside including both the painted likeness and the facsimile of Lafayette’s testimonial.
Another possible likeness is John-Baptiste Paon’s 1783 portrait of Lafayette at Yorktown with James Armistead holding his horse. This portrait is owned by Layfayette College and can be viewed on their website [2] A discussion on the images of Armistead may be found on the Common-place website [3]
By 1828, James Armistead Lafayette was also featured as the general’s aide and sidekick in the novel Edge- Hill or the Family of the Fitzroyals by James Ewell Heath.
It has been suggested that some historians have tried to twist his full name to protect the Armistead families of Virginia from scandals. William Armistead, his owner, was the purser and chief financer of the Revolutionary War, and was secretly connected to the royal families of Prussia, who helped finance the war with English payments to mercenary Prussian troops, who surrendered upon command. William Armistead's only (white) daughter married Fairfax Washington, the son of Gen. Washington, after the Revolution and is believed to be a descendant of Shakespeare or King William I (The Silent) of Orange via John Armistead, The Councilor of Williamsburg. Some black Americans with the last name of Armistead are suspected of being descendants of James Armistead Lafayette as he is said to have had a number of children after the Revolution. Also it is possible that James was an illegitimate son of William Armistead, The Purser of the Virginia Troops.
Regardless of his birth, he is remembered as an American patriot. His intelligence contributions to Lafayette and Washington aided in the capture Gen. Cornwallis at Yorktown, Va. with few shots fired.
Who was Benjamin Taliaferro?
Benjamin Taliaferro (1750 - September 3, 1821) was a United States Representative from Georgia. He was born in Virginia in 1750 from an English-Italian family, the Taliaferros, who settled in Virginia in the early 17th century. He completed preparatory studies and served in the American Revolutionary War as a lieutenant in the rifle corps commanded by General Daniel Morgan. He was promoted to captain and then captured by the British at Charleston in 1780.
Taliaferro settled in Georgia in 1785. He was a member of the Georgia Senate and its president. He was a delegate to the Georgia State Constitutional Convention in 1798. He was elected as a Federalist to the 6th United States Congress and then reelected as a Republican to the 7th Congress and served from March 4, 1799, until his resignation in 1802. He was later judge of the Georgia Superior Court and a trustee for the University of Georgia. He died in Wilkes County, Georgia on September 3, 1821.
Taliaferro County, Georgia was named in his honor.
Taliaferro settled in Georgia in 1785. He was a member of the Georgia Senate and its president. He was a delegate to the Georgia State Constitutional Convention in 1798. He was elected as a Federalist to the 6th United States Congress and then reelected as a Republican to the 7th Congress and served from March 4, 1799, until his resignation in 1802. He was later judge of the Georgia Superior Court and a trustee for the University of Georgia. He died in Wilkes County, Georgia on September 3, 1821.
Taliaferro County, Georgia was named in his honor.
Who was Joshua Sands?
Joshua Sands was an American politician and a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York. He was born on October 12, 1757 in Cow Neck (now Sands Point), Queens County, Long Island, New York. He received a limited schooling, served as a captain in the American Army during the Revolutionary War, and engaged in mercantile pursuits. He was a member of the New York State Senate from 1792 to 1799. In 1797, he was a collector of customs at the port of New York.
He was elected as a Federalist to the Eighth Congress, which met from March 4, 1803 to March 3, 1805, but he was not a candidate for renomination. He was president of the board of trustees of the village of Brooklyn in 1824. He was also elected to the Nineteenth Congress, which met from March 4, 1825 to March 3, 1827. He died in Brooklyn, New York on September 13, 1835. He was interred in St. Paul's Church Cemetery in Eastchester, New York. He was later reinterred in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York in 1852.
He was elected as a Federalist to the Eighth Congress, which met from March 4, 1803 to March 3, 1805, but he was not a candidate for renomination. He was president of the board of trustees of the village of Brooklyn in 1824. He was also elected to the Nineteenth Congress, which met from March 4, 1825 to March 3, 1827. He died in Brooklyn, New York on September 13, 1835. He was interred in St. Paul's Church Cemetery in Eastchester, New York. He was later reinterred in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York in 1852.
Who was Peter Pumyea II?
Peter Pumyea (March 27, 1739 – September 21, 1802) was a Captain in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
He was born in Six Mile Run, Franklin Township, Somerset County, New Jersey.
He married Ida Rycken Suydam (1744-1824) on June 10, 1762. Ida was the daughter of Ryck Suydam. Ryck's father, Hendrick Rychen was from Suydam, Holland. Peter and Ida had a child: Peter Pumyea III (1768-1826) who married Sarah Addis. Sarah was the daughter of Simon Addis. In the Census of 1765-1772, Peter is recorded as "Peter Pommieeje" with his wife and children and two slaves: Caesar and Sam.
As "Peter Pommieeje", he served in the Revolutionary War as Captain of the 2nd Battalion, Somerset County, New Jersey Militia. Both he and his wife lived and died at Six Mile Run in Somerset County, New Jersey.
He was born in Six Mile Run, Franklin Township, Somerset County, New Jersey.
He married Ida Rycken Suydam (1744-1824) on June 10, 1762. Ida was the daughter of Ryck Suydam. Ryck's father, Hendrick Rychen was from Suydam, Holland. Peter and Ida had a child: Peter Pumyea III (1768-1826) who married Sarah Addis. Sarah was the daughter of Simon Addis. In the Census of 1765-1772, Peter is recorded as "Peter Pommieeje" with his wife and children and two slaves: Caesar and Sam.
As "Peter Pommieeje", he served in the Revolutionary War as Captain of the 2nd Battalion, Somerset County, New Jersey Militia. Both he and his wife lived and died at Six Mile Run in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Who was John Pugh?
John Pugh (June 2, 1761 – July 13, 1842) was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania.
John Pugh was born in Hilltown Township, Pennsylvania. He served in the Revolutionary Army as a private, ensign, and captain. He engaged in agricultural and mercantile pursuits, and served as justice of the peace. He was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1800 to 1804.
Pugh was elected as a Republican to the Ninth and Tenth Congresses. He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1808. He served as register of wills and recorder of deeds of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, from 1810 to 1821, and died in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, in 1842. Interment in the Presbyterian Churchyard.
John Pugh was born in Hilltown Township, Pennsylvania. He served in the Revolutionary Army as a private, ensign, and captain. He engaged in agricultural and mercantile pursuits, and served as justice of the peace. He was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1800 to 1804.
Pugh was elected as a Republican to the Ninth and Tenth Congresses. He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1808. He served as register of wills and recorder of deeds of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, from 1810 to 1821, and died in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, in 1842. Interment in the Presbyterian Churchyard.
Who was Archibald Bulloch?
Archibald Bulloch (c.1730– February 22, 1777) was a lawyer, soldier, and statesman from Georgia during the American Revolution.
Bulloch was born and educated in Charleston, South Carolina, the son of James Bulloch and Jean Stobo Bulloch. He began to practice law in South Carolina and was commissioned as a lieutenant in the South Carolina militia. His family moved to Georgia in 1758, and Bulloch moved to Savannah, Georgia, in 1764. He was elected to the Commons House of Assembly of Georgia in 1768 as a member of the Liberty Party. His fellow assembly members appointed him as a delegate for Georgia to the Continental Congress in 1775. In the Continental Congress, he was a member of the Secret Committee, which was responsible for gathering war supplies. Bulloch is also recorded as having been a Freemason in Georgia. His name is listed on the 1779 Masonic roles of Solomon's Lodge No. 1 at Savannah along with George Walton, John Adam Treutlen, James Jackson, Nathaniel Pendelton, and General Samuel Elbert.
Bulloch would have been a signer of the Declaration of Independence, but decided to return to Georgia to aid the revolution there. In 1776, he fought under the command of Colonel Lachlan McIntosh in the Battle of the Rice Boats and the Battle of Tybee Island. On June 20, 1776, he was chosen to be the first President and Commander-in-Chief of Georgia under the state's temporary republican government. When he signed the state constitution on February 20, 1777, his position transferred from president to governor of Georgia. He died in Savannah while preparing against British invasion of Georgia in 1777. There is some speculation that he was poisoned, though this has never been proven.
His son William Bellinger Bulloch later represented Georgia in the United States Senate. Archibald's great-great-grandson was President Theodore Roosevelt. His great-great-great granddaughter was First Lady of the United States Eleanor Roosevelt. Theodore Roosevelt's son Archibald was named after Bulloch. Bulloch County, Georgia was named in his honor.
Bulloch was born and educated in Charleston, South Carolina, the son of James Bulloch and Jean Stobo Bulloch. He began to practice law in South Carolina and was commissioned as a lieutenant in the South Carolina militia. His family moved to Georgia in 1758, and Bulloch moved to Savannah, Georgia, in 1764. He was elected to the Commons House of Assembly of Georgia in 1768 as a member of the Liberty Party. His fellow assembly members appointed him as a delegate for Georgia to the Continental Congress in 1775. In the Continental Congress, he was a member of the Secret Committee, which was responsible for gathering war supplies. Bulloch is also recorded as having been a Freemason in Georgia. His name is listed on the 1779 Masonic roles of Solomon's Lodge No. 1 at Savannah along with George Walton, John Adam Treutlen, James Jackson, Nathaniel Pendelton, and General Samuel Elbert.
Bulloch would have been a signer of the Declaration of Independence, but decided to return to Georgia to aid the revolution there. In 1776, he fought under the command of Colonel Lachlan McIntosh in the Battle of the Rice Boats and the Battle of Tybee Island. On June 20, 1776, he was chosen to be the first President and Commander-in-Chief of Georgia under the state's temporary republican government. When he signed the state constitution on February 20, 1777, his position transferred from president to governor of Georgia. He died in Savannah while preparing against British invasion of Georgia in 1777. There is some speculation that he was poisoned, though this has never been proven.
His son William Bellinger Bulloch later represented Georgia in the United States Senate. Archibald's great-great-grandson was President Theodore Roosevelt. His great-great-great granddaughter was First Lady of the United States Eleanor Roosevelt. Theodore Roosevelt's son Archibald was named after Bulloch. Bulloch County, Georgia was named in his honor.
What was The Battle of Alligator Bridge?
The Battle of Alligator Bridge took place on June 30, 1778, and was the major engagement in Colonel Elijah Clarke's third and final unsuccessful campaign to conquer East Florida. In a disastrous battle, Clarke's 300 Georgia militiamen went up against a far larger force composed of British regulars, Tories, and Indians. His defeat left the area firmly under British control.
As with previous failures in the region, Southern politicians refused to grant Continental Army officers full command of their militias. So, while General Robert Howe waited with about 400 regular troops at Fort Tonyn to the north for Georgia Governor John Houstoun and South Carolina General Andrew Williamson to arrive with their militias, Clarke pursued an enemy detachment that had just been routed from an outpost to the west of the fort. He and his men were stopped at Alligator Bridge, where Major Marc Prevost had established hasty field fortifications.
In the fortifications were 500 British regulars, along with 200 more outside of them; also outside were around 100 Rangers. Clarke took a detachment of mounted men and attacked what he saw as a weak point in the British line. He expected to break the line and pour the rest of his men into the breach. But the horses had trouble getting through the tangle of brush and logs that had been set up specifically as an obstacle course; when they cleared this, they reached a ditch that was designed for the same purpose. The ditch was too wide for the horses to clear with one jump, and this was the moment the British chose to begin shooting and shouting. Clarke was wounded and nearly captured, after which he ordered a recall. Some say he was spurred on by a counterattack of British troops posted outside of their earthworks.[citation needed] Whatever the reason, Clarke withdrew, having lost nine men killed in action. He lost more to hunger and sickness, leading to the collapse of the 1778 invasion.
The site of the bridge has long been supposed to have been in central Callahan, where a marker has been placed, but some historians believe that the actual site of the bridge was somewhat farther east.
As with previous failures in the region, Southern politicians refused to grant Continental Army officers full command of their militias. So, while General Robert Howe waited with about 400 regular troops at Fort Tonyn to the north for Georgia Governor John Houstoun and South Carolina General Andrew Williamson to arrive with their militias, Clarke pursued an enemy detachment that had just been routed from an outpost to the west of the fort. He and his men were stopped at Alligator Bridge, where Major Marc Prevost had established hasty field fortifications.
In the fortifications were 500 British regulars, along with 200 more outside of them; also outside were around 100 Rangers. Clarke took a detachment of mounted men and attacked what he saw as a weak point in the British line. He expected to break the line and pour the rest of his men into the breach. But the horses had trouble getting through the tangle of brush and logs that had been set up specifically as an obstacle course; when they cleared this, they reached a ditch that was designed for the same purpose. The ditch was too wide for the horses to clear with one jump, and this was the moment the British chose to begin shooting and shouting. Clarke was wounded and nearly captured, after which he ordered a recall. Some say he was spurred on by a counterattack of British troops posted outside of their earthworks.[citation needed] Whatever the reason, Clarke withdrew, having lost nine men killed in action. He lost more to hunger and sickness, leading to the collapse of the 1778 invasion.
The site of the bridge has long been supposed to have been in central Callahan, where a marker has been placed, but some historians believe that the actual site of the bridge was somewhat farther east.
What was The Battle of Hobkirk's Hill?
The Battle of Hobkirk's Hill (sometimes referred to as the Second Battle of Camden) was a battle of the American Revolutionary War fought on April 25, 1781, near Camden, South Carolina.
The British were outnumbered 900 to General Nathanael Greene's 1,500. This was Lord Francis Rawdon's first independent commanding battle, and, despite being outnumbered, he did not want to make his first commanding battle a retreating one. He tried to attack Greene's army by surprise, but Greene made a battle strategy quickly. Rawdon countered Greene's first moves, and Greene was forced to withdraw to the old battlefield of Camden when his advancing line faltered at one point in the battle.
This left Rawdon in control of Hobkirk's Hill. Though Rawdon had won, he was forced to retreat to Charleston soon afterwards since he had too few troops remaining to hold the hill.
The British were outnumbered 900 to General Nathanael Greene's 1,500. This was Lord Francis Rawdon's first independent commanding battle, and, despite being outnumbered, he did not want to make his first commanding battle a retreating one. He tried to attack Greene's army by surprise, but Greene made a battle strategy quickly. Rawdon countered Greene's first moves, and Greene was forced to withdraw to the old battlefield of Camden when his advancing line faltered at one point in the battle.
This left Rawdon in control of Hobkirk's Hill. Though Rawdon had won, he was forced to retreat to Charleston soon afterwards since he had too few troops remaining to hold the hill.
Who was Francis Rawdon-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings?
Francis Rawdon-Hastings, 1st Marquess of Hastings, (9 December 1754 - 28 November 1826) was a British politician and military officer who served as Governor-General of India from 1813 to 1823.
Hastings was born in County Down, the son of John Rawdon, 1st Earl of Moira and Elizabeth Rawdon, 13th Baroness Hastings. He joined the British army in 1771 and served in the American Revolutionary War. There he served at the battles of Bunker Hill, Brooklyn, White Plains, Monmouth and Camden, at the attacks on Forts Washington and Clinton, and at the siege of Charleston. Perhaps his most noted achievement was the raising of a corps at Philadelphia, called the Irish Volunteers, who under him became famous for their fighting qualities, and the victory of Hobkirk's Hill, which, in command of only a small force, he gained by superior military skill and determination against a much larger body of Americans. He succeeded his father as the 2nd Earl of Moira in 1793.
Becoming a Whig in politics, he entered government as part of the Ministry of all The Talents in 1806 as Master-General of the Ordnance, but resigned upon the fall of the ministry the next year. Being a close associate of the Prince-Regent, Moira was asked by him to try to form a Whig government after the assassination of Spencer Perceval in 1812 ended that ministry. Both of Moira's attempts to create a governing coalition failed, and the Tories returned to power under the Earl of Liverpool.
Through the influence of the Prince-Regent, Moira was appointed Governor-General of India in 1813. His tenure as Governor-General was a memorable one, overseeing the victory in the Gurkha War (1814 - 1816); the final conquest of the Marathas in 1818; and the purchase of the island of Singapore in 1819. His domestic policy in India was also largely successful, seeing the repair of the Mogul canal system in Delhi as well as educational and administrative reforms. He was raised to the rank of Marquess of Hastings in 1817.
Hastings' tenure in India ended due to a financial scandal in 1823, and he returned to England, being appointed Governor-General of Malta in 1824. He died at sea off Naples two years later.
On July 12, 1804, he married Flora Campbell, 6th Countess of Loudoun, daughter of Major-General James Campbell, 5th Earl of Loundon and Lady Flora Macleod. They had five children:
*Flora Elizabeth Rawdon-Hastings (11 February 1806–5 July 1839), died unmarried.
*George Augustus Francis Rawdon-Hastings, 2nd Marquess of Hastings (4 February 1808–13 January 1844)
*Sophia Frederica Christina Rawdon-Hastings (1 February 1809–28 December 1859), married John Crichton-Stuart, 2nd Marquess of Bute and had issue.
*Selina Constance Rawdon-Hastings (1810–8 November 1867), married Charles Henry and has issue
*Adelaide Augusta Lavinia Rawdon-Hastings (25 February 1812–6 December 1860), married William Murray, 7th Baronet of Octertyre
Hastings was born in County Down, the son of John Rawdon, 1st Earl of Moira and Elizabeth Rawdon, 13th Baroness Hastings. He joined the British army in 1771 and served in the American Revolutionary War. There he served at the battles of Bunker Hill, Brooklyn, White Plains, Monmouth and Camden, at the attacks on Forts Washington and Clinton, and at the siege of Charleston. Perhaps his most noted achievement was the raising of a corps at Philadelphia, called the Irish Volunteers, who under him became famous for their fighting qualities, and the victory of Hobkirk's Hill, which, in command of only a small force, he gained by superior military skill and determination against a much larger body of Americans. He succeeded his father as the 2nd Earl of Moira in 1793.
Becoming a Whig in politics, he entered government as part of the Ministry of all The Talents in 1806 as Master-General of the Ordnance, but resigned upon the fall of the ministry the next year. Being a close associate of the Prince-Regent, Moira was asked by him to try to form a Whig government after the assassination of Spencer Perceval in 1812 ended that ministry. Both of Moira's attempts to create a governing coalition failed, and the Tories returned to power under the Earl of Liverpool.
Through the influence of the Prince-Regent, Moira was appointed Governor-General of India in 1813. His tenure as Governor-General was a memorable one, overseeing the victory in the Gurkha War (1814 - 1816); the final conquest of the Marathas in 1818; and the purchase of the island of Singapore in 1819. His domestic policy in India was also largely successful, seeing the repair of the Mogul canal system in Delhi as well as educational and administrative reforms. He was raised to the rank of Marquess of Hastings in 1817.
Hastings' tenure in India ended due to a financial scandal in 1823, and he returned to England, being appointed Governor-General of Malta in 1824. He died at sea off Naples two years later.
On July 12, 1804, he married Flora Campbell, 6th Countess of Loudoun, daughter of Major-General James Campbell, 5th Earl of Loundon and Lady Flora Macleod. They had five children:
*Flora Elizabeth Rawdon-Hastings (11 February 1806–5 July 1839), died unmarried.
*George Augustus Francis Rawdon-Hastings, 2nd Marquess of Hastings (4 February 1808–13 January 1844)
*Sophia Frederica Christina Rawdon-Hastings (1 February 1809–28 December 1859), married John Crichton-Stuart, 2nd Marquess of Bute and had issue.
*Selina Constance Rawdon-Hastings (1810–8 November 1867), married Charles Henry and has issue
*Adelaide Augusta Lavinia Rawdon-Hastings (25 February 1812–6 December 1860), married William Murray, 7th Baronet of Octertyre
Where is the Congaree River?
The Congaree River is a short but wide river in South Carolina in the United States; It flows for only 47 miles (78 km). The river serves an important role as the final outlet channel for the entire Lower Saluda and Lower Broad watersheds, before merging with the Wateree River just north of Lake Marion to form the Santee River.
It is formed in Columbia by the confluence of the Saluda and Broad rivers near the Piedmont fall line. It serves as part of the boundary between Richland, Calhoun, and Lexington counties. The only cities near the river are Columbia on the east, and Cayce and West Columbia on the west.
Despite the vast bottomland swamp below Columbia, the Congaree is navigable along much of its length at high water by barge traffic, which comes upriver from the Port of Charleston (approximately 100 miles (167 km)) through the Santee-Cooper Lakes to within 5 miles (8 km) of the fall line. The Congaree National Park, one of the main recreational attractions of the river, is located about halfway down the river's course. The 22,200 acre park contains some of the last remaining old growth bottomland hardwood forest in North America. Recreational opportunities include hiking, biking, bird watching, botanical interests, and canoeing.
The river's name comes from the Congaree Indians who used to live along it.
It is formed in Columbia by the confluence of the Saluda and Broad rivers near the Piedmont fall line. It serves as part of the boundary between Richland, Calhoun, and Lexington counties. The only cities near the river are Columbia on the east, and Cayce and West Columbia on the west.
Despite the vast bottomland swamp below Columbia, the Congaree is navigable along much of its length at high water by barge traffic, which comes upriver from the Port of Charleston (approximately 100 miles (167 km)) through the Santee-Cooper Lakes to within 5 miles (8 km) of the fall line. The Congaree National Park, one of the main recreational attractions of the river, is located about halfway down the river's course. The 22,200 acre park contains some of the last remaining old growth bottomland hardwood forest in North America. Recreational opportunities include hiking, biking, bird watching, botanical interests, and canoeing.
The river's name comes from the Congaree Indians who used to live along it.
What was the Siege of Fort Motte?
A force of Patriots led by General Francis "Swamp Fox" Marion and Lt. Colonel "Light Horse" Harry Lee set out to capture the British post at Fort Motte, strategically located at the confluence of the Congaree and Wateree Rivers. The fort was not much more than a mansion owned by the Motte family, but was garrisoned by roughly 175 British soldiers under Lt. Daniel McPherson.
Marion and Lee learned that Lord Rawdon was retreating towards Fort Motte in the aftermath of the Battle of Hobkirk's Hill. The Americans forces invested the place on May 8 and wished to capture the fort before Rawdon arrived. Two days later Marion, called for the British to surrender and McPherson refused. The next day, Colonel Lee informed Mrs. Motte that he intended to burn the mansion down to force the British out. On May 12, the American forces had entrenched close enough to the mansion that flaming arrows were shot onto the roof. Mrs Motte, a Partiot not only accepted Lee's plan, but offered up her own set of bow and arrows. Marion's artillery fire added to the desperation of the British and, by 1:00 that afternoon, Lt. McPherson surrendered the garrison to the Patriots.
Marion and Lee learned that Lord Rawdon was retreating towards Fort Motte in the aftermath of the Battle of Hobkirk's Hill. The Americans forces invested the place on May 8 and wished to capture the fort before Rawdon arrived. Two days later Marion, called for the British to surrender and McPherson refused. The next day, Colonel Lee informed Mrs. Motte that he intended to burn the mansion down to force the British out. On May 12, the American forces had entrenched close enough to the mansion that flaming arrows were shot onto the roof. Mrs Motte, a Partiot not only accepted Lee's plan, but offered up her own set of bow and arrows. Marion's artillery fire added to the desperation of the British and, by 1:00 that afternoon, Lt. McPherson surrendered the garrison to the Patriots.
What was Fort Motte?
Fort Motte was a temporary military outpost in what is now South Carolina during the American Revolutionary War. Later, it was considered as a possible location for the capitol for the newly-formed state of South Carolina (before Columbia was chosen).
The "fort" was created from a recently-built plantation home of one of the Motte family, whose business was located in Charleston, South Carolina. The site is near a strategic river crossing of the Congaree River used by early traders. The Cherokee Path is nearby. It is also roughly in the area of an early town (1735) known as Amelia Town, South Carolina. There were several other less well-known forts in the area. Before the "forts" were established, there were sites which served as trading posts. Before the trading began, there were hunting grounds.
The South Carolina Department of Archives and History, the South Caroliniana Library, and the University of South Carolina have the earliest extant maps for this area.
In 1781 General Francis "Swamp Fox" Marion captured the location after the Siege of Fort Motte
The "fort" was created from a recently-built plantation home of one of the Motte family, whose business was located in Charleston, South Carolina. The site is near a strategic river crossing of the Congaree River used by early traders. The Cherokee Path is nearby. It is also roughly in the area of an early town (1735) known as Amelia Town, South Carolina. There were several other less well-known forts in the area. Before the "forts" were established, there were sites which served as trading posts. Before the trading began, there were hunting grounds.
The South Carolina Department of Archives and History, the South Caroliniana Library, and the University of South Carolina have the earliest extant maps for this area.
In 1781 General Francis "Swamp Fox" Marion captured the location after the Siege of Fort Motte
Who was Rebecca Motte?
Fort Motte, the scene of the occurrence which so strikingly displayed the patriotism of one of South Carolina's daughters, stood on the south side of the Congaree river. The height commands a beautiful view, several miles in extent, of sloping fields, sprinkled with young pines, and green with broom grass or the corn or cotton crops; of sheltered valleys and wooded hills, with the dark pine ridge defined against the sky. The steep overlooks the swamp land through which the river flows; and that may be seen to a great distance, winding, like a bright thread, between the sombre forests.
After the abandonment of Camden to the Americans, Lord Rawdon, anxious to maintain his posts, directed his first effort to relieve Fort Motte, at the time invested by Marion and Lee. This fort, which commanded the river, was the principal depôt of the convoys from Charleston to Camden and the upper districts. It was occupied by a garrison under the command of Captain M'Pherson, of one hundred and sixty-five men, having been increased by a small detachment of dragoons from Charleston, a few hours before the appearance of the Americans. The large new mansion-house belonging to Mrs. Motte, which had been selected for the establishment of the post, was surrounded by a deep trench, along the interior margin of which was raised a strong and lofty parapet. Opposite, and northward, upon another hill, was an old farm-house, to which Mrs. Motte had removed when dismissed from her mansion. On this height Lieutenant Colonel Lee had taken position with his force; while Marion occupied the eastern declivity of the ridge on which the fort stood; the valley running between the two hills permitting the Americans to approach it within four hundred yards.
M'Pherson was unprovided with artillery, but hoped to be relieved by the arrival of Lord Rawdon to dislodge the assailants before they could push their preparations to maturity. He therefore replied to the summons to surrender, which came on the 20th May, about a year after the victorious British had taken possession of Charleston, that he should hold out to the last moment in his power.
The besiegers had carried on their approaches rapidly, by relays of working parties; and aware of the advance of Rawdon with all his force, had every motive for perseverance. In the night a courier arrived from General Greene, to advise them of Rawdon's retreat from Camden, and urge redoubled activity; and Marion persevered through the hours of darkness in pressing the completion of their works. The following night Lord Rawdon encamped on the highest ground in the country opposite Fort Motte; and the despairing garrison saw with joy the illumination of his fires; while the Americans were convinced that no time was to be lost.
The large house in the centre of the encircling trench left but a few yards of ground within the British works uncovered; burning the mansion, therefore, must compel the surrender of the garrison. This expedient was reluctantly resolved upon by Marion and Lee, who, unwilling under any circumstances to destroy private property, felt the duty to be much more painful in the present case. It was the summer residence of the owner, whose deceased husband had been a firm friend to his country, and whose daughter (Mrs. Pinckney) was the wife of a gallant officer, then a prisoner in the hands of the British. Lee had made Mrs. Motte's dwelling his quarters, at her pressing invitation, and with his officers had shared her liberal hospitality. Not satisfied with polite attention to the officers, while they were entertained at her luxurious table, she had attended with active benevolence to the sick and wounded, soothed the infirm with kind sympathy, and animated the desponding to hope. It was thus not without deep regret that the commanders determined on the sacrifice, and the Lieutenant Colonel found himself compelled to inform Mrs. Motte of the unavoidable necessity of the destruction of her property.
The smile with which the communication was received, gave instant relief to the embarrassed officer. Mrs. Motte not only assented, but declared that she was "gratified with the opportunity of contributing to the good of her country, and should view the approaching scene with delight." Shortly after, seeing by accident the bow and arrows which had been prepared to carry combustible matter, she sent for Lee, and presenting him with a bow and its apparatus, which had been imported from India, requested his substitution of them, as better adapted for the object than those provided.
Every thing was now prepared for the concluding scene. The lines were manned, and an additional force stationed at the battery to meet a desperate assault, if such should be made. The American entrenchments being within arrow shot, M'Pherson was once more summoned, and again more confidently - for help was at hand - asserted his determination to resist to the last.
The scorching rays of the noon-day sun had prepared the shingle roof for the conflagration. The return of the flag was immediately followed by the shooting of the arrows, to which balls of blazing rosin and brimstone were attached. Simms tells us the bow was put into the hands of Nathan Savage, a private in Marion's brigade. The first struck, and set fire; also the second and third, in different quarters of the roof. M'Pherson immediately ordered men to repair to the loft of the house, and check the flames by knocking off the shingles; but they were soon driven down by the fire of the six pounder; and no other effort to stop the burning being practicable, the commandant hung out the white flag, and surrendered the garrison at discretion.
If ever a situation in real life afforded a fit subject for poetry, by filling the mind with a sense of moral grandeur, it was that of Mrs. Motte contemplating the spectacle of her home in flames, and rejoicing in the triumph secured to her countrymen, the benefit to her native land by her surrender of her own interest to the public service. I have stood upon the spot, and felt that it was indeed classic ground, and consecrated by memories which should thrill the heart of every American. But the beauty of such memories would be marred by the least attempt at ornament; and the simple narrative of that memorable occurrence has more effect to stir the feelings than could a tale artistically framed and glowing with the richest hues of imagination.
After the captors had taken possession, M'Pherson and his officers accompanied them to Mrs. Motte's dwelling, where they sat down together to a sumptuous dinner. Again, in the softened picture, our heroine is the principal figure. She showed herself prepared, not only to give up her splendid mansion to ensure victory to the American arms, but to do her part towards soothing the agitation of the conflict just ended. Her dignified, courteous, and affable deportment adorned the hospitality of her table; she did the honors with that unaffected politeness which wins esteem as well as admiration; and by her conversation, marked with ease, vivacity and good sense, and the engaging kindness of her manners, endeavored to obliterate the recollection of the loss she had been called upon to sustain, and at the same time to remove from the minds of the prisoners the sense of their misfortune.
To the effect of this grace and gentle kindness, is doubtless due much of the generosity exercised by the victors towards those who, according to strict rule, had no right to expect mercy. While at the table, "it was whispered in Marion's ear that Colonel Lee's men were even then engaged in hanging certain of the tory prisoners. Marion instantly hurried from the table, seized his sword, and running with all haste, reached the place of execution in time to rescue one poor wretch from the gallows. Two were already beyond rescue or recovery. With drawn sword, and a degree of indignation in his countenance that spoke more than words, Marion threatened to kill the first man that made any further attempt in such diabolical proceedings."
Other incidents in the life of Mrs. Motte, illustrate the same rare energy and firmness of character she evinced on this occasion, with the same disinterested devotion to the American cause. When an attack upon Charleston was apprehended, and every man able to render service was summoned to aid in throwing up intrenchments for the defence of the city, Mrs. Motte, who had lost her husband at an early period of the war, and had no son to perform his duty to the country, despatched a messenger to her plantation, and ordered down to Charleston every male slave capable of work. Providing each, at her own expense, with proper implements, and a soldier's rations, she placed them at the disposal of the officer in command. The value of this unexpected aid was enhanced by the spirit which prompted the patriotic offer.
At different times it was her lot to encounter the presence of the enemy. Surprised by the British at one of her country residences on the Santee, her son-in-law, General Pinckney, who happened to be with her at the time, barely escaped capture by taking refuge in the swamps. It was to avoid such annoyances that she removed to "Buckhead," afterwards called Fort Motte, the neighborhood of which in time became the scene of active operations.
When the British took possession of Charleston, the house in which she resided - still one of the finest in the city - was selected as the head-quarters of Colonels Tarleton and Balfour. From this abode she determined not to be driven; and presided daily at the head of her own table, with a company of thirty British officers. The duties forced upon her were discharged with dignity and grace, while she always replied with becoming spirit to the discourteous taunts frequently uttered in her presence, against her "rebel countrymen." In many scenes of danger and disaster was her fortitude put to the test; yet through all, this noble-spirited woman regarded not her own advantage, hesitating at no sacrifice of her convenience or interest, to promote the general good.
One portion of her history, illustrating her singular energy, resolution, and strength of principle should be recorded. During the struggle, her husband had become deeply involved by securities undertaken for his friends. The distracted state of the country - the pursuits of business being for a long time suspended - plunged many into embarrassment; and after the termination of the war, it was found impossible to satisfy these claims. The widow, however, considered the honor of her deceased husband involved in the responsibilities he had assumed. She determined to devote the remainder of her life to the honorable task of paying the debts. Her friends and connections, whose acquaintance with her affairs gave weight to their judgment, warned her of the apparent hopelessness of such an effort. But, steadfast in the principles that governed all her conduct, she persevered; induced a friend to purchase for her, on credit, a valuable body of rice-land, then an uncleared swamp,on the Santee, built houses for the negroes, who constituted nearly all her available property - even that being encumbered with claims - and took up her own abode on the new plantation. Living in an humble dwelling - and relinquishing many of her habitual comforts - she devoted herself with such zeal, untiring industry, and indomitable resolution to the attainment of her object, that her success triumphed over every difficulty, and exceeded the expectations of all who had discouraged her. She not only paid her husband's debts to the full, but secured for her children and descendants a handsome and unincumbered estate. Such an example of perseverance under adverse circumstances, for the accomplishment of a high and noble purpose, exhibits in yet brighter colors the heroism that shone in her country's days of peril !
In the retirement of Mrs. Motte's life after the war, her virtues and usefulness were best appreciated by those who knew her intimately, or lived in her house. By them her society and conversation were felt to be a valued privilege. She was accustomed to amuse and instruct her domestic circle with various interesting anecdotes of persons and events; the recollection of which, however, at this distant period, is too vague to be relied on for a record. The few particulars here mentioned were received from her descendants.
She was the daughter of Robert Brewton, an English gentleman, who emigrated to South Carolina and settled in Charleston before the war. Her mother was a native of Ireland, and married Mr. Brewton after her removal to this country, leaving at her death three children - Miles, Frances, and Rebecca. Miles Brewton took part with the first abettors of resistance to British oppression; and their consultations were held at his house in Charleston. Early in the war he was drowned on his way to England with his family, whom he intended to leave there, while he should return to take part with the patriots.
Rebecca Brewton was born on the 28th June, 1738. She married Jacob Motte in 1758, and was the mother of six children, only three of whom lived to maturity. General Thomas Pinckney married in succession the two elder daughters. The third surviving daughter was married to the late Colonel William Alston, of Charleston. By the children of these, whose families are among the most distinguished in the State, the memory of their ancestor is cherished with pride and affection. Her fame is, indeed, a rich inheritance; for of one like her the land of her birth may well be proud !
Mrs. Motte died in 1815, at her plantation on the Santee. The portrait from which the engraving is taken is said to be an excellent likeness.
Some facts related to Major Garden by Mrs. Brewton, who was an inmate of Mrs. Motte's family at the time of the destruction of her house, are interesting in this connection. She stated that Mrs. Motte and her family had been allowed to occupy an apartment in the mansion while the American forces were at a distance; but when the troops drew near, were ordered to remove immediately. As they were going, Mrs. Brewton took up the quiver of arrows, and said to her friend that she would take those with her, to prevent their being destroyed by the soldiers. She was passing the gate with the quiver in her hands, when M'Pherson asked what she had there, at the same time drawing forth a shaft, and applying the point to his finger. She sportively bade him be careful, "for the arrows were poisoned;" and the ladies then passed on to the farm-house where they were to take up their abode.
On several occasions Mrs. Brewton incurred the enmity of the British officers by her lively sallies, which were sometimes pointed with severity. Before the siege of Fort Motte, a tory ensign had frequently amused himself, and provoked the ladies, by taunts levelled against the whigs, sometimes giving the names of the prominent commanders to pine saplings, while he struck off their heads with his weapon. After the surrender, Mrs. Brewton was cruel enough, meeting this young man on the spot where he had uttered these bravadoes, to request, sportively, another exhibition of his prowess, and regret that the loss of his sword did not permit him to gratify her.
Not long after this, Mrs. Brewton obtained permission to go to Charleston. An officer in the city inquiring the news from the country, she answered "that all nature smiled, for every thing was Greene, down to Monk's Corner." This bon mot was noticed by an order for her immediate departure; she was obliged to leave the city at a late hour, but permitted to return the following day. Her ready wit procured her still further ill will. An officer going into the country offered to take charge of letters to her friends. She replied, "I should like to write, but have no idea of having my letters read at the head of Marion's brigade." The officer returned in a few days on parole, having been taken prisoner by Marion, and called to pay his thanks, as he said, to her for having communicated the intelligence of his movements.
The society of this sprightly and fascinating widow appears to have been much sought by the more cultivated among the British, who enjoyed her brilliant conversation, while they winced under her sarcasm. One day when walking in Broad street, wearing deep mourning, according to the custom of the whig ladies, she was joined by an English officer. They were passing the house of Governor Rutledge, then occupied by Colonel Moncrief, when taking a piece of crape that had been accidently torn from the flounce of her dress, she tied it to the front railing, expressing at the same time her sorrow for the Governor's absence, and her opinion that his house, as well as his friends, ought to wear mourning. It was but a few hours after this act of daring that the patriotic lady was arrested and sent to Philadelphia.
NOTE. - Mrs. Motte's arrows, which have become so famous in history, had been given as a curiosity - being poisoned - by an East India captain to her brother, Miles Brewton. After his loss at sea, they were accidentally put among some household articles belonging to Mrs. Motte, and in her several removals for quiet and security, chanced to be taken to "Buckhead" in the hurried transportation of her effects.
After the abandonment of Camden to the Americans, Lord Rawdon, anxious to maintain his posts, directed his first effort to relieve Fort Motte, at the time invested by Marion and Lee. This fort, which commanded the river, was the principal depôt of the convoys from Charleston to Camden and the upper districts. It was occupied by a garrison under the command of Captain M'Pherson, of one hundred and sixty-five men, having been increased by a small detachment of dragoons from Charleston, a few hours before the appearance of the Americans. The large new mansion-house belonging to Mrs. Motte, which had been selected for the establishment of the post, was surrounded by a deep trench, along the interior margin of which was raised a strong and lofty parapet. Opposite, and northward, upon another hill, was an old farm-house, to which Mrs. Motte had removed when dismissed from her mansion. On this height Lieutenant Colonel Lee had taken position with his force; while Marion occupied the eastern declivity of the ridge on which the fort stood; the valley running between the two hills permitting the Americans to approach it within four hundred yards.
M'Pherson was unprovided with artillery, but hoped to be relieved by the arrival of Lord Rawdon to dislodge the assailants before they could push their preparations to maturity. He therefore replied to the summons to surrender, which came on the 20th May, about a year after the victorious British had taken possession of Charleston, that he should hold out to the last moment in his power.
The besiegers had carried on their approaches rapidly, by relays of working parties; and aware of the advance of Rawdon with all his force, had every motive for perseverance. In the night a courier arrived from General Greene, to advise them of Rawdon's retreat from Camden, and urge redoubled activity; and Marion persevered through the hours of darkness in pressing the completion of their works. The following night Lord Rawdon encamped on the highest ground in the country opposite Fort Motte; and the despairing garrison saw with joy the illumination of his fires; while the Americans were convinced that no time was to be lost.
The large house in the centre of the encircling trench left but a few yards of ground within the British works uncovered; burning the mansion, therefore, must compel the surrender of the garrison. This expedient was reluctantly resolved upon by Marion and Lee, who, unwilling under any circumstances to destroy private property, felt the duty to be much more painful in the present case. It was the summer residence of the owner, whose deceased husband had been a firm friend to his country, and whose daughter (Mrs. Pinckney) was the wife of a gallant officer, then a prisoner in the hands of the British. Lee had made Mrs. Motte's dwelling his quarters, at her pressing invitation, and with his officers had shared her liberal hospitality. Not satisfied with polite attention to the officers, while they were entertained at her luxurious table, she had attended with active benevolence to the sick and wounded, soothed the infirm with kind sympathy, and animated the desponding to hope. It was thus not without deep regret that the commanders determined on the sacrifice, and the Lieutenant Colonel found himself compelled to inform Mrs. Motte of the unavoidable necessity of the destruction of her property.
The smile with which the communication was received, gave instant relief to the embarrassed officer. Mrs. Motte not only assented, but declared that she was "gratified with the opportunity of contributing to the good of her country, and should view the approaching scene with delight." Shortly after, seeing by accident the bow and arrows which had been prepared to carry combustible matter, she sent for Lee, and presenting him with a bow and its apparatus, which had been imported from India, requested his substitution of them, as better adapted for the object than those provided.
Every thing was now prepared for the concluding scene. The lines were manned, and an additional force stationed at the battery to meet a desperate assault, if such should be made. The American entrenchments being within arrow shot, M'Pherson was once more summoned, and again more confidently - for help was at hand - asserted his determination to resist to the last.
The scorching rays of the noon-day sun had prepared the shingle roof for the conflagration. The return of the flag was immediately followed by the shooting of the arrows, to which balls of blazing rosin and brimstone were attached. Simms tells us the bow was put into the hands of Nathan Savage, a private in Marion's brigade. The first struck, and set fire; also the second and third, in different quarters of the roof. M'Pherson immediately ordered men to repair to the loft of the house, and check the flames by knocking off the shingles; but they were soon driven down by the fire of the six pounder; and no other effort to stop the burning being practicable, the commandant hung out the white flag, and surrendered the garrison at discretion.
If ever a situation in real life afforded a fit subject for poetry, by filling the mind with a sense of moral grandeur, it was that of Mrs. Motte contemplating the spectacle of her home in flames, and rejoicing in the triumph secured to her countrymen, the benefit to her native land by her surrender of her own interest to the public service. I have stood upon the spot, and felt that it was indeed classic ground, and consecrated by memories which should thrill the heart of every American. But the beauty of such memories would be marred by the least attempt at ornament; and the simple narrative of that memorable occurrence has more effect to stir the feelings than could a tale artistically framed and glowing with the richest hues of imagination.
After the captors had taken possession, M'Pherson and his officers accompanied them to Mrs. Motte's dwelling, where they sat down together to a sumptuous dinner. Again, in the softened picture, our heroine is the principal figure. She showed herself prepared, not only to give up her splendid mansion to ensure victory to the American arms, but to do her part towards soothing the agitation of the conflict just ended. Her dignified, courteous, and affable deportment adorned the hospitality of her table; she did the honors with that unaffected politeness which wins esteem as well as admiration; and by her conversation, marked with ease, vivacity and good sense, and the engaging kindness of her manners, endeavored to obliterate the recollection of the loss she had been called upon to sustain, and at the same time to remove from the minds of the prisoners the sense of their misfortune.
To the effect of this grace and gentle kindness, is doubtless due much of the generosity exercised by the victors towards those who, according to strict rule, had no right to expect mercy. While at the table, "it was whispered in Marion's ear that Colonel Lee's men were even then engaged in hanging certain of the tory prisoners. Marion instantly hurried from the table, seized his sword, and running with all haste, reached the place of execution in time to rescue one poor wretch from the gallows. Two were already beyond rescue or recovery. With drawn sword, and a degree of indignation in his countenance that spoke more than words, Marion threatened to kill the first man that made any further attempt in such diabolical proceedings."
Other incidents in the life of Mrs. Motte, illustrate the same rare energy and firmness of character she evinced on this occasion, with the same disinterested devotion to the American cause. When an attack upon Charleston was apprehended, and every man able to render service was summoned to aid in throwing up intrenchments for the defence of the city, Mrs. Motte, who had lost her husband at an early period of the war, and had no son to perform his duty to the country, despatched a messenger to her plantation, and ordered down to Charleston every male slave capable of work. Providing each, at her own expense, with proper implements, and a soldier's rations, she placed them at the disposal of the officer in command. The value of this unexpected aid was enhanced by the spirit which prompted the patriotic offer.
At different times it was her lot to encounter the presence of the enemy. Surprised by the British at one of her country residences on the Santee, her son-in-law, General Pinckney, who happened to be with her at the time, barely escaped capture by taking refuge in the swamps. It was to avoid such annoyances that she removed to "Buckhead," afterwards called Fort Motte, the neighborhood of which in time became the scene of active operations.
When the British took possession of Charleston, the house in which she resided - still one of the finest in the city - was selected as the head-quarters of Colonels Tarleton and Balfour. From this abode she determined not to be driven; and presided daily at the head of her own table, with a company of thirty British officers. The duties forced upon her were discharged with dignity and grace, while she always replied with becoming spirit to the discourteous taunts frequently uttered in her presence, against her "rebel countrymen." In many scenes of danger and disaster was her fortitude put to the test; yet through all, this noble-spirited woman regarded not her own advantage, hesitating at no sacrifice of her convenience or interest, to promote the general good.
One portion of her history, illustrating her singular energy, resolution, and strength of principle should be recorded. During the struggle, her husband had become deeply involved by securities undertaken for his friends. The distracted state of the country - the pursuits of business being for a long time suspended - plunged many into embarrassment; and after the termination of the war, it was found impossible to satisfy these claims. The widow, however, considered the honor of her deceased husband involved in the responsibilities he had assumed. She determined to devote the remainder of her life to the honorable task of paying the debts. Her friends and connections, whose acquaintance with her affairs gave weight to their judgment, warned her of the apparent hopelessness of such an effort. But, steadfast in the principles that governed all her conduct, she persevered; induced a friend to purchase for her, on credit, a valuable body of rice-land, then an uncleared swamp,on the Santee, built houses for the negroes, who constituted nearly all her available property - even that being encumbered with claims - and took up her own abode on the new plantation. Living in an humble dwelling - and relinquishing many of her habitual comforts - she devoted herself with such zeal, untiring industry, and indomitable resolution to the attainment of her object, that her success triumphed over every difficulty, and exceeded the expectations of all who had discouraged her. She not only paid her husband's debts to the full, but secured for her children and descendants a handsome and unincumbered estate. Such an example of perseverance under adverse circumstances, for the accomplishment of a high and noble purpose, exhibits in yet brighter colors the heroism that shone in her country's days of peril !
In the retirement of Mrs. Motte's life after the war, her virtues and usefulness were best appreciated by those who knew her intimately, or lived in her house. By them her society and conversation were felt to be a valued privilege. She was accustomed to amuse and instruct her domestic circle with various interesting anecdotes of persons and events; the recollection of which, however, at this distant period, is too vague to be relied on for a record. The few particulars here mentioned were received from her descendants.
She was the daughter of Robert Brewton, an English gentleman, who emigrated to South Carolina and settled in Charleston before the war. Her mother was a native of Ireland, and married Mr. Brewton after her removal to this country, leaving at her death three children - Miles, Frances, and Rebecca. Miles Brewton took part with the first abettors of resistance to British oppression; and their consultations were held at his house in Charleston. Early in the war he was drowned on his way to England with his family, whom he intended to leave there, while he should return to take part with the patriots.
Rebecca Brewton was born on the 28th June, 1738. She married Jacob Motte in 1758, and was the mother of six children, only three of whom lived to maturity. General Thomas Pinckney married in succession the two elder daughters. The third surviving daughter was married to the late Colonel William Alston, of Charleston. By the children of these, whose families are among the most distinguished in the State, the memory of their ancestor is cherished with pride and affection. Her fame is, indeed, a rich inheritance; for of one like her the land of her birth may well be proud !
Mrs. Motte died in 1815, at her plantation on the Santee. The portrait from which the engraving is taken is said to be an excellent likeness.
Some facts related to Major Garden by Mrs. Brewton, who was an inmate of Mrs. Motte's family at the time of the destruction of her house, are interesting in this connection. She stated that Mrs. Motte and her family had been allowed to occupy an apartment in the mansion while the American forces were at a distance; but when the troops drew near, were ordered to remove immediately. As they were going, Mrs. Brewton took up the quiver of arrows, and said to her friend that she would take those with her, to prevent their being destroyed by the soldiers. She was passing the gate with the quiver in her hands, when M'Pherson asked what she had there, at the same time drawing forth a shaft, and applying the point to his finger. She sportively bade him be careful, "for the arrows were poisoned;" and the ladies then passed on to the farm-house where they were to take up their abode.
On several occasions Mrs. Brewton incurred the enmity of the British officers by her lively sallies, which were sometimes pointed with severity. Before the siege of Fort Motte, a tory ensign had frequently amused himself, and provoked the ladies, by taunts levelled against the whigs, sometimes giving the names of the prominent commanders to pine saplings, while he struck off their heads with his weapon. After the surrender, Mrs. Brewton was cruel enough, meeting this young man on the spot where he had uttered these bravadoes, to request, sportively, another exhibition of his prowess, and regret that the loss of his sword did not permit him to gratify her.
Not long after this, Mrs. Brewton obtained permission to go to Charleston. An officer in the city inquiring the news from the country, she answered "that all nature smiled, for every thing was Greene, down to Monk's Corner." This bon mot was noticed by an order for her immediate departure; she was obliged to leave the city at a late hour, but permitted to return the following day. Her ready wit procured her still further ill will. An officer going into the country offered to take charge of letters to her friends. She replied, "I should like to write, but have no idea of having my letters read at the head of Marion's brigade." The officer returned in a few days on parole, having been taken prisoner by Marion, and called to pay his thanks, as he said, to her for having communicated the intelligence of his movements.
The society of this sprightly and fascinating widow appears to have been much sought by the more cultivated among the British, who enjoyed her brilliant conversation, while they winced under her sarcasm. One day when walking in Broad street, wearing deep mourning, according to the custom of the whig ladies, she was joined by an English officer. They were passing the house of Governor Rutledge, then occupied by Colonel Moncrief, when taking a piece of crape that had been accidently torn from the flounce of her dress, she tied it to the front railing, expressing at the same time her sorrow for the Governor's absence, and her opinion that his house, as well as his friends, ought to wear mourning. It was but a few hours after this act of daring that the patriotic lady was arrested and sent to Philadelphia.
NOTE. - Mrs. Motte's arrows, which have become so famous in history, had been given as a curiosity - being poisoned - by an East India captain to her brother, Miles Brewton. After his loss at sea, they were accidentally put among some household articles belonging to Mrs. Motte, and in her several removals for quiet and security, chanced to be taken to "Buckhead" in the hurried transportation of her effects.
Who was Thomas Pinckney?
Thomas Pinckney (1750–1828), was an American soldier, politician, and diplomat.
Pinckney was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and was educated in Great Britain (at Westminster) and France. He fought in the American Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1781, attaining the rank of Captain of Engineers. Pinckney was governor of South Carolina from 1787 to 1789 and became the U.S. ambassador to Britain in 1792. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1797 to 1801. He was a Major General during the War of 1812.
His brother Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and his cousin Charles Pinckney were signers of the United States Constitution. He arranged the Treaty of San Lorenzo, also known as the Pinckney's Treaty, with Spain in 1795. He ran as a Federalist candidate in the U.S. presidential election, 1796.
Pinckneyville, Georgia, was named after Thomas Pinckney after he traveled through the area. That town no longer exists as its residents left to found the nearby Norcross. Pinckneyville is the name of a Middle School in the Norcross area.
He was married twice to sisters-his second wife was the widow of John Middleton-a cousin of Arthur Middleton. His mother-in-law was [Rebecca Motte] of Fort Motte. Rebecca Motte's niece was named Susannah Smith-daughter of the Speaker of the S.C. Carolina Assembly Benjamin Smith-& wife of Colonel Bernard Elliott of the 2nd South Carolina Regiment. A son of Benjamin Smith named William Loughton Smith was married to Charlotte Izard-a daughter of S.C. Congressman Ralph Izard. A son-in-law of Benjamin Smith was Congressman Isaac Motte who was also a brother-in-law of Congressman Thomas Lynch (statesman) and South Carolina Governor William Moultrie. By another wife Isaac Motte was also brother-in-law to a Thomas Middleton-cousin of Congressman Arthur Middleton. Isaac Motte's sister Charlotte was married to Captain John Huger-later Secretary of State of South Carolina-a uncle of Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger. Captain John Huger's brother Major Benjamin Huger {1746-1779} was the father of S.C. Congressman Benjamin Huger (1768-1823) and of Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger.
His son Thomas was married to Elizabeth Izard, a cousin twice removed of South Carolina Congressman Ralph Izard. A daughter of Thomas married to Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger; their son was CS General Benjamin Huger (1805-1877) who was also the grandnephew of Congressman Daniel E. Huger. Congressman Huger was the brother-in-law of Lewis Morris Jr-who was the son of New York Congressman Lewis Morris.
The wife of his first cousin once removed was the sister of Colonel John Laurens-son of Congressional President Henry Laurens. {A sister of John Laurens was the wife of Congressman David Ramsay; Henry-a brother of John Laurens-married Elizabeth daughter of Governor John Rutledge.} Another son of Thomas named Charles Cotesworth Pinckney married to Phoebe Elliott-a daughter of a South Carolina State Represenative William Elliott and Phoebe Waight. Nephews of Phoebe Elliott was South Carolina COngressman [William Elliott] and his brother Confederate General [Stephen Elliott Jr].
Pinckney was born in Charleston, South Carolina, and was educated in Great Britain (at Westminster) and France. He fought in the American Revolutionary War from 1775 to 1781, attaining the rank of Captain of Engineers. Pinckney was governor of South Carolina from 1787 to 1789 and became the U.S. ambassador to Britain in 1792. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1797 to 1801. He was a Major General during the War of 1812.
His brother Charles Cotesworth Pinckney and his cousin Charles Pinckney were signers of the United States Constitution. He arranged the Treaty of San Lorenzo, also known as the Pinckney's Treaty, with Spain in 1795. He ran as a Federalist candidate in the U.S. presidential election, 1796.
Pinckneyville, Georgia, was named after Thomas Pinckney after he traveled through the area. That town no longer exists as its residents left to found the nearby Norcross. Pinckneyville is the name of a Middle School in the Norcross area.
He was married twice to sisters-his second wife was the widow of John Middleton-a cousin of Arthur Middleton. His mother-in-law was [Rebecca Motte] of Fort Motte. Rebecca Motte's niece was named Susannah Smith-daughter of the Speaker of the S.C. Carolina Assembly Benjamin Smith-& wife of Colonel Bernard Elliott of the 2nd South Carolina Regiment. A son of Benjamin Smith named William Loughton Smith was married to Charlotte Izard-a daughter of S.C. Congressman Ralph Izard. A son-in-law of Benjamin Smith was Congressman Isaac Motte who was also a brother-in-law of Congressman Thomas Lynch (statesman) and South Carolina Governor William Moultrie. By another wife Isaac Motte was also brother-in-law to a Thomas Middleton-cousin of Congressman Arthur Middleton. Isaac Motte's sister Charlotte was married to Captain John Huger-later Secretary of State of South Carolina-a uncle of Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger. Captain John Huger's brother Major Benjamin Huger {1746-1779} was the father of S.C. Congressman Benjamin Huger (1768-1823) and of Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger.
His son Thomas was married to Elizabeth Izard, a cousin twice removed of South Carolina Congressman Ralph Izard. A daughter of Thomas married to Dr. Francis Kinloch Huger; their son was CS General Benjamin Huger (1805-1877) who was also the grandnephew of Congressman Daniel E. Huger. Congressman Huger was the brother-in-law of Lewis Morris Jr-who was the son of New York Congressman Lewis Morris.
The wife of his first cousin once removed was the sister of Colonel John Laurens-son of Congressional President Henry Laurens. {A sister of John Laurens was the wife of Congressman David Ramsay; Henry-a brother of John Laurens-married Elizabeth daughter of Governor John Rutledge.} Another son of Thomas named Charles Cotesworth Pinckney married to Phoebe Elliott-a daughter of a South Carolina State Represenative William Elliott and Phoebe Waight. Nephews of Phoebe Elliott was South Carolina COngressman [William Elliott] and his brother Confederate General [Stephen Elliott Jr].
Who was Charles Willson Peale?
Charles Willson Peale (April 15, 1741 – February 22, 1827) was an American painter, soldier and naturalist.
Peale was born in Chester, Queen Anne's County, Maryland the son of Charles Peale and his wife Margaret. In 1749 his brother James Peale (1749-1831) was born. Charles became an apprentice to a saddle maker when he was thirteen years old. Upon reaching maturity, he opened his own saddle shop; however, when his Loyalist creditors discovered he had joined the Sons of Liberty organization, they conspired to bankrupt his business.
Finding that he had a talent for painting, especially portraitures, Peale studied for a time under John Hesselius and John Singleton Copley; eventually friends raised enough money for him to travel to England to take instruction from Benjamin West. Peale studied with West for two years beginning in 1767, afterward returning to America and settling in Annapolis, Maryland. There, he taught painting to his younger brother, James Peale, who in time also became a noted artist.
In 1762, he married Rachel Brewer (1744-1790). They had ten children. The sons included Raphaelle Peale (1774-1825), Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860), Rubens Peale (1784-1865), Titian Peale (1799-1885). Among the daughters: Angelica Kauffman Peale married Alexander Robinson, and Priscilla Peale married Dr. Henry Boteler.
Peale's enthusiasm for the nascent national government brought him to the capital, Philadelphia, in 1776 where he painted portraits of American notables and visitors from overseas. His estate, which is on the campus of La Salle University in Philadelphia, can still be visited. He also raised troops for the revolution and eventually gained the rank of captain in 1777, having participated in several battles. While in the field, he continued to paint, doing miniature portraits of various officers in the Continental Army, of which he would develop enlarged versions in later years. He served in the Pennsylvania state assembly in 1779-80, after which he returned to painting full-time.
In 1778, his second son Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860), was born. Rembrandt became one of the most important American painters in his time.
Peale painted in the trompe l'oeil style,[1] and was quite prolific as an artist. While he did portraits of scores of historic figures (such as John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton), he is probably best known for his portraits of George Washington. The first time Washington ever sat for a portrait was with Peale in 1772, and there would be six other sittings; using these seven as models, Peale produced altogether close to 60 portraits of Washington. In January 2005, a full length portrait of "Washington at Princeton" from 1779 sold for $21.3 million dollars -setting a record for the highest price paid for an American portrait.
In 1791, he married Elizabeth de Peyster (d.1804), his second wife, with whom he had another six children. In 1795, they had a son Franklin Peale born on October 15 at Philadelphia. His son Franklin became the Chief Coiner at the Philadelphia Mint. In 1799, Titian Ramsay Peale (1799-1885), was born, who became an important naturalist and early developer of the science, technique and art of photography.
He also had a great interest in natural history, and organized the first U.S. scientific expedition in 1801. These two major interests combined in his founding of what became the Philadelphia Museum, and was later renamed the Peale Museum. This museum was stocked with artwork supplied by Peale, as well as artifacts of natural history, such as a mastodon skeleton found on the first expedition. After his death, the museum was sold to, and split up by, showmen P. T. Barnum and Moses Kimball.
In 1802, he had a daughter Elizabeth De Peyster Peale (1802-57), who married William Augustus Patterson (1792-1833), in 1820.
In 1804, he married a Quakeress from Philadelphia named Hannah More, who raised the children from his previous two marriages.
Peale could accurately be described as a "renaissance man", having developed a certain level of expertise in such diverse fields as carpentry, dentistry, optometry, shoemaking and taxidermy. He also wrote several books, among which were An Essay on Building Wooden Bridges (1797) and An Epistle to a Friend on the Means of Preserving Health (1803). Each named for artists themselves, Peale taught all of his children to paint, and three of them, Rembrandt, Raphaelle and Titian Ramsay, became noted artists in their own right.
His brother-in-law was Congressman Nathaniel Ramsey
Peale was born in Chester, Queen Anne's County, Maryland the son of Charles Peale and his wife Margaret. In 1749 his brother James Peale (1749-1831) was born. Charles became an apprentice to a saddle maker when he was thirteen years old. Upon reaching maturity, he opened his own saddle shop; however, when his Loyalist creditors discovered he had joined the Sons of Liberty organization, they conspired to bankrupt his business.
Finding that he had a talent for painting, especially portraitures, Peale studied for a time under John Hesselius and John Singleton Copley; eventually friends raised enough money for him to travel to England to take instruction from Benjamin West. Peale studied with West for two years beginning in 1767, afterward returning to America and settling in Annapolis, Maryland. There, he taught painting to his younger brother, James Peale, who in time also became a noted artist.
In 1762, he married Rachel Brewer (1744-1790). They had ten children. The sons included Raphaelle Peale (1774-1825), Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860), Rubens Peale (1784-1865), Titian Peale (1799-1885). Among the daughters: Angelica Kauffman Peale married Alexander Robinson, and Priscilla Peale married Dr. Henry Boteler.
Peale's enthusiasm for the nascent national government brought him to the capital, Philadelphia, in 1776 where he painted portraits of American notables and visitors from overseas. His estate, which is on the campus of La Salle University in Philadelphia, can still be visited. He also raised troops for the revolution and eventually gained the rank of captain in 1777, having participated in several battles. While in the field, he continued to paint, doing miniature portraits of various officers in the Continental Army, of which he would develop enlarged versions in later years. He served in the Pennsylvania state assembly in 1779-80, after which he returned to painting full-time.
In 1778, his second son Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860), was born. Rembrandt became one of the most important American painters in his time.
Peale painted in the trompe l'oeil style,[1] and was quite prolific as an artist. While he did portraits of scores of historic figures (such as John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton), he is probably best known for his portraits of George Washington. The first time Washington ever sat for a portrait was with Peale in 1772, and there would be six other sittings; using these seven as models, Peale produced altogether close to 60 portraits of Washington. In January 2005, a full length portrait of "Washington at Princeton" from 1779 sold for $21.3 million dollars -setting a record for the highest price paid for an American portrait.
In 1791, he married Elizabeth de Peyster (d.1804), his second wife, with whom he had another six children. In 1795, they had a son Franklin Peale born on October 15 at Philadelphia. His son Franklin became the Chief Coiner at the Philadelphia Mint. In 1799, Titian Ramsay Peale (1799-1885), was born, who became an important naturalist and early developer of the science, technique and art of photography.
He also had a great interest in natural history, and organized the first U.S. scientific expedition in 1801. These two major interests combined in his founding of what became the Philadelphia Museum, and was later renamed the Peale Museum. This museum was stocked with artwork supplied by Peale, as well as artifacts of natural history, such as a mastodon skeleton found on the first expedition. After his death, the museum was sold to, and split up by, showmen P. T. Barnum and Moses Kimball.
In 1802, he had a daughter Elizabeth De Peyster Peale (1802-57), who married William Augustus Patterson (1792-1833), in 1820.
In 1804, he married a Quakeress from Philadelphia named Hannah More, who raised the children from his previous two marriages.
Peale could accurately be described as a "renaissance man", having developed a certain level of expertise in such diverse fields as carpentry, dentistry, optometry, shoemaking and taxidermy. He also wrote several books, among which were An Essay on Building Wooden Bridges (1797) and An Epistle to a Friend on the Means of Preserving Health (1803). Each named for artists themselves, Peale taught all of his children to paint, and three of them, Rembrandt, Raphaelle and Titian Ramsay, became noted artists in their own right.
His brother-in-law was Congressman Nathaniel Ramsey
Who was John Ross Key?
John Ross Key (September 19, 1754 – October 11, 1821) was a lawyer, a commissioned officer in the Continental Army, a judge, and the father of writer Francis Scott Key.
Key was born in Redland, Frederick County, Maryland, to English parents Francis Key, whose parents had come to Maryland in 1726, and his wife Ann Arnold (Ross) Key. She was a strong influence on her grandson Francis when he lived with her near Annapolis when he was in school there.
Mustered into service at Frederick on June 21, 1775, Key was commissioned as a second lieutenant in Capt. Thomas Price's Maryland Rifle Company. It was one of the first military forces that came to aid General Washington in Boston, July-August 1775. By 1781 Key was a captain. He commanded a Frederick County Company of Cavalry during the Yorktown Campaign.
He was later a Justice of the Peace, a Judge, and Associate Justice of his Judicial District, which comprised Allegany, Washington and Frederick Counties. His brother Philip Barton Key, also an attorney arranged for his nephew Francis to study law under his friend, Judge Jeremiah Townley Chase in 1800 and with whom he would later be a partner in Georgetown. Francis took the practice over entirely when his uncle ran for Congress.
He married Ann Phoebe Penn Dagworthy Charlton at the city of Frederick on October 19, 1775. Six children were born to the couple, but only three reached maturity. Francis Scott Key, his sister Anne Arnold Phoebe Charlton Key who would marry Roger Brooke Taney and John Alfred Key who died at Edgefield, South Carolina.
Key died at the age of 67 in Frederick City and was interred there at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Key was born in Redland, Frederick County, Maryland, to English parents Francis Key, whose parents had come to Maryland in 1726, and his wife Ann Arnold (Ross) Key. She was a strong influence on her grandson Francis when he lived with her near Annapolis when he was in school there.
Mustered into service at Frederick on June 21, 1775, Key was commissioned as a second lieutenant in Capt. Thomas Price's Maryland Rifle Company. It was one of the first military forces that came to aid General Washington in Boston, July-August 1775. By 1781 Key was a captain. He commanded a Frederick County Company of Cavalry during the Yorktown Campaign.
He was later a Justice of the Peace, a Judge, and Associate Justice of his Judicial District, which comprised Allegany, Washington and Frederick Counties. His brother Philip Barton Key, also an attorney arranged for his nephew Francis to study law under his friend, Judge Jeremiah Townley Chase in 1800 and with whom he would later be a partner in Georgetown. Francis took the practice over entirely when his uncle ran for Congress.
He married Ann Phoebe Penn Dagworthy Charlton at the city of Frederick on October 19, 1775. Six children were born to the couple, but only three reached maturity. Francis Scott Key, his sister Anne Arnold Phoebe Charlton Key who would marry Roger Brooke Taney and John Alfred Key who died at Edgefield, South Carolina.
Key died at the age of 67 in Frederick City and was interred there at Mount Olivet Cemetery.
Who was Benjamin Hinman?
Colonel Benjamin Hinman (January 22, 1719 – March 22, 1810) was a US soldier and member of the Connecticut legistature. He was born to Benjamin Hinman (b. 1692) and Sarah Sherman in Woodbury, Litchfield County, Connecticut and died in Southbury, New Haven County, Connecticut. He served as quartermaster of a troop in the French and Indian War in 1751 under General Roger Wolcott. He received his commission as captain in 1755 in the regiment of Colonel Elizur Goodrich. There he was charged with defending Crown Point and the surrounding area. He was again promoted in 1767 to lieutenant-colonel, and in 1771 to colonel in the 13th regiment.
With the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, he was commissioned in May 1775 as a captain of the 4th continental regiment where he served at Fort Ticonderoga and crossed paths with Benedict Arnold. He retired from service as a Colonel in 1777 due to poor health. He represented his home town of Woodbury for 20 sessions of the Connecticut legistature, followed by Southbury (due to its incorporation) for eight more sessions. He also participated in the Connecticut convention to ratify the United States constitution.
With the outbreak of the Revolutionary War, he was commissioned in May 1775 as a captain of the 4th continental regiment where he served at Fort Ticonderoga and crossed paths with Benedict Arnold. He retired from service as a Colonel in 1777 due to poor health. He represented his home town of Woodbury for 20 sessions of the Connecticut legistature, followed by Southbury (due to its incorporation) for eight more sessions. He also participated in the Connecticut convention to ratify the United States constitution.
What was Kekionga?
Kekionga also known as Kiskakon was the capital of the Miami tribe at the confluence of the Saint Joseph, Saint Marys and Maumee rivers on the western edge of the Great Black Swamp. It became the site of several French, British and American forts and trading posts.
The Miami at first benefited from trade with the Europeans. The French under Jean Baptiste Bissot, Sieur de Vincennes established a trading post and fort, first at the St. Joseph River, and later at Kekionga. Vincennes and the Miami developed a strong and enduring friendship.
In 1780, Kekionga was sacked by a force of French Americans led by Colonel Augustin de la Balme, who planned to ultimately take Detroit from the British. This force was utterly destroyed by a Miami force led by Chief Little Turtle. In 1790, General Josiah Harmar was defeated by a tribal coalition led by Little Turtle in the Harmar's Defeat. Later, the Miami were gradually forced to give up more and more of their land and eventually lost control of the settlement entirely. The site later became the city of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
The Miami at first benefited from trade with the Europeans. The French under Jean Baptiste Bissot, Sieur de Vincennes established a trading post and fort, first at the St. Joseph River, and later at Kekionga. Vincennes and the Miami developed a strong and enduring friendship.
In 1780, Kekionga was sacked by a force of French Americans led by Colonel Augustin de la Balme, who planned to ultimately take Detroit from the British. This force was utterly destroyed by a Miami force led by Chief Little Turtle. In 1790, General Josiah Harmar was defeated by a tribal coalition led by Little Turtle in the Harmar's Defeat. Later, the Miami were gradually forced to give up more and more of their land and eventually lost control of the settlement entirely. The site later became the city of Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Who was Augustin Mottin de la Balme?
Augustin Mottin de la Balme was a French cavalry officer who served in Europe during the Seven Years War and in the United States during the American Revolution.
Augustin Mottin was born 28 August 1733, in the French Alps near Saint-Antoine, the son of a tanner. He served as a trooper in the distinguished “Scottish” company of the Gendarmerie de France during the Seven Years War.
The French forces were nearly destroyed at the Battle of Minden, but Augustin Mottin was one of the surviving French Cavalry officers. Incidentally, another French officer, Colonel Lafayette, was killed in the battle, leaving his two-year old son Gilbert du Mottier with the title "Marquis de Lafayette". The British forces at Minden were under the command of Lieutenant General Lord George Sackville, who was court-martialed for failing to crush the defeated French. All of these names would become familiar during the American Revolution.
Following the war, Augustin studied horsemanship, eventually becoming master at the Gendarmerie’s Riding School in Lunéville. Mottin was promoted to Fourrier-Major in 1766, and retired with a pension in 1773. Using the assumed name “Mottin de La Balme,” he wrote a book on horsemanship in 1773, followed with a book on cavalry tactics in 1776.
Augustin de La Balme left for the United States to assist in the American Revolution. In 1777, he was appointed as the Colonial Army’s Inspector General of Cavalry. Upon learning that Casimir Pulaski would be in command of the United States Cavalry, La Balme resigned in October of 1777.
In 1780, allegedly under secret orders from General Washington, but as likely acting on his own, he traveled down the Ohio River to Kaskaskia. The success of General Clark’s capture of Fort Sackville at Vincennes inspired La Balme to attempt a similar feat against the British at Fort Detroit. La Balme recruited a militia force from among the French citizens of Kaskaskia, Cahokia, and Vincennes, then started up the Wabash River with the expectation of adding to his force from the French villages of Ouiatenon (present day Lafayette, Indiana) and Kekionga (present day Fort Wayne). La Balme apparently expected French residents at Fort Detroit to join him as well once they arrived.
La Balme's force had little opposition until reaching Kekionga, where they raided British stores for over three days while awaiting reinforcements that never arrived. Upon learning of the return of a Miami hunting party to Kekionga, Le Balme departed to raid another trading post on Eel River. Leaving some twenty men to guard the captured stores at Kekionga, his force marched out over the Eel River trail (the same trail Colonel John Hardin would follow ten years later).
The Miami Indians, learning of the intrusion, destroyed the small group of men left at Kekionga. Chief Little Turtle, who lived in a village along the Eel River, attacked La Balme before he reached the Eel River trading post. La Balme and his men fortified themselves on the banks of the river. There remains some confusion as to the length of the battle; accounts of the siege vary from several days to several weeks. They were eventually defeated by an overwhelming force, and only a few survivors managed to escape.
Augustin Mottin was born 28 August 1733, in the French Alps near Saint-Antoine, the son of a tanner. He served as a trooper in the distinguished “Scottish” company of the Gendarmerie de France during the Seven Years War.
The French forces were nearly destroyed at the Battle of Minden, but Augustin Mottin was one of the surviving French Cavalry officers. Incidentally, another French officer, Colonel Lafayette, was killed in the battle, leaving his two-year old son Gilbert du Mottier with the title "Marquis de Lafayette". The British forces at Minden were under the command of Lieutenant General Lord George Sackville, who was court-martialed for failing to crush the defeated French. All of these names would become familiar during the American Revolution.
Following the war, Augustin studied horsemanship, eventually becoming master at the Gendarmerie’s Riding School in Lunéville. Mottin was promoted to Fourrier-Major in 1766, and retired with a pension in 1773. Using the assumed name “Mottin de La Balme,” he wrote a book on horsemanship in 1773, followed with a book on cavalry tactics in 1776.
Augustin de La Balme left for the United States to assist in the American Revolution. In 1777, he was appointed as the Colonial Army’s Inspector General of Cavalry. Upon learning that Casimir Pulaski would be in command of the United States Cavalry, La Balme resigned in October of 1777.
In 1780, allegedly under secret orders from General Washington, but as likely acting on his own, he traveled down the Ohio River to Kaskaskia. The success of General Clark’s capture of Fort Sackville at Vincennes inspired La Balme to attempt a similar feat against the British at Fort Detroit. La Balme recruited a militia force from among the French citizens of Kaskaskia, Cahokia, and Vincennes, then started up the Wabash River with the expectation of adding to his force from the French villages of Ouiatenon (present day Lafayette, Indiana) and Kekionga (present day Fort Wayne). La Balme apparently expected French residents at Fort Detroit to join him as well once they arrived.
La Balme's force had little opposition until reaching Kekionga, where they raided British stores for over three days while awaiting reinforcements that never arrived. Upon learning of the return of a Miami hunting party to Kekionga, Le Balme departed to raid another trading post on Eel River. Leaving some twenty men to guard the captured stores at Kekionga, his force marched out over the Eel River trail (the same trail Colonel John Hardin would follow ten years later).
The Miami Indians, learning of the intrusion, destroyed the small group of men left at Kekionga. Chief Little Turtle, who lived in a village along the Eel River, attacked La Balme before he reached the Eel River trading post. La Balme and his men fortified themselves on the banks of the river. There remains some confusion as to the length of the battle; accounts of the siege vary from several days to several weeks. They were eventually defeated by an overwhelming force, and only a few survivors managed to escape.
Who was Jean-Baptiste Hamelin?
Jean-Baptiste Hamelin (August 9, 1733 – September 23, 1804) was a French Canadian soldier who fought on the U.S. side of the American Revolutionary War, serving in Moses Hazen's 2nd Canadian Regiment of the Continental Army.
Jean-Baptiste Hamelin participated in the battle of the Congress Own Regiment until 1779 where he was sent in the west to help Georges Rogers Clark campaign.
Jean-Baptiste Hamelin was sent by Augustin de la Balme to attack fort Saint-Joseph (Niles, Michigan)(across the lake Michigan in front of Chicago on the east shore).
The attack itself was successful, but his man were caught and many of them killed.
Jean-Baptiste Hamelin participated in the battle of the Congress Own Regiment until 1779 where he was sent in the west to help Georges Rogers Clark campaign.
Jean-Baptiste Hamelin was sent by Augustin de la Balme to attack fort Saint-Joseph (Niles, Michigan)(across the lake Michigan in front of Chicago on the east shore).
The attack itself was successful, but his man were caught and many of them killed.
Who was Peterson Goodwyn?
Peterson Goodwyn (1745 – February 21, 1818) was an eighteenth century and nineteenth century politician and planter from Virginia.
Born at "Martins" near Petersburg, Virginia, Goodwyn was education by private teachers as a child and went on to complete his preparatory studies. He became a planter, studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1776, commencing practice in Petersburg and surrounding areas. During the Revolutionary War, Goodwyn equipped his own company and rose the ranks from captain to major and was promoted to colonel for gallantry at the Battles of Smithfield and Great Bridge. After the war, he was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 1789 to 1802. Goodwyn was elected a Democratic-Republican to the United States House of Representatives in 1802, serving from 1803 to his death on February 21, 1818 at his estate "Sweden" in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. He was interred in the family cemetery on the estate. Goodwyn also has a cenotaph at Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C..
Born at "Martins" near Petersburg, Virginia, Goodwyn was education by private teachers as a child and went on to complete his preparatory studies. He became a planter, studied law and was admitted to the bar in 1776, commencing practice in Petersburg and surrounding areas. During the Revolutionary War, Goodwyn equipped his own company and rose the ranks from captain to major and was promoted to colonel for gallantry at the Battles of Smithfield and Great Bridge. After the war, he was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates from 1789 to 1802. Goodwyn was elected a Democratic-Republican to the United States House of Representatives in 1802, serving from 1803 to his death on February 21, 1818 at his estate "Sweden" in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. He was interred in the family cemetery on the estate. Goodwyn also has a cenotaph at Congressional Cemetery in Washington, D.C..
Who was James Duncan?
James Duncan (1756 - June 24, 1844) was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Pennsylvania.
James Duncan born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended the common schools and Princeton College. He served as the first prothonotary of Adams County, Pennsylvania. During the Revolutionary War he was appointed as a lieutenant in Colonel Moses Hazen’s regiment on November 3, 1776, and on March 25, 1778, was promoted to captain.
Duncan was elected as a Republican to the Seventeenth Congress but resigned before Congress assembled. He died in Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
James Duncan born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended the common schools and Princeton College. He served as the first prothonotary of Adams County, Pennsylvania. During the Revolutionary War he was appointed as a lieutenant in Colonel Moses Hazen’s regiment on November 3, 1776, and on March 25, 1778, was promoted to captain.
Duncan was elected as a Republican to the Seventeenth Congress but resigned before Congress assembled. He died in Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
Who was Pierre Douville?
Captain Pierre Douville (1745–1794) was born in Prince Edward Island and survived the 1755 Acadian deportation to France. He joined the French Navy and lived in Rhode Island during the American Revolution serving as French military intelligence officer who provided General George Washington with British ship and troop movements. For this he was decorated after the war. Capt. Douville was killed at sea on board his ship in an armed action.
He also smuggle weapons for the Americans in 1775 from Saint-Pierre and Michelon Island. Enraged, the British burned the island house and farm because of it.
He also smuggle weapons for the Americans in 1775 from Saint-Pierre and Michelon Island. Enraged, the British burned the island house and farm because of it.
What was Dunmore's War?
Dunmore's War (or Lord Dunmore's War) was a war from 1773 to 1774 between the Colony of Virginia and the Indian nations of the Shawnee and Mingo. The Colonial legislature was asked by Lord Dunmore, the British Royal Governor of Virginia, to declare a state of war with the hostile Indian nations and order up an elite volunteer militia force for the campaign.
The context of the conflict resulted from escalating violence between British colonists who in accordance with previous treaties were exploring and moving into land south of the Ohio River—modern West Virginia and Kentucky—and American Indians who held treaty rights to hunt there. As a result of successive attacks by Indian hunting and war bands upon the settlers, war was declared to pacify the hostile Indian war bands. The war ended soon after Virginia's victory in the Battle of Point Pleasant on October 10, 1774. As a result of this victory, the Indians lost the right to hunt in the area and agreed to recognize the Ohio River as the boundary between Indian lands and the British colonies. Although the Indian national chieftains signed the treaty, conflict within the Indian nations soon broke out between more radical tribesmen who felt the treaty sold out their claims and tribesmen who felt another war would mean only further losses of territory to the more powerful British colonists. When war broke out between the British colonists and the British government, the war parties of the Indian nations quickly gained power and mobilized the various Indian nations to attack the British colonists during the Revolutionary War.
The context of the conflict resulted from escalating violence between British colonists who in accordance with previous treaties were exploring and moving into land south of the Ohio River—modern West Virginia and Kentucky—and American Indians who held treaty rights to hunt there. As a result of successive attacks by Indian hunting and war bands upon the settlers, war was declared to pacify the hostile Indian war bands. The war ended soon after Virginia's victory in the Battle of Point Pleasant on October 10, 1774. As a result of this victory, the Indians lost the right to hunt in the area and agreed to recognize the Ohio River as the boundary between Indian lands and the British colonies. Although the Indian national chieftains signed the treaty, conflict within the Indian nations soon broke out between more radical tribesmen who felt the treaty sold out their claims and tribesmen who felt another war would mean only further losses of territory to the more powerful British colonists. When war broke out between the British colonists and the British government, the war parties of the Indian nations quickly gained power and mobilized the various Indian nations to attack the British colonists during the Revolutionary War.
Who was Daniel Greathouse?
Daniel Greathouse (c. 1752 to 1775) was a settler in colonial Virginia. His role in the 1774 Yellow Creek Massacre in 1774 was instrumental in starting Dunmore's War.
Greathouse was born in Frederick County, Maryland, one of 11 children of Harmon and Mary Magdalena Stull Greathouse. The Greathouses moved from Maryland to Virginia about 1770 and Daniel owned 400 acres of land at Mingo Bottom in Ohio County, Virginia. Daniel married Mary Morris, and they had two children, Gabriel and John.
In the early 1700s, the Ohio Valley was settled by a multi-cultural group of Indians called the Mingo. They lacked a central government and, like all other Indians within the region at that time, were subject to the control of the Iroquois Confederacy (comprised of the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk, and Tuscarora tribes) headquartered in New York. The Mingo originally lived closer to the Atlantic Coast, but European settlement had pushed them into western Virginia and eastern Ohio. During the French and Indian War, the Mingo sided with the French. When the French lost and subsequently ceeded their holdings to England, intensified settlement of the Ohio valley by their former enemies led to conflicts.
By 1774, tension between the settlers and the Indians tribes had increased; there had been killings on both sides. The rivalry between Pennsylvania and Virgnia over the site of Pittsburgh increased these unsettled circumstances. Scouts returning to Fort Pitt reported that war was inevitable, and word was sent from Wheeling for settlers in outlying settlements to come in.
Yellow Creek is a small tributary of the Ohio River located on the western (Ohio) bank about forty miles above Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) and about 40 miles west northwest of Fort Pitt (now Pittsburgh). Joshua Baker lived at the mouth of this creek and operated an inn or tavern of sorts, selling grog to both whites and Indians. Baker had not responded to the message from Wheeling, but he was preparing to do so when an Indian woman told him that Indians were preparing to murder him and his family. Baker got out word that he needed help.
Greathouse, leading a group of 21 men, came to his aid. The group reached Baker's on 30 April 1774 and were concealed by Baker in a back room. Seven Indians came across the river to Baker's place, including the brother of Chief Logan, a prominent warrior of the Mingo tribe, and two women and a child, also related to Logan. The Indians began to drink. When Logan's brother put on a hat and coat belonging to one of the settlers, the settler shot and killed him. Greathouse's men who had been concealed in the back room rushed out and killed all the remaining Indians except for the child. As they left the tavern, they saw two canoes of Indian men painted and armed for war, coming across the river. Greathouse's group fired on them, killing most of the occupants of one of the canoes; the others turned back. It was said that Greathouse took the scalps of his Indian foes and dangled them from his belt, scalping being a declaration of war among the Indians.
This massacre, following a series of incidents, was the final break in relations between the white settlers and the Indians and is considered the immediate cause of Lord Dunsmore's War of 1774. Terrible vengeance was wreaked on the white settlers by the Indians. Chief Logan incorrectly blamed Colonel Cresap for his brother's death and in turn, Cresap despised and hated Greathouse for his part in the affair.
Daniel died of the measles in 1775 in Yohogania County, Virginia at about 23 years of age. Cresap died the same year.
Daniel had a brother Jacob Greathouse. Allan Eckert's "The Frontiersman" claims Jacob Greathouse was captured, tortured and killed by Indians in 1791 for partciapation in the Yellow Creek Massacre. However a website on the Greathouse family-while acknowledging Daniel Greathouse role in the massacre-reports that Jacob Greathouse died prior to April 1780.
Greathouse was born in Frederick County, Maryland, one of 11 children of Harmon and Mary Magdalena Stull Greathouse. The Greathouses moved from Maryland to Virginia about 1770 and Daniel owned 400 acres of land at Mingo Bottom in Ohio County, Virginia. Daniel married Mary Morris, and they had two children, Gabriel and John.
In the early 1700s, the Ohio Valley was settled by a multi-cultural group of Indians called the Mingo. They lacked a central government and, like all other Indians within the region at that time, were subject to the control of the Iroquois Confederacy (comprised of the Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk, and Tuscarora tribes) headquartered in New York. The Mingo originally lived closer to the Atlantic Coast, but European settlement had pushed them into western Virginia and eastern Ohio. During the French and Indian War, the Mingo sided with the French. When the French lost and subsequently ceeded their holdings to England, intensified settlement of the Ohio valley by their former enemies led to conflicts.
By 1774, tension between the settlers and the Indians tribes had increased; there had been killings on both sides. The rivalry between Pennsylvania and Virgnia over the site of Pittsburgh increased these unsettled circumstances. Scouts returning to Fort Pitt reported that war was inevitable, and word was sent from Wheeling for settlers in outlying settlements to come in.
Yellow Creek is a small tributary of the Ohio River located on the western (Ohio) bank about forty miles above Wheeling, Virginia (now West Virginia) and about 40 miles west northwest of Fort Pitt (now Pittsburgh). Joshua Baker lived at the mouth of this creek and operated an inn or tavern of sorts, selling grog to both whites and Indians. Baker had not responded to the message from Wheeling, but he was preparing to do so when an Indian woman told him that Indians were preparing to murder him and his family. Baker got out word that he needed help.
Greathouse, leading a group of 21 men, came to his aid. The group reached Baker's on 30 April 1774 and were concealed by Baker in a back room. Seven Indians came across the river to Baker's place, including the brother of Chief Logan, a prominent warrior of the Mingo tribe, and two women and a child, also related to Logan. The Indians began to drink. When Logan's brother put on a hat and coat belonging to one of the settlers, the settler shot and killed him. Greathouse's men who had been concealed in the back room rushed out and killed all the remaining Indians except for the child. As they left the tavern, they saw two canoes of Indian men painted and armed for war, coming across the river. Greathouse's group fired on them, killing most of the occupants of one of the canoes; the others turned back. It was said that Greathouse took the scalps of his Indian foes and dangled them from his belt, scalping being a declaration of war among the Indians.
This massacre, following a series of incidents, was the final break in relations between the white settlers and the Indians and is considered the immediate cause of Lord Dunsmore's War of 1774. Terrible vengeance was wreaked on the white settlers by the Indians. Chief Logan incorrectly blamed Colonel Cresap for his brother's death and in turn, Cresap despised and hated Greathouse for his part in the affair.
Daniel died of the measles in 1775 in Yohogania County, Virginia at about 23 years of age. Cresap died the same year.
Daniel had a brother Jacob Greathouse. Allan Eckert's "The Frontiersman" claims Jacob Greathouse was captured, tortured and killed by Indians in 1791 for partciapation in the Yellow Creek Massacre. However a website on the Greathouse family-while acknowledging Daniel Greathouse role in the massacre-reports that Jacob Greathouse died prior to April 1780.
Who was Michael Cresap?
Michael Cresap (April 17, 1742 – October 18, 1775) was a frontiersman born in Maryland. He spent part of his adult years in the Ohio Country as a trader and land developer. He led several raids against Indians whom he believed were hostile to white settlement. Chief Logan of the Mingo Indians accused Cresap of murdering the chief's family. In fact, the killings were almost certainly perpetrated by Daniel Greathouse, yet Cresap was immortalized in Logan's speech (quoted in Thomas Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia) as the murderer of Logan's family.
As a result of the murders, Logan waged war on the settlements along the Ohio and in western Pennsylvania, killing, perhaps, nearly thirty men, women and children. Lord John Murray Dunmore, the British Royal Governor of Virginia, raised an army and appointed Cresap to the rank of captain. The decisive battle of Dunmore's War was the Battle of Point Pleasant. Here Dunmore's forces defeated a band of Shawnee Indians led by Cornstalk.
After Lord Dunmore's War, Cresap returned to Maryland and subsequently raised a company of riflemen for the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He died from illness in New York City while in the service of the army; he is interred there in Trinity Church Cemetery.
As a result of the murders, Logan waged war on the settlements along the Ohio and in western Pennsylvania, killing, perhaps, nearly thirty men, women and children. Lord John Murray Dunmore, the British Royal Governor of Virginia, raised an army and appointed Cresap to the rank of captain. The decisive battle of Dunmore's War was the Battle of Point Pleasant. Here Dunmore's forces defeated a band of Shawnee Indians led by Cornstalk.
After Lord Dunmore's War, Cresap returned to Maryland and subsequently raised a company of riflemen for the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He died from illness in New York City while in the service of the army; he is interred there in Trinity Church Cemetery.
Who was Jeremiah Colegrove?
Jeremiah Colegrove (31 July 1758-26 August 1836) was born to William Colegrove in Scituate, Rhode Island. A man of giant stature, both physically and in the community, he was a prominent farmer and manufacturer in New England. Jeremiah served in the American Revolution and helped to found the city of North Adams, Massachusetts.
Who was Moses Cleaveland?
Moses Cleaveland was a surveyor for the Connecticut Land Company. The city of Cleveland, Ohio, United States is named for him.
He was born in Canterbury, Windham County, Connecticut on January 29, 1754. In 1777, he graduated Yale where he studied law. He returned to his native town and began his own practice.
In 1779, Moses Cleaveland was commissioned captain of a company of sappers and miners. He served as the captain of the group for several years until he eventually resumed his legal practice.
He was known as a very energetic person with high ability. He was elected to the legislature several times and in 1796 was commissioned brigadier-general of militia. He was a shareholder in the Connecticut Land Company, which had purchased for $1,200,000 from the state government of Connecticut the land in northeastern Ohio reserved to Connecticut by Congress, known at its first settlement as New Connecticut, and in later times as the Western Reserve.
He was approached by the directors of the company in May, 1796 and asked to lead the survey of the tract and the location of purchases. He was also responsible for the negotiations with the Indians living on the land. In June, 1796 he set out from Schenectady, New York. His party included fifty people including six surveyors, a physician, a chaplain, a boatman, thirty-seven employees, a few emigrants and two women who accompanied their husbands. Some journeyed by land with the horses and cattle, while the main body went in boats up the Mohawk, down the Oswego, along the shore of Lake Ontario, and up Niagara River, carrying their boats over the long portage of seven miles at the falls.
At Buffalo a delegation of Mohawk nation and Seneca tribe Indians opposed their entrance into the Western Reserve, claiming it as their territory, but waived their rights on the receipt of goods valued at $1,200. The expedition then coasted along the shore of Lake Erie, and landed, on July 4, 1796, at the mouth of Conneaut Creek, which they named Port Independence. The Indians were propitiated with gifts of beads and whiskey, and allowed the surveys to proceed. General Cleaveland, with a surveying party, coasted along the shore and on July 22nd, 1796, landed at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River. He ascended the bank, and, beholding a beautiful plain covered with a luxuriant forest-growth, divined that the spot where he stood, with the river on the west and Lake Erie on the north, was a favorable site for a city.
He accordingly had it surveyed into town lots, and the employees named the place Cleaveland, in honor of their chief. There were but four settlers the first year, and, on account of the insalubrity of the locality, the growth was at first slow, reaching 150 inhabitants only in 1820.
In 1830, when the first newspaper, the "Cleveland Advertiser," was established, the editor discovered that the head-line was too long for the form, and accordingly left out the letter "a" in the first syllable of "Cleaveland," which spelling was at once adopted by the public.
Moses Cleaveland eventually returned to his hometown and died there on November 16, 1806. Today, a statue of him stands on Public Square in Cleveland.
Great Lakes Brewing Company has created a white ale in his honor dubbed "Holy Moses White Ale".
He was born in Canterbury, Windham County, Connecticut on January 29, 1754. In 1777, he graduated Yale where he studied law. He returned to his native town and began his own practice.
In 1779, Moses Cleaveland was commissioned captain of a company of sappers and miners. He served as the captain of the group for several years until he eventually resumed his legal practice.
He was known as a very energetic person with high ability. He was elected to the legislature several times and in 1796 was commissioned brigadier-general of militia. He was a shareholder in the Connecticut Land Company, which had purchased for $1,200,000 from the state government of Connecticut the land in northeastern Ohio reserved to Connecticut by Congress, known at its first settlement as New Connecticut, and in later times as the Western Reserve.
He was approached by the directors of the company in May, 1796 and asked to lead the survey of the tract and the location of purchases. He was also responsible for the negotiations with the Indians living on the land. In June, 1796 he set out from Schenectady, New York. His party included fifty people including six surveyors, a physician, a chaplain, a boatman, thirty-seven employees, a few emigrants and two women who accompanied their husbands. Some journeyed by land with the horses and cattle, while the main body went in boats up the Mohawk, down the Oswego, along the shore of Lake Ontario, and up Niagara River, carrying their boats over the long portage of seven miles at the falls.
At Buffalo a delegation of Mohawk nation and Seneca tribe Indians opposed their entrance into the Western Reserve, claiming it as their territory, but waived their rights on the receipt of goods valued at $1,200. The expedition then coasted along the shore of Lake Erie, and landed, on July 4, 1796, at the mouth of Conneaut Creek, which they named Port Independence. The Indians were propitiated with gifts of beads and whiskey, and allowed the surveys to proceed. General Cleaveland, with a surveying party, coasted along the shore and on July 22nd, 1796, landed at the mouth of the Cuyahoga River. He ascended the bank, and, beholding a beautiful plain covered with a luxuriant forest-growth, divined that the spot where he stood, with the river on the west and Lake Erie on the north, was a favorable site for a city.
He accordingly had it surveyed into town lots, and the employees named the place Cleaveland, in honor of their chief. There were but four settlers the first year, and, on account of the insalubrity of the locality, the growth was at first slow, reaching 150 inhabitants only in 1820.
In 1830, when the first newspaper, the "Cleveland Advertiser," was established, the editor discovered that the head-line was too long for the form, and accordingly left out the letter "a" in the first syllable of "Cleaveland," which spelling was at once adopted by the public.
Moses Cleaveland eventually returned to his hometown and died there on November 16, 1806. Today, a statue of him stands on Public Square in Cleveland.
Great Lakes Brewing Company has created a white ale in his honor dubbed "Holy Moses White Ale".
Who was David Bushnell?
David Bushnell (1742 - 1824) of Saybrook, Connecticut, was an American inventor during the Revolutionary War. He is credited with creating in 1775, while studying at Yale University, the first submarine ever used in combat, known as the Turtle. His idea of using water as ballast for submerging and raising his submarine is still in use today, as is the screw propeller, which was first used in the Turtle.
While at Yale, he proved that gunpowder exploded under water. With this, he also came up with mine barrage in 1777. He also invented the first time bomb. He combined his ideas in an attempt to attack British ships which were blockading New York Harbor in the summer of 1776 by boring through their hulls and implanting time bombs, but failed every time due to a metal lining in the ships hull to protect against parasites in their previous station, the Caribbean. The Turtle eventually sank.
David Bushnell's Submarine Model is on display in Groton, Connecticut.
While at Yale, he proved that gunpowder exploded under water. With this, he also came up with mine barrage in 1777. He also invented the first time bomb. He combined his ideas in an attempt to attack British ships which were blockading New York Harbor in the summer of 1776 by boring through their hulls and implanting time bombs, but failed every time due to a metal lining in the ships hull to protect against parasites in their previous station, the Caribbean. The Turtle eventually sank.
David Bushnell's Submarine Model is on display in Groton, Connecticut.
Who was Simon Addis?
Simon Addis (December 30, 1745 – June 23, 1834), was a Captain of the Middlesex County, New Jersey militia of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He was born in Northhampton, Bucks County, Pennsylvania on December 30, 1745 to Richard Addis and Maria Wyckoff.
Who was Daniel Shays?
Daniel Shays (c. 1747 - September 29, 1825) was a captain in the American Revolutionary War. He is mostly known for leading a small army of farmers in Shays' Rebellion, which was a revolt against the state government of Massachusetts from 1786-1787, and a seminal event in the history of the early United States. Many historians see the Rebellion as a major factor in the abandonment of the Articles of Confederation, the adoption of the United States Constitution, and the creation of the Federal government of the United States.
Little is known of his early life; although he was most likely born in Hopkinton, Massachusetts to Patrick Shay (spelled without the s) and Margaret Dempsey. He married Abigail Gilbert on July 18, 1772 in Brookfield, Massachusetts. In 1777, he was commissioned as a captain in the 5th Massachusetts Regiment and he participated in the battles of Bunker Hill, Ticonderoga, Saratoga and Stony Point. His service record was notable, and he was awarded a ceremonial sword by the Marquis de Lafayette at the end of the war for distinguished service.
After resigning from the army in 1780, Shays settled in Pelham, Massachusetts, where he served in several local government positions. Economic conditions in the U.S., especially Western Massachusetts, began a serious decline and, by 1786, Shays became one of several who took command of units of rebels. The uprising soon became known as the "Shays Rebellion" after an encounter between a force of about 800 farmers under Shays, and a private militia unit of roughly the same size, at Springfield on September 26, 1786. Four men were killed[1]- the first casualties of the rebellion - and many were wounded. Shays and his men were trying to prevent the Massachusetts Supreme Court from convening, fearing indictments against farmers in arrears.
By the winter of 1786-1787, there was open fighting between government forces and rebels. After several skirmishes, Shays and his men were defeated at Petersham, Massachusetts on February 2, 1787. Shays then fled to the Vermont Republic. Condemned to death in absentia on a charge of treason, Shays petitioned for amnesty in February 1788, and the petition was granted by John Hancock on June 13. Shays then relocated to New York.
Little is known of his early life; although he was most likely born in Hopkinton, Massachusetts to Patrick Shay (spelled without the s) and Margaret Dempsey. He married Abigail Gilbert on July 18, 1772 in Brookfield, Massachusetts. In 1777, he was commissioned as a captain in the 5th Massachusetts Regiment and he participated in the battles of Bunker Hill, Ticonderoga, Saratoga and Stony Point. His service record was notable, and he was awarded a ceremonial sword by the Marquis de Lafayette at the end of the war for distinguished service.
After resigning from the army in 1780, Shays settled in Pelham, Massachusetts, where he served in several local government positions. Economic conditions in the U.S., especially Western Massachusetts, began a serious decline and, by 1786, Shays became one of several who took command of units of rebels. The uprising soon became known as the "Shays Rebellion" after an encounter between a force of about 800 farmers under Shays, and a private militia unit of roughly the same size, at Springfield on September 26, 1786. Four men were killed[1]- the first casualties of the rebellion - and many were wounded. Shays and his men were trying to prevent the Massachusetts Supreme Court from convening, fearing indictments against farmers in arrears.
By the winter of 1786-1787, there was open fighting between government forces and rebels. After several skirmishes, Shays and his men were defeated at Petersham, Massachusetts on February 2, 1787. Shays then fled to the Vermont Republic. Condemned to death in absentia on a charge of treason, Shays petitioned for amnesty in February 1788, and the petition was granted by John Hancock on June 13. Shays then relocated to New York.
Who were Patriots?
Patriots (also known as Americans, Whigs, Congress-Men or Rebels) were colonists of British Thirteen Colonies who rebelled against the British control during the American Revolution and declared themselves an independent nation, the United States of America in July 1776. Their rebellion was based on the political philosophy of republicanism, as expressed by pamphleteers such as Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and Thomas Paine.
As a group, Patriots comprised men and women representing the full array of social, economic, ethnic and racial backgrounds. They included college students like Alexander Hamilton, planters like Thomas Jefferson, and plain farmers like Daniel Shays and Joseph Plumb Martin. Their opponents among fellow colonists were the Loyalists or "Tories", who remained loyal to the British Crown. (In addition many people remained neutral or said nothing.)
Many Patriots were active before 1775 in groups such as the Sons of Liberty. The most prominent leaders of the Patriots are referred to today by Americans as the Founding Fathers of the United States.
As a group, Patriots comprised men and women representing the full array of social, economic, ethnic and racial backgrounds. They included college students like Alexander Hamilton, planters like Thomas Jefferson, and plain farmers like Daniel Shays and Joseph Plumb Martin. Their opponents among fellow colonists were the Loyalists or "Tories", who remained loyal to the British Crown. (In addition many people remained neutral or said nothing.)
Many Patriots were active before 1775 in groups such as the Sons of Liberty. The most prominent leaders of the Patriots are referred to today by Americans as the Founding Fathers of the United States.
Who was Mercy Otis Warren?
Mercy Otis Warren (September 14, 1728 – October 19, 1814) was born in Barnstable, Massachusetts. As a young child, Mercy loved reading, writing, and discussing politics. She would always listen to her brother and father when they discussed politics. She married James Warren in 1754 and moved to Plymouth, Massachusetts. Mercy had five sons. Her favorite color was blue. She wore blue bonnets and blue dresses lined with lace. She felt it was her duty to participate in the Patriot cause during the American Revolution. Her brother was the noted patriot lawyer James Otis, and they were descended from Mayflower passenger Edward Doty. Her husband James was a descendant of fellow Mayflower passenger Richard Warren. Mercy married James in the year 1754, when she was 26.
In 1772, she published her play, The Adulateur. After the war, in 1790, Mrs. Warren published a volume of poetry in her name. In 1805, she wrote History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution. Congress had first asked Thomas Paine to write the history of the American Revolution, but he declined. Warren died in Plymouth in 1814.
Mercy Otis Warren has been called one of the most literate American women of the 18th century. Prior to the American Revolution, she hosted political meetings in her home. In addition, she was close to both John Adams and Abigail Adams, until a political difference left them estranged. "Probably under prodding from Abigail, Adams began to repair the damage he had done with Warren, so that by 1814 the friendship was fully reinstated".
Warren was likely responsible for anti-federalist newspaper contributions under the pseudonym "A Columbian Patriot."
In 1772, she published her play, The Adulateur. After the war, in 1790, Mrs. Warren published a volume of poetry in her name. In 1805, she wrote History of the Rise, Progress, and Termination of the American Revolution. Congress had first asked Thomas Paine to write the history of the American Revolution, but he declined. Warren died in Plymouth in 1814.
Mercy Otis Warren has been called one of the most literate American women of the 18th century. Prior to the American Revolution, she hosted political meetings in her home. In addition, she was close to both John Adams and Abigail Adams, until a political difference left them estranged. "Probably under prodding from Abigail, Adams began to repair the damage he had done with Warren, so that by 1814 the friendship was fully reinstated".
Warren was likely responsible for anti-federalist newspaper contributions under the pseudonym "A Columbian Patriot."
Who was Samuel Allyne Otis?
Samuel Allyne Otis (1740-1814) was a politician from Massachusetts who was the Secretary of the United States Senate for its first 17 years. He also served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and was a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1778 and 1787.
He was born to James Otis and Mary Allyne on November 24, 1740 in Barnstable County. While his older brother and sister, James Otis and Mercy Otis Warren were both more prominent in the revolution, Samuel collected supplies for the Continental Army in 1776 and 1777.
From 1789 to 1814, Otis was the first Secretary of the United States Senate.
Samuel Otis was mentioned in an episode of The Simpsons entitled Lisa the Iconoclast.
He was born to James Otis and Mary Allyne on November 24, 1740 in Barnstable County. While his older brother and sister, James Otis and Mercy Otis Warren were both more prominent in the revolution, Samuel collected supplies for the Continental Army in 1776 and 1777.
From 1789 to 1814, Otis was the first Secretary of the United States Senate.
Samuel Otis was mentioned in an episode of The Simpsons entitled Lisa the Iconoclast.
Who was William Heath?
William Heath (March 7, 1737 – January 24, 1814) was an American farmer, soldier, and political leader from Massachusetts. He served as a Major General in the Continental Army during the Revolution.
Heath made his home for his entire life at his family’s farm in Roxbury, Massachusetts (present day Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, part of the City of Boston). His family started the farm in 1636, and he was born there on March 7, 1737. He became active in the militia, and was a captain in the Suffolk County militia in 1760. By 1770 he was a colonel and its leader.
In December 1774 the revolutionary government in Massachusetts named him a brigadier general. He commanded Massachusetts forces during the last stage of the Battle of Lexington and Concord in April 1775. As the Siege of Boston began, Heath devoted himself to training the militia involved in the siege. In June of that year, Massachusetts named him their Major General, and the Continental Congress made him a Brigadier General in the national army.
In 1776 Heath participated in the defense of New York City, and was one of those who urged General Washington not to abandon the city. He saw action at the Battle of Long Island, the Battle of Harlem Heights, and the Battle of White Plains. In August, he was made a Major General in the Continental Army, and in November he was placed in command of forces in the Hudson River Highlands.
After this, General Heath served in mainly background area commands. He was in charge of the Convention Army of John Burgoyne’s surrendered troops after the Battle of Saratoga. In 1780 he returned to command the Highland Department after Benedict Arnold’s treason.
After the war, Heath was a member of the Massachusetts Convention that ratified the United States Constitution in 1788. He served in the state Senate 1791–1792, and as a Probate Court Judge. In 1800 he was elected the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, but declined the office.
He died at home in Roxbury on January 24, 1814, and was buried nearby in Forest Hills Cemetery The town of Heath, Massachusetts, is named in his honor.
Heath made his home for his entire life at his family’s farm in Roxbury, Massachusetts (present day Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, part of the City of Boston). His family started the farm in 1636, and he was born there on March 7, 1737. He became active in the militia, and was a captain in the Suffolk County militia in 1760. By 1770 he was a colonel and its leader.
In December 1774 the revolutionary government in Massachusetts named him a brigadier general. He commanded Massachusetts forces during the last stage of the Battle of Lexington and Concord in April 1775. As the Siege of Boston began, Heath devoted himself to training the militia involved in the siege. In June of that year, Massachusetts named him their Major General, and the Continental Congress made him a Brigadier General in the national army.
In 1776 Heath participated in the defense of New York City, and was one of those who urged General Washington not to abandon the city. He saw action at the Battle of Long Island, the Battle of Harlem Heights, and the Battle of White Plains. In August, he was made a Major General in the Continental Army, and in November he was placed in command of forces in the Hudson River Highlands.
After this, General Heath served in mainly background area commands. He was in charge of the Convention Army of John Burgoyne’s surrendered troops after the Battle of Saratoga. In 1780 he returned to command the Highland Department after Benedict Arnold’s treason.
After the war, Heath was a member of the Massachusetts Convention that ratified the United States Constitution in 1788. He served in the state Senate 1791–1792, and as a Probate Court Judge. In 1800 he was elected the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, but declined the office.
He died at home in Roxbury on January 24, 1814, and was buried nearby in Forest Hills Cemetery The town of Heath, Massachusetts, is named in his honor.
Who was Joseph Spencer?
Joseph Spencer (October 3, 1714 – January 13, 1789) was an American lawyer, soldier, and statesman from Connecticut. During the Revolutionary War, he served both as a delegate to the Continental Congress and as a major general in the Continental Army.
Spencer was born in East Haddam, Connecticut. He was trained as a lawyer and practiced until 1753 when he became a judge. He was active in the militia, serving in King George's War and as a Lieutenant Colonel of the Middlesex militia in the French and Indian War.
By the time the American Revolution began, Spencer had advanced to Brigadier General of Connecticut's militia, and in April 1775 he led them to support the Siege of Boston as the 2nd Connecticut Regiment. In June, when these units were adopted into the national army, he was made a brigadier general in the Continental Army.
In 1776 Spencer was promoted to major general in support of William Heath in the Eastern Department. The following year his military career became difficult. He cancelled a planned attack on British forces in Rhode Island and was censured by the Continental Congress. He demanded a court martial and was exonerated, but when the controversy was resolved, he resigned his commission on June 14, 1778.
Spencer first served on the Connecticut Council (or state senate) in 1776. Free of military responsibility, the state sent him as a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1779. In 1780 he was returned to the council, and served there until his death.
Twice married, Spencer had sixteen children. He died in East Haddam and was buried in the Nathan Hale Park of East Haddam.
Spencer was born in East Haddam, Connecticut. He was trained as a lawyer and practiced until 1753 when he became a judge. He was active in the militia, serving in King George's War and as a Lieutenant Colonel of the Middlesex militia in the French and Indian War.
By the time the American Revolution began, Spencer had advanced to Brigadier General of Connecticut's militia, and in April 1775 he led them to support the Siege of Boston as the 2nd Connecticut Regiment. In June, when these units were adopted into the national army, he was made a brigadier general in the Continental Army.
In 1776 Spencer was promoted to major general in support of William Heath in the Eastern Department. The following year his military career became difficult. He cancelled a planned attack on British forces in Rhode Island and was censured by the Continental Congress. He demanded a court martial and was exonerated, but when the controversy was resolved, he resigned his commission on June 14, 1778.
Spencer first served on the Connecticut Council (or state senate) in 1776. Free of military responsibility, the state sent him as a delegate to the Continental Congress in 1779. In 1780 he was returned to the council, and served there until his death.
Twice married, Spencer had sixteen children. He died in East Haddam and was buried in the Nathan Hale Park of East Haddam.
What was Fort Preble?
Fort Preble is a military fort in South Portland, Maine.
Henry A. S. Dearborn built the fort in 1808 and named it in honor of Commodore Edward Preble. It was designed to guard Portland harbor in Casco Bay, along with Fort Scammel.
Fort Preble was manned by three companies during the War of 1812.
The fort saw action during during the United States Civil War, when Confederate Army raiders entered Portland Harbor aboard a captured ship named Archer on June 26, 1863. The Confederates captured the ship Caleb Cushing the next day, and attempted an escape. Calm seas forced them to set the ship on fire, and they were captured by Union forces. 23 Confederate prisoners were captured and taken to the fort.
The fort remained manned through the United States Civil War, World War I, and World War II. It was decommissioned in 1950.
Spring Point Ledge Light was built near the site in 1897. A 900-foot granite breakwater that extends from the fort and surrounds the lighthouse was later added in 1951.
Henry A. S. Dearborn built the fort in 1808 and named it in honor of Commodore Edward Preble. It was designed to guard Portland harbor in Casco Bay, along with Fort Scammel.
Fort Preble was manned by three companies during the War of 1812.
The fort saw action during during the United States Civil War, when Confederate Army raiders entered Portland Harbor aboard a captured ship named Archer on June 26, 1863. The Confederates captured the ship Caleb Cushing the next day, and attempted an escape. Calm seas forced them to set the ship on fire, and they were captured by Union forces. 23 Confederate prisoners were captured and taken to the fort.
The fort remained manned through the United States Civil War, World War I, and World War II. It was decommissioned in 1950.
Spring Point Ledge Light was built near the site in 1897. A 900-foot granite breakwater that extends from the fort and surrounds the lighthouse was later added in 1951.
Where is the Penobscot River?
The Penobscot River is 350 mi (563 km) long, making it the second longest river in the U.S. state of Maine and the longest river entirely in Maine. Its drainage basin contains 8,610 square miles.
It rises in four branches in several lakes in the central Maine, and flows generally east. After the uniting of the branches, it flows south, past the city of Bangor, where it becomes navigable. It empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Penobscot Bay. It is home to the Penobscot people that live on Indian Island, Maine.
Panorama of the Penobscot River in Millinocket, Maine.The United States government maintains three river flow gages on the Penobscot river. The first is on the East Branch in Grindstone, Maine ( 45°43′49″N, 68°35′22″W) where the rivershed is 1,086 square miles. Flow here has ranged from 37,000 to 77 cubic feet per second. The second is in West Enfield, Maine ( 45°14′12″N, 68°38′57″W) where the rivershed is 6,671 square miles. Flow here has ranged from 153,000 to 1,630 cubic feet per second. The third is in Eddington, Maine ( 45°14′12″N, 68°38′57″W), 0.4 miles downstream from the Veazie Dam where the rivershed is 7,764 square miles.[1]
The first European known to have explored the river was the English navigator Martin Pring in 1603. The following year in 1604 the French explorer Samuel de Champlain sailed up the course of the river. The river has been historically important for hydroelectric power for paper mills, and for the transportation of timber. The wooded areas around the upper reaches of the river are noted for providing recreational hunting, fishing and canoeing. Author Stephen King placed his fictional town of Derry, Maine on the Penobscot. It is also featured in the film adaptation of the Tom Clancy novel,The Hunt for Red October
It rises in four branches in several lakes in the central Maine, and flows generally east. After the uniting of the branches, it flows south, past the city of Bangor, where it becomes navigable. It empties into the Atlantic Ocean in Penobscot Bay. It is home to the Penobscot people that live on Indian Island, Maine.
Panorama of the Penobscot River in Millinocket, Maine.The United States government maintains three river flow gages on the Penobscot river. The first is on the East Branch in Grindstone, Maine ( 45°43′49″N, 68°35′22″W) where the rivershed is 1,086 square miles. Flow here has ranged from 37,000 to 77 cubic feet per second. The second is in West Enfield, Maine ( 45°14′12″N, 68°38′57″W) where the rivershed is 6,671 square miles. Flow here has ranged from 153,000 to 1,630 cubic feet per second. The third is in Eddington, Maine ( 45°14′12″N, 68°38′57″W), 0.4 miles downstream from the Veazie Dam where the rivershed is 7,764 square miles.[1]
The first European known to have explored the river was the English navigator Martin Pring in 1603. The following year in 1604 the French explorer Samuel de Champlain sailed up the course of the river. The river has been historically important for hydroelectric power for paper mills, and for the transportation of timber. The wooded areas around the upper reaches of the river are noted for providing recreational hunting, fishing and canoeing. Author Stephen King placed his fictional town of Derry, Maine on the Penobscot. It is also featured in the film adaptation of the Tom Clancy novel,The Hunt for Red October
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