Dixie Historical Society

In Memory of William Pace

2009-06-29T12:28:00.003-05:00

My Paternal 5X Great Grandfather
By William Potter

He was a soldier in the American Revolution. He was transferred to the Commander-in-Chief's Guard, under Gen. George Washington, on 6 May 1777. He was engaged in the following battles: Brandywine, Germantown, Monmouth, Connecticut Farms, King's Bridge, and Yorktown. He was discharged 3 Nov 1783.

William Pace was one of only 4 original Guards for George Washington who survived during his 7 years of military service. His grave was honored with a Sons of the American Revolution marker recently.

Burial:
Jones Cemetery
Scott County
Virginia, USA

Texas Declaration of Rights

2009-06-24T12:14:00.002-05:00

[Editor's note: the Declaration of Rights was part of the 1836 Constitution of the Republic of Texas. The Texans listed seventeen Rights, and firmly avowed that the government of the Lone Star Republic was answerable to the people. Any spelling errors are part of the original as best as can be determined. I have added bolds and italics in some cases for emphasis.]

DECLARATION OF RIGHTS.

This declaration of rights is declared to be a part of this constitution, and shall never be violated on any pretence whatever. And in order to guard against the transgression of the high powers which we have delegated, we declare that every thing in this bill of rights contained, and every other right not hereby delegated, is reserved to the people.

First. All men, when they form a social compact, have equal rights, and no men or set of men are entitled to exclusive public privileges or emoluments from the community.

Second. All political power is inherent in the people, and all free governments are founded on their authority, and instituted for their benefit; and they have at all times the inalienable right to alter their government in such manner as they might think proper.

Third. No preference shall be given by law to any religious denomination or mode of worship over another, but every person shall be permitted to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.

Fourth. Every citizen shall be at liberty to speak, write, or publish his opinions on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that privilege. No law shall ever be passed to curtail the liberty of speech or of the press; and in all prosecutions for libel, the truth may be given in evidence, and the jury shall have the right to determine the law and the facts, under the direction of the court.

Fifth. The people shall be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and possessions, from all unreasonable searches and seizures, and no warrant shall issue to search any place or seize any person or thing, without describing the place to be searched or the person or thing to be seized, without probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation.

Sixth. In all criminal prosecutions the accused shall have the right of being heard, by himself, or counsel, or both; he shall have the right to demand the nature and cause of the accusation, shall be confronted with the witnesses against him, and have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor. And in all prosecutions by presentment or indictment, he shall have the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury; he shall not be compelled to give evidence against himself, or be deprived of life, liberty, or property, but by due course of law. And no freeman shall be holden to answer for any criminal charge, but on presentment or indictment by a grand jury, except in the land and naval forces, or in the militia when in actual service in time of war or public danger, or in cases of impeachment.

Seventh. No citizen shall be deprived of privileges, outlawed, exiled, or in any manner disfranchised, except by due course of the law of the land.

Eighth. No title of nobility, hereditary privileges or honors, shall ever be granted or conferred in this republic. No person holding any office of profit or trust shall, without the consent of congress, receive from any foreign state and present, office, or emolument of any kind.

Ninth. No person, for the same offence, shall be twice put in jeopardy of life or limbs. And the right of trial by jury shall remain inviolate.

Tenth. All persons shall be bailable by sufficient security, unless for capital crimes, when the proof is evident or presumption strong; and the privilege of the writ of "habeas corpus" shall not be suspended, except in case of rebellion or invasion the public safety may require it.

Eleventh. Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, or cruel or unusual punishments inflicted. All courts shall be open, and every man for any injury done him in his lands, goods, person, or reputation, shall have remedy by due course of law.

Twelfth. No person shall be imprisoned for debt in consequence of inability to pay.

Thirteenth. No person's particular services shall be demanded, nor property taken or applied to public use, unless by the consent of himself or his representative, without just compensation being made therefor according to law.

Fourteenth. Every citizen shall have the right to bear arms in defence of himself and the republic. The military shall at all times and in all cases be subordinate to the civil power.

Fifteenth. The sure and certain defence of a free people is a well regulated militia; and it shall be the duty of the legislature to enact such laws as may be necessary to the organizing of the militia of this republic.

Sixteenth. Treason against this republic shall consist only in levying war against it, or adhering to its enemies, giving them aid and support. No retrospective or ex-post facto law, or laws impairing the obligation on contracts, shall be made.

Seventeenth. Perpetuities or monopolies are contrary to the genius of a free government, and shall not be allowed; nor shall the law of primogeniture or entailments ever be in force in this republic.

A Sovereign North Carolina Defends Itself

2009-06-16T12:51:00.002-05:00

“At length when it was declared that an 'irrepressible conflict' had arisen, and that the 'Union could not exist half slave and half free,' it came to be regarded that the limitations of the Federal constitution were no longer to be observed, and that the abolition party would seek to abolish slavery. This led South Carolina and other commonwealths to the South to withdraw from the Union. The question of holding a convention for the purpose of withdrawing was submitted to the people of North Carolina in the spring of 1861, but so conservative were they and so attached to the Union, that they separated themselves from their Southern brethren and refused to call the convention. The difference between the votes was, however, small - only about 250 in the poll of the entire State.

"Such was the situation, when in April 1861, Fort Sumter was bombarded and President Lincoln called on North Carolina to furnish her quota of troops to coerce the seceding States. These events changed the aspect of affairs in North Carolina instantaneously. All differences ceased. Union men, who, like George E. Badger, did not hold to the right of secession, united now in the declaration that North Carolinians must [now] share in the fortunes of their Southern kindred. Then amid the excitement of that period came the rapid preparations for the inevitable conflict - the marshaling of troops, the formation of armies, the strenuous endeavors to equip and maintain our citizen soldiery and make defense of our unprotected coast. Never was there a finer display of patriotic ardor; never did peaceable ploughboys more quickly assume the character of veteran soldiers. It was if a common inspiration possessed the souls of all the people and animated them to die, if need be, in defense of their traditional liberties.

"During the four years of strife that followed, the people of North Carolina bore themselves with an unparalleled heroism. With a voting population of 112,000, North Carolina sent to the army 125,000 soldiers. Strenuous efforts were made to provide food for the soldiers and the poor, and while salt works were erected along the sea coast, vast quantities of cards were imported for the women to use at home, and other supplies were brought through the blockade. [Life then] was accompanied, however, by straits and hardships, suffering and mourning, the separation from husbands and fathers from their families and the pall of death that fell upon every household. What awful experiences were crowded into four years of heroic and grand sacrifice - how trying the vicissitudes, how calamitous the dire result!”

Cyclopedia of Eminent and Representative Men of the Carolinas of the 19th Century, Volume II, Brant & Fuller, 1892, pp. 35-36

[Bold was added for emphasis by me.]

Book Review: GAMECOCK

2009-06-15T15:03:00.003-05:00

Gamecock: The Life and Campaigns of General Thomas Sumter
By Robert D. Bass
Sandlapper Publishing

I must have been 10 years old when I first read Robert Bass' biographies on Thomas Sumter and Francis Marion. I remember it was summertime, and I never went back to the children's section in the library again. I didn't just discover my heroes, I discovered a fantastic land called history. I have been in love with history ever since, and I was introduced to her by a man who died before I could read well.

To my knowledge, Robert Bass' biography is the only biography on General Sumter. But there really isn't a need for another. Very well researched, and very well written, Gamecock covers the life of a forgotten American Patriot and Hero. It is obvious that Mr. Bass greatly admired the Gamecock, but he didn't shameless hide Sumter's character flaws, either. Not only does he covers the outstanding brilliance and achievements of Sumter, but he also covers his greatest mistakes (including the ones that created a rift between the Gamecock and the Swamp Fox).

Thomas Sumter went on to live many years after the War for Independence, outliving all other generals from that war. He also went on to a successful political career, being one of the first major supporters of Thomas Jefferson and his Republican Party in South Carolina.

Gamecock can be purchased from Amazon.com, Sandlapper Publishing and other booksellers.

Swampfox

Mars Bluff and the CSS Pee Dee

2009-06-11T14:31:00.003-05:00

Recently, there have been some great discoveries made in the area where I grew up - the South Carolina Pee Dee region. Mars Bluff isn't much these days - if it ever was - but there have been a few interesting events to happen there. In the 1860s, during the height and closing days of the War Between the States, Mars Bluff was an important place for the Confederacy. On the east side of the Great Pee Dee River once stood the Mars Bluff Naval Yard, one of many inland naval yards established by the Confederacy in order to keep them protected from Federal attacks.

Mars Bluff was chosen because it was close to a major waterway and a railroad, and there was an abundance of wood that was preferred for building gunboats.

In January 1865, the CSS Pee Dee was launched. She was a 150-foot Macon-class gunboat. She was outfitted with two Brookes rifled cannons, and a captured Union Dalgren cannon. Sadly, the Pee Dee had an extremely short life. Sherman's army was quickly advancing through South Carolina, and Confederate authorities feared the ship falling into the hands of the Federals. On March 15, 1865, the guns were thrown overboard into the Great Pee Dee, and the ship was set on fire and blown apart.

In 1991 the site of the Mars Bluff Naval Yard and the remains of the CSS Pee Dee were discovered by CSS Pee Dee Research and Recovery Team.

Last week, the Horry County Museum in Conway, South Carolina, announced that it has assembled a display of artifacts from the CSS Pee Dee.

Even better, today, East Carolina University, who has been conducting archeological research on the site, announced that the site is now open to the public this Friday, June 12, from 10 AM to 12 PM.

More research is expected to continue on the site by the University of South Carolina, East Carolina University and Francis Marion University. It will be interesting to see what they will find in the coming weeks and months.

Swampfox

Happy Birthday, Mr. President

2009-06-03T12:37:00.004-05:00

201 years ago today, the tenth and youngest son of Samuel Emory Davis and Jane Cook Davis was born in Christian County (now Todd County), Kentucky. A day that was once a holiday throughout the South, is now ignored and overlooked.

Most people remember and detest Jefferson Davis as the dreaded president of the Confederate States of America. Even today, nearly 120 years after his death, he is attacked, criticized and lampooned for his role in the so-called American Civil War.

Regardless of what you think of his role during that War, Davis was indeed a great American. (Besides, if we are to ridicule Jefferson Davis for his part in the War Between the States, then we must also bring men like George Washington, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin into judgment for their role in the American Revolution.) In fact, Davis spent the majority of his life dedicated to the preservation, not the dissolution, of these United States.

After all, would a man who wanted to destroy America, as he has been accused of, actually do any of these things?:

Student at the United States Military Academy from 1824-1828; graduated in 1828.

Entered the US Army after graduation as a 2nd lieutenant in 1829. Promoted to 1st lieutenant in 1833. He resigned in 1835 to marry Sarah Knox Taylor, the daughter of Zachary Taylor. She would die less than three months after their wedding from yellow or malaria fever. Davis himself would nearly die.

In 1836 Davis became involved in local and state politics, and was chosen to be a presidential elector in the 1844 election in which he cast his vote for James K. Polk.

He was elected to the US House of Representatives in 1845. On December 8, 1845, he took an oath to uphold the Constitution, and meant it, unlike modern members of that body. A week later, on December 16, he voted to admit Texas to the Union in a joint resolution.

1846, After voting in favor of a bill declaring war with Mexico, Davis was elected colonel of the 1st Mississippi Regiment. He left Washington on July 4, and assumed command of the 1st Mississippi on July 18. Davis would serve throughout the Mexican War, notably during the Battle of Monterrey [September 21-23, 1846], under his former father-in-law. Davis was also highly praised for his action in the Battle of Buena Vista [February 23, 1847], in which he was wounded. For his actions he would be promoted to brigadier general, which he humbly refused.

After the War, he was appointed US Senator from Mississippi on August 10, 1847. He was elected US Senator on January 11, 1848, by the Mississippi legislature, and was reelected in 1850.

In 1851 Davis resigned his senate seat to run for governor of Mississippi; he was narrowly defeated.

On March 7, 1853, Davis was chosen and sworn in as Franklin Pierce's (a Northerner, mind you) Secretary of War. Davis made several important decisions to modernize the US Army, some have postulated that Davis' changes were conributing factors to the Confederacy's defeat.

In 1856 he was elected as Mississippi's US Senator again, and resigned from the Pierce administration before taking his seat in 1857.

On January 21, 1861, Davis gave his last speech before the US Senate, and resigned when it was clear that his state of Mississippi would secede from the Union.

These are not the activities of a traitor, but rather those of a patriot and statesman. How can one attack a man who gave so much to his country? Jefferson Davis did all of this through much personal loss - death of his first wife, and death of his first child. (Only one of Davis' four children would outlive him, his only Daughter, Margaret.) As a result of his own brush with death at the hand of the same fever that claimed his first wife, Davis' health was never good. Yet, he continued to serve his country well.

Any other man would be lauded as a hero, even to this day. Instead, Jefferson Davis is ruthlessly slandered, all because he served as president of the Confederacy.

Happy Birthday, Mr. President. And I salute you for you dedication and service.

Swampfox

For more information about Jefferson Davis, his work and life, see Rice University's The Papers of Jefferson Davis, and Beauvoir, the Jefferson Davis Home and Presidential Library.

FBI Releases Bonnie and Clyde Files

2009-06-01T16:05:00.002-05:00

The FBI has released a "complete" (if you can ever considered anything the government does complete. There are probably quite a number of "lost files" in some vault somewhere.....) list of the Bonnie and Clyde files under a FOIA (Freedom of Information Privacy Act) request.

The files listed are part of two separate releases, according to the FBI's webpage on the two infamous criminals. of course, the question must be asked: will this change anything that we know about them, and more specifically, the events surrounding their deaths? Maybe, maybe not.

Regardless, this is bound to interest those that are fascinated with the two (which never held any real interest for me). Anytime you have documents seeing the light of day, which have not for a long time, tends to generate interest.

Now, let's see if they will release anymore of those Kennedy Files.......

You can view the FBI's FOIA page on Bonnie and Clyde by mashing here.

Swampfox

Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story

2009-05-27T15:49:00.003-05:00

DVD Review

Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story
Franklin Springs Family Media

Thomas J. Jackson has always been one of my heroes, along with Francis Marion and David Crockett. I think I read my first biography on "Stonewall" when I was 10, and have been fascinated with him ever since.

When I first heard about Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story, I was curious if it would be worth my time. Some people seem to make it their goal in life to glorify the bad guys, and slander the good, honorable men of history. Needless to say, I was impressed.

The documentary is not long, but it is packed with excellent information on the great general.

Two major things that I liked the best: 1. the emphasis on his Christian faith, and 2. his mission/Sunday school work with the slaves. These are two things that are normally only casually skimmed over, or avoided altogether.

One thing, as a Baptist, that I found interesting, was that it was a Baptist family that introduced Jackson to the Gospel and took him to church as a young man.

Another thing that is interesting, and often overlooked, is the work he did among the slaves. Jackson spent a lot of time teaching them the Gospel in a Sunday school class he ran for them. Apparently he heavily influenced them. After the war, four churches sprung up from the class, and two still exist.

Accurate, and interesting, this DVD will help you understand a man who is oft misunderstood.

You can purchase Still Standing: The Stonewall Jackson Story from Franklin Springs or Amazon.com.

Swampfox

But What About the Black Confederates?

2009-05-26T16:29:00.002-05:00

Who Remembers Them?

Yesterday, despite pressure, President Obama did honor the Confederate dead at Arlington. He also had wreaths lain at the graves of Blacks who fought for the Union....but what about the Blacks who fought for the Confederacy?

If you go only by what you read in textbooks and what you"learn" in history class, there were no Black Confederates. But in fact there were. Not only did Blacks serve in the Confederate Army, but they served willing, just as many served willingly in the Federal Armies. Yet, once again, they remain among the forgotten.

So did President Obama remember the Black Confederates? I doubt it, he probably (like most Americans) has no idea there were any. If anyone does just a little bit of research, they will find that there were quite a number of them.

Maybe you think I am just making up stuff just to meet my agenda. If so, then read what Frederick Douglas (no supporter of the Confederacy) had to say: "There are at the present moment many Colored men in the Confederate Army doing duty not only as cooks, servants and laborers, but real soldiers, having musket on their shoulders, and bullets in their pockets, ready to shoot down any loyal troops and do all that soldiers may do to destroy the Federal government and build up that of the rebels."

Along with the POWs and MIAs of Korea and Vietnam, the Black Confederates are forgotten by all.

Swampfox

I remember...

2009-03-02T17:18:00.002-05:00

by Michael K. Finch

On this day, March 2nd, in 1836, The Republic of Texas was born.

And while the public schools will ignore this event, and while history revisionists will minimize the significance of our Independence, I would like to tell every one here that I remember the Alamo and Goliad. I remember visiting the grave sites of those who had fallen for Independence. I remember reading the names of the war dead on the walls of the Alamo. Names like "Esparza," and "Guerrero" were listed among the names of the fallen defenders.

But today it is taught that this was purely a racial conflict between Anglo and Latino. No mention is ever made of the tyrannical dictator that voided the original Mexican Constitution of 1821. No one makes mention of the fact that Santa Anna viewed himself as the "Napoleon of the Southwest."

Well, there is one fact that cannot be ignored. The fact is that WE WON. Despite losing battle after battle after battle, the Texicans prevailed.

Remember the Alamo!!!

Editor's note: See the following links for more information regarding the Texas War for Independence -

The Alamo.org

Texas' Most Famous Shrine

Tarheels Wary of A National Government

2009-02-07T15:20:00.003-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views -

Though not alone in casting a wary eye toward the new federal agent in Washington, even North Carolina's Federalists were surprised by Hamilton's centralizing plans under the new Constitution. What they then observed was a steady encroachment of powers assumed by that agent and to the detriment of the States who considered themselves sovereign. The Seventeenth Amendment destroyed one of the last bulwarks that protected State authority by taking the appointment of senators away from the State legislatures---where the wise Founders had placed it.

Bernhard Thuersam
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Wilmington, NC
www.CFHI.net

Tarheels Wary of A National Govenrment

"North Carolina accepted the federal Constitution more or less on faith yet with great confidence that the pending Bill of Rights would protect her and her people from the rash actions of a government that was remote from local control. Her uncertainty grew out of long years of experience with an even more remote power in London, but the anticipated guarantee of the same rights that were mentioned in the Declaration of Rights in her own State constitution was assuring enough that she was willing at least to give the new government a trial.

Federalism flourished briefly even in North Carolina. Both Senators and three of the five congressmen that she sent to the second session of the first national Congress were Federalists. When they took their seats, they discovered that Alexander Hamilton's program to form a strong national government was being discussed. This was not to their liking nor, they reasoned, would it be to their constituents'. Hamiliton's plan to centralize power in the hands of the federal government distressed them, and they were disturbed by the tendency of the Federalist party to support a loose interpretation of the provisions of the Constitution. Such a policy would place more power in the hands of national officials than North Carolinians thought necessary or desirable.

Reaction against Federalism was demonstrated in the State by the refusal of members of the House of Commons in 1790 to take an oath to support the federal Constitution. The legislature also passed a vote of thanks to a State court of equity for refusing to obey a writ of the federal district court ordering the transfer of a case from State to federal jurisdiction. Since United States senators were elected by the General Assembly, that body also undertook to instruct the senators in their duties as the State's representatives. The State legislature clearly distrusted and feared the federal government. North Carolinians had a long tradition of resenting and even rejecting orders issued by outsiders, and they regarded the threat of federal directives as potentially just as oppressive as any that had come from England during the colonial period.

Even James Iredell, whose appointment to the Supreme Court by Washington in 1790 was a source of pride to the State, quickly became suspicious of the growing power of the national government. He pointed out that the course the government appeared to be taking was not one that he had anticipated in 1788 or 1789. Justice Iredell's dissenting opinion in 1794 in the case of Chisholm v. Georgia took issue with his Federalist colleagues who held that a citizen of one State could sue another State in federal court. Iredell maintained that each State was still sovereign as to all powers that it had not delegated to the federal government, and he described the federal Constitution as a compact between sovereign States. Iredell's view was widely hailed throughout the young nation, and it led to the adoption of the Eleventh Amendment depriving federal courts of jursidiction in cases against a State by a citizen of another State."

North Carolina, A History: A Bicentennial History, William S. Powell, W.W. Norton, 1977, pp. 93-94

[DHS: bold in the above text is mine, and was added for emphasis.]

RE LEE 2009

2009-01-20T15:25:00.002-05:00

Robert E. Lee--A Day To Remember!
http://tinyurl.com/8nalm4

PRAISE FOR LEE AND JACKSON
By Chuck Baldwin/NewsWithViews.com

While the strategies and circumstances of the War of Northern Aggression can (and will) be debated by professionals and laymen alike, one fact is undeniable: Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. Jackson were two of the finest Christian gentlemen this country has ever produced. Both their character and their conduct were beyond reproach.
http://tinyurl.com/6wajxl

Remembering Robert E. Lee’s 202nd Birthday
By Calvin E. Johnson, Jr.

On this his 202nd birthday let us ponder the words he wrote to Annette Carter in 1868: ‘I grieve for posterity, for American Principles and American liberty.’
http://tinyurl.com/8pt7h2

Robert E. Lee
On his birthday, remember the man, the history
By Gordon Cotton/Vicksburg Post

There’s a concerted effort in our nation to erase the name of Robert E. Lee from schools named for him, an effort spearheaded by bigots more interested in rewriting history than in supporting education. Those who seek to defame him aren’t worthy to polish his Vicksburg boots.
http://tinyurl.com/97yn97

Loot Was The Name of the Game

2009-01-07T17:37:00.001-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

It is commonly understood that North Carolina was spared the hardships of war, though the northeastern section of the State was under northern rule since Burnside's Expedition. Edward Stanly was a former North Carolinian who was appointed governor by Lincoln and sent to occupied Morehead City to hold court, but even he lost hope of restoring the Tarheel State to the Union after watching shiploads of loot heading northward.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Loot Was The Name of the Game

"Most of eastern North Carolina lay open to the Union troops," wrote J.G. de Roulhac Hamilton, "and by degrees they stripped the entire region of everything of value that was moveable. Whole shiploads of booty were sent north." Edward Stanly said, "Had the war in North Carolina been conducted by soldiers who were Christians and gentlemen, the State would have long ago rebelled against rebellion."

But instead of that, what was done? Thousands and thousands of dollars worth of property were conveyed North. Libraries, pianos, carpets, mirrors, family portraits, everything in short, that could be removed, was stolen by men abusing flagitious slave holders and preaching liberty, justice and civilisation. I was informed that one regiment of abolitionists had conveyed North more than $40,000 worth of property. They literally robbed the cradle and the grave. Family burial vaults were broken open for robbery; and in one instance (the fact was published in a Boston newspaper and admitted to me by an officer of high position in the army) a vault was entered, a metallic coffin removed, and the remains cast out that those of a dead (northern) soldier might be put in the place.

All the blood of the American Revolution of 1776 was shed to establish the right of self government. The Revolution had no other end, meaning that if it did not establish that right, then it was a sanguinary farce; and yet because we (in the South) chose to exercise that right, we were declared "rebels" and numerous herds of mercenaries, collected from all quarters of the globe, were hurled against us. Four years of terrible barbarous warfare, of cruelty of the most savage, and wickedness of the most wanton followed."

Excerpt from The Richmond Whig, January 20, 1865

State Government Solutions to Hard Times

2008-12-30T16:48:00.001-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

In the days before Washington became the dispenser of all good things and cures, there were State governors who saw their people as self-reliant and able to carry themselves through hard times. Governor Max Gardner of North Carolina used State agencies to help his citizens through an economic depression and discourage dependency on a government dole.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

"The cries of these suffering people reached the highest government offices in Raleigh, and State leaders planned how to aid them. Governor Gardner and other leaders did not believe that State government should provide relief. They believed that relief was the responsibility of private agencies and local governments because they were closest to the people. Also, State leaders believed that able-bodied people should work for what relief they received. They thought that a dole would destroy character and turn people into beggars.

Governor Gardner did believe that the State should encourage people to help themselves. His first concern was for farmers because the prices of cotton and tobacco dropped sharply in 1929, greatly reducing farmers' income. In December 1929, Gardner proposed his Live-at-Home program to help the farmers. This program encouraged farmers to grow part of the $150 million of feed and foodstuffs that they normally imported from out of State for consumption on the farm. Gardner expected the program to improve the State economy and to make the farmers self-sufficient in home food production so that they could ward of starvation.

To start the program, Governor Gardner used existing State agencies. He persuaded President Eugene Clyde Brooks of NC State College to send demonstration agents among farm families to encourage gardens, canning and growing livestock feed. The governor also prevailed upon the State Department of Public Instruction to publicize Live-at-Home among schoolchildren. For one week each year students learned about the importance of nutrition, of the cow, of the poultry, of the hog, and of the garden. Some 800,000 schoolchildren participated in a Live-at-Home essay contest. The governor presented silver loving cups to the winners, Ophelia Holley, a black girl from Bertie County, and Leroy Sossamon, a white boy from Cabarrus County. Supporting the State efforts, some eastern bankers and merchants refused credit to farmers who would not grow less cotton and tobacco, and more food.

To help establish (county) relief committees, Governor Gardner appointed a Council on Unemployment Relief in November 1930. The council created a separate relief organization for blacks. Lt. Lawrence A. Oxley, a pioneer black social worker in North Carolina provided the leadership to help blacks organize county committees, and a Statewide committee for advising the governor.

The raising of relief funds and dispensing of aid thus fell on public and private local agencies, which cooperated in their work. The most important private organization was the Community Chest, which raised money and distributed it to charitable agencies. The associated charities gave needy families food, clothing, fuel, and medical care. The Salvation Army mainly gave vagrants hot meals and free lodging in exchange for a few chores, but it also aided needy families. The Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem treated 2650 patients in 1930, 1500 of them as charity cases. In 1932, the new Duke University Hospital reserved 250 of its 406 beds for the needy."

Hard Times, Beginnings of the Great Depression in North Carolina, 1929-1933, John L. Bell, NC Dept. of Cultural Resources, 1982, pp. 43-45

Fighting Against Overwhelming Odds

2008-12-29T17:47:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

Joe Johnston's American soldiers who fought and won at Bentonville in 1865 displayed a fortitude which was legendary after four years of war; and Judge Hamilton's words below provide the lesson to be imparted to our young people.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Fighting As Usual Against Overwhelming Odds

"General Joseph E. Johnston attacked General Sherman at the hamlet of Bentonville (North Carolina) on the 19th of March (1865) inflicting a signal repulse. Brigade after brigade of the Federals were crushed, and but for a gallant charge of the Federals under (General B.D.) Fearing the center would have been entirely destroyed. After this defeat Sherman was unwilling to suffer another so he waited for General Schofield to join him, and this combined force consisted of over 160,000 men. The Confederate Corp of General D. H. Hill numbered 2,687 men.

In regards to the Confederate soldiers of 1861-1865 Judge de Roulhac Hamilton wrote: "How splendid they were in their modest, patient, earnest, love of country! How strong they were in their young manhood, and pure they were in their faith, and constant they were in their principles. How they bore suffering and hardship, and how their lives were ready at the call of duty! Suffering they bore, duty they performed, and death they faced and met, all for the love of the dear old homeland; and all this for the glory and honor of North Carolina. As they were faithful unto thee, guard thou their names and fame, grand old mother of us all. If thy sons in the coming times shall learn the lesson of the heroism their lives inspired and their deeds declared, then not one drop of blood was shed in vain."

Land of the Golden River, Lewis Philip Hall, Hall Enterprises, 1980, pp. 101-102

No Stopping Christmas in 1864

2008-12-26T14:58:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

In this day of rank consumerism that dwarfs the true meaning of Christmas, it is worthwhile revisiting how Americans under siege in December, 1864 tired hard to bring a smile to children's faces. Though dispirited by the spectre of poverty and foreign political domination, the opportunity to create a brighter Christmas for the children of slain American soldiers brought Richmond's citizens to action.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

No Stopping Christmas in 1864

"Varina Howell Davis, Mississippi-born wife of the Southern president declared, "That Christmas season was ushered in under the thickest clouds; every one felt the cataclysm which impended, but the rosy, expectant faces of our little children were a constant reminder that self-sacrifice must be the personal offering of each member of the family."

Because of the expense involved in keeping them up, Mr.. Davis had recently sold her carriage and horses. A warm-spirited Confederate bought them back and sent them to her. Now she planned to dispose of one of her best satin dresses to obtain funds; with Christmas on the way, the children had high expectations, and she would use all possible makeshifts in an effort to fulfill them. The Richmond housewives could find no currants, raisins, or other vital ingredients for old Virginia mincemeat pie. But, Mrs. Davis went on, the young considered at least one slice their right, "and the price of indigestion...a debt of honor due from them to the season's exactions."

Despite the war, apple trees still bore fruit; with these as a base, she and the other women of the city would utilize any other fruit that came to hand. A little cider and some salt were obtained, as was brandy, though its usual price was a hundred dollars a bottle in inflated Confederate currency.

As for eggnog, the Negro stable attendant, who brought in "the back log, our substitute for the Yule log," said he did not know how they would "git along without no eggnog. Ef it's only a little wineglass." Plans progressed for a quiet home Christmas when unexpected word arrived: The orphans at the Episcopal home had been promised a tree and toys, cake and candy, plus a good prize for the best-behaved girl, and something had to be done about that.

Something was done. With Mrs. Davis's help, a committee of women was set up and the members repaired to their children's old toy collections to salvage dolls without eyes, monkeys that had lost their squeak, three-legged and even two-legged horses. They fixed and painted everything, plumping out rag dolls and putting new faces on them, adding fresh tails to feathered chickens and parrots.

The Davis's invited a group of young friends on Christmas Eve to help make candle molds and string popcorn and apples for the tree; Mr. Pizzini, the confectioner, contributed simple candies. For cornucopias and other ornamentation the Davis's guests used colored papers, bright pictures from old books, bits of silk out of trunks. All in all, the Christmas Eve of 1864 was far from unsatisfactory. When the small supply of eggnog went around, the eldest Davis boy assured his father: "Now I just know this is Christmas."

The Southern Christmas Book, Harnett T. Kane, David McKay Company, 1958, pp. 208-210

The Fears of North Carolina Anti-Federalists

2008-12-18T17:16:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

Though North Carolinians were not alone in fearing the consolidationist tendencies under the proposed Constitution, they held out for amendments and wouldn't take anyone's word that they could be added after ratification. The following passage also makes it clear that religious tests and political office did not include Moslems or Hindu's, nor were pagans desired in the halls of government. Also, North Carolina's proposed amendment of a two-thirds majority to determine if a State was in rebellion would have perplexed Lincoln in his war against Americans.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

The Fears of North Carolina Anti-Federalists

"The anti-federalist plan as introduced by (Willie) Jones (of North Carolina), which was a refusal to ratify (the Constitution) until certain amendments were added, appears in the records when the committee of the whole reported to the convention. While the discussion of this motion (to ratify) was in progress, Willie Jones stated that Jefferson wished nine States to ratify the Constitution to preserve the union, but he wanted the other four to reject it to make certain that the amendments would be added. Jones said it would probably take about eighteen months to have the amendments ratified, but he had "rather be eighteen years out of the Union than adopt it in its present form." The North Carolina anti-federalists felt that, since their proposed amendments were so similar to those of Virginia, they would have the support of that State in urging their acceptance, and in North Carolina's favorable reception when it wished to enter the union.

The last clause of the Constitution which occasioned debate in the committee was the one prohibiting religious tests for public offices. The delegate who opened the discussion was Henry Abbott, a Baptist elder from Anson (county) who voted with the federalists...(who) said that some persons were afraid that, should the Constitution be put into effect, they would be deprived of the privilege of worshipping God according to their consciences, which would be denying them a benefit they enjoyed under the existing (Articles of Confederation). He said he wished to know what religion would be established. For his part, he was against any exclusive establishment, but if there were any he preferred the Episcopal. Many thought that the prohibition of religious tests was dangerous and impolitic. They supposed that if there were no religious test required, pagans, deists and Mahometans might obtain office, and that the senators and representatives might be all pagans.

It is well to note the additional amendments desired by the North Carolina anti-federalists, for they relate to the special interests of that State. In order to safeguard independent action, one amendment proposed that Congress should not declare any State to be in rebellion without the consent of at least two-thirds of all the members present in both houses. Another, showing the fear of commercial interests, provided that Congress should authorize no company of merchants with exclusive privileges.

Ratification of the Federal Constitution in North Carolina, Louise Irby Trenholme, Columbia University Press, 1932, pp. 178-184

In Memorium of a President

2008-12-06T17:15:00.002-05:00

On this day in 1889, Jefferson Finish Davis, the president of the Confederate States, died. I found this small, nice tribute to him.

Sam Houston's 1854 Prophesy & 1855 Boston Speech

2008-12-03T17:31:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

Though Houston resisted the forces of secession of Texas, he was well-aware in 1854 of where the radical and disunionist talk of the North would take the country in 1860. His pleas for Northern restraint with regard to slavery agitation fell on deaf ears, and the Republican Jacobins would drag the country into war.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Sam Houston's 1854 Prophesy, and 1855 Boston Speech

(Houston) prophesied (in 1854):

"The result of all this (slavery agitation) will be, in 1856, the Free Soil party will run a candidate for president, and the whole vote will be astounding. In 1860, the Free Soil party, uniting with the Abolitionists, will elect the president of the United States. Then will come the tocsin of war and clamor for secession...But, alas! I see my beloved South go down in the unequal contest, in a sea of blood and smoking ruin."

(Houston's Washington's Birthday Address, 1855):

"....Houston boarded a train to go by way of New York to Boston to make a speech on slavery at Tremont Temple on Washington's Birthday. None other than William Lloyd Garrison delivered the reply. The (Texas State) Gazette, in reporting the speech made to a crowded audience said:

"In treating the subject of slavery he did not advocate slavery in the abstract, nor would he discuss it as an abstract question. He dealt with it as an existing fact, much apprehended and the cause of too much agitation and discord. The people of the South did not create slavery. The South did not love it; but it exists there, and, as a necessity in the present condition of the South, it must be used, but guarded from abuse; the South should not encroach upon the rights and institutions of the North, nor the North upon the rights and institutions of the South. Union is what is needed, and freedom for every man to hold and express his own opinion."

Houston ended his speech with a plea for union:

"Our country is too glorious, too magnificent, too sublime in its future prospects, to permit domestic jars or political opinions to produce a wreck of this mighty vessel of state. Let us hold on to it, and guide it; let us give it in charge to men who will care for the whole people, who will love the country for the country's sake, and will endeavor to build up and sustain it, and reconcile conflicting interests for the sake of prosperity. This can be done, and let us not despair and break up the Union."

(Sam Houston, The Great Designer, Llerena B. Friend, University of Texas Press, 1954, pp. 232-237)

National Anthem of Dixie

2008-11-30T11:09:00.002-05:00

Most think that "Dixie" was the Southern National Anthem, and they would be wrong. Actually, neither North nor South had a national anthem. Several songs were popular patriotic songs in the Confederacy throughout the war, but "God Save The South" was the only one that sounded like a real anthem. "God Save The South" probably would have eventually became the Southern anthem, had the South won her independence.

The song was written by George Henry Miles, who wrote under the pseudonym, Ernest Halphin. The commonly-heard version was composed by Charles W. A. Ellerbrock.

Modern day revisionists and atheists would have a field filing lawsuits over this song as a national anthem!

"God Save The South"

God save the South, God save the South,
Her altars and firesides, God save the South!
Now that the war is nigh, now that we arm to die,
Chanting our battle cry, "Freedom or death!"
Chanting our battle cry, "Freedom or death!"

God be our shield, at home or afield,
Stretch Thine arm over us, strengthen and save.
What tho' they're three to one, forward each sire and son,
Strike till the war is won, strike to the grave!
Strike till the war is won, strike to the grave!

God made the right stronger than might,
Millions would trample us down in their pride.
Lay Thou their legions low, roll back the ruthless foe,
Let the proud spoiler know God's on our side.
Let the proud spoiler know God's on our side.

Hark honor's call, summoning all.
Summoning all of us unto the strife.
Sons of the South, awake! Strike till the brand shall break,
Strike for dear Honor's sake, Freedom and Life!
Strike for dear Honor's sake, Freedom and Life!

Rebels before, our fathers of yore.
Rebel's the righteous name Washington bore.
Why, then, be ours the same, the name that he snatched from shame,
Making it first in fame, foremost in war.
Making it first in fame, foremost in war.

War to the hilt, theirs be the guilt,
Who fetter the free man to ransom the slave.
Up then, and undismay'd, sheathe not the battle blade,
Till the last foe is laid low in the grave!
Till the last foe is laid low in the grave!

God save the South, God save the South,
Dry the dim eyes that now follow our path.
Still let the light feet rove safe through the orange grove,
Still keep the land we love safe from Thy wrath.
Still keep the land we love safe from Thy wrath.

God save the South, God save the South,
Her altars and firesides, God save the South!
For the great war is nigh, and we will win or die,
Chanting our battle cry, "Freedom or death!"
Chanting our battle cry, "Freedom or death!"

Rewriting History

2008-11-27T17:32:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

The following is an excerpt from a 1946 pamphlet dedicated to the Public Schools of North Carolina by the Anson Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy in honor of its author, Dr. Henry Tucker Graham of Florence, South Carolina. Dr. Graham was the former president of Hampton-Sidney College and for twenty years the beloved pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Florence, South Carolina. The cleansing of the vanquished peoples history reminds one of the Japanese subjugation of Korea in 1910, which had the blessing of Teddy Roosevelt. The Korean language was forbidden and history rewritten to glorify the Japanese conqueror.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Rewriting History

"There is grave danger that our school children are learning much more about Massachusetts than about the Carolinas, and hearing more often of northern leaders than of the splendid men who led the Southern hosts alike in peace and war. Not many years ago the High School in an important South Carolina town devoted much time to the celebration of Lincoln's Birthday---while Lee, Jackson, Hampton and George Washington received no mention. You have all heard of Paul Revere's ride made famous by the skillful pen of a New England writer. He rode 7 miles out of Boston, ran into a squadron of British horsemen and was back in a British dungeon before daybreak. But how many of you have heard of Jack Jouitte's successful and daring ride of forty miles from a wayside tavern to Charlottesville to warn Governor Jefferson and the Legislature of the coming of a British squadron bent upon their capture?

You have heard of the Boston Tea Party, but how many know of the Wilmington, North Carolina Tea Party? At Boston they disguised themselves as Indians and under cover of darkness threw tea overboard. At Wilmington they did the same thing without disguise and in broad daylight. With the utter disregard of the facts they blandly claim that the republic was founded at Plymouth Rock while all informed persons know that Plymouth was 13-1/2 years behind the times, and when its colony was reduced to a handful of half-starved immigrants on the bleak shores of Massachusetts, there was a prosperous colony of 2,000 people along the James (River) under the sunlit skies of the South.

The fact is that New England has been so busy writing history that it hasn’t had time to make it. While the South has been so busy making history that it hasn’t had time to write it.

"Some Things For Which The South Did Not Fight, in the War Between the States," Dr. Henry Tucker Graham, 1946

North Carolinians Resist Federal Tyranny

2008-11-27T17:23:00.001-05:00

Courtesy of Southern Heritage News & Views

The passage below demonstrates the resolve of North Carolinians who were taught by leaders such as Nathaniel Macon. As eminent Tarheel Dr. Clyde Wilson has written about Macon: "By the end of his life, Macon had realised that the cause of republicanism was lost at the federal level, and also that the North was determined to exploit and rule the South. After he read Andrew Jackson's proclamation against South Carolina, Macon told friends that it was too late for nullification. The Constitution was dead. The only recourse was secession---there was nothing left but for the South to get out from under the "Union" and govern itself. Thirty years later, in the spring of 1861, the North Carolina convention met to unanimously ratify secession. Nathaniel Macon's son-in-law, Weldon N. Edwards, was in the president's chair."

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

North Carolinians Resist Federal Tyranny

On December 12, the (North Carolina) Senate attempted to amend a resolution which had been introduced on December 10 to declare the Assembly's judgment that the federal government had no right to coerce a seceding State. (O)n January 10 (1860), Bedford Brown of Caswell County, member of the joint select Committee on Federal Relations....reported the resolution as follows:

1. Resolved, that in the judgment of the General Assembly the Federal Government has no right to coerce a seceding State, and South Carolina and Florida, acting in their sovereign characters, through conventions, having seceded from the present Union, the federal authorities have (no) power under the Constitution to make war upon and subjugate these States, or any other States which hereafter adopt like action.

2. Resolved, that it will be the duty of the constituted authorities of North Carolina to resist by force the passage of federal troops through her territory to coerce and subjugate a seceding Southern State, and that North Carolina ought to resist any attempt at coercion, whether by land or sea, by all means of her power.

"We are in the midst of war and revolution. North Carolina would have stood by the Union," Jonathan Worth wrote on May 30 (1861), "but for the conduct of the national administration which for folly and simplicity exceeds anything in modern history, as North Carolina is strictly a unit for resistance and everywhere is heard the sound of drum and fife....I feel that we can not be conquered."

On December 7, he concluded: "This State is a unit against the Lincoln Government. It is one great military camp. Some ten thousand troops are in the field. The old Union men are as determined as the original secessionists. The State is totally alienated from the Lincoln Government and will fight to extermination before they will be reunited with the North."

North Carolina in 1861, James H. Boykin, Bookman Associates, 1961, pp. 178-196

2nd Amendment For Today

2008-10-26T17:43:00.002-05:00

The following documentary is from Jews For the Preservation for Firearms Ownership.

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

September 17

2008-09-17T18:34:00.000-05:00

Constitution Day - Once again, one of the single most important days in American history has passed unnoticed. In all reality, September 17 should be a holiday on the same level as Thanksgiving, and even more so. It should be a day of prayer, praise and thanksgiving unto the Lord God Jesus Christ, who by His Mercy and Grace moved upon the hearts of a few men to create a Republic unparalleled in the history of Mankind.

Today, this is not so. It is a forgotten day, much like the document that it celebrates. Our politicians and "leaders" view as just a piece of paper that changes with the prevailing political winds. The People have no idea what it says, nor do they wish to be bothered with what it says. And thus, the American Republic has been transformed into a socialistic democracy.

Maybe we should have heeded the words of Patrick Henry, who like Samuel to the children of Israel, warned of the dangers this Federal government would bring. Now, not only have we forgotten Patrick Henry, but we have forgotten the very thing that makes us Americans and kept us free from tyrants.

How to Build an Empire (1840's thru WWI)

2008-09-15T17:14:00.000-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 6

2008-09-11T18:18:00.000-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 5

2008-09-11T18:17:00.001-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 4

2008-09-11T18:15:00.002-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 3

2008-09-11T18:15:00.001-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 2

2008-09-11T18:13:00.000-05:00

"AMERICA'S GODLY HERITAGE" PART 1

2008-09-11T18:08:00.000-05:00

Al Benson Classics

2008-09-08T18:46:00.002-05:00

Here are some classic history articles from Mr. Al Benson, Jr., a man I count as a friend and a mentor, and respect as a historian. I have featured and linked several of his articles here before, and these are excellent as well.

Patrick Henry--the forgotten patriot
by Al Benson Jr.

As a lawyer Henry argued strongly for religious liberty so that, in Virginia, Presbyterians, Baptists, and others could freely preach and worship without the binding restrictions of the Church of England. Fully grasping the truth that true Christian faith brings liberty and self-government, Henry was ever in the forefront, speaking for religious liberty.
http://tinyurl.com/6akx8l

HARRIET BEECHER STOWE AND SPIRITUALISM
by Al Benson Jr.

According to Rugoff, Harriet was convinced that she "had been brought to the verge of the spirit land." This particular session so frightened Henry's wife that she would not even stay in the same room where it occurred. It must have been a real beaut! Harriet later consorted with at least two other hypnotists and became intrigued with the concept as a way of communication with the spirit world--something she should have had nothing to do with according to biblical prohibitions. She, like brother Henry, had departed from her father's faith, and the further she got away the more bizarre her activities became.
http://tinyurl.com/5jqxmp

SPIRITUALISM AND THE LINCOLNS
by Al Benson Jr.

Robbins reported that during 1862, Mrs. Lincoln was involved with a number of mediums, some of whom were just out and out fakes. Historians have disagreed as to whether Lincoln, himself, believed in spiritualism, because, pragmatic politician that he was, he never gave anyone that inquired into his beliefs on this matter any kind of a straight answer. However, some indications have begun to surface that indicate Lincoln may have believed in spiritualism more than he cared to admit.
http://tinyurl.com/67xqrv

Review: Remmbering North Carolina's Confederates

2008-08-22T11:00:00.002-05:00

I really like Aracdia Publishing's Images of America series. As a student of Southern history, this one caught my attention. Sometimes you can learn and understand some fascinating points of history by looking at pictures.
Remembering North Carolina's Confederates compiles photograph's of many of North Carolina's Confederate monuments (including the one in the town where I live). Most of those pictures were taken around the time the monument was first placed.

But, there's also pictures of the veterans themselves, some in the last picture that would ever be taken of them. It's humbling to stare at the faces of those men, many are missing limbs. Some would wonder, why did they fight? A true student of history, not one who believes everything that is shoved down their throats, knows why. The real question should be, how did they manage to settle down after the surrender?

This book makes a nice addition to your history library, especially if you are interested in Southern and North Carolina history.

Remembering North Carolina's Confederates can be purchased at Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

Today Is Independence Day

2008-07-02T17:48:00.001-05:00

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress unanimously declared that "that these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent states, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.''

Wait a minute..July 2nd? Yes, July 2, 1776 is the actual date of Independence of all the thirteen rebelling Colonies (some had already declared their independence like North Carolina, April 1776 - May 1775 by some accounts, and Virginia, May 1776).

The date of July 4 was chosen so that the delegates would have enough time to escape the British Army that was rapidly closing in on Philadelphia. Also, it was considered necessary to give the other colonies enough time to receive word of the Declaration and to make copies to spread among the citizens.

Only John Hancock and one other delegate affixed their signatures to the bottom of the document on July 2. Most of the other delegates did not sign until August 2, 1776, when it was safe for them to meet again. Of course, there were a few who never did have the opportunity to sign.

On the night of July 2, 1776, the Pennsylvania Evening Post published the statement: "This day the Continental Congress declared the United Colonies Free and Independent States."

To this day, the Declaration of Independence is one of the most hated documents in world history. So called "patriots", "Americans", "historians" and even Christians have claimed that the document is worthless and has no authority whatsoever. Some even seem to think that the Declaration goes too far. Maybe so, but every good Baptist knew long before Thomas Jefferson (who borrowed many of his ideas on Liberty and government from the Baptists), James Madison and even John Locke that we "are endowed by [our] Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

It's INDEPENDENCE DAY!!!

Two Graves - One Decoration - Two Stories

2008-05-23T16:42:00.004-05:00

By William Potter

Today (Sunday, May 18, 2008) was decoration at Towncreek Cemetery where two of my ancestors have markers. First is Rueben L. Potter of Co D 4th Tenn. Infantry, Confederate States Army. The US Flag on his grave was placed there by members of the Knights of Columbus who decorate all military graves in the county, they mean no disrespect to our Confederate ancestors by placing the flag there. As you can see his grave is also decorated
with flowers.

Next is my other Great-Great-Grandfather James Marion Dawson, who chose to betray Dixie and joined a Homegrown Yankee Calvary Unit. His body was somehow misplaced by his Yankee Comrades (possibly buried in a Yankee cemetery in Chattanoogo), and the marker covers an empty grave. The marker was placed there years later in his memory. As you can see, there are zero flowers on the spot, if not for the flag placed by the Knights of Columbus men it would have no decorations at all.

Perhaps this says a lot? You be the judge.

Gravesites & Memorials To Revolutionary Patriots

2008-04-25T15:52:00.002-05:00

Of Guilford County North Carolina

This compilation of Revolutionary Patriots known gravesites and memorials in Guilford County was compiled by the Rachel Caldwell Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Rachel Caldwell Chapter meets monthly in Greensboro, NC. The Daughters of the American Revolution supports and promote education, historical preservation and patriotism.

The Patriots below are listed in alphabetical order.

BELL, Martha McFarlane McGee - (b. 1735 - d. Sept 9, 1820)

Buried in the Bell-Welborn Cemetery, near New Market School, northern Randolph County. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Also monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Greensboro. Monument placed by Alexander Martin Chapter, DAR, in the First Line Area, is a rough textured rectangular stone on base with engraved plaque. Inscription: "Loyal Whig - enthusiastic Patriot - Revolutionary Heroine." Service: Guide for Lieutenant Colonel "Lighthorse Harry" Lee's soldiers. Furnished material aid. Defied Lord Cornwallis at Bell's Mill.

BOSTON, John - (b. 1737 - d. 1810)

Buried in family cemetery, Guilford County. Service: Major in Onslow's Militia, served at Battle of Guilford Courthouse.

BRAZELTON, John - (b. Apr 3, 1741 - d. Mar 14, 1781)

Buried in the Quaker Cemetery at Springfield Friends Meeting, Guilford County. Cemetery is located at 555 East Springfield Road, High Point.

BRETIGNY, Marquis of - (d. 1793)

One of three cavalrymen memorialized on the Cavalry Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Banded obelisk monument in the Third Line Area commemorates the charge of American dragoons on the British Second Battalion, Queen's Guards. Bronze tablets. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Led 40 NC cavalrymen at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Furnished arms and equipment.

BRUCE, Charles - (b. Feb 1, 1733 - d. Jan 21, 1832)

Buried in Bruce Family Cemetery, now in Bruce Park, Summerfield. Park is across Highway #220 from Summerfield School. Memorial marker placed by North Carolina DAR. Service: Member of Halifax Congress. Member, NC House of Commons. Recruiting officer. Procured firearms for Guilford County troops.

CALDWELL, David (Rev., Dr.) - (b. Mar 22, 1725 - d. Aug 25, 1824)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Grave marked by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Standing bronze marker and bronze plaque mounted on boulder at the southeastern corner of the intersection of Hobbs Road and Cornwallis Drive, Greensboro. Standing rectangular monument. Inscription: Preacher, Patriot, Physician, Teacher." Service: Member, Halifax Convention; Patriot. David Caldwell house newly erected in David Caldwell Park, grand opening on Apr. 19, 2008.

CALDWELL, Rachel - (b. 1739 - d. June 3, 1825)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Patriot.

CLAPP, Barney - (d. Sept 27, 1844)

Buried in the Brick Church Cemetery, Guilford County. Service: Regulator.

COBLE, George - (b. May 10, 1733 - d. June 21, 1816)

Buried in the Coble's Lutheran Church Cemetery, 10 miles from Greensboro. Church is located at 5200 Coble Church Road, Julian. Service: Soldier, serving from NC.

COFFIN, William - (b. July 18, 1722 - d. July 15, 1803)

Buried in the New Garden Friends Cemetery, 801 New Garden Road, Greensboro. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. COFFIN, William - (b. Nov 4 1720, d. Nov 10 1803) - Buried in the New Garden Friends Cemetery, 801 New Garden Road, Greensboro. Reported by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Patriot.

COOTS, James - (b. 1739 - d. July 27, 1816)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Lieutenant, 4th NC Regiment.

CUMMING, William - (b. Jan. 18, 1759 - d. Apr. 18, 1847)

Buried in the First Presbyterian Church Cemetery, North Davie Street, Greensboro, adjoining the Greensboro Historical Museum. Name appears on Soldiers' Memorial plaque on east wall of the museum as " William Cumming, Quartermaster and Lieutenant, NC Continentals." Reported by Colonel Arthur Forbis Chapter, DAR.

CUMMING, William - (d. Feb 6, 1863, aged 93)

Buried in the First Presbyterian Church Cemetery, North Davie Street, Greensboro, adjoining the Greensboro Historical Museum. Grave #35. Site marked by the Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

DAVES, John - (b. 1748 - d. Oct 12, 1804)

Originally buried in the Cedar Grove Cemetery, New Bern, Craven County. Monument survives on site. Grave removed to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Flat slab tombstone on First Line Area. Inscription: "One of the well tried patriots of our Revolutionary War." Inscribed epitaph: "Beneath this monumental stone repod's/In shrouded gloom, the relics of the dead/Await th'archangel's renovating trump./And the dread sentence of the Judge Supreme./But GOD's the Judge! in truth and justice robed:/Impartial to reward the friend sincere./The virtues of the patriot, parent, spouse;/And these, O Major! these were surely thine./Yes these were thine - and mor still conjorn'd/t'endear thee to thy family and friends./To leave a lasting memory behind,/And seal thy passports to the realms of bliss." Also bronze DAR plaque inscribed: "Grandfather of Mrs. Mary Daves Nash., first State DAR Regent of North Carolina" Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Quartermaster, 2nd NC Regiment; Captain. Brevet Major. Served at Germantown, Charleston, and Eutaw Springs, wounded in battle.

DELAWARE SOLDIERS - (d. Mar 15, 1781)

Three unknown soldiers in Captain Robert Kirkwood's Delaware Company, buried in Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Obelisk monument in the Second Line Area, near graves. Inscription: "Three Continental Soldiers rest here in fame's eternal camping ground." Of Kirkwood's fewer than 100 men placed on the right of the American lines, 35 were lost at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

DENNY, James - (b. 1715 - d. 1795)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery place by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Patriot; rendered material aid.

DENNY, James

Buried in the Alamance Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Grave marked by San Francisco Chapter, DAR, CA.

DIXON, Henry ("Hal") - (d. July 17, 1782)

Buried in unknown location. Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Square stone monument in the Second Line Area has tapering top, surmounted by plaque. Inscription: "The embodiment of chivalry/The idol of his soldiers/Thrice wounded in battle/From which he died." Also inscribed are battles in which he was engaged - Brandywine, Germantown, Monmouth, Stono Ferry, Camden, and Guilford Courthouse. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Captain, Major, Lieutenant Colonel, NC continental Line.

DOAK, James

Buried in the Alamance Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Grave marked by San Francisco Chapter, DAR, CA.

DONNELL, Andrew - (d. Dec 24, 1835, aged 76)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR.

DONNEL, George - (d. Oct 12, 1842, aged 73)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR.

DONNELL, John - (b. Jan 4, 1748 - d. May 7, 1822)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR.

DONNELL, Joseph - (b. 1748 - d. 1822)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Captain, serving under Colonel John Paisley.

DONNELL, Robert - (b. Mar 15, 1760 - d. Mar 31, 1847)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Major.

EDWARDS, James - (d. Oct 24, 1844)

Buried in the New Garden Friends Cemetery, 801 New Garden Road. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

FAUNTLEROY, Griffin - (b. Sept 28, 1754 - d. Mar 15, 1781)

Memorialized on monument in Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Standing rectangular granite monument, placed by a relative, in the Third Line Area on site occupied by the 1st VA Cavalry during the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Inscription: "It was here Captain Griffin Fauntleroy, 1st VA Lt. Dragoons, Cont'l Line, was mortally wounded.

FORBIS (FORBES), Arthur - (d. March, 1781)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery, nine miles east and south of Greensboro. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Monument in his honor at the First Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument inscription: "Fell at his post in the discharge of duty on this memorable field of battle." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Colonel, Captain, NC Militia. Fatally wounded in Battle of Guilford Courthouse.

FRANCISCO, Peter - (b. ca. 1760 - d. Jan 16, 1831)

One of three cavalrymen memorialized on the Cavalry Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Banded obelisk monument in the Third Line Area commemorates the charge of American dragoons on the British Second Battalion, Queen's Guards. Bronze tablets, one inscribed to Francisco: " A giant in stature, might and courage - who slew in this engagement eleven of the enemy with his own broad sword rendering himself thereby perhaps the most famous private soldier of the Revolutionary War." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Private, 10th VA regiment and VA Militia.

FRANKLIN, Jesse - (b. Mar 24, 1760 - d. Au. 31, 1823)

Originally buried near his Surry County home; grave removed, along with standing tombstone, to the Third Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Grave situated near the Joseph Winston Monument; east face plaque of monument names Franklin with a motto: "Palaman Qui Meruit Ferat: - Let Him Who Has Won the Palm Bear It." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Adjutant and Major, VA, served under "Lighthorse Harry" Lee and Major Joseph Winston at Guilford Courthouse.

GIBSON, Andrew - (b. 1750 - d. 1823)

Buried at Gibsonville, eastern Guilford County. Service: Cavalryman in NC Militia.

GILLESPIE, Daniel - (b. Oct 13, 1743 - no d. date)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Colonel.

GILLESPIE, John - (d. June 3, 1806, aged 65)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Colonel

GILLESPIE, L. I./L. J. - (d. June 23, 1806, aged 65)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Greensboro. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Patriot

GILLIES, James ("Bugler") - (b. 1766 - d. Feb 13, 1781)

Buried in Ben Hoskins' private cemetery, Route #150, between Routes #68 and #220, Summerfield. This cemetery and Bruce Family Cemetery now in Bruce Park, near Greensboro. Grave marked by fieldstone and mortar monument on which is mounted a bronze plaque inscribed: "On this spot Bugler Boy Gillies - age 14 - lost his life at the hands of British soldiers - February 12, 1781." Plaque placed by Joseph Kerner Chapter, DAR. Another marker across Route #150 inscribed: "About 25 yards southeast of this spot on February 12, 1781, Gillies, "Lighthorse" Harry Lee's bugler boy fell under the sword of Tarleton's dragoons. History leaves no record of his given name, but his noble sacrifice for his country's freedom will never be forgotten." Memorial marker placed by NC DAR at Bruce Park, across Highway #220 from Summerfield School. Site marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Also monument in the First Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument placed by students at Oak Ridge Institute. Diamond shaped plaque on tapering base. Inscription: "Lighthorse Harry Lee's Bugler-Boy. Dulce et Decorum Est Pro Patria Mori... Sweet and Fitting It Is To Die for One's Country." Reported by Joseph Kerner, Guilford Battle and Rachel Caldwell DAR chapters. Service: Bugler, killed at age 14 by Tarleton's Dragoons.

GORRELL, Ralph - (d. 1828, aged 73)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Service: Patriot

GORRELL, Ralph - (d. Apr 16, 1816, aged 81)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

GREENE, Nathanael - (b. Aug 7, 1742 - d. June 19, 1786)

Memorial monument in the Second Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument consists of a large equestrian statue on a pedestal, with an inscribed wall and terrace. Monument funded by Congress. Inscription: '"Greene is as dangerous as Washington. I never feel secure when encamped in his neighborhood.' - Cornwallis" and '"It is with a pleasure which friendship alone is susceptible of that I congratulate you on the glorious end you have put to hostilities in the Southern States.' - Washington." Also inscribed are a lengthy tribute to the soldiers at Courthouse from "a grateful nation" and a list of Greene's military engagements. Greene is also memorialized on the No North - No South Monument in the First Line Area of Guilford Courthouse. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Brigadier General, RI Militia; Quartermaster General, Continental Army; Major General, Southern Army.

GREENE'S SOLDIERS

Monument in Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, in memory of soldiers in the Maryland and Virginia brigades and the remnants of Kirkwood's Delaware Company who fought under General Nathanael Greene in the final British attack at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Tall granite shaft monument in the Third Line Area. Inscription: "Regulars - Greene's 3rd Line." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

HARDIN, John - (b. 1725 - d. 1811)

Buried in the Tabernacle Methodist Church Cemetery, Guilford County. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

HEWES, Joseph - (b. 1730 - d. Nov 10, 1779)

Buried in lost grave in Christ Church Cemetery, Philadelphia. His name appears on a monument for North Carolina's Signers' graves in the Second Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument consists of a statue of a robed man on a tall stone pedestal. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Signer of the Declaration of Independence.

HOWELL, John - (b. June 1, 1740 - d. Sept 1, 1822)

Buried in the Deep River Cemetery, Jamestown. Service: Private.

HUNT, Eleazer - (b. Nov 12, 1762 - d. Nov 20, 1810)

Buried in the New Garden Cemetery. Service: Furnished material aid.

HUSSEY, John - (b. 1737-38 - d. Feb 7, 1781)

Buried in the Quaker cemetery used by the New Garden Monthly Meeting. Service: Private.

IDOL, George - (b. 1740 - d. 1785)

Buried in family cemetery, between Abbotts Creek and Guilford Courthouse National Military Park.

KERR, Nathaniel - (d. Feb 22, 1820, aged 86)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

LINDSAY, Robert Sr. - (b. before 1748 - d. 1801)

Buried one mile west of Sandy Ridge on Trueblood Farm.

McADOO, James - (d. Dec 29, 1802, aged 94)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery.

McCUISTON (McQuiston), Thomas - (b. Oct 31, 1762 - d. Feb 14, 1853)

Buried in family cemetery, Guilford County. Service: Soldier, serving in Captain Gillespie's Company under Colonels Paisley and Smith, NC. Pensioner.

McLEAN, Joseph - (b. 1752 - d. 1832)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

MACON, Nathaniel - (b. Dec 17, 1758 - d. June 29, 1837) NOTE: Tar Heel Tombstones says Macon b. 1751.

Buried in Macon Family Cemetery, at his plantation, "Buck Spring," Vaughn, Warren County, 12 miles northeast of Warrenton. Cemetery is on Route #1348 four miles north of Vaughn along Highway #158. Granite tombstone with bronze tablet, surrounded by piled rocks. Monument in his honor at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Rough hewn stone monument on similarly rough-textured base in the First Line Area, with plaque inscribed: "Nathaniel Macon willed that his memorial consist only of rude stones. Here they are." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Soldier, NC Militia, State Senator.

MAJOR, Thomas

Buried in the Alamance Church Cemetery. Grave marked by San Francisco Chapter, DAR, CA.

MARIS, John - (b. Oct 12, 1736, d. May 6 1816)

Buried in Guilford County. Service: Private, NC or PA.

MARTIN, Alexander - (b. 1740 - d. 1807)

Buried in the Guilford County Courthouse Cemetery. Service: Lieutenant Colonel, 2nd Regiment, Continental Line. Served at Battle of Brandywine and in Washington's attack on the British at Germantown. Six times Governor of North Carolina.

MARYLAND SOLDIERS

Memorial monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, for members of the 1st and 2nd Maryland Regiments, commanded by Colonels Gunby and Ford. Monument placed by the Maryland Historical Society in recognition of the Maryland soldiers' valor at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Rough hewn standing rectangular monument in the Second Line Area with inscribed plaque. Inscription: "Maryland's tribute to her heroic dead...'Non Omnis Moriah' - 'I Shall Not Die Altogether.'" Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

MILLIKAN/MILLIKEN, William - (b. 1720 - d. 1805)

Buried in the Quaker Cemetery, Springfield Friends Meeting, Guilford County. Cemetery is located at 555 East Springfield Road, High Point. Service: Furnished material aid. Patriot. (One of five appointed by legislature at Halifax as justice to hold first court in Randolph Co. Served as first register of deeds for Randolph Co.

MOREHEAD, James - (b. 1750 - d. 1815)

Monument placed by descendants at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument, in First Line Area, features an engraved plaque on a triangular rough-textured stone body. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Lieutenant, Captain, 10th NC Regiment. Served at Battle of Stono Ferry. PAISLEY, John - (b. 1745 - d. Oct, 1811) - Buried in Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Grave marked by San Francisco Chapter, DAR, CA. Service: Served as officer in 1st Battalion of Minutemen, Guilford County.

PAISLEY, William - (d. Sept 11, 1822, aged 81)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR.

PENN, John - (b. May 17, 1741 - d. Sept 14, 1788)

Originally buried in family cemetery near Stovall, northeastern Granville County; grave relocated to the Second Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument for North Carolina's Signers of the Declaration of Independence nearby, consisting of a statue of a robed man on a tall stone pedestal. Inscription: "Delegates from North Carolina 1776 to the Continental Congress and Signers of the Declaration of Independence." Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR, John Penn, and Old Bute Chapter, DAR. Service: Signer of the Declaration of Independence.

RANKIN, John - (d. Mar 24, 1814, aged 78)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Soldier.

RANKIN, William - (d. Feb 9, 1804, aged 60)

Buried in the Buffalo Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Church is located at 803 16th Street. Bronze DAR marker mounted on church wall honoring Revolutionary soldiers and patriots buried in the cemetery placed by Rachel Caldwell Chapter, DAR. Service: Soldier

REYNOLDS, George - (b. 1754 - d. 1815)

Memorial marker at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Monument placed by George Reynolds Chapter, DAR, with descendants. Rough-textured rectangular monument is in the Second Line Area. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Captain, serving under General Nathanael Greene.

SCHERER, Frederick - (b.1763 - d. Feb 20, 1817)

Buried in the Frienden's Lutheran Church Cemetery, Guilford County. Service; Soldier, serving in 10th Regiment, Rialford's Company.

SCHERER, Jacob Daniel - (b. Nov 11, 1726, - d. Sept 26, 1795)

Buried in the Frienden's Lutheran Church Cemetery, Guilford County.

SHAW, Robert - (d. Nov 6, 1825)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Guilford County. Service: Soldier.

STEVENS, Edward

Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, near spot where Stevens was wounded in battle. Square stone monument in the Second Line Area surmounted by a bronze plaque, placed by Culpeper Minute Men Chapter, SAR, VA. Inscription: "On this spot Brig. Gen. Edwards Stevens was wounded while making a gallant stand with his Virginia troops." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Colonel, 10th Regiment, VA Continental Line: Brigadier General, VA Militia.

STEWART, Finley - (d. Feb 13, 1809, aged 78)

Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Guilford County. Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service; Soldier. STEWART, Robert - (d. Aug 18, 1833, aged 66) - Buried in the Alamance Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Guilford County.

STEWART (STEUART), Sampson - (b. 1752 - d. 1828)

Buried in/near Alameda, near Greensboro. Service: Soldier, NC.

SUMMERS, Peter - (b. May 16, 1757 - d. Aug 17, 1837)

Buried in Friedens Lutheran Church Cemetery, Grave marked by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service; Captain.

SUMNER, Jethro - (b. 1733 - d. Mar 18, 1785)

Originally buried in Warren County; remains and monument later moved to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Large square monument on two-piece base in First Line Area. Inscription on east face: "Spotless in character, pure in patriotism/the most eminent soldier among/the North Carolina troops." Also inscribed is a list of battles in which he led troops: Charleston, Brandywine, Germantown, Monmouth, Stono Ferry, Eutaw Springs. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Major of Minute Men; Colonel, 3rd NC Regiment; Brigadier General, NC Continental Line.

TALLIAFERRO, Richard - (d. Mar, 1781)

Name inscribed on the Joseph Winston Monument in the Third Line Area of Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. East face plaque names soldier with a motto: '"Palaman Qui Meruit Ferat' - "Let Him Who Has Won The Palm Bear It.'" Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Soldier, VA, served under "Lighthorse Harry" Lee and Major Joseph Winston at the Battle of Guilford Courthouse; believed to be the last American soldier killed at the battle.

TATE, James - (d. Mar 15, 1781)

Originally buried New Garden, where he was fatally wounded in a skirmish with Tarleton's dragoons. Remains moved to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Granite monument at second grave placed by the Guilford Battle Ground Company. Grave located in First Line Area. Inscription: "Capt. James Tate - VA. Rifleman." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Captain of infantry, VA Militia, served under Lieutenant Colonel "Lighthorse Harry" Lee.

TURNER, Kerenhappuch Norman - (b. ca. 1733 - d. ?)

Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park placed by relatives. Monument, in the First Line Area, features a sculpted female figure on a tall stone pedestal, with plaque on front of pedestal face. Inscription: "A Heroine of '76...rode horse-back from her Maryland home and at Guilford Courthouse nursed to health a badly wounded son." Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Patriot.

WASHINGTON, William - (b. 1752)

One of three cavalrymen memorialized on the Cavalry Monument at Guilford Courthouse National Military Park. Banded obelisk monument in the Third Line Area commemorates the charge of American dragoons on the British Second Battalion, Queen's Guards. Bronze tablets. Reported by Guilford Battle Chapter, DAR. Service: Lieutenant Colonel; served at the Battle of Cowpens, captured at Eutaw Springs.

WEATHERLY, Isaac

Buried in Weatherly Family Cemetery, near Greensboro. Service: Soldier, served seven years as private with NC Continental Line.

North Carolina Independence Day

2008-04-12T11:42:00.004-05:00

On this day, April 12, in 1776, the colony of North Carolina became the first of the thirteen rebellious British colonies in America to issue a declaration of independence. Other colonies had, up to this point, backed away from issuing such a statement. In the North, man still mistakenly believed that the British would want to negotiate. The independent spirit of all North Carolinians had finally been pushed too far, and now there was no turning back.

The following has come to be known as the Halifax Resolves. It was agreed to and issued by eighty-three delegates to the North Carolina Provincial Congress in Halifax, North Carolina.

The Select Committee taking into Consideration the usurpations and violences attempted and committed by the King and Parliament of Britain against America, and the further Measures to be taken for frustrating the same, and for the better defence of this province reported as follows, to wit,

It appears to your Committee that pursuant to the Plan concerted by the British Ministry for subjugating America, the King and Parliament of Great Britain have usurped a Power over the Persons and Properties of the People unlimited and uncontrouled and disregarding their humble Petitions for Peace, Liberty and safety, have made divers Legislative Acts, denouncing War Famine and every Species of Calamity daily employed in destroying the People and committing the most horrid devastations on the Country. That Governors in different Colonies have declared Protection to Slaves who should imbrue their Hands in the Blood of their Masters. That the Ships belonging to America are declared prizes of War and many of them have been violently seized and confiscated in consequence of which multitudes of the people have been destroyed or from easy Circumstances reduced to the most Lamentable distress.

And whereas the moderation hitherto manifested by the United Colonies and their sincere desire to be reconciled to the mother Country on Constitutional Principles, have procured no mitigation of the aforesaid Wrongs and usurpations and no hopes remain of obtaining redress by those Means alone which have been hitherto tried, Your Committee are of Opinion that the house should enter into the following Resolve, to wit

Resolved that the delegates for this Colony in the Continental Congress be impowered to concur with the other delegates of the other Colonies in declaring Independency, and forming foreign Alliances, resolving to this Colony the Sole, and Exclusive right
of forming a Constitution and Laws for this Colony, and of appointing delegates from time to time (under the direction of a general Representation thereof to meet the delegates of the other Colonies for such purposes as shall be hereafter pointed out.

The Halifax Resolves were important not only because they were the first official action calling for independence, but also because they directed to all the colonies and their delegates assembled at the Continental Congress in Philadelphia.

Soon afterward, Virginia followed with her own recommendations, and finally on July 4, the final draft of the Declaration of Independence was signed. William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, and John Penn were the delegates from North Carolina who signed the Declaration of Independence.

RP

The Final Revenge

2008-04-03T18:30:00.002-05:00

When it comes to the War Between the States, it's hard to get the correct information. History books were, and still are, mainly written by those who share the viewpoint of the victors. The truth about what happened in Columbia, South Carolina in February 1865 is no different.

Recently, I came across an excellent mini-documentary on the burning of Columbia - the best I have yet to see. Developed by Frank Knapp, Jr, Sherman's March: Final Revenge tells how General Sherman was determined to take vengeance upon South Carolina, and how the perfect opportunity fell into his lap. While Sherman may or may not have (that is still debatable) ordered or set the fires himself, he did absolutely nothing to control his out-of-control army.

You can watch the entire 32-minute documentary by clicking here. You can also order copies on DVD.

RP

Chicken Bog & A Good Cause

2008-04-02T17:04:00.004-05:00

Chicken Bog is to South Carolina what Brunswick Stew is to her northern sister (that would be North Carolina for those who are geographically challenged). If you have no idea what Chicken Bog is, click here for more information as well as a few recipes. In some cases Chicken Bog is more important to the native South Carolinians than Bar-B-Que. If you're like me, you don't particularly care for Chicken Bog or Brunswick Stew. I normally don't say that too loud. As a native of South Carolina and one who makes the Old North State his adopted home, saying such things can get you killed. Whether you like Chicken Bog or not, here's your chance to help out in a good cause.

Some good folks in my old stomping grounds are trying to preserve a Confederate Landmark in Florence, South Carolina area. On Saturday, April 12, a living history event will be held at the historic Red Doe Plantation. Live music, demonstrations and a bake sale will be held all day from 10 AM to 6 PM, and don't forget the Chicken Bog Lunch from 11 AM to 2 PM.

Tickets are $8 per meal and can be purchased at The War Between The States Museum in Florence, SC. Of course, if you don't like Chick Bog, you can always make a donation to the Pee Dee Rifles, the owners of the Red Doe Plantation.

The Red Doe Plantation and the surrounding area abounds in history. The house was once owned by the powerful Gregg Family of South Carolina, and the old roads and remote swamps were once the haunts of Francis Marion and his men during the War for Independence. If you would like to know more about the history of the Red Doe Plantation, there is an excellent article here.

For the curious, Red Doe is supposedly chock full of haints and specters. Some have claimed to see Confederate cavalry riding around in broad daylight. I've never been to the place at night, but I agree that Red Doe is rather spooky even during the day time.

If you're going to be in the Pee Dee region of South Carolina on April 12, then this would be an excellent event to attend. It'll be educational, fun for the whole family and helping to preserve the history of the South.

RP

Multi-Review: Books on North Carolina History

2008-03-24T17:45:00.002-05:00

This originally appeared on the Swamp Fox Files.

This year, I have been teaching North Carolina history. I have done a lot of research, sifting through articles, booklets and books, as I want my students to learn the real history of the Old North State, not the politically correct mumbo-jumbo that is normally forced fed to young minds.

I plan to do more of these “North Carolina History Book Reviews” in the future, but for now I wish to focus upon four booklets that were beneficial to me in working on North Carolina’s early history.

The first is Native Carolinians: The Indians of North Carolina, by Theda Perdue (no relation). This booklet gives a good deal of valuable information on those who inhabited North Carolina at the time of exploration and colonization. It discusses a brief history of the Cherokee and Lumbee Nations, as well as giving what is known of the ancient inhabitants.

The second booklet is Indian Wars in North Carolina: 1663-1763, by E. Lawrence Lee. As the title indicates, this booklet specifically deals with the various Indian wars fought in colonial North Carolina. It gives known information about the Indians who inhabited North Carolina when the colony was founded, as well as the early Indian wars fought between 1663-1711. Two chapters are devoted to the Tuscarora War, which nearly wiped out the northern portion of Carolina (Carolina would be divided into North and South in 1712 after the start of the Tuscarora War). The remainder of Indian Wars in North Carolina is spent discussing the two largest North Carolina tribes by the 1750s—the Catawba and the Cherokee – including their participation in the French and Indian War and the War for Independence.

Besides Indians, North Carolina also had difficulties with pirates. The third booklet is The Pirates of Colonial North Carolina by historian Hugh F. Rankin. Rankin gives a brief, but lively account of North Carolina’s pirate problem, and discusses some of the more notorious pirates known to have haunted the Outer Banks, sounds and inlets of the North Carolina coastline.

Last, but not least, we have North Carolina in the American Revolution, by Hugh F. Rankin. This is a brief, but excellent account, of North Carolina’s fight for Liberty and Independence. While not going into great detail, North Carolina in the American Revolution gives a good outline of the causes that pushed North Carolina into being the first state to declare independence from the English Empire, as well as the key battles fought in the Old North State.

These booklets are excellent sources for those who wish to learn more about North Carolina. North Carolina home schooling parents will also find these helpful in giving their children a good knowledge of North Carolina’s magnificent heritage and history.

All of these booklets are published by the North Carolina Division of Archives and History, and can be purchased from Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com by clicking on the linked title and/or author's name.

The Confederate People's Gun

2008-03-23T13:29:00.005-05:00

By William Potter

An article, 'The Enfield Rifle Musket', gives a good description of the most popular longarm used by the Confederate troops.

Below is a photo of what remains of a type 53 Enfield from my relic collection. The brass parts (buttplate and triggerguard) are usually all that is left after a century and half in the ground, as you can see this buttplate took a major hit and is ripped in half and twisted.

Here is a less-damaged plate and triggerguard owned by a feller named Tom Ivery in Tennessee.

In the next photo you see our Confederate dead behind the stone wall of Marye's Heights, Fredericksburg, Virginia, killed during the Battle of Fredericksburg, May 3, 1863. Their Type 53 Enfields are clearly visable in the photo lying beside the bodies of the brave Confederates who held them.

Republican Party Platform 1860

2008-03-20T17:29:00.003-05:00

Read carefully the second Republican presidential platform, and you will clearly see that the GOP has always talked out of both sides of its mouth.

Republican Party Platform of 1860
May 17th, 1860

Resolved, That we, the delegated representatives of the Republican electors of the United States in Convention assembled, in discharge of the duty we owe to our constituents and our country, unite in the following declarations:

1. That the history of the nation during the last four years, has fully established the propriety and necessity of the organization and perpetuation of the Republican party, and that the causes which called it into existence are permanent in their nature, and now, more than ever before, demand its peaceful and constitutional triumph.

2. That the maintenance of the principles promulgated in the Declaration of Independence and embodied in the Federal Constitution, "That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed," is essential to the preservation of our Republican institutions; and that the Federal Constitution, the Rights of the States, and the Union of the States must and shall be preserved.

3. That to the Union of the States this nation owes its unprecedented increase in population, its surprising development of material resources, its rapid augmentation of wealth, its happiness at home and its honor abroad; and we hold in abhorrence all schemes for disunion, come from whatever source they may. And we congratulate the country that no Republican member of Congress has uttered or countenanced the threats of disunion so often made by Democratic members, without rebuke and with applause from their political associates; and we denounce those threats of disunion, in case of a popular overthrow of their ascendency as denying the vital principles of a free government, and as an avowal of contemplated treason, which it is the imperative duty of an indignant people sternly to rebuke and forever silence.

4. That the maintenance inviolate of the rights of the states, and especially the right of each state to order and control its own domestic institutions according to its own judgment exclusively, is essential to that balance of powers on which the perfection and endurance of our political fabric depends; and we denounce the lawless invasion by armed force of the soil of any state or territory, no matter under what pretext, as among the gravest of crimes.

5. That the present Democratic Administration has far exceeded our worst apprehensions, in its measureless subserviency to the exactions of a sectional interest, as especially evinced in its desperate exertions to force the infamous Lecompton Constitution upon the protesting people of Kansas; in construing the personal relations between master and servant to involve an unqualified property in persons; in its attempted enforcement everywhere, on land and sea, through the intervention of Congress and of the Federal Courts of the extreme pretensions of a purely local interest; and in its general and unvarying abuse of the power intrusted to it by a confiding people.

6. That the people justly view with alarm the reckless extravagance which pervades every department of the Federal Government; that a return to rigid economy and accountability is indispensable to arrest the systematic plunder of the public treasury by favored partisans; while the recent startling developments of frauds and corruptions at the Federal metropolis, show that an entire change of administration is imperatively demanded.

7. That the new dogma that the Constitution, of its own force, carries slavery into any or all of the territories of the United States, is a dangerous political heresy, at variance with the explicit provisions of that instrument itself, with contemporaneous exposition, and with legislative and judicial precedent; is revolutionary in its tendency, and subversive of the peace and harmony of the country.

8. That the normal condition of all the territory of the United States is that of freedom: That, as our Republican fathers, when they had abolished slavery in all our national territory, ordained that "no persons should be deprived of life, liberty or property without due process of law," it becomes our duty, by legislation, whenever such legislation is necessary, to maintain this provision of the Constitution against all attempts to violate it; and we deny the authority of Congress, of a territorial legislature, or of any individuals, to give legal existence to slavery in any territory of the United States.

9. That we brand the recent reopening of the African slave trade, under the cover of our national flag, aided by perversions of judicial power, as a crime against humanity and a burning shame to our country and age; and we call upon Congress to take prompt and efficient measures for the total and final suppression of that execrable traffic

10. That in the recent vetoes, by their Federal Governors, of the acts of the legislatures of Kansas and Nebraska, prohibiting slavery in those territories, we find a practical illustration of the boasted Democratic principle of Non-Intervention and Popular Sovereignty, embodied in the Kansas-Nebraska Bill, and a demonstration of the deception and fraud involved therein.

11. That Kansas should, of right, be immediately admitted as a state under the Constitution recently formed and adopted by her people, and accepted by the House of Representatives.

12. That, while providing revenue for the support of the general government by duties upon imports, sound policy requires such an adjustment of these imports as to encourage the development of the industrial interests of the whole country; and we commend that policy of national exchanges, which secures to the workingmen liberal wages, to agriculture remunerative prices, to mechanics and manufacturers an adequate reward for their skill, labor, and enterprise, and to the nation commercial prosperity and independence.

13. That we protest against any sale or alienation to others of the public lands held by actual settlers, and against any view of the free-homestead policy which regards the settlers as paupers or suppliants for public bounty; and we demand the passage by Congress of the complete and satisfactory homestead measure which has already passed the House.

14. That the Republican party is opposed to any change in our naturalization laws or any state legislation by which the rights of citizens hitherto accorded to immigrants from foreign lands shall be abridged or impaired; and in favor of giving a full and efficient protection to the rights of all classes of citizens, whether native or naturalized, both at home and abroad.

15. That appropriations by Congress for river and harbor improvements of a national character, required for the accommodation and security of an existing commerce, are authorized by the Constitution, and justified by the obligation of Government to protect the lives and property of its citizens.

16. That a railroad to the Pacific Ocean is imperatively demanded by the interests of the whole country; that the federal government ought to render immediate and efficient aid in its construction; and that, as preliminary thereto, a daily overland mail should be promptly established.

17. Finally, having thus set forth our distinctive principles and views, we invite the co-operation of all citizens, however differing on other questions, who substantially agree with us in their affirmance and support.

Source:
Citation: John T. Woolley and Gerhard Peters, The American Presidency Project [online]. Santa Barbara, CA: University of California (hosted), Gerhard Peters (database). Available from World Wide Web.

North Carolina Declaration of Rights

2008-03-13T17:03:00.002-05:00

December 17, 1776

A Declaration of Rights, made by the Representatives of the Freeman of the State of North Carolina.

I. That all political power is vested, in and derived from, the people only.

II. That the people of this State ought to have the sole and exclusive right of regulating the internal government and police thereof.

III. That no men, or set of men, are entitled to exclusive or separate emoluments or privileges from the community, but in consideration of public services.

IV. That the legislative, executive and supreme judicial powers of government, ought to be forever separate and distinct from each other.

V. That all powers of suspending laws, or the execution of laws, by any authority, without consent of the representatives of the people, is injurious to their rights, and ought not to be exercised.

VI. That elections of members to serve as representatives in general assembly ought to be free.

VII. That in all criminal prosecutions, every man has a right to be informed of the accusation against him, and to confront the accusers and witnesses with other testimony, and shall not be compelled to give evidence against himself.

VIII. That no freeman shall be put to answer any criminal charge, but by indictment, presentment, or impeachment.

IX. That no freeman shall be convicted of any crime, but by the unanimous verdict of a jury of good and lawful men, in open court, as heretofore used.

X. That excessive bail should not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel nor unusual punishments inflicted.

XI. That general warrants, whereby any officer or messenger may be commanded to search suspected places, without evidence of the act committed, or to seize any person or persons not named, whose offenses are not particularly described, and supported by evidence, are dangerous to liberty, and ought not to be granted.

XII. That no freeman ought to be taken, imprisoned, or disseized of his freehold, liberties, or privileges, or outlawed or exiled, or in any manner destroyed, or deprived of his life, liberty or property, but by the law of the land.

XIII. That every freeman restrained of his liberty is entitled to a remedy, to inquire in to the lawfulness thereof, and to remove the same, if unlawful; and that such remedy ought not to be denied or delayed.

XIV. That in all controversies at law, respecting property, the ancient mode of trial by jury is one of the best securities of the rights of the people, and ought to remain sacred and inviolable.

XV. That the freedom of the press is one of the great bulwarks of liberty; and therefore ought never to be restrained.

XVI. That the people of this State ought not to be taxed, or made subject to the payment of any impost, or duty, without the consent of themselves, or their representatives in the general assembly freely given.

XVII. That the people have a right to bear arms, for the defense of the State; and as standing armies, in time of peace, are dangerous to liberty, they ought not to be kept up; and that the military should be kept under strict subordination to, and governed by, the civil power.

XVIII. That the people have a right to assemble together, to consult for the common good, to instruct their representatives, and to apply to the legislature for redress of grievances.

XIX. That all men have a natural and unalienable right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own conscience.

XX. That, for redress of grievances, and for amending and strengthening the laws, elections ought to be often held.

XXI. That a frequent recurrence to fundamental principles is absolutely necessary to preserve the blessings of liberty.

XXII. That no hereditary emoluments, privileges, or honors ought to be granted or conferred in this State.

XXIII. That perpetuities and monopolies are contrary to the genius of a free State, and ought not to be allowed.

XXIV. That retrospective laws, punishing acts committed before the existence of such laws, and by them only declared criminal, are oppressive, unjust, and incompatible with liberty; wherefore, no ex post facto law ought to be made.

XXV. The property of the soil, in a free government, being one of the essential rights of the collective body of the people, it is necessary, in order to avoid future disputes, that the limits of the State should be ascertained with precision: and as the former temporary line between North and South Carolina was confirmed, and extended by commissioners, appointed by the legislatures of the two States, agreeable to the order of the late King George II in council, that line, and that only, should be esteemed the southern boundary of this State; that is to say, beginning on the seaside at a cedar stake at or near the mouth of Little River, (being the southern extremity of Brunswick County), and running from thence a northwest course, through the boundary-house, which stands in thirty-three degrees fifty-six minutes, to a thirty-five degrees north latitude; and from thence a west course, so far as is mentioned in the charter of King Charles II to the late proprietors of Carolina. Therefore, all the territory, seas, waters, and harbors, with their appurtenances, lying between the line above described, and the southern line of the State of Virginia, which begins on the seashore, in thirty-six degrees thirty minutes north latitude, and from thence runs west, agreeable to the said charter of King Charles, are the right and property of the people of this State, to be held by them in sovereignty: any partial line, without the consent of the legislature of this State, at any time thereafter directed or laid out, in any wise notwithstanding: provided always, that this declaration of right shall not prejudice any nation or nations of Indians, from enjoying such hunting grounds as may have been, or hereafter shall be secured to them, by any former or future legislature of this State: And provided also, that it shall not be construed so as to prevent the establishment of one or more governments westward of this State, by consent of the legislature: And provided further, that nothing herein contained shall affect the titles or possessions of individuals holding or claiming under the laws heretofore in force, or grants heretofore made by the late King George II, or his predecessors, or the late lords proprietors, or any of them.

The First Declaration of Independence

2008-03-13T16:14:00.003-05:00

In early May 1775, a group of men gathered in the small court house town of Charlotte Town, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. On May 20, 1775, they agreed to a document that has come to be known as the "Mecklenburg Declaration". Knowing such a document could cost them their lives, the men did not sign the document, and the minutes of their meeting were destroyed to keep them out of the hands of Tories and the British.

On May 31, 1775, committee clerk, Ephraim Brevard, placed his signature on a copy of the document. All of the original copies were lost or destroyed, causing some who are jealous of the Old North State to doubt the document's existence. The Mecklenburg Declaration was later reproduced from memory from the surviving members of the brave committee.

The Mecklenburg Declaration is the reason why the date "May 20th 1775" appears on the flag of the Tarheel State.

DHS

Mecklenburg Resolves
Charlotte Town, Mecklenburg County
May 31, 1775

This day the Committee of this county met, and passed the following Resolves:

WHEREAS, By an Address presented to His Majesty by both Houses of Parliament, in February last, the American colonies are declared to be in a state of actual rebellion, we conceive, that all laws and commissions confirmed by, or derived from the authority of the King or Parliament, are annulled and vacated, and the former civil constitution of these colonies, for the present, wholly suspended. To provide, in some degree, for the exigencies of these colonies, in the present alarming period, we deem it proper and necessary to pass the following Resolves, viz.:

That all commissions, civil and military, heretofore granted by the Crown, to be exercised in these colonies, are null and void, and the constitution of each particular colony wholly suspended.

That the Provincial Congress of each province, under the direction of the great Continental Congress, is invested with all legislative and executive powers within their respective provinces, and that no other legislative or executive power, does, or can exist, at this time, in any of these colonies.

As all former laws are now suspended in this province, and the Congress have not yet provided others, we judge it necessary, for the better preservation of good order, to form certain rules and regulations for the internal government of this county, until laws shall be provided for us by the Congress.

That the inhabitants of this county do meet on a certain day appointed by this Committee, and having formed themselves into nine companies (to-wit), eight in the county, and one in the town of Charlotte, do choose a Colonel and other military officers, who shall hold and exercise their several powers by virtue of this choice, and independent of the Crown of Great Britain, and former constitution of this province.

That for the better preservation of the peace and administration of justice, each of those companies do choose from their own body, two discreet freeholders, who shall be empowered, each by himself and singly, to decide and determine all matters of controversy, arising within said company, under the sum of twenty shillings; and jointly and together, all controversies under the sum of forty shillings; yet so as that their decisions may admit of appeal to the Convention of the Select-Men of the county, and also that any one of these men shall have power to examine and commit to confinement persons accused of petit larceny.

That those two Select-Men, thus chosen, do jointly and together choose from the body of their particular company, two persons properly qualified to act as Constables, who may assist them in the execution of their office.

That upon the complaint of any persons to either of these Select-Men, he do issue his warrant, directed to the Constable, commanding him to bring the aggressor before him or them, to answer said complaint.

That these eighteen Select-Men, thus appointed, do meet every third Thursday in January, April, July, and October, at the Court-House, in Charlotte, to hear and determine all matters of controversy, for sums exceeding forty shillings, also appeals; and in cases of felony, to commit the person or persons convicted thereof to close confinement, until the Provincial Congress shall provide and establish laws and modes of proceeding in all such cases.

That these eighteen Select-Men, thus convened, do choose a Clerk to record the transactions of said Convention, and that said Clerk, upon the application of any persons aggrieved, do issue his warrant to one of the Constables of the company to which the offender belongs, directing said Constable to summons and warn said offender to appear before the Convention, at their next meeting, to answer the aforesaid complaint.

That any person making complaint upon oath, to the Clerk, or any member of the Convention, that he has reason to suspect, that any person or persons indebted to him, in a sum above forty shillings, intend clandestinely to withdraw from the county, without paying such debt, the Clerk or such member shall issue his warrant to the Constable, commanding him to take said person or persons into safe custody, until the next sitting of the Convention.

That when a debtor for a sum below forty shillings shall abscond and leave the county, the warrant granted as aforesaid, shall extend to any goods or chattels of said debtor, as may be found, and such goods or chattels be seized and held in custody by the Constable, for the space of thirty days; in which time, if the debtor fail to return and discharge the debt, the Constable shall return the warrant to one of the Select-Men of the company, where the goods are found, who shall issue orders to the Constable to sell such a part of said goods as shall amount to the sum due;

That when the debt exceeds forty shillings, the return shall be made to the Convention, who shall issue orders for sale.

That all receivers and collectors of quit-rents, public and county taxes, do pay the same into the hands of the chairman of this Committee, to be by them disbursed as the public exigencies may require; and that such receivers and collectors proceed no further in their office, until they be approved of by, and have given to, this Committee, good and sufficient security, for a faithful return of such monies when collected.

That the Committee be accountable to the county for the application of all monies received from such public officers.

That all these officers hold their commissions during the pleasure of their several constituents.

That this committee will sustain all damages that ever hereafter may accrue to all or any of these officers thus appointed, and thus acting, on account of their obedience and conformity to these Resolves.

That whatever person shall hereafter receive a commission from the Crown, or attempt to exercise any such commission heretofore received, shall be deemed an enemy to his country, and upon information being made to the Captain of the company in which he resides, the said company shall cause him to be apprehended, and conveyed before the two Select-Men of the said company, who, upon proof of the fact, shall commit him, the said offender, to safe custody, until the next sitting of the Committee, who shall deal with him as prudence may direct.

That any person refusing to yield obedience to the above Resolves, shall be considered equally criminal, and liable to the same punishment, as the offenders above last mentioned.

That these Resolves be in full force and virtue, until instructions from the Provincial Congress, regulating the jurisprudence, of the Province shall provide otherwise, or the legislative body of Great Britain, resigns its unjust and arbitrary pretensions with respect to America.

That the eight militia companies in the county, provide themselves with proper arms and accoutrements. and hold themselves in readiness to execute the commands and directions of the General Congress of this province and this Committee.

That the Committee appoint Colonel Thomas Polk, and Doctor Joseph Kennedy, to purchase 300 lb. of powder, 600 lb. of lead, 1,000 flints, for the use of the militia of this county, and deposit the same in such place as the Committee may hereafter direct.

Signed by order at the Committee. EPH. BREVARD, Clerk of the Committee

Signers:

Abraham Alexander
Adam Alexander
Charles Alexander
Ezra Alexander
Hezekiah Alexander
John Alexander
Waightstill Avery
Hezekiah Balch
Richard Barry
Ephraim Brevard
John Davidson
Henry Downs
John Flennekin
John Foard
William Graham
James Harris
Richard Harris
Robert Irwin
William Kennon
Matthew McClure
Neill Morrison
Duncan Ochiltree
Benjamin Patton
John Phifer
Thomas Polk
John Queary
David Reese
Zaccheus Wilson

(Brief biographies of each of the singer, including the traitor Duncan Ochiltree, can be viewed by clicking here.)

EXPOSING A GODLESS CAESAR

2008-03-10T15:00:00.004-05:00

Recently, Mr Al Benson, a man I have come to admire and am glad to call a friend and an ally, has written several excellent articles on the AmeriKan Caesar. The squeamish need not read any further. However, if you desire to know and search out the truth in all matters, then read on, and follow the links to the complete articles. You just might discover that Lincoln wasn't the "fine Christian gentlemen" that you were taught that he was.

Ray

Mr. Lincoln The Racist
by Al Benson Jr.

When I read about all the Northern (and some Southern) liberals that so deftly condemn Southern folks for their racism, I often wonder why they seem to forget to condemn Mr. Lincoln for his racism.
http://tinyurl.com/ywbq6v

Mr. Lincoln The Infidel
by Al Benson Jr.

So, in contrast to the sound testimony of those who knew him personally (and you can't get more primary sources than that) and those who said that Mr. Lincoln was basically an infidel, we get these wonderfully, sunny, "feel good" tales about the glorious faith of the "great emancipator." One can not help but wonder if most of this is not just one more part of the overall program of trying to make the North appear to have taken the moral high ground in the War of Northern Aggression, when, actually, it was the other way around.
http://tinyurl.com/34y78w

Mr. Lincoln The Socialist
by Al Benson Jr.

Many years ago now, when I first began reading about the goodly number of socialists and outright Communists in Mr. Lincoln's armies, I began to have these nagging little doubts that, maybe, just maybe, Mr. Lincoln was not the honest, country hayseed that his promoters tried to make him out to be.
http://tinyurl.com/2hyh5d

Mr. Lincoln's Biographer - One More Socialist
by Al Benson Jr.

So, it should come as no surprise that Sandburg, well-known for his socialist leanings, should author a series of books on the socialist icon of the 19th century, Abraham Lincoln.
http://tinyurl.com/27x9w5

Little Protection From Vandals

2008-02-27T17:42:00.000-05:00

From SHN&V -

The following is excerpted from famous Tarheel Kemp Battle's recollection of the last days of the War in Raleigh. His descriptions of the thievery of Sherman's troops can be added to the long list already known, and he indicates that having a Northern guard assigned to one's house for protection, many times was no protection at all. It may also explain why so many Southern-origin heirlooms and jewelry can be found in Northern families and shops.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Little Protection Form Vandals

"When I reached my destination, I saw one soldier emerging from the house with a jar of preserves and another with a bag of flour. I said to my (Northern guard accompanying me) soldier, "Make the men put down those things. " He replied coolly, "I wasn't sent to make anyone put down what they have got but to keep them from getting things after I arrived." They used no insulting language to my sister-in-law but one was so urgent for a ring that Mr. Smedes satisfied him with one from his own finger, though he valued it highly on account of its having been the property of an ancestor.

"My troubles were not over. A (Northern) brigadier general asked Mrs. Cox's permission to pitch his tent in her front yard. She agreed as her guard belonged to his command. The next day he marched away and without explanation carried off the guard. As soon as he was out of sight, the robberies were resumed. I hurried to the Capitol, procured another guard and put a stop to the marauding. This time the chief offenders were ransacking the houses of the (black) servants and many thanks were showered on me for my timely arrival. One miscreant, an Irishman, was ripping planks from the stable for his campfire. He grumbled at my stopping him, claiming that the loyal soldiers were entitled to gain comfort from rebel property.

"Prior to the surrender of General Joseph E. Johnston there was much marauding by the Federal Troops. I took a ride into the country and heard many stories of the depredations. I was told with accents of horror how the soldiers stripped the house of old widow Lee. It was mentioned with especial indignation how one impious rascal took a pair of her drawers from her trunk, and tying the ends of the legs securely, filled them with flour and straddled his neck with the booty.

"The air was full of stories of the finding of hidden treasures. The (Northern) soldiers, when they saw a clump of bushes or a thick bunch of weeds or other dark spot...reasoned that an owner of valuables might have selected it. And sometimes, though not often, the colored assistant proved to be treacherous. Doubtless in Georgia, South Carolina and parts of North Carolina robbery was winked at by the officers in order to terrorize the inhabitants and diabolical threats were made in order to force the surrender of valuables."

(Memories of an Old Time Tarheel, Kemp Plummer Battle, UNC Press, 1945, pp. 193,194, 196, 200)

A Governor Who Would Not Bow To Caesar

2008-02-24T12:44:00.002-05:00

From SHN&V -

Many Southerners surrendered not only their arms to the victorious enemy, but also the principles of the Founders they fought four years to uphold against those who would revolutionize our form of government. In North Carolina Governor Locke Craig's address at the unveiling of the Zebulon Vance statue in Washington City, he spoke of the great wartime governor who would not bow to the new Caesar.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

No Bowing to Tyranny

"While mastering he difficulties of politics and harmonizing contending factions, he did not forget the needs of the soldiers, nor the people, nor the destitute families of the deserters. His ships defied the blockade and brought into our ports from England rifles, munitions, clothing, shoes and blankets for the Army, necessities and comforts for all of the homes of the rich and poor. Our soldiers were better provided for than any in the South. He is known to history as 'The great war governor.'

"After the carnage of battle, after the wreck and desolation of war, the night of reconstruction set in. North Carolina's wounds had healed, but her heart was bleeding. All the beasts of prey came forth to plunder and to devour. Darkness and desolation prevailed. There were many who thought that we should seek admission to the Union in humility and contrition, that we should accept the new order, that we should join the dominant party with its dogmas of social and political equality, that we should submit to the disenfranchisement of the foremost and the bravest, and not cry aloud against the control of elections by Federal soldiers.

"Many of these men were strong men. They thought that further contention with a victorious party was hopeless, and would be disastrous. But there were those who stood for the integrity of the State as a member of the Union, who did not surrender their ideals...who knew that the policies of reconstruction were impossible, except to our shame and ruin. Vance was the leader, the voice of these, the inspiration of a State that was crushed. In a speech in Raleigh at the beginning of this era of chaos, referring to the men who were advocating the policies that in his opinion would bring ruin to the State, humiliation to the people and threaten the overthrow of our civilization, after pouring upon them his ridicule and invective, as with the blast of a tempest he said:

'It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for them in North Carolina.'

He made good the prophesy."

(Statue of Zebulon Baird Vance, Proceedings in Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol, Sixty-Fourth Congress, 1917)

Honoring North Carolina's Greatest Governor

2008-02-22T16:18:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of SHN&V -

This eulogy for Senator (and wartime governor) from North Carolina shows the high esteem men like Vance were held in by political opponents who could speak highly of them, but could not emulate their principles and virtue. At the start of the War Between the States, Massachusetts sent the political opportunist and war criminal Ben Butler to invade a sovereign Maryland and inaugurate war against American civilians; The Old North State sent Zeb Vance, who humbly enlisted for service to repel an invasion of his homeland and defend the Constitution. While North Carolina sent 125,000 of its men to fight to defend their homes, Massachusetts was combing Philadelphia for free blacks, and South Carolina for captured slaves, to enlist as bounty-enriched mercenaries to allow white citizens of that State to avoid fighting for their alleged abolitionist convictions (see www.cfhi.net, Historical Essays, Black Soldiers in Red, Blue and Grey).

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Statue of Zebulon Baird Vance in Statuary Hall, US Capitol, 1916
Address of Henry Cabot Lodge of Massachusetts:

"He was a fine example of a certain type of man who fought on the Confederate side during the (War Between the States). There were many of these men in the Senate in those days; now, alas! Then for the first time I was brought in personal contact with them. I had been bred in an atmosphere of intense hostility to the principles for which they had fought. I widely disagreed with most of their political views; but I was not long in the society of these men in the Senate - these men of whom Governor Vance was such an admirable example - without learning keenly to appreciate their strong qualities.

"Their theories of political action which had guided them in the past, and which guided them then, were not mine and never could be; but they were men of principle and conviction, and for their principles they had not only fought but they were ready to sacrifice themselves them if need came in the less dangerous but more insidious trials of public life. They were men of traditions. They had the old American traditions strong within them...Above all, Governor Vance and those who shared his principles and had fought with him in the (War Between the States) were men who believed profoundly that there were certain things for which the individual life ought to be sacrificed, and that there were higher ideals to be followed than living in comfort and safety with opportunity to accumulate money. They were to the fullest extent like those...of the race of men that fought the Revolution, and they resented dishonor or humiliation for their country as they would have resented it for themselves.

"Rather than permit their nation to undergo humiliation or be dishonored, rather than sacrifice principles in which they believed, they were ready to fight, and, if need be, give their lives. They went to war (with the spirit)...which has, I believe, at all times ever been the true American spirit. When it is extinguished, then the end of the Republic is not far off."

(Statue of Zebulon Baird Vance, Proceedings in Statuary Hall of the United States Capitol, Sixty-Fourth Congress, 1917, pp. 47-48)

Rewriting History

2008-02-17T15:09:00.001-05:00

From SHN&V -

The following is an excerpt from a 1946 pamphlet dedicated to the Public Schools of North Carolina by the Anson Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy in honor of its author, Dr. Harry Tucker Graham of Florence, South Carolina. Dr. Graham was the former president of Hampton-Sidney College and for twenty years the beloved pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Florence, South Carolina. The cleansing of the vanquished peoples history reminds one of the Japanese subjugation of Korea in 1910, which incidentally had the blessing of Teddy Roosevelt. The Korean language was forbidden and history rewritten to glorify the Japanese conqueror.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Rewriting History

"There is grave danger that our school children are learning much more about Massachusetts than about the Carolinas, and hearing more often of northern leaders than of the splendid men who led the Southern hosts alike in peace and war. Not many years ago the High School in an important South Carolina town devoted much time to the celebration of Lincoln's Birthday---while Lee, Jackson, Hampton and George Washington received no mention. You have all heard of Paul Revere's ride made famous by the skillful pen of a New England writer. He rode 7 miles out of Boston, ran into a squadron of British horsemen and was back in a British dungeon before daybreak. But how many of you have heard of Jack Jouitte's successful and daring ride of forty miles from a wayside tavern to Charlottesville to warn Governor Jefferson and the Legislature of the coming of a British squadron bent upon their capture?

You have heard of the Boston Tea Party, but how many know of the Wilmington, North Carolina Tea Party? At Boston they disguised themselves as Indians and under cover of darkness threw tea overboard. At Wilmington they did the same thing without disguise and in broad daylight.
With the utter disregard of the facts they blandly claim that the republic was founded at Plymouth Rock while all informed persons know that Plymouth was 13-1/2 years behind the times, and when its colony was reduced to a handful of half-starved immigrants on the bleak shores of Massachusetts, there was a prosperous colony of 2,000 people along the James (River) under the sunlit skies of the South.

The fact is that New England has been so busy writing history that it hasn't had time to make it. While the South has been so busy making history that it hasn't had time to write it.

("Some Things For Which The South Did Not Fight, in the War Between the States." Dr. Harry Tucker Graham, 1946)

The End of Southern Abolition

2008-02-17T14:57:00.003-05:00

From SHN&V -

There was strong anti-slavery sentiment in the South after the Revolution and particularly in North Carolina where the American Colonization Society was well supported, ships repatriated many emancipated slaves to their homeland, and editor William Swaim of Greensboro was a strong voice against slavery . One can find the impetus for the economic expansion of slavery in the South in Northerner Eli Whitney's invention which subsequently increased demand for labor. That labor was supplied by New England slavers and one can also find plantations in the South owned by Northerners, eager for profit. If we wonder what greatly slowed the voluntary manumission and emancipation of slaves by Southerners in the early 1830's, we find the answer north of Mason and Dixon's line.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

The End of Southern Abolition

"I had a very interesting conversation with Governor (William) Graham on the subject of slavery, when I passed the day with him in the Spring of 1874. I told him that I had recently seen the commencement oration of my uncle, the Rev. John Haywood Parker, delivered at his graduation in 1832; and that it was an argument in favor of the abolition of slavery in North Carolina. He replied that it was at that same commencement of 1832 that Judge Gaston, in his address to the Literary Societies, had made his famous plea to the young men of the State, that they should realize their duty of taking up that great problem and removing the burden of slavery which was depressing the influence, the development, and the best interests of the State. Governor Graham said that in 1832 the abolition of slavery was freely discussed in the State and was favored by many of our best and wisest men. I asked him how it came about that there was such a sudden and total change in public opinion within the next twenty years.

He replied that there were several concurrent causes of this. In the first place Nat Turner's Insurrection in Southampton County, Virginia in 1831, had much to do with it. That short but bloody outbreak excited such horror and alarm that people feared talk of freeing the Negroes lest it might tend to suggest the idea of freedom to their minds and lead them to similar attempts at freeing themselves by force. Also it was just about this period that the Quakers and others in the North began to send to Congress petitions for the abolition of slavery; and the struggles in Congress and the resentment of the people of the South at what they considered an interference in their domestic affairs caused a great revulsion of feeling. The Southern people were willing to consider the subject themselves, but they would not be dictated to.

I afterwards mentioned this conversation to Judge (George) Howard who agreed with Governor Graham; but he added that another element in the problem of abolition of slavery was the acquisition of immense territory by the Mexican War and then the discovery of gold in California immediately afterwards. This opened so much additional territory for the extension of slavery in Texas and the Southwest, and so stimulated all values that slave property was more than doubled in value. When a Negro man was worth three or four thousand dollars, as he was before 1832, the abolition of slavery was one question. When the same Negro came to be worth one thousand dollars, as he came to be before many years had passed, the question of abolition had become a quite different one."

(Nonnulla, Memories, Stories, Traditions More of Less Authentic. Joseph Blount Cheshire, UNC Press, 1930, pp. 136-137)

Letter to son in the Confederate Army

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The following letter was written by a father to his son who was serving in the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia.

The letter is contained in Christ in the Camp by J. William Jones. Bold type was added for emphasis.

July 17, 1861

My Dear Son:

It may have seemed strange to you that a professing Christian father so freely gave you, a Christian son, to enlist in the volunteer service. My reason was that I regarded this as a purely defensive war. Not only did the Southern Confederacy propose to adjust the pending difficulties by peaceful and equitable negotiations, but Virginia used again and again the most earnest and noble efforts to prevent a resort to the sword. These overtures having been proudly spurned, and our beloved South having been threatened with invasion and subjugation, it seemed to me that nothing was left us but stern resistance or abject submission to unconstitutional power. A brave and generous people could not for a moment hesitate between such alternatives. A war in defence of our homes and firesides-of our wives and children-of all that makes life worth possessing is the result. While I most deeply deplore the necessity for the sacrifice, I could not but rejoice that I had a son to offer to the service of the country, and if I had a dozen I would most freely give them all. As you are now cheerfully enduring the hardships of the camp, I know you will listen to a father's suggestions touching the duties of your new mode of life.

1. Take special care of your health. More soldiers die of disease than in battle. A thin piece of damp sponge in the crown of your hat during exposure to the hot sun-the use of thick shoes and a waterproof coat in rainy weather-the practice of drinking cold water, when you are very warm, as slowly as you sip hot tea-the thorough mastication of your food-the avoiding of damp tents and damp grounds during sleep-and frequent ablutions of your person, are all the hints I can give you on this point. Should you need anything that I can supply, let me hear from you. I will do what I can to make you comfortable. After all, you must learn to endure hardness as a good soldier. Having never slept a single night in your whole life except in a pleasant bed, and never known a scarcity of good food, you doubtless find the ways of the camp rough; but never mind. The war, I trust, will soon be over, and then the remembrance of your hardships will sweeten the joy of peace.

2. The rules of war require prompt and unquestioning obedience. You may sometimes think the command arbitrary and the officer supercilious, but it is yours to obey. An undisciplined army is a curse to its friends and a derision to its foes. Give your whole influence, therefore, to the maintenance of lawful authority and strict order. Let your superiors feel that whatever they intrust to you will be faithfully done. Composed of such soldiers, and led by skilful and brave commanders, our army, by the blessing of God, will never be defeated. It is, moreover, engaged in a holy cause, and must triumph.

3. Try to maintain your Christian profession among your comrades. I need not caution you against strong drink as useless and hurtful, nor against profanity, so common among soldiers. Both these practices you abhor. Aim to take at once a decided stand for God. If practicable, have prayers regularly in your tent, or unite with your fellow-disciples in prayer-meetings in the camp. Should preaching be accessible, always be a hearer. Let the world know that you are a Christian. Read a chapter in the New Testament which your mother gave you, every morning and evening when you can, and engage in secret prayer to God for his Holy Spirit to guide and sustain you. I would rather hear of your death than of the shipwreck of your faith and good conscience.

4. As you will come into habitual contact with men of every grade, make special associates of those whose influence on your character is felt to be good. Some men love to tell extravagant stories, to indulge in vulgar wit, to exult in a swaggering carriage, to pride themselves on their coarse manners, to boast of their heroism, and to give utterance to feelings of revenge against the enemy. All this is injurious to young and impressible minds. If you admire such things, you will insensibly imitate them, and imitation will work gradual but certain detriment to your character. Other men are refined without being affected. They can relax into occasional pleasantries, without violating modesty. They can be loyal to their government without indulging private hatred against her foes. They can be cool and brave in battle, and not be braggarts in the absence of danger. Above all, they can be humble, spiritual, and active Christians, and yet mingle in the stirring and perilous duties of soldier life. Let these be your companions and models. You will thus return from the dangers of camp without a blemish on your name.

5. Should it be your lot to enter into an engagement with the enemy, lift up your heart in secret ejaculations to the ever-present and good Being, that He will protect you from sudden death; or, if you fall, that He will receive your departing spirit, cleansed in the blood of Jesus, into His kingdom. It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in princes. Commit your eternal interests, therefore, to the keeping of the Almighty Saviour. You should not, even in the hour of deadly conflict, cherish personal rage against the enemy, any more than an officer of the law hates the victim of the law. How often does a victorious army tenderly care for the dead and wounded of the vanquished. War is a tremendous scourge which Providence sometimes uses to chastise proud and wicked nations. Both parties must suffer, even though one may get the advantage. There is no occasion, then, for adding to the intrinsic evils of the system the odious feature of animosity to individuals. In the ranks of the foe are thousands of plain men who do not understand the principles for which we are struggling. They are deceived by artful demagogues into a posture of hostility to those whom, knowing, they would love. It is against such men that you may perhaps be arrayed, and the laws of war do not forbid you to pity them, even in the act of destroying them. It is more important that we should exhibit a proper temper in this unfortunate contest, because many professed Christians and ministers of the Gospel at the North are breathing out, in their very prayers and sermons, threatenings and slaughter against us! Oh! how painful that a gray-headed pastor should publicly exclaim, "I would hang them as soon as I would shoot a mad dog."

6. Providence has placed you in the midst of thoughtless and unpardoned men. What a beautiful thing it would be if you could win some of them to the Saviour! Will you not try? You will have many opportunities of speaking a word in season. The sick, you may comfort; the wavering, you may confirm; the backslidden, you may reclaim; the weary and heavy laden, you may point to Jesus for rest to the soul. It is not presumptuous for a young man, kindly and meekly, to commend the Gospel to his brother soldiers. The hardest of them will not repel a gentle approach, made in private. And many of them would doubtless be glad to have the subject introduced to them. They desire to hear of Jesus, but they lack courage to inquire of his people. An unusually large proportion of pious men have entered the army, and I trust they will give a new complexion to military life. Let them search out each other, and establish a fraternity among all the worshippers of God. To interchange religious views and administer brotherly counsel will be mutually edifying. "He that watereth shall be watered also himself." And now, as a soldier has but little leisure, I will not occupy you longer. Be assured that every morning and evening we remember you, at the family altar, to our Father in Heaven. We pray for a "speedy, just, and honorable peace," and for the safe return of all the volunteers to their loved homes. All the children speak often of "brother," and hear your letters read with intense interest. That God Almighty may be your shield and your exceeding great reward is the constant prayer of your loving father.

Ro. RYLAND. (his father)

Brief history of the Bonnie Blue Flag

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September 11, 1810 - Official flag of the Republic of West Florida. Settlers rebelled against the Spanish and proclaimed the independent Republic of West Florida. Militia troops captured the colonial capital of Baton Rouge on September 23, 1810, capturing the Spanish governor. The Bonnie Blue Flag was raised over the fort at baton Rouge. Three days later a Declaration of Independence was signed by the president of the West Florida Convention. 74 days later, President James Madison declared that West Florida was part of the United States, and under the jurisdiction of the governor of the Louisiana Territory, making the Republic of West Florida one of the shortest lived republics in history.

1836-1839 - The Bonnie Blue Flag was adopted by Texicans during the Texas War for Independence against Mexico. According to some reports, the Bonnie Blue Flag was brought to Texas in 1835 by Louisiana volunteers, and many Louisianans claim that "We hung the Star over Texas!" There were several variations of the Bonnie Blue Flag during the fight for Texas' Independence, the "Burnet Flag" being the most common variant. The Burnet Flag used a yellow star, as opposed to a white one. In 1839 the Bonnie Blue served as a basis for the official flag of the Republic of Texas, and it came to be known as the Lone Star Flag.

1861- When Mississippi seceded from the Union on January 9, 1861. When the announcement was made public, the Bonnie Blue Flag was raised over the capitol building in Jackson, Mississippi. Harry McCarthy became so inspired by the scene that he wrote the song, "The Bonnie Blue Flag", which became the second most popular patriotic song of the Confederacy. The CSA government did not officially adopt the Bonnie Blue Flag, but the people did. The Bonnie Blue Flag was flown in one way or another throughout much of the Confederacy, and many of the seceded states adopted it into their new state flags in 1861.

Today the Bonnie Blue Flag is still a symbol for states' rights. It is quite popular throughout the South, and some prefer it above that of the other Confederate Flags.

Words to the Bonnie Blue Flag:

We are a band of brothers
And native to the soil
Fighting for our liberty
With treasure blood, and toil
And when our rights were threatened,
The cry rose near and far
Hurrah for the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears a single star!

Refrain:
Hurrah!
Hurrah!
For Southern rights, hurrah!
Hurrah for the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears a single star.

As long as the Union
Was faithful to her trust
Like friends and brethren,
Kind were we, and just
But now, when Northern treachery
Attempts our rights to mar
We hoist on high the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears a single star.

First gallant South Carolina
Nobly made the stand
Then came Alabama
And took her by the hand
Next, quickly Mississippi,
Georgia, and Florida
All raised on high the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears a single star.

Ye men of valor gather
Round the banner of the right
Texas and fair Louisiana
Join us in the fight
Davis, our loved President,
And Stephens statesmen are
Now rally round the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears a single star.

And here's to brave Virginia
The Old Dominion state
With the young Confederacy
At length has linked her fate
Impelled by her example
Now other states prepare
To hoist on high the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears the single star.

Then here's to our Confederacy
Strong we are and brave
Like patriots of old we'll fight
Our heritage to save
And rather than submit to shame
To die we would prefer
So cheer for the Bonnie Blue Flag
That bears the single star.

Then cheer boys cheer
Raise the joyous shout
For Arkansas and North Carolina
Now have both gone out
And let another rousing cheer
For Tennessee be given
The single star on the Bonnie Blue Flag
Has grown to be eleven.

And to Missouri we
Extend both heart and hand
And welcome her a sister
Of our Confederate band
Tho surrounded by oppression
No one dare deter
Her adding to our Bonnie Blue Flag
Her bright and twelfth star!

February 7, 1861

2008-02-07T15:48:00.000-05:00

The Choctaw Nation's General Council adopted a resolution to join the newly formed Confederate States in declaring independence from the United States of America.

The Choctaw Nation, like the other "Civilized Tribes", not only joined the Confederacy for political purposes, but also provided a full battalion of warriors for the Confederate Army. Members of the Choctaw battalion fought bravely with honor.

Why North Carolina Left The Union

2008-02-02T12:44:00.000-05:00

The Reason Why North Carolina Left The Union And Joined The Confederacy...And North Carolina Order Of Secession.

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
A PROCLAMATION,
BY JOHN W. ELLIS,
GOVERNOR OF NORTH CAROLINA

Whereas: By Proclamation of Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, followed by a requisition of Simon Cameron, Secretary of War, I am informed that the said Abraham Lincoln has made a call for 75,000 men to be employed for the invasion of the peaceful homes of the South, and for the violent subversion of the liberties of a free people, constituting a large part of the whole population of the late United States:

And, whereas, this high-handed act of tyrannical outrage is not only in violation of all constitutional law, in utter disregard of every sentiment of humanity and Christian civilization, and conceived in a spirit of aggression unparalleled by any act of recorded history, but is a direct step towards the subjugation of the whole South, and the conversion of a free Republic, inherited from our fathers, into a military despotism, to be established by worse than foreign enemies on the ruins of our once glorious Constitution of Equal Rights.

Now, therefore, I, John W. Ellis, Governor of the State of North Carolina, for these extraordinary causes, do here by issue this, my Proclamation, notifying and requesting the Senators and Members of the House of Commons of the General Assembly of North Carolina, to meet in Special Session at the Capitol, in the City of Raleigh, on Wednesday the first day of May next.

And I furthermore exhort all good citizens throughout the State to be mindful that their first allegiance is due to the Sovereignty which protects their homes and dearest interests, as their first service is due for the sacred defence of their hearths, and of the soil which holds the graves of our glorious dead. United action in defence of the sovereignty of North Carolina, and of the rights of the South, becomes now the duty of all.

Given under my hand, and attested by the Great Seal of the State. Done at the City of Raleigh, the 17th day of April; A.D., 1861, and in the eighty-fifth year of our Independence,

JOHN. W. ELLIS.
By the Governor,
Graham Daves, Private Secretary

*************************************************

North Carolina Ordinance of Secession

AN ORDINANCE to dissolve the union between the State of North Carolina and the other States united with her, under the compact of government entitled "The Constitution of the United States."

We, the people of the State of North Carolina in convention assembled, do declare and ordain, and it is hereby declared and ordained,

That the ordinance adopted by the State of North Carolina in the convention of 1789, whereby the Constitution of the United States was ratified and adopted, and also all acts and parts of acts of the General Assembly ratifying and adopting amendments to the said Constitution, are hereby repealed, rescinded, and abrogated.

We do further declare and ordain, That the union now subsisting between the State of North Carolina and the other States, under the title of the United States of America, is hereby dissolved, and that the State of North Carolina is in full possession and exercise of all those rights of sovereignty which belong and appertain to a free and independent State.

Done in convention at the city of Raleigh, this the 20th day of May, in the year of our Lord 1861, and in the eighty-fifth year of the independence of said State.

NORTH CAROLINA CALL TO ARMS

2008-02-02T12:16:00.000-05:00

This piece was probably written shortly after North Carolina voted to secede on May 20, 1861. It was published as a handbill by Thompson & Co., Printers of Raleigh, NC, and it was intended to encourage the men of North Carolina to join the state militia to defend the Old North State. The themes of this work would have struck a chord with any North Carolinian in the 1860s, as they had an enormous amount of respect and reverence for the veterans of the War for Independence.

NORTH CAROLINA CALL TO ARMS

Ye sons of Carolina, awake from your dreaming!
The minions of Lincoln upon us are streaming,
O! wait not for argument, call or persuasion,
To meet at the onset this treacherous invasion.
Defend! defend the old North State forever,
Defend, Defend,
The good Old North State!

O! think of the maidens, the wives and the mothers,
Fly ye to the rescue, sons, husbands and brothers,
And sink in oblivion all party and section
Your hearthstones are looking for protection.
Defend! defend the Old North State

"Her name stands foremost in Liberty's story",
O! tarnish not now her fame and her glory!
Your fathers to save her, their swords bravely wielded,
And she never has yet to tyranny yielded!
Defend! defend the Old North State

The babe in its sweetness-the child in its beauty,
Unconsciously urge you to action and duty;
By all that is sacred-by all to you tender,
Your country adjures, arise and defend her!
Defend! defend the Old North State

The National Eagle above us now floating,
Will soon on the vitals of loved ones be gloating;
His talons will tear, and his beak will devour,
O! spurn ye his sway-delay not an hour.
Defend, defend the Old North State

"The Star Spangled Banner" dishonored is streaming
O'er bands of fanatics, their swords are now gleaming;
They thirst for the blood of those you most cherish,
With brave hearts and true, arouse or they perish;
Defend, defend the Old North State

Round the Flag of the South in thousands, O! rally;
The hour is past for freemen to dally
Your all is at stake, then go, and God speed you!
And onward to glory and victory lead you!
Defend, defend the Old North State

South Carolina's Emancipator

2008-01-13T17:04:00.000-05:00

From Southern Heritage News & Views-

South Carolina's Emancipator, John Laurens

Though Laurens intention to arm and free African slaves to augment was intended to blunt the actions of Lord Dunmore's Virginia emancipation proclamation of 1775, South Carolina had earlier considered arming slaves for community defense. This shows too that using slaves as armed combatants with freedom as a reward predated the War for Southern Independence, and it was an inevitable strategy, both offensive and defensive, given the great numbers of Africans brought to North America by the British and New Englanders.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

South Carolina's Emancipator: John Laurens

(H)e fought in the Battle of Brandywine, was wounded at Germantown, and spent the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge on Washington's staff. At Monmouth the following summer he escaped unscathed when his horse was shot from under him...during the late summer of 1778 he had served as liaison officer between the French and American commands during the joint attack on Rhode Island. His linguistic ability made him popular with the French officers and useful to Washington who spoke no French at all.

Nevertheless, Laurens was able to prevail upon his commander to send him back to South Carolina where he hoped to raise and lead a regiment of blacks against the British in the South. Early in 1778 John Laurens broached the matter to his father, who was then president of the Continental Congress. "I would solicit you to cede me a number of your able-bodied men slaves, instead of leaving me a fortune," he wrote.

Formed into a unit and trained, they might render important service during the next campaign, he argued. What is amazing about his plan, though, is not merely that he was willing to surrender a large part of his inheritance in order to augment the Continental Army---practically everything he did during the Revolution testifies to his willingness to sacrifice his own private interest in favor of the general welfare. Nor is it even that he was willing to arm the slaves---South Carolinians had considered that step during earlier emergencies. Rather, the astonishing aspects of his proposal are its candor, its boldness and its lager purpose. Service in the revolutionary army would be a stepping-stone to freedom---"a proper gradation between abject slavery and perfect liberty," which would not only prepare a slave to take his place in free society but also establish his claim to it. In short, his was a clever and far-reaching plan for the gradual abolition of slavery.

A year later, after the fall of Savannah, however, the obvious need for additional manpower led Congress to urge the Southern States to enlist three thousand blacks, who would be freed at the end of the war."

(The Last of American Freemen, Robert M. Weir, Mercer University Press, 1986, pp. 90-94)

Where is Lincoln's Real Gettysburg Address?

2007-12-28T12:45:00.000-05:00

From Southern Heritage News & Views-

In this book is the only reference I have found regarding the revisions to Lincoln's actual remarks at Gettysburg. Though his apologists have maintained that Lincoln was a master of prose, this was a president who saw a need for three secretaries.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Where Is Lincoln's Real Gettysburg Address?

"General Donn Piatt, who traveled with Lincoln during his campaign and knew Lincoln perhaps as well as any man: "When a leader dies all good men go to lying about him. Abraham Lincoln has almost disappeared from human knowledge. I hear of him, I read of him in eulogies and biographies, but fail to recognize the man I knew in life....Lincoln faced and lived through the awful responsibility of war with a courage that came from indifference."

Ward Lamon, intimate friend of Lincoln and his US Marshal for the District of Columbia, and Colonel in the Secret Service; Historian Shepherd of Baltimore; W.H. Cunningham of the Montgomery (Missouri) Star, who sat right behind Lincoln at Gettysburg, all agreed and publicly stated that the speech published was not the one delivered by Lincoln; that both Edward Everett and Seward expressed their disappointment and there was no applause; that Lincoln said: "Lamon, that speech was like a wet blanket on the audience. I am distressed by it." These gentlemen who heard the speech all say that the speech delivered was not the one which has been so extensively printed. Even (Lincoln secretary) Nicolay says: "It was revised."

William H. Herndon, under whom Lincoln began his law practice and longtime friend, wrote one of the first biographies of Lincoln, "Story of a Great Life," but because of its frankness in unfolding the life of Lincoln it was bought up and suppressed. It was republished some years later, much modified...Lamon, in his "Life of Lincoln," said: The ceremony of Mr. Lincoln's apotheosis was planned and executed after his death by men who were unfriendly to him while he lived. Men who had exhausted the resources of their skill and ingenuity in venomous distractions of the living Lincoln were first after his death to undertake the task of guarding his memory, not as a human being, but as a god. Among those participating in the apotheosis Lamon names Seward, Edwin Stanton, Thad Stevens and Charles Sumner."

(Two Presidents: Abraham Lincoln, Jefferson Davis, The Naylor Company, 1973, pp. 78-79)

A Contrast of North and South

2007-12-28T12:42:00.000-05:00

From Southern Heritage News & Views-

While the Northeastern section of the United States has commonly been referred to as the free States, some historians have properly called them the "slave-trading States" in recognition of the New England slave trade which prospered in the mid-1700's and was still in existence a full century later. Those so-called free States often demonstrated an intolerance of black people in their midst as illustrated in this description of two black preachers, one in Massachusetts and one in Virginia.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

A Contrast of North and South:

"Lemuel Haynes...was born July 18, 1753 at West Hartford, Connecticut. His father was a man of unmingled African extraction and his mother a white woman of respectable New England ancestry. As he was a natural son, the mother abandoned him in infancy but fortunately he found asylum at the home of one Haynes, whose name he took and with whom he lived until he was five months old. He was then bound out (in servitude) to David Rose of Granville, Massachusetts where Lemuel grew to manhood.

Lemuel was given the rudimentary training in the backwoods schools of the community in which he learned to read and write. (After service in the American military in the Revolution, he) decided to study theology in anticipation of the designs of Providence concerning him. For some time he had been accustomed to read the Bible and sermons of others on the occasions of conducting family prayers in the home of David Rose. He (became) licensed to preach in the Congregational Church in 1780 and was ordained soon thereafter, to begin his ministry at Middle Granville, where he labored five years. Here Bessie Babbit, a white woman of considerable education and piety offered him her heart, and they were married in 1783. From this small charge Haynes was called to Torrington, Connecticut. A leading citizen was much displeased that the church should have a "nigger minister" and to show his lack of respect for the new incumbent this man went into the church and sat with his hat on."

(And)
"John Chavis was a full-blooded Negro of dark brown color born probably near Oxford, Granville County, North Carolina about 1763. From a youth he impressed the public as a man of unusual power and was therefore sent by his friends to Princeton to see if a Negro could take a collegiate education. From Princeton he went to Lexington, Virginia to preach. In the records of the Presbyterians of 1801, Chavis is referred to as "a black man of prudence and piety."
"For his better direction in the discharge of duties which are attended with many circumstances of delicacy and difficulty" some prudential instructions were issued to him by the General Assembly, "governing himself by which the knowledge of religion among the Negroes might be made more and more to strengthen the order of the society." The annals of the year 1801 report him in the service of the Hanover Presbytery as a "riding missionary under the direction of the General Assembly." He was very soon stationed in Lexington as a recognized preacher of official status working among his own people. In 1805, however, he returned to his native State, where as a result of the close relations between the whites and blacks and his power as an expounder of the gospel, he preached to large congregations of both races. Referring to his career, Paul C, Cameron, a son of Judge Duncan of North Carolina said: "In my boyhood life at my father's home I often saw John Chavis, a venerable old Negro man, recognized as a freeman and as a preacher or clergyman of the Presbyterian Church."

"The Presbytery of South Alabama said in 1847: "Perhaps without a solitary exception our ministers are devoting a considerable part of their labors to the benefit of the colored population. A scheme is now in agitation for the full consent of the Presbytery for establishing an African Church in the city of Charleston. In 1854 the report of the General Assembly on the instruction of Negroes in the slave States said that instead of abating, the interest in the religious welfare of the Negroes was increasing. In their houses of worship, provision at once special and liberal was made for the accommodation of the people of color so that they might enjoy the privileges of the sanctuary in common with the whites."

(The History of the Negro Church, Carter G. Woodson, Associated Publishers, 1921, pp. 52-58, 137-138)

Give Me Liberty Or Give Me Death

2007-12-14T14:27:00.000-05:00

Patrick Henry before the Virginia House of Burgesses on March 23, 1775

No man thinks more highly than I do of the patriotism, as well as abilities, of the very worthy gentlemen who have just addressed the House. But different men often see the same subject in different lights; and, therefore, I hope it will not be thought disrespectful to those gentlemen if, entertaining as I do opinions of a character very opposite to theirs, I shall speak forth my sentiments freely and without reserve. This is no time for ceremony. The questing before the House is one of awful moment to this country. For my own part, I consider it as nothing less than a question of freedom or slavery; and in proportion to the magnitude of the subject ought to be the freedom of the debate. It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings.

Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts. Is this the part of wise men, engaged in a great and arduous struggle for liberty? Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it.

I have but one lamp by which my feet are guided, and that is the lamp of experience. I know of no way of judging of the future but by the past. And judging by the past, I wish to know what there has been in the conduct of the British ministry for the last ten years to justify those hopes with which gentlemen have been pleased to solace themselves and the House. Is it that insidious smile with which our petition has been lately received? Trust it not, sir; it will prove a snare to your feet. Suffer not yourselves to be betrayed with a kiss. Ask yourselves how this gracious reception of our petition comports with those warlike preparations which cover our waters and darken our land. Are fleets and armies necessary to a work of love and reconciliation? Have we shown ourselves so unwilling to be reconciled that force must be called in to win back our love? Let us not deceive ourselves, sir. These are the implements of war and subjugation; the last arguments to which kings resort. I ask gentlemen, sir, what means this martial array, if its purpose be not to force us to submission? Can gentlemen assign any other possible motive for it? Has Great Britain any enemy, in this quarter of the world, to call for all this accumulation of navies and armies? No, sir, she has none. They are meant for us: they can be meant for no other. They are sent over to bind and rivet upon us those chains which the British ministry have been so long forging. And what have we to oppose to them? Shall we try argument? Sir, we have been trying that for the last ten years. Have we anything new to offer upon the subject? Nothing. We have held the subject up in every light of which it is capable; but it has been all in vain. Shall we resort to entreaty and humble supplication? What terms shall we find which have not been already exhausted? Let us not, I beseech you, sir, deceive ourselves. Sir, we have done everything that could be done to avert the storm which is now coming on. We have petitioned; we have remonstrated; we have supplicated; we have prostrated ourselves before the throne, and have implored its interposition to arrest the tyrannical hands of the ministry and Parliament. Our petitions have been slighted; our remonstrances have produced additional violence and insult; our supplications have been disregarded; and we have been spurned, with contempt, from the foot of the throne! In vain, after these things, may we indulge the fond hope of peace and reconciliation. There is no longer any room for hope. If we wish to be free - if we mean to preserve inviolate those inestimable privileges for which we have been so long contending - if we mean not basely to abandon the noble struggle in which we have been so long engaged, and which we have pledged ourselves never to abandon until the glorious object of our contest shall be obtained - we must fight! I repeat it, sir, we must fight! An appeal to arms and to the God of hosts is all that is left us!

They tell us, sir, that we are weak; unable to cope with so formidable an adversary. But when shall we be stronger? Will it be the next week, or the next year? Will it be when we are totally disarmed, and when a British guard shall be stationed in every house? Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs and hugging the delusive phantom of hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot? Sir, we are not weak if we make a proper use of those means which the God of nature hath placed in our power. The millions of people, armed in the holy cause of liberty, and in such a country as that which we possess, are invincible by any force which our enemy can send against us. Besides, sir, we shall not fight our battles alone. There is a just God who presides over the destinies of nations, and who will raise up friends to fight our battles for us. The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged! Their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable - and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come.

It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace - but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!

STONEWALL JACKSON & THE SOUTH

2007-11-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

Witness to Sorrow

2007-11-04T12:56:00.000-05:00

This originally appeared in Chuck Demastus' Southern Heritage News & Views -

Though being opposed to his State's secession, South Carolinian William J. Grayson saw the true face of Northern sectional hatred as the forces of liberation raped, murdered and plundered his neighbors and fellow citizens. Edward Stanly, Lincoln's appointed governor of North Carolina in May 1862 who ruled from the safety of Northern bayonets at New Bern, lost his Unionism too as he saw Federal troop ships leave his home State loaded with stolen furniture, clothing and libraries. Neither could see it as a war to reunite the country, nor a war for emancipation when black homes were looted along with white; and slaves were impressed to labor on Yankee fortifications and serve Northern officers.

Bernhard Thuersam, Executive Director
Cape Fear Historical Institute
Post Office Box 328
Wilmington, NC 28402
www.CFHI.net

Witness to Sorrow: William J. Grayson

"For this calamity, this crime of War between North and South, Northern people are chiefly chargeable. The cupidity and intermeddling spirit of New England were the main causes of dissention. Her greedy tariff exaction, her perpetual irritating interference with Negro slavery in the Southern States, her avaricious monopolists & political priests sowed the seed of which we are reaping the natural harvest. If ever a people destroyed their own prosperity it is the people of New England. They are accustomed to call the brain of New England the brain of the Union---it is the brain of a lunatic who cuts his own throat. No chain of cause and effect in all history is more clearly traceable than the destruction of the Federal Union by Northern folly and madness. If they succeed in the war they will be the rulers over insurgent provinces ready at the first opportunity to renew the contest. The restoration of the union is an impossibility. There must succeed to it another government with standing armies, enormous taxes and despotic power beneath whose influence Northern liberty will wither and perish.

In the early part of November (1861) the Northern government began a series of predatory expeditions on the Southern coast. The first under Sherman and Dupont disembarked at Port Royal. They presented to the world a striking evidence of the ease with which men strain at gnats and swallow camels. They were prosecuting as felons in New York the captured privateersmen of the South, and were seizing all the cotton and other property of widows, children and noncombatants on the islands of South Carolina, contrary to every usage of civilized war. The robbery has been approved and applauded throughout the Northern States. They talk with exultation of cultivating the plantations of Port Royal on Federal account as a sort of financial appendage to the Washington government. The rights of the owners are disregarded. To the people of St. Helena parish and the adjoining country the disaster was incalculable. They lost everything; houses, plantations, Negroes, furniture, clothing. They became fugitives.

Northern men engaged formerly in surveying the coast served as guides for the marauding parties. With their wives and children they had spent months in the families of the planters, had eaten dinners and drank wine, and now they acted as pioneers of plunder to the scenes of the feast. They were better able to discover the stores of old Madeira from having frequently joined the owners in drinking it. Their first question asked of the servants on entering a house from which their cannon had driven the owner was---"where is the wine kept?" There was something indescribably mean in the conduct of these parties but very characteristic of the people whose officers they were. They are a thrifty race, not scrupulous about the means if their end be attained.

Our worthy friends of Massachusetts treat us (as) they did the Indians, witches, Quakers, Baptists and other heretics of earlier times. There are many pious Christians but not a voice is heard in favor of peace. So far as we can judge from their acquiescence in Sewardism, they have fallen into the strange delusion that Christian Charity is consistent with rape, rapine and murder. They pray and preach not for peace, but for the more earnest prosecution of a bloody war and the enactment of general confiscation acts. They (Northerners) exulted...a manifest judgment of Providence on the home of rebels and traitors. They believed that Heaven had put the torch to Southern homesteads to avenge the abolition party and support the cause."

Witness to Sorrow, The Antebellum Autobiography of William J. Grayson. University of South Carolina Press, 1990, pp 185-201

***********************

Historical Matters

2007-08-11T19:26:00.000-05:00

These articles were originally posted on The Swamp Fox Files -

'The Crime at Pickett’s Mill’
By AMBROSE BIERCE

It is ignored by General Sherman in his memoirs, yet Sherman ordered it. General Howard wrote an account of the campaign of which it was an incident, and dismissed it in a single sentence; yet General Howard planned it, and it was fought as an isolated and independent action under his eye. Whether it was so trifling an affair as to justify this inattention let the reader judge.
http://tinyurl.com/2g59qc

Welsh soldiers who fought in the American Civil War
by Tryst Williams, Western Mail

NEARLY 10,000 pages of Welsh-language writing penned during the American Civil War have survived to this day. ...Now, a new book by an American academic, launched at the Eisteddfod, reveals these works in English for the first time in the largest collection of its kind. ...Thousands of first, second and third generation Welsh-Americans fought for Abraham Lincoln’s Union of the North against the Confederate forces of the South, among whom Welshmen were rare.
http://tinyurl.com/28jf4m

Steamboat scheduled to shut down has people steamed
The Associated Press

FLORENCE, Ala. (AP) — The Delta Queen, America's last authentic stern wheel-powered overnight steamboat, is scheduled to shut down in 2008, and passengers on a Tennessee River cruise aren't happy about it.
http://tinyurl.com/2aqdb8

A Great American Forgotten

2007-06-01T14:49:00.000-05:00

Originally appeared on the OpenDoor News -

Today, May 29, marks the anniversary of the birth of the great Patrick Henry, a man whom many of his contemporaries said was the true father of the independent colonies. Henry stood for many things, most notably, Liberty. He was a friend of the independently minded Baptists and Presbyterians of the backcountry, when most Southern colonial governments were being run by an aristocratic Episcopal elite from the coastal regions.

On this date, as a young man of 29, he stood before the Virginia House of Burgesses, and vociferously declared, "Caesar had his Brutus; Charles the First his Cromwell; and George the Third—" [Cries of "Treason! Treason!"] "George the Third may profit by their example. If this be treason, make the most of it!" Henry was attacking with his full youthful force the tax policies of the king and parliament, specifically the Stamp Act.

Patrick Henry went on to lead the charge for independence when most were content to sit on their hands and write petitions, that they knew would never be acknowledged. Yet, he did not give up. Eventually, more would come around, largely thanks to his diligence. He would later cry, "Give me Liberty or give me death!" before an initially shocked audience.

Later, after independence was won, Henry was the leader of the opposition movement against the Constitution known as the anti-Federalist. Patrick Henry feared and warned us against the very thing that we have become - willing participants in an over-bearing, mega-Federal government.

Let us remember, and honor a great American who believed in Liberty, fought for it, and helped secure what we had, and still have some of.

David Crockett Quotes

2007-02-10T13:16:00.000-05:00

As we approach the anniversary of the Siege and the Battle of the Alamo (began on Tuesday, February 23, 1836), and its subsequent fall (Sunday, March 6, 1836), I would like to do a special edition of Freedom Quotes in honor of Col. David Crockett. After reading some of what Crockett had to say about, politics, politicians, government and living by one's principles, you will see that not much has changed since his day.

Ray Perdue

Remember that government big enough to give you everything you want is also big enough to take away everything you have.

I am at liberty to vote as my conscience and judgment dictates to be right, without the yoke of any party on me…. Look at my arms, you will find no party hand-cuffs on them.

I gave my decisions on the principles of common justice and honesty between man and man, and relied on natural born sense, and not on law-learning to guide me; for I had never read a page in a law book in all my life.
--In 1818, giving the basis for his legal decisions.

Although our great man at the head of the nation has changed his course, I will not change mine. I would rather be politically dead than hypocritically immortalized…. I shall insist upon it that I am still a Jackson man, but General Jackson is not; he has become a Van Buren man.
--Comments on then US President Andrew Jackson

I would rather be beaten and be a man, than to be elected and be a little puppy dog. I have always supported measures and principles and not men. I have acted fearless and independent, and I never will regret my course. I would rather be politically buried than to be hypocritically immortalized.
--Statement following his 1831 election defeat

Money with [Congress] is nothing but trash when it is to come out of the people. But it is the one great thing for which most of them are striving, and many of them sacrifice honor, integrity, and justice to obtain it.

We have the right, as individuals, to give away as much of our money as we please in charity; but as members of Congress we have no right to appropriate a dollar of the public money.
--In a speech before the US House of Representatives

I have never knew what it was to sacrifice my own judgment to gratify any party, and I have no doubt of the time being close at hand when I will be rewarded for letting my tongue speak what my heart thinks. I have suffered myself to be sacrificed to save my country from ruin and disgrace, and if I am never again elected, I will have the gratification to know that I have done my duty.
--Commenting on his final election defeat in 1835

It was expected of me that I was to bow to the name of Andrew Jackson…even at the expense of my conscience and judgment. Such a thing was new to me, and a total stranger to my principles.

Let your tongue speak what your heart thinks.
The party in power, like Jonah’s gourd, grew up quickly and will quickly fall.

There ain’t no ticks like poly-ticks. Bloodsuckers all.

We must not permit our respect for the dead, or our sympathy for part of the living, to lead us into an act of injustice to the balance of the living.
--In a speech before the US House of Representatives

Pop, pop, pop! Bom, bom, bom! Throughout all the day. No time for memorandums now. Go ahead! Liberty and Independence forever.
--His last entry in his diary, March 5, 1836

I would rather be in my present situation than to be elected to a seat in Congress for Life.
--January 9, 1836 in a letter to his daughter in Tennessee, about one month before he was killed at the Alamo.

Be always sure you are right, then go ahead.

All above listed quotes are attributed to the speeches, letters, diary entries and sayings of Col. David Crockett.