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Home , Benjamin Cleveland, Sycamore Shoals

Fall 2014 H Patriot Newsletter The Gathering at Sycamore Shoals The First District of the a memorable event and I know it Tennessee Society of the Sons of means a great deal to all of you,” the welcomed she said. “This is one of the most guests on Sept. 20, to the 234th important events we retell over Gathering at , this weekend and next week when Sycamore Shoals State Historic the Overmountain Victory Trail Area at Elizabethton, Tennessee. Association crosses the river.” The Watauga, Kings Mountain Greetings from TNSSAR and chapters President Claude T. Hardison Jr. hosted several state chapters, followed. He thanked the State TNSSAR President Claude T. of Franklin, Kings Mountain and Hardison Jr. and Terry Gibbs, Watauga chapters, “In particular, representing the Members Compatriot Ronnie Lail and at Large Board of Managers Compatriot Joe Chambers” for of the Georgia Society. organizing the grave marking The chapters included: John of Capt. William Armstrong Sevier, Kings Mountain, Watauga, and The Gathering. “It is a lot State of Franklin, Valentine of work and these gentlemen Sevier, Andrew Crockett, Lt. have done a fine job.” Quarles, Anthony Bledsoe, Col. Hardison introduced NSSAR Benjamin Cleveland and the Registrar Gen. Larry Guzi, Gen. Andrew Pickens Chapter SAR Foundation President Dr. of the SAR. Samuel Powell, Descendants In addition, Descendants of of Washington’s Army at Valley the , Forge Command-In-Chief Jan Daughters of the American Ryerson and Past CINC Barbara Revolution and Children of Waltz-Stone, SAR Southern the American Revolution District Vice President General were represented. Rick Hollis, South Atlantic Watauga Chapter District Vice President General President Ronnie L. Lail Mark Anthony and TNSSAR Past offered welcoming remarks, President Charles Daaman. followed by the Invocation Hardison preceded wreath by the Rev. George Cobb. presentations from various The Watauga Valley Fife and organizations, chapters, and Drum, directed by Drum Major visiting Sons and Daughters. John Large, accompanied the Director of Interpretation of Combined Color Guard of the the Overmountain Victory Trail TNSSAR and Washington City Association Steve Ricker gave Regiment of the a historical presentation of the as they presented the gathering of Sept. 25-26, 1780. colors. Boy Scout Venture The program continued Crew 1776 led the Pledge of with Mourning of Arms and Allegiance. Dick Burdett, State a musket volley under the of Franklin Chapter, performed direction of TNSSAR Color Guard the national anthem, “The Commander David Vaughn. Star-Spangled Banner.” Park Interpretive Ranger Sycamore Shoals State Chad Bogart gave concluding Historical Area Park remarks, then Venture Crew Manager extended her 1776 retired the colors. appreciation to visitors. The Rev. George Cobb closed “We are so pleased you choose the program with a reenactment to spend your Saturdays and of the historic sermon of weekends with us each year. It is the Rev. . The Tennessee Patriot David Davis, Editor Tennessee Society of the Sons of the American Revolution 3403 Clearwater Drive N.E. Cleveland, TN 37312-5063

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Sycamore Shoals, the crossing on the , is seen Sept. 20 in the top photo. In the bottom photo, compatriots pose for a photo after an event commemorating “The Gathering at Sycamore Shoals” near Fort Watauga in Elizabethton. Page 2 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

National Society Sons of the American Revolution General Officers President General Registrar General Lindsey C. Brock Larry T. Guzy Secretary General Historian General TNSSAR Thomas E. Lawrence Robert F. Towns Board of Governors Treasurer General Librarian General PRESIDENT J. Michael Tomme Sr. C. Bruce Pickette Claude T. Hardison Jr. Chancellor General Surgeon General PRESIDENT-ELECT John L. Dodd Edward P. Rigel Sr. M.D. Darryl S. Addington Genealogist General Chaplain General VICE PRESIDENT John D. Sinks Dr. Rev. Randy D. Moody David L. Eagan TREASURER David P. Hammett MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Tennessee Society SAR Chapters John W. Kubenka RECORDING SECRETARY John W. Kubenka REGISTRAR James J. Thweatt GENEALOGIST Richard T. Spencer Jr. CHANCELLOR Cleo G. Hogan HISTORIAN William B. Hickerson Jr. District 1 District 3 District 5 CHAPLAIN EMERITUS Kings Mountain, Johnson City Col. Benjamin Cleveland, Cleveland Andrew Jackson, Nashville Rev. Dr. John W. Steen Jr. John C. Wakefield David L. Whaley Maurice J. Kellogg CHAPLAIN State of Franklin, Rogersville Hiwassee, Athens Col. Anthony Bledsoe, Gallatin John C. Wakefield J. Anthony Elmore Samuel R. Ayres Charles V. Abrahamzon SURGEON Watauga, Elizabethton , Chattanooga Christopher Strong, Charlotte Dr. Mark R. Russell Ronnie L. Lail Timothy K. Adams Robert E. Moore WEBMASTER Thomas Kilgore Ronald C. Whitson District 4 Roger A. Tenney NATIONAL TRUSTEE Lt. Andrew Crockett, Franklin Colin C. Wakefield James L. Hobbs NAT’L TRUSTEE ALTERNATE Joseph Greer, Lynchburg Claude T. Hardison Jr. District 2 William H. Comer District 6 DISTRICT 1 DIRECTOR Gen. , Harrogate Stones River, Murfreesboro , Memphis Richard C. Burdette III G. Todd Williams Glenn J. Taylor Dr. Nicholas Gotten Jr. DISTRICT 2 DIRECTOR Stephen Holston, Knoxville Tombigbee, Columbia Jackson Purchase, Union City David E. Johnston Paul E. Jorden William S. Geshwiler William F. Dahnke DISTRICT 3 DIRECTOR Lt. William P. Quarles Valentine Sevier, Clarksville James Madison, Jackson Fred I. Underdown Kenneth J. Whittaker John C. Head Jr. Randall H. Chandler DISTRICT 4 DIRECTOR Alvin R. Brown DISTRICT 5 DIRECTOR Tennessee Patriot Newsletter John C. Head Jr. The Tennessee Patriot format via email to Reminder DISTRICT 6 DIRECTOR Newsletter is published tnssarnewsletter@gmail. Please notify your B. Mott Jones quarterly after each of com; or mail CDs and chapter secretary of the TNSSAR Board of scannable copy to David any changes of address, Governors’ meetings. Davis, editor, 3403 telephone number It is published for the Clearwater Dr., Cleveland, or email address. pleasure of members of Tennessee 37312; or to The Chapter the Tennessee Society Richard T. Spencer Jr., Secretary will forward of the Sons of the that information to Visit TNSSAR publisher, 376 Sims Lane, American Revolution State Secretary John website at Franklin, Tennessee, http://tnssar.org. and for documenting the W. Kubenka. activities of each chapter. 37067-1893 or email to Your addresses must Contact Webmaster Submissions from each [email protected]. be current in order for Ron Whitson chapter are encouraged. Please do not send you to receive any or by email at Please submit newspaper clippings all Society mail, which webmaster@ typewritten articles and because they do not is sent by “bulk mail,” tnssar.org. photos in electronic reproduce well. and is not forwarded. Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 3

The Stephen Holston Chapter introduced five members at its October meeting. From left to right are Chapter Registrar Ron Jones, New members Marty Vinson, Mark Whicker, Robert Anderson, Tim Richards, Sam Miller and Chapter President Paul Jorden. In the bottom photo, Mark Shedden, left, displays his powder horns at the October meeting of the Stephen Holston Chapter as Chapter President Paul Jorden looks on.

You are cordially invited to attend the Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution 126th Annual Meeting and the 125th Anniversary Celebration of the TNSSAR including the Southern District Meeting for members of the Events Calendar Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, • Nov. 8, Noon CST. Isaac Shelby Chapter Tennessee Societies Col. James Lewis KYSSAR and Col. Grave Marking, 1883 Anthony Bledsoe to the Blue Springs Rd., Chapter TNSSAR. Decher, TN 37324. Contact Tom Higgins, Youth Luncheon Invitation by 502-321-0080, email and the Joseph Greer [email protected] or Chapter, contact Colin David Miles Vaughn Wakefield at 931- at 615-573-4852, President’s Banquet 703-6674. TNSSAR email tnmoonshine@ on Color Guard event. gmail.com. • Nov. 15, 2 p.m. EST. • Dec. 13, Noon Saturday, 28 March 2015 Anthony Crockett Wreaths Across Grave Marking, America Please RSVP by March 1, 2015 Frankfort Cemetery, • Dec. 28, 2014 Glenns Creek Rd., 4th Quarter Frankfort, Ky., 40601. BOG reports due to Invitation by the Gov. State Secretary Page 4 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

Tennessee Society 126th Annual State Meeting and 125th Anniversary Celebration

Annual State Meeting @ Museum Center at 5ive Points, Cleveland, Tennessee

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Friday, March 27, 2015 @ The Hampton Inn 4355 Frontage Road, Cleveland, TN 37312 Registration ...... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Reception and Silent Auction ….6 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday, March 28, 2015 @ The Museum Center @ 5ive Points, 200 Inman Street, Cleveland, TN 37311 Registration...... 7 p.m. - until complete Southern District Meeting...... 8 a.m. - until 9:00 a.m. Board of Governors and Annual State Meeting ...... 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Ladies Tour: Red Clay State Park; bus leaves from The Hampton Inn at 9 a.m. and Returns at 11 a.m.

Youth Luncheon at the Museum at 5ive Points ...... 12:30 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Massing of the Colors & Memorial Ceremony honoring the memory of President General Harry T. Burn Sr. (1964-65) Niota Cemetery (see handout for map/directions)..3 p.m. - 4 p.m.

President's Reception..(Cash Bar)... at the Museum at 5ive Points...... 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. President's Banquet...... (Black Tie Optional) at the Museum at 5ive Points...... 7:45 - 10 p.m.

Annual Meeting Registration: Please complete, detach and return this Registration Form with a check payable to TNSSAR. Please mail your Registration Form & Check to: William Hamilton, P.O. Box 4915, Cleveland, TN 37320: by March 1, 2015.

The Hampton Inn reservations at 423-458-1222. Special Group Rate for TNSSAR: $109.00 plus tax. At Registration mention you are with the SAR. (Includes free Breakfast & Wi-Fi) ------cut along this line and mail in form below with check ------Name:______Spouse/Guest:______Address:______State:______Zip:_____ E-Mail:______Chapter:______

EVENTS: FEE Number Attending Amount Enclosed Registration..(SAR Members only)...... $25.00 ______$______Friday Evening Reception...... $ 8.00 ______$______Ladies Tour...... $15.00 ______$______Youth Luncheon...... $28.00 ______$______President's Reception & Banquet ...... $35.00 ______$______Officer's Meeting Sunday Morning...... ______Burn Memorial Ceremony...... ______TOTAL:...... $______Let us remember our obligations to our forefathers who gave us our Constitution, the Bill of Rights, an Independent Supreme Court, and a Nation of free men! Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 5

Board of Governors The Board of us “America” with our fellow Governors met Oct. 11 in Franklin where they discussed several citizensThe Americanism and most particularly, items and approved withElementary the next School generation. Poster resolutions creating a Contest is for students in history teacher award and to charter the 22nd depending on which chapter in the Society. the fourth or fifth grades, State Society President Revolution is taught in Claude T. Hardison urged grade year the American all members to pay their A Trunk Program is A September ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the dues. He also requested theirintended educational for fourth system. and new Museum of the Sons of the American Revolution chapters to participate fifth graders. The idea is Headquarters. In the top photo are Raymond and Mrs. in the Youth Programs to fill a trunk with items Clapsadle; in the middle photo, Dr. Sam Powell and President and develop candidates. used in the Revolutionary General Lindsey C. Brock greet each other; and in the bottom The SAR awards the War period. For example, photo is TNSSAR President Claude T. Hardison Jr. stands by a ROTC Medal to foster the they had to make their replica of the Liberty Bell. principle of the “citizen- own soap and used wooden kitchen utensils. The trunk reflects the soldier” exemplified by the hardship of a people Minutemen of Revolutionary who did not have the Warto the days. Outstanding The National Cadet SAR conveniences of today. award is to be presented Wreaths Across America, which is coming in the third year of a four- up again in December, yearThe or Arthurin the second M. and year 800 participants placed ofBerdena a three-year King program.Scholarship 420,000 in 2012. In is open to all Eagle Scouts 2013, more than 900 participants placed an active unit and who 540,000 wreaths on currentlyhave not reached registered their in veterans’ graves in the national cemeteries. year of application. Wreaths Across America 19thThe applicationbirthday during period is an opportunity opened Oct. 1 and for chapters to raise closes Jan. 30, 2015. money. For each $15 The George S. & Stella wreath purchased, $5 M. Knight Essay Contest is refundable to the is open to all students who chapter or for buying are citizens more wreaths. or legal aliens attending a Partners in Patriotism: 140 chapters high school and accredited in 22 states participated public, parochial, private in Partners in Patriotism in 2013, including only home school. Contestants one Tennessee chapter. must be in the sophomore, Chapters that march with juniorThe or Joseph senior S. grade Rumbaugh of study veterans in Memorial Day parades or in a similar duringHistorical the contestOration year. Contest is open to all students in activity with active duty personnel or veterans qualify for a Partners in home schools within the Patriotism certificate. grades 9 - 12 in public, • Created the jurisdiction of the sponsoring parochial, private and Tennessee History Teacher Award of $500 The Fount T. Smothers for a history teacher stateSAR/C.A.R. society Patriot or district. selected to represent Ancestors Essay Contest: the State Society in the national contest in 2015. and CAR is to share the ideals The teacher must teach Theand valuesultimate of missionthose valiant of SAR, men and women who gave See BOARD, Page 15 Page 6 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

Col. Anthony Bledsoe Chapter

Wakefield descendants mark patriot’s grave Descendants and TNSSAR Color Guard TNSSAR Compatriot Rev. John Wakefield marked the grave of Revolutionary War Patriot of the Kings Mountain Chapter was Master of Henry Wakefield on Oct. 18, in Boiling Springs. Ceremonies. Fourth great nephew Colin Wakefield Wakefield served in the North Carolina Militia. gave greetings for the Tennessee Society. The invitation was extended by the It was a wonderful event with Col. Anthony Bledsoe Chapter. approximately 90 people, including The Master of Ceremony’s was 4th great grandson. descendants and guests in attendance.

TNSSAR Color Guard at the grave marking of Revolutionary War Patriot Henry Wakefield in Boiling Springs. In the photo are, front row left to right, Colin Wakefield, Dennis Harris and Larry Pool; back row, left to right, Commander David Miles Vaughn, Steve Gaines, John Clines, Roger Tenney, David Eagan, Clarence Watson, John Clark, George Miller, James Hobbs and Fred Ryan. Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 7

Joseph Greer Chapter Joseph Greer Chapter enjoys annual picnic The Joseph Greer Armitage offered the James Lewis at 12 p.m., Courthouse honoring him. Chapter met Aug. 30, Invocation, Vice President Saturday, Nov. 8. Patriot The inscription for its annual Summer Mark Russell led the Lewis is the ancestor of reads as follows: In Picnic at Falls Mill Pledge of Allegiance and Compatriot James Phillip memory of Colonel near Belvidere. Treasurer Robert Hickey Parkes. His grave site is James Lewis, born April Members in attendance led the SAR Pledge. at 1883 Blue Spring Rd, 6, 1756, Albemarle at the regular meeting NSSAR Southern Decherd, Tenn., 37324. County Virginia, died were Jim Armitage, James District Vice President There is an obelisk Brewer, James Brown, Rick Hollis installed at the Franklin County See PICNIC, Page XX William Comer, David Compatriots Bryan Hammett, Robert Hickey, Shaver and Raymond Rick Hollis, Jim Maples, Welch as new members. Mark Russell, James Vice President and Michael Russell, Bryan Youth Program Chair, Shaver, Bill Stone, James Mark Russell, presented Van Cleave, Jaimie Vance, an SAR Eagle Scout and Raymond Welch. certificate to Scout C. D. In addition, there were Taylor, who received Eagle 15 guests in attendance Scout rank at a recent for a total of 30. BSA Court of Honor. Chapter President Compatriot Russell Compatriot Bill Comer announced plans for opened the meeting at a grave marking for The Joseph Greer Chapter hosted about 30 members 12 p.m. Chaplain Jim the grave of Patriot and guests to a picnic lunch on Aug. 30, at Falls Mill near Belvidere.

Bryan Shaver, left, and Fred Welch are inducted by Southern District Vice President Rick Hollis

David Hammett with granddaughter.

Joseph Greer Chapter Vice President Mark Russell presents Bill Stone, from Alabama, gives the Joseph Greer Chapter an an SAR Eagle Scout certificate to C. D. Taylor, update on the on the National SAR Museum in Louisville, KY. Page 8 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

Col. Benjamin Cleveland Chapter

Joseph Atchley fought from start to finish The Col. Benjamin Concord that signaled a mare from New Jersey years old, crippled and Cleveland Chapter of the the opening of the War. blood and a colt valued at unable to do anything. Tennessee Society of the According to historical $30; and three cows and My daughter, Therse, 16 Sons of the American documents, Atchley one calf, $15; seven hogs, years old, and a little boy Revolution recently served nine months $4; bed, $4; two piggins 10 years old and I cannot marked the grave of under the command of (small pails) and a pail, live without the charity Revolutionary War patriot Capt. Gallaway, Maj. 50 cents; eight chickens, of the government.” Pvt. Joseph Atchley. John Dunn, Col. Herd 25 cents; and cupboard Members of the Col. and Gen. Lee Mulenburg. ware valued at $1.50. Benjamin Cleveland, “Removing to the Colony “I am by occupation Hiwassee and John Sevier of Virginia, he joined a farmer and entirely chapters, District 3 April 1781 as a private unable to pursue it District 3 Director in the Botetourt, Virginia from age and disability, Fred I. Underdown and Militia, which marched pains and diseases,” he descendants gathered to Little York, Virginia, stated in the document. Sept. 13, at Pisgah during the siege. He “I have a wife 60 years Cemetery in Meigs County remained there until old (who is) weak and to honor a Minuteman the surrender of British feeble and cannot work. who witnessed the Gen. Charles Cornwallis, My son Moses is 17 surrender of British Gen. Oct. 19, 1781.” Charles Cornwallis at Col. Benjamin Cleveland Yorktown, Virginia. Chapter President David Atchley was born Whaley, an Atchley in 1747 in Middlesex descendent, said during County, New Jersey. remarks that the patriot He died Feb. 14, 1829 died in 1829, about in Meigs County. three years before the According to his Pension Act of 1832. pension application, Whaley said that at Private Joseph Atchley the time of Atchley’s joined the 1st Regiment, death, his total estate Middlesex Militia, 4th was valued at $55.25. Company of Minutemen in From a statement made March 1775. He enlisted by Atchley in the Rhea only a short time after County, Court of Common word spread of the clash Pleas dated Aug. 1, 1825 between the Minutemen at age 78, the bulk of his and British redcoats on estate was in livestock. April 19 at Lexington and His possessions included: Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 9

Col. Benjamin Cleveland Chapter

Sutton, 95, was murdered for War pension The Col. Benjamin Cleveland The story detailed “One of he was entirely speechless and Chapter of the Tennessee Society the most horrible and brutal insensible. The bridge of his nose of the Sons of the American murders that has ever fallen to was broken, one of his ears was Revolution marked the grave of our lot to record, or of which the nearly cut off, and other marks Revolutionary War patriot Pvt. circumstances have ever come of violence were found upon his John Sutton in September. under our notice, was committed person, bearing the appearance Sutton was born Feb. 5, 1750 in in Knox County about six and of having been inflicted with a Marlboro County, South Carolina a half miles from Knoxville, club. His horse was tied to a tree and was brutally murdered in on the main western road, on near him and his saddle bags, Knox County on Sept. 5, 1843. Tuesday evening 5th last. which had been rifled of the money The Col. Benjamin Cleveland, “The victim was an old man by they contained, were found lying Hiwassee and John Sevier the name of John Sutton, a soldier concealed a short distance off. chapters, District 3 Director Fred of the Revolution, whose place of “He was taken to a neighboring I. Underdown and descendants residence was in Meigs County, house and a skillful physician gathered Sept. 13, at Concord about 70 miles from Knoxville, was forthwith called in, but all Cemetery in Meigs County. and the crime was perpetrated for See SUTTON, Page 13 According to his pension the sake of obtaining the paltry application, “Private John Sutton sum of about $33, which the poor entered the South Carolina 3rd old man had about his person. Regiment of rangers on May 11, “He had visited Knoxville to 1775 under the command of obtain his pension money, it being Lt. Jarvis, Capt. Samuel Wise, his custom to perform this trip for Maj. Pinckney and Col. William that object once every six months; “Danger” Thompson. He served and having received from the three years, including two months Pension Agent the amount to which service under Capt. Steed and Gen. he was entitled, he left town on Francis Marion. Removing to North horseback at about 1 or 2 o’clock Carolina, he enlisted at Rockingham in the day, on his way home. He Courthouse in November 1779 was seen by different individuals where he served until November on the road riding along at a slow 1781 under command of Lt. Wyatt, pace, and was noticed by some Capt. Pulaski, Maj. William Parr, person at but a short distance from Col. Lewis and Gen. Thomas Burke. the spot the murder took place. Said service included the Siege of “At about 4 o’clock p.m., a Savannah, Georgia, and mortal gentleman coming from the West combat at Eutaw Springs, S. C.” found him seated near the road- A headline in the in the Sept. side, in a solitary and dreary 13, 1843 edition of the Knoxville looking hollow opposite what is Post decried the “Murder of called Bennett’s place, with his face a Revolutionary Soldier in shockingly bruised and mangled Knox County, Tennessee.” and although he was still alive, Page 10 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014 Gathering at Sycamore Shoals: Sept. 20, 2014 Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 11 Gathering at Sycamore Shoals: Sept. 20, 2014 Page 12 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

Valentine Sevier Chapter

Genealogist General John N. Sinks inducts Burnley Nathan Hunt into the Valentine Sevier Chapter. With him is his father, Compatriot Robert Lewis Hunt and grandmother Compatriot David Dycus, stands with his daughter Tara Louise Podell, who pinned on his Rosette. Jacques as he receives his membership certificate from James Thweatt.

Mike Floyd of the Screaming Eagle Honor Flight and TNCAR Burnley Nathan Hunt, left, the chapter’s newest member, President Michael Zietz explain the Honor Flight program at and second oldest member, 45 years, TNSSAR Chancellor the September meeting. They have a goal of sponsoring a Cleo Hogan pose with John Sinks full airplane load. Newest member presents pin to Hogan The Valentine Sevier Chapter the chapter’s newest member. “Screaming Eagle Honor Flight.” met Aug. 4 at the Quality Inn in Following his induction, Hunt Kennedy reported that the Clarksville for its monthly meeting. presented the chapter’s second “Screaming Eagle Honor Flight” Fifty-four people attended, including oldest member, Cleo Hogan, with was a reputable organization and 40 members and 14 guests. a 45-year membership pin. worthy of the chapter’s support. The regular meeting date was The club then witnessed a flurry He then put forth the motion to changed to accommodate the of activity where presenters and donate $500. The motion passed. travel schedule of the new National recipients switched roles. The In addition, Gould requested SAR Genealogist General John net effect of this activity resulted all members who use a computer Sinks, who related some helpful in the following: Hollis received to become familiar with http:// information on genealogy research. five supplemental memberships; www.tnssar.org/forms/ Southern District Vice President David Hammett received one americanismform.html, the Web Rick Hollis introduced Sinks as the supplemental membership; and page used by the state society to guest speaker. At the conclusion James Thweatt received two report individual acts supporting of his remarks, Hollis presented supplemental memberships. Americanism. He said everyone the Genealogist General with a set President Gould, after presenting would find activities to report. of Tennessee Society cufflinks. Claude Hardison with a certificate He said reporting individual acts Next, TNSSAR President of appreciation for his Program of Americanism is an important Claude Hardison and Hollis at the July meeting, asked Vice part of the duties of SAR members. inducted Burnley Nathan Hunt, President Reber Kennedy to He encouraged members to look at sponsored by Don Shelton, as report on his findings for the the site to enter data each month. Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 13 Sutton Valentine Sevier Chapter efforts to resuscitate him 95 years old and is said proved unavailing and to have been unusually he died about midnight, active and sprightly for without having been able that advanced age.” to articulate distinctly Col. Benjamin President or give any clue whereby Dave Whaley was the Master the depraved wretch of Ceremonies. He said 17 who murdered him color guardsman in attendance might be detected. included 14 TNSSAR “He had a number Guardsman, two Sons of the of papers about him, Revolution guardsman and from one of which it one from the John Sevier was ascertained that Memorial Association. Ninety- he was a member of the eight people, including 13 Baptist Church in good descendants, attended. standing. He was about

TNSSAR District 1 met Sept. 18, at Amis Mill Eatery in Rogersville. Kings Mountain President Dr. John Wakefield, top photo, introduced Dr. Robert Wetzel, bottom photo, who spoke on “The First and Last Battles of the Revolutionary War (A Cautionary Family Quest).”

The Joseph Greer Chapter met Aug. 30, for its annual Summer Picnic at Falls Mill near Belvidere. Picnic Feb. 21, 1849, Franklin held concerning the County Tennessee. condition of the fence Col. Lewis served around the grave site of with distinction in the Patriot Joseph Greer, the Revolutionary War; chapter’s namesake. Hollis elected Deputy President General participated in the The chapter was asked battles of White Plains, by the Kings Mountain of the General Society of the War of 1812 Trenton, Princeton, Messenger DAR Chapter Richard D. (Rick) serves as Vice President Brandywine, Germantown to assist them in repairing Hollis, Clarksville was General (Southern and Yorktown. the fence. Compatriots elected Deputy President District) of the Sons of Col. Lewis was with Comer, Wakefield, Hickey General (2014-17) of the the American Revolution, Washington when he and Armitage will visit General Society of the War Inspector General crossed the Delaware. the site in the next few of 1812 at the group’s of the Society of the Patriot Lewis witnessed weeks and determine Triennial Meeting held Descendants of the the surrender of Lord a course of action. Sept. 11-14, in Baltimore. Soldiers of Washington’s Cornwallis at Yorktown, After the regular To date, Hollis has Army at Valley Forge, Oct. 19, 1781. meeting, the group proven 14 direct lineages Deputy Governor General After the war, he enjoyed an excellent to the War of 1812 of the General Society of erected the first brick picnic including veterans from Middle Colonial Wars, Tennessee house and was one of the hamburgers, hot Tennessee, all of whom Valley Company Governor appointed commissioners dogs, sides prepared fought under General of the Jamestowne for the erection of the by the Russell family Andrew Jackson. Society and editor of the first courthouse and jail and excellent desserts In other lineage national Jamestowne in Franklin County. prepared by Dixie Hickey, societies, he presently Society Newsletter. A discussion was wife of Treasurer Hickey. Page 14 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014 Watauga Chapter

Capt. Armstrong served as a spy and in battle On Sept. 19, The Watauga pension application, he entered and the captains had command Chapter held a grave marking the service of the United States of these platoons instead of their ceremony for Revolutionary under the following named officers Companies; and that he this War Patriot Captain William and served as herein stated: applicant commanded a platoon Armstrong at the New “That in the year 1780 in on that memorable day instead Providence Church Cemetery the County of Lincoln, State of his company. He states, that in Surgoinsville on Sept. 19. of North Carolina (where he he fought during the whole of the Ronnie Lail was Master of then lived) he was drafted in battle, and knows that he done his Ceremonies. This was a district the militia of that State for a duty. The battle lasted but a short event with Southern District Vice three months tour, against the time, yet long enough to defeat President Rick Hollis in attendance. British in South Carolina. General Gates [Horatio Gates], who, The TNSSAR Color Guard with That he was Commissioned according to the general opinion VASSAR, SCSAR and ALSAR Color the Captain of the Company acted dastardly on that occasion. Guard, and others, presented the from Lincoln and commanded The Continental troops, or a colors and fired a three-shot volley as such in the expedition – that portion of them was commanded with two cannon shots fired. the rendezvous of the troops was by General DeKalb, who was killed According to Capt. Armstrong’s near Charlotte, and his company in that engagement, and I well was placed in the Regiment remember, he was much lamented, commanded by Colonel Alexander and his untimely fall produced [George Alexander] and General a general sympathy. I remember Griffith Rutherford commanded my own feelings to this day, and the Brigade, and William Rankin the circumstances are fresh in my was Lieutenant of his company. remembrance. I will mention, that From Charlotte we marched on our way to Camden, about 40 down the Yadkin River; and thence prisoners (British and Tories) were across Black River to Rugeley’s Mill committed to my charge as Captain (a Tory) and there encamped for the of the Company, who were guarded night, but about 12 at night, the by my Company until they were line of march was again formed, sent above here for safekeeping. and we proceeded towards Camden That shortly after the battle I – that the same night the advanced and my company were discharged army guards had some skirmishing by Col. Dixon [probably a reference with the enemy’s guards. to Henry “Hal” Dixon] (if I mistake That we joined the Main Army not) after having served out our during the night, and at the term of service. At this time the dawn of day the battle of Camden Tories were very numerous, and commenced [August 16, 1780]. had almost overrun the Country. That Rutherford’s brigade, and I was appointed Captain of my Southern District perhaps others, were divided into Vice President Rick Hollis platoons before the battle began, See ARMSTRONG, Page 19 Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 15 Board American history from the chairman, or chapter Revolutionary War period. president. By doing so, Chartered the Gov. it will help your chapter Archibald Roane and the State Society. Chapter at the state Compatriots may also capital for high-level use the Americanism officials such as state reporting tool on the senators, representatives, TNSSAR website to turn cabinet members and in participation notes. judges who sometimes The Americanism feel uncomfortable reporting tool is completed attending chapter and available to each meetings. Members of TNSSAR member to report the new chapter will items to their chapter continue as members Americanism chairman. of a local chapter, but If a member has attended it will give them the an event, donated to the opportunity to fellowship NSSAR, or contributed in and support patriotic other ways that may need service. State Sen. Mark reported, they should visit Norris will be the first the TNSSAR website for chapter president. the tool. It can be found • Chartered the on the site’s left column, Gov. Archibald Roane under the heading “Online Chapter at the state Forms.” Simply fill out capital for high-level the information and hit Stan Evans shows the Board of Governors in October the officials such as state submit. That will forward certificate and flag designed for the 50th Anniversary of the senators, representatives, information to Lee Vietnam War Commemorative Event for 2014. cabinet members and Johnson, who will forward judges who sometimes it to the appropriate Heritage. This total Frontier Company. feel uncomfortable chapter president or amount is from 354 The dedication and attending chapter Americanism chair. individual donors. A support of its members meetings. Members of It is important to portion of this amount shows what the TNSSAR the new chapter will emphasize the awareness is from matching Color Guard is all about. continue as members of the tool. Compatriots funds provided by the Its presence at any event of a local chapter, but may be doing many Sam Powell matching spreads the word and as it will give them the things in the community, grant challenge. always the crowd loves to opportunity to fellowship schools or with other The Color Guard see the Guard in action. and support patriotic organizations for which of Tennessee now has service. State Sen. Mark chapters could get points. more than 70 members. Norris will be the first For more information, Commander David chapter president. please contact Lee Miles Vaughn said the • Approved a resolution Johnson by email sent Color Guard is making Remember the to abolish the Archives to johnsondna69@ its presence known Tennessee Society Committee and transfer gmail.com. throughout Tennessee Sons of the American its duties to the Historian. During the Sept. and extended a “great Revolution The body unanimously 26-27, Fall NSSAR big thank you to all 126th Annual voted Oct. 11, to pass Leadership conference Color Guard members Meeting and the the resolution discussed in Louisville, , that dedicated their 125th Anniversary at the Aug. 2, quarterly CAAH Committee Chair time to these events.” Celebration meeting. The resolution Charles N. Dammann The Color Guard had of the TNSSAR was prepared by the attended the ribbon four more grave markings including the Southern Constitution and By-laws cutting at the Center for to do after Oct. 11. He District Meeting for Committee and submitted Advancing America’s was hopeful that all members of the by Committee Chair Heritage building. Color Guard members Alabama, Louisiana, John H. Henderson. We also had the could be involved in at Mississippi, Tennessee • Now that the vacation opportunity to tour least one event if not Societies to the season is over, many the new office spaces all of the ceremonies Youth Luncheon and events are taking place recently occupied. across the state. President’s Banquet in the State of Tennessee As of Sept. 30, Please contact Vice on Saturday, 28 March and around our region. compatriots of the Commanders Ronnie 2015 Please RSVP Please be sure to keep a TNSSAR, family and Lail, Mountain Brigade; by March 1, 2015. personal log, and turn friends have contributed John Clines, individual participation a total of $215,423.62 River Brigade; Edward notes in regularly to your to the Center for Phillips, French Lick chapter Americanism Advancement of America’s Company; or Bob Hughes, Page 16 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014

Stephen Holston Chapter

The Stephen Holston Chapter participated in the unveiling presented colors for the Oct. 18 event. There were a number of a Daughters of the American Revolution marker placed of local reenactors and living history buffs present for the at a monument honoring the signing of the Treaty of event. Color Guard members present were Wayne Croley, the Holston. The Stephen Holston Chapter color guard Paul Jorden, Ron Jones and David Johnston. The days before ‘The Gathering’ were dark The following excerpts far north as New Jersey. During in complete and absolute, if not taken from the official history this period, South Carolina grew willing, submission to the British commemorating the Battle of King’s and flourished, notwithstanding government. The first thing to be Mountain Centennial Celebration the existence of war. done to effect his purpose, was on Oct. 7, 1880, describe the events “In the autumn of 1778, the the reduction of Charleston. On leading up to the Gathering at scene began to change. Col. the 10th of February, he set out Sycamore Shoals on Sept. 25, 1780. Campbell was sent from New York, from Savannah to accomplish the ——— by Sir Henry Clinton, to reduce cherished purpose of his heart. “The year seventeen hundred Savannah, the capital of georgia. He was successful. Whether all and eighty was the darkest period On the 20th of December, Gen. was done that could have been in the Revolutionary struggle. Howe was forced to capitulate. done to save the city, or not, we From the mountains to the Georgia fell into the hands of the shall not here inquire. Perhaps it seaboard, a gloom rested upon enemy, and South Carolina now would have been wise, under the the whole country. For five years became a border State, exposed existing circumstances, not to have the colonies, against fearful odds, to the active military operations attempted its defense. The attempt, had been battling for freedom. The of the enemy. A bloody struggle however, was made. Sir Henry country was overrun, its treasury was made, near a year afterward, Clinton commenced and carried on was empty, and its soldiers were for the recovery of Savannah, but the siege with as much respect to hungry and naked. From the hills it proved unsuccessful. It soon the rules of military science, as if of Massachusetts to the savannas became evident that the British he had been conducting the siege of Georgia, a darkness that could were determined to capture of an old walled town. Reduced be both seen and felt, enveloped the Charleston. Prevost, in May almost to starvation, and poorly land. This was especially the case in 1779, had attempted to take the provided for every way to stand a South Carolina and Georgia. From city by siege, but his plans were siege, the defenders of the city, after the repulse of Sir Peter Parker, frustrated by the adroitness of a close siege of nearly eight weeks, on the 28th June, 1776 until the Gov. Rutledge and the military capitulated on the 12th of May, autumn of 1779, South Carolina, prowess of General Moultrie. 1780. The terms of the surrender although in open and determined On the 26th of December, 1779, were hard, and the conduct of the rebellion against the mother Sir Henry Clinton, with the larger British commander afterward, was country, enjoyed comparative part of his army, sailed from New calculated to cast a gloom over the peace. Supplies of arms and York for the South. In January of patriots. The civil government of munitions of war, together with the following year, he landed on Britain was established in the city, food and clothing for the army, the coast of Georgia. He had but and plans were laid for establishing were landed by different nations of one object in view, and that was it over the whole State. Everything Europe at Charleston. From this to crush the rebellion in all the was done that could be done, to point, these army stores, together Southern colonies. His purpose encourage the Tories and loyalists with rice and other products of was to begin at the southern and dishearten the patriots. the fields of South Carolina, were extremity and go northward, transported, by wagon trains, as leaving the country in his rear See GATHERING, Page 18 Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 17 Chickamauga DAR Chapter celebrates 120 years Tennessee Society of the Sons of the American Revolution Claude T. Hardison Jr., attended the 120th anniversary of the Chickamauga Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Oct. 8 at the First-Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. Chickamauga was chosen as the name of the first chapter of the DAR in Chattanooga when it was organized Oct. 7, 1894, four years after the National Society was founded. Chickamauga was the third chapter in Tennessee and the 128th chapter in the National Society. The Chickamauga Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the The first regent was Ameilia Morrow American Revolution celebrated its 120th anniversary Oct. 8 at the First- Chamberlain, who served from Centenary United Methodist Church in Chattanooga. In the top photo are 1894 to 1900. She later served two Chickamauga Regent Lee Parham, left, NSDAR Vice President General Nancy additional terms. Mrs. Chamberlain Hemmrich, TSDAR Susan Thomas, TSDAR State 1st Vice President Charlotte was Tennessee State Regent from Reynolds and TNSSAR President Claude T. Hardison Jr. 1901 to 1904 and served the National Society as Vice President General. NSDAR Vice President General In 1915, the Chickamauga Nancy Hemmrich, left, TNSSAR Chapter assisted in founding the President Claude T. Hardison and Judge David Jr. and TSDAR Chickamauga Campbell chapters in Chattanooga. Chapter Historian Marilyn J. Chickamauga Chapter members Dammann celebrate the 120th have given many hours of dedicated anniversary of the Chickamauga service during the chapter’s long Chapter of the National history. Every member has had a Society of the Daughters of part in this patriotic, educational the American Revolution held and historic endeavor and will Oct. 8 at the First-Centenary continue to present DAR ideals United Methodist Church in in future generations. Chattanooga.

The Tennessee Society Daughters of the American Revolution had the 13th Annual Constitution Week Bell Ringing Sept. 21 on the Tennessee State Capital grounds at the Liberty Bell Replica. The TNSSAR Color Guard presented the Colors for the celebration. In the photo are, left to right, Roger Tenney Guy Kirby, Larry Pool, Edward Phillips, Commander David Miles Vaughn, Johnye Klossner Kitzman, TSDAR; TSDAR State Regent Susan Rogers Thomas, Lori Hanley, TSDAR; Fred Ryan Steve Gaines and Bob Nash. Page 18 The Tennessee Patriot Fall 2014 GATHERING “Early in June, Clinton these mountain fastnesses threatened with severe did not lay down their and the fleet sailed for and rout the invading foe. punishment if they did arms and submit to New York, leaving Lord These voluntary exiles not take up arms and the King of England, he Cornwallis to complete received a welcome from assist his majesty’s troops would come over the the establishing of civil the patriots of Watauga in putting down the mountain and hang the government in the State. and Nollichucky. There rebellion. Ferguson now last one of them. This He commenced his march they met Isaac Shelby found that the rebellion, was not a mere boast. He northward. Parties were and John Sevier. Amongst which Clinton and his contemplated doing what sent out in all directions those refugees was successor, Cornwallis, he said. Ferguson was no to disperse the patriots Colonel Clarke, of Georgia, thought was crushed idle boaster. No sooner and gather up the Tories with about one hundred out, was stalking over the had Samuel Phillips and loyalists with which of his overpowered, land like a giant. Whigs, delivered his message, to swell his ranks. This but not subdued men. Tories and loyalists, found than the horrors of past was not enough. He These refugees told the that each party was in generations loomed up determined to force those tales of suffering which earnest, and a desperate before the eyes of the who, from the results they had seen in the effort must be made, patriots of Watauga and of the war, were resting States of Georgia and or all would be lost… Nollichucky. The blood quietly at home, to take South Carolina. Their “…Ferguson was not of John Sevier and Isaac up arms against their stories aroused the ignorant of this fact. He Shelby was stirred. friends and against the patriotism and stirred knew the history of those Sevier was eloquent cause which they loved. the spirits of the hardy men who were beyond under the impulse of a Lord Cornwallis soon pioneers of the forest. the mountains. He knew holy resentment, and the found that the country After the defeat that their ancestors, for brow of Shelby was knit still remained, and there of Gates at Camden, more than two hundred with indignation, and were many who had Cornwallis, as had been years, had been fighting his whole countenance sworn for it to live and done by his predecessor, for freedom, and he saw indicated stern defiance. for it to die. In South Clinton, proceeded at that the wilds of America These noble men at once Carolina, there was not once to establish civil had strengthened the concluded that they would then a regularly organized government in the upper love of liberty in their thwart Ferguson in his American army. There section of the State. children. He knew that bloody purpose, and if were small parties of Tarleton and Ferguson they were Scotch-Irish there was any hanging to men, in almost every were ordered to scour the and Huguenots by be done, they would do it. section of the State, who State. The object was to descent. He knew that At the appointed time, disputed every inch of beat up the Tories and they could be crushed into the entire inhabitants ground with Cornwallis. loyalists and disperse the earth, that they could of the back mountain Still he pushed on. Tories the Whigs. Ferguson, be torn limb from limb, region assembled at and loyalists flocked to with about one thousand that they could be buried Sycamore Shoal, and his standard, and many loyalists and one hundred beneath the earth, but he Col. William Campbell, who, heretofore, had been and ten regulars, had feared their very dust. with his Virginians, was regarded as good Whigs, been in the Ninety-Six He had his spies in the sought British protection. District for some time, mountain country, and there. Everybody was in The country was full and portions of his from them he had learned earnest. There were no of Tories and British. command had been, on what was going on in the gay uniforms; no costly Property was destroyed, several occasions, badly valleys of Nollichucky plumes; no long trains old men and children cut up by the Whigs. and Watauga. These spies of baggage wagons; no were abused and cursed, was often brought him the ambulances; no surgeon; and women insulted. a Major in the British startling news that their no chaplain. Officers and Many, in despondency, army, and Brigadier fellows were caught and men were clad in suits gave up the cause as General of the Royal hanged, while others made by their wives, hopeless. Calamity after Militia of South Carolina. were tarred and suffered mothers and sisters, calamity fell upon the The second officer in his to return as a taunt to and each man intended afflicted country. On command was Captain their champion leader. for the expedition was the 16th of August, DePeyster, a loyalist. The Ferguson raged. He armed with a faithful General Gates, the hero Whig colonels, McDowell. cursed the rebels for their Deckhard rifle. of Saratoga, was defeated Sevier, Shelby, Williams daring, and he cursed the All assembled; but and his army routed and Clarke, were known Tories and loyalists for all dare not leave the near Camden. Two days to frequent this section their want of courage... settlement. The after, the brave Sumter of the State. The fact “…While Colonel Indians were on the was surprised at Fishing that small detachments Ferguson lay at Gilbert borders, watching an Creek, by Tarleton, and of Tories had been Town, he paroled Samuel opportunity to descend his command scattered. attacked and routed Phillips, a patriot, whom with the torch and Such was the general by the bold partisans, he held as a prisoner, tomahawk upon the condition of things in greatly incensed the and sent him with a neighborhood. South Carolina and British officer. Meetings threatening message On the morning of Georgia. Many brave men of the Tories and loyalists to the back mountain the 26th of September, had hidden themselves were held throughout men. The purport of preparations were made beyond the mountains, the Ninety-Six District. this message was, that for the advance. To victory that, like Alfred of old. Those who claimed to be if these patriots in or to death, was the they might emerge from Tories or loyalists, were Watauga and Nollichucky feeling of every breast.” Fall 2014 The Tennessee Patriot Page 19 Armstrong company in Lincoln, and occasion required, to looked back and discerned having while out in shortly after the battle of relieve the Country, and the enemy retreating service, been robbed of Camden I called out my had many skirmishes in some haste. This everything I had, and company to Volunteer in and engagements. movement of theirs was having lost five horses at defense of the Country, Frequently I acted in unaccountable, unless one time by the Tories. but to my mortification the capacity of a spy, they supposed a larger I continued under Col. I found that but twelve and had the command force was near at hand. Dixon, in this service till men good and true – the of a spy Company. They threw out their the close of the war late rest having joined the At one time I had only forage & precipitously in 1782 (about December) Tories. With these I again eight man under me, and retreated, and we in turn which was upwards of two pursued them five or six years – indeed near three entered the service as a was sent out to Savis’s Captain, and immediately Mill in Rowan County for miles, and might have years but the precise time joined Colonel Dixon, the purpose of discovery, killed and taken them I cannot fix. I forgot to and remained under and on arriving there we all, if Col. Dixon had sent name one circumstance: him two years. During found 42 footmen and reinforcements, as I had at the battle of Ramsour’s which time my company 15 dragoons there before requested by a messenger, [Ramsour’s Mill, June was sometimes large us. They had discovered but the reinforcement 20, 1780], Gillefall [sic] did not arrive in time commanded the Whigs, and then smaller, as I our approach and lay in to effect the object. and was killed there, and could get man to serve; ambush & fired on us as About this time our the Regiment to which and touring all this time we entered the Creek, but service was uncommonly I belonged would have the service was most luckily killed none of us. severe – Cornwallis was been in the action, but dangerous and laborious. We instantly turned to marching through the the express did not arrive The Tories had the fire, but at the moment Country from Charleston [in] time – this action ascendancy in point of saw the dragoons towards Virginia, and was fought the 20 June numbers, and many advancing us from their almost every day we as well as I remember. I times we were unable ambush, on the opposite encountered some was a Captain, regularly to oppose them and we side of the Creek, and we scouting party, and commissioned as such, frequently had to act were obliged to retreat notwithstanding all our during all the time of my defensively, owing to the through a Contiguous old exertions the Country service in the revolution, want of men. The force field, and reserved our fire suffered much, and which could not be much under Colonel Dixon were for more urgent necessity, it was impossible for short of three years. incessantly employed as we expected to be our forces to afford I could name many against the Tories and pursued; but strange as complete protection persons who served with scouting parties of the it may seem, when we to the inhabitants. me in the revolution, but I British – marching reached the other side of I myself suffered suppose they are all dead from point to point as the field we halted, and materially by them, – I know of none living.”

Color Guard present at the Capt. William Armstrong grave marking Sept. 19, at Surgoinsville are, front row left to right, James Moore (VASAR), Bill Pettis, John Clines, Larry Pool. Michael Mankin, Dennis Harris, back row left to right, James Hobbs, Roger Tenney, TNSSAR President Claude Hardison, Stan Evans, James Norris (SCSAR), Jim Maples (ALSAR), Gary Randles, Michael Rhotens, Ronnie Lail, Mel McKay and Color Guard Commander David Miles Vaughn.