History of the American Revolution
Colonel Elijah Clarke, b. December 10, 1736 (some give 1733 & 1742) – December 15, 1799, was one of the unsung heroes of the American Revolution. Fierce and determined in battle, the Georgian militia leader was always in the thick of the fight, having received multiple wounds throughout the war; two life threatening. From Florida …
Captain Robert Henry Kirkwood (1756-1791) was one of most competent American field officers of the American Revolution. He fought in almost every major battle including countless skirmishes. Always in the thick of the hardest fighting, like a stone wall, his men often held the line when other regiments folded. Or charged with bayonet at the …
William Floyd (1734–1821) of Suffolk County Long Island was the first of the New York delegation to the Second Continental Congress to sign the Declaration of Independence and the fourth member of Congress to do so. A wealthy Long Island farmer, prior to the American Revolution he was a colonel of the Suffolk County Militia. …
Major James Wemyss, pronounced ‘Weems’ (1748-1833), of the 63rd Regiment of Foot had been labeled the second most hated British officer of the American Revolution, behind Lt. Colonel Banastre Tarleton; the dragoon commander who waged a brutal war in the south on anyone who would advance his ego and career. But for Wemyss, one who …
By Ken Bohrer of American Revolution Photos. September 1, 2024, Blog #75 It is always a pleasure to post my very good friend’s blog. Ken Bohrer, College Counselor, is also an outstanding photographer. He has devoted decades to recording American Revolution reenactment events like few others. His extensive portrayal of those dedicated to preserving our …
General John Thomas (November 9, 1724 – June 2, 1776), a medical doctor by trade, was the sixth commissioned major general in the continental army of the American Revolution; right after Major General Richard Montgomery. Ironically, like Montgomery, Thomas would die in the same 1775 – 1776 failed campaign that invaded Canada. In early spring, …
At age 39, Carter Braxton (1736-1797), was a delegate from Virginia to the Second Continental Congress. Though he often voted among his peers within the Whig rebellious movement, he was more conservative than most delegates. Rather than a complete break with England, he sought arbitration to settle colonial differences with the mother country. In the …
Colonel Otho Williams (March 1, 1749 – July 15, 1794) Intelligent, diligent to duty, and honest; his was somewhat a ‘rags to riches’ life. An orphan who apprenticed as a clerk, he rose in the ranks of the rebellious army to lead Continental troops during the American Revolution’s most critical period in the south. He …
Every general knows a battle plan lasts until the first shots erupt. And as such, grit and experience of soldiers standing fast when faced with war’s horrors decides the day; who will be the victor, and who accepts defeat. Yet one other factor is in play. Improvise. Call it misfortune, opportunity, or just plain luck, …
Early Life Button Gwinnet was born in England circa 1732 to 1735 in the parish of Down Hatherley in county Gloucestershire to Welsh parents; Reverend Samuel Gwinnett and his wife Anne. He was named Button after his godmother Barbara Button. It is believed that he attended the College School at Gloucester Cathedral (presently the King’s …