KINGS MOUNTAIN GEORGIA PARTICIPANTS

Introduction by Robert Galer, Chairman, Historic Sites & Celebrations Committee, Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution

And Brett Osborn, committee member, Marquis de Lafayette Chapter

 

 

In 2004 and 2005 - the 224th and 225th anniversary of the Battle of Kings Mountain SC - the Georgia Society mounted a campaign called “Remember the 30” to gain recognition that Georgians were a part of the Overmountain men who were victorious over Major Ferguson and the Tories at Kings Mountain, SC on October 7, 1780.  Georgians joined Virginians and North and South Carolinians to form the Overmountain Patriot force at Kings Mountain.  During the anniversaries on October 7th of these two years, over 100 Georgia citizens, including the SAR, attended the wreath presentations marking themselves with shoulder insignia and other souvenirs as “Remembering the [forgotten] Georgia 30”.  The Color Guard and SAR militia turned out 27 strong to present a special feature to “Remember the 30”, carrying a special “Georgia 30” guidon.  The commemorative program carried a special poem about the “Georgia 30”, by Phil Curtis of the Georgia Society, Atlanta Chapter.  

 

The National Park Service was given an alert that Georgia’s part in the Revolution, to include participating in the Battle of Kings Mountain, was little recognized, if at all, by the audio/video, trail signs, brochures and museum exhibits.  For instance the Park published a nice Walking Tour Guide by Ranger Bert Dunkerly with no mention anywhere of Georgia participation.  Although Georgia’s role was small compared to Virginia and the Carolinas, it was enough to cause the Georgia Society of SAR to be big supporters of the annual celebrations of the battle.  Brett Osborn’s research shows that Georgia supplied more than 30 men, a fact confirmed by Draper and other authorities. One was killed and not even listed on the Kings Mountain list of killed and wounded.  The casualty was a young Georgia Private named John Rainey who died of wounds the day after the battle and was buried on the Randall plantation at the same place where Colonel James Williams also died on the march away from Kings Mountain and was originally buried.

 

The Georgia Society of SAR Historic Sites and Celebrations committee made these and other omissions known to the Superintendent and Chief Ranger of the Kings Mountain National Military Park.  Corrective action was requested.

 

 On April 5, 2004, the Chief Ranger at the park responded in an e-mail to the chairman of the SAR committee, stating in part:  “In an effort to provide recognition for all of the respective troops that fought in the battle, we made a concerted effort in the planning of newly installed wayside exhibits along the trail to show the Georgia contingent.  We have also started planning our new exhibits for the museum.  These exhibits will also do a more thorough job in recognizing the Georgians who participated in the Battle of Kings Mountain.” 

 

Georgia’s influence on Kings Mountain extended beyond participation in the battle.  Consider how the Georgia brigade affected the actions of Major Ferguson and his Loyalist forces: On August 17th, less than two months before Kings Mountain, Colonel Elijah Clarke and 300 Georgia militia answered the call of Colonel Isaac Shelby of North Carolina to drive the British from an encampment at Musgrove’s Mill on the Enoree River.  Although seriously wounded, the Georgians continued to mete out justice to Tories in South Carolina.  Returning home, the Georgia brigade nearly succeeded in taking Augusta, Georgia back from the British, but were stymied by British regulars arriving from Fort Ninety-Six to reinforce the garrison.  As Clarke was returning from his near victory at Augusta, a substantial British force under Major Ferguson was in the field to subdue the backcountry and protect Cornwallis’ left flank.  He had been ordered to cut off Clarke after Augusta.  But Clarke had encountered about 400 Wilkes County citizens, fleeing the forces from Ninety-Six which were destroying their homes and property.  He agreed to escort them to the North Carolina backcountry held by the Whigs.  Pursued by both Ferguson and Col. Cruger of Ninety-Six with a large force of Tories and Indians, Clarke nevertheless eluded both threats, and reached his destination safely.

 

Meanwhile, Ferguson, aware of the threat coming over the mountains from those settlements, broke off the trap set for Clarke.  Thirty volunteers of the Georgia brigade, under Major William Candler, left the main body and joined the Overmountain men at the Green River, as Ferguson began a retrograde movement toward Cornwallis.  These were attached to the force commanded by Colonel James Williams of South Carolina, and two days later the Georgians under Candler and 40 or more South Carolinians with Lacey, Hawthorne joined in assault from the west side of Kings Mountain approximately where the U.S. monument now stands. 

 

Epilogue:  After escorting the Wilkes County families to safety in the Watauga valley of North Carolina (now in Tennessee), in control of the Whigs he had aided at Musgrove’s Mill, Clarke and his main body of Georgia militiamen joined Thomas Sumter to defeat Banastre Tarleton at the Battle of Blackstock, November 20, 1780.  They returned to Georgia to rebuild their homes, dispersing until spring and better weather.

 

The following list was developed by Brett Osborn to begin the process of identifying by name the 30 or more Georgians.  Substantive proof exists that some (shown in bold type) fought there.  Help is sought from the public to substantiate first-hand the Kings Mountain presence of Georgians, and to add to the roster. 

 

Those with pension papers are indicated by .  Click on this image to view pension for the individual.  If you have other pension information, please let us know. 

 

BLACK, JOHN, page 19 (Moss)

 

d. 22 Oct 1813, Overton County, TN

m. Margaret Liner, 7 Nov 1792, Elbert County, GA

 

The widow of John Black alleged that he enlisted in Elbert County, GA during the fall of 1778 and served at various times under the command of Captains Joseph Nail and Ford Butler and Cols. James Little and Elijah Clarke. He was in the battles of Kings Mountain and Augusta.

 

BURNETT, JOSHUA, page 278 (Moss)

 

Burnett known to be in the campaign but not in the battle of Kings Mountain, - FPA S32154 (GA)

 

CANDLER, WILLIAM, Maj., pages 39-40 (Moss)

 

b. 21 Apr 1735, Belfast Ireland

d. 14 Jul 1787, Richland County, GA

m. Elizabeth Anthony, 1760

 

William Candler was brought to America as a child. He migrated to GA the year following his marriage. In 1771 he was a deputy surveyor. He served under Col. Clarke and was in the engagements at Augusta, Siege of Savannah, Kings Mountain, and Blackstock's Plantation. As a major, he commanded a GA militia unit with Capt. Patrick Carr and a Capt. Johnston at Kings Mountain and was possibly under the command of Col. Williams. Candler rose to the rank of colonel in the militia. In 1784 and 1785 he was a member of the GA legislature. He became a judge. His eldest son, Henry served with him in the war.

 

CANDLER, HENRY

 

Son of William Candler.  Rode with his father during the war.   No evidence he was at Kings Mountain but might be verified.

 

CARR, PATRICK (PADDY), Capt., page 40 (Moss)

 

b. County Derry, Ireland

d. _ Aug 1802, Jefferson County, GA

 

Patrick Carr, probably relative of Robert Carr (Carr's Fort). Patrick settled in GA before the commencement of the war. He was a Capt. under Col. Clarke in the attack on Augusta in Sep 1780. After the fall of GA, he entered the mountains of the Carolinas, where he joined the forces of Maj. William Candler and was in the battle at Kings Mountain. One month later he was under Sumter and was in the battle at Blackstock's Plantation. In May 1781 he was engaged in forays against British and Tory parties in GA. Carr was promoted to major and marched against the Tories and Indians of northern GA. It is claimed that he killed one hundred Tories by his own hands during the war. He was murdered, possibly by a descendant of one of the Tories.

 

CONNER, ISAAC, page 53 (Moss)

 

b. 1757, Winchester, VA

 

While residing in Rutherford County, NC, Isaac Conner enlisted during Jul 1778 in the militia under Ensign William Bailey, Capt. Burney, and Cot Elijah Clarke as a substitute for George Parris (?) (to whom he was bound as an apprentice). He was in a skirmish at Hogg's (?) Mill (Union County, SC). He next volunteered during 1779 under Capt. Samuel Miller and Maj. Joseph McDowell. When the unit was approaching Kings Mountain, Col. Col. Campbell became commander. In 1781 he volunteered under Capt. Samuel Miller and Maj. Joseph McDowell. The unit marched to Cowpens and came under the command of Col. Pickens. Conner was wounded in the right side during the battle. In the spring of 1782 he volunteered under Lt. Lewis Clark, Capt. John Clark, and Col. Elijah Clarke and was engaged in scouting in NC and SC.

 

CRAWFORD, JOHN, pages 57-58 (Moss)

 

b. 16 Jul 1759, Amherst County, VA

d. 19 Oct 1836, Pike County, GA

m. Rebecca Snider, 17 Apr 1781

 

While residing in St. Paul's Parish, John Crawford enlisted on 2 Mar 1776 under Capt. Chesley Bostwick, Capt. Delaplaine, and Col. Joseph Habersham in the First GA Regiment. In Oct 1777 he enlisted as a second lieutenant under Capt. Charles Crawford and Col. Benjamin Few in the GA militia and was in the engagement at Burke County Jail. He marched in Capt. Leonard Mabury's company of cavalry down the Savannah River and was under Capt. Charles Crawford in the battle at Savannah, where he was taken prisoner and exchanged after eight months.  Crawford was in the first siege of Augusta and in the battles at Kings Mountain, Blackstock's Plantation, and Cowpens. In Mar 1781 he entered service under Capt. William Lucas and Col. Elijah Clarke in the GA militia and was at Augusta when it surrendered. Crawford served under Capt. Thomas Townsend from Jan to Apr 1782.

 

CURREN, JOHN, page 63 (Moss)

 

John Curren served during 1778 under Lt. Barry and Col. Neel in GA. During 1780 he was with Sumter when he was first defeated. He was under Lt. Alexander Faris and Col. Hill in the battle at Kings Mountain. During 1781 he served under Capt. John Henderson. Also in 1781 he served under Capt. Garrison and Gen. Sumter at the Quarter House.

 

DARSEY, JOEL, page 278 (Moss)

 

Darsey known to be in the campaign but not in the battle of Kings Mountain, - FPA S6788,11 Dec. 1845 GA, (Moss).   Darsey’s pension statement lists details of his service with Cols Twiggs and Clarke from 1779 to 1783 in virtually every battle in the southern campaign in which Georgians fought.  Darsey joined up at 15 years of age while living in Burke (later Jefferson) county.  He participated in the unsuccessful siege of Augusta.    Then after marching 11 or 12 days arrived at Kings Mountain as Colonels Sevier and Campbell captured the British [sic].  Said Campbell was fhot in chest and later died.  [Col Williams actually].  I believe that Darsey arrived in time to be a participant in the Kings Mountain battle.  - EPA S6788 11 Dec. 1845, Decatur county, Georgia.   (Galer)      This patriot is buried in Decatur county, Georgia, just a mile or so above the Florida state line off Hwy 27.   His grave was marked by Joel Early Chapter SAR in 2007

 

DUICK, TIMOTHY, pages 71-72 (Moss)

 

d. 1813

m. Tabitha B___, 1777, SC

 

Timothy the son of Timothy Duick of GA alleged on 23 Nov 1856 in Pickens County, GA that his father enlisted during 1777, was a private in the militia, and was in the battle of Kings Mountain.

 

FAIN, EBENEZER, page 82 (Moss)

 

b. 27 Aug 1762, Chester County, PA

d. 29 Dee 1842, Habersham County, GA

m. Mary Mercer, 6 Jun 1781, Jonesboro, TN

 

While residing in Washington County, VA, Ebenezer Fain enlisted during June 1776 under Capt. James Montgomery and Col. William Christian. During June 1780 he enlisted under Capt. William Trimble and Col. Charles Robertson of NC and Capt. Cunningham and Col. Clarke of GA. Fain served under Capts. Christopher Taylor and Gibson and Col. Sevier from Sep 1780. He was in the battles of Wofford's Iron Works, Musgrove's Mill, and Kings Mountain (where he was wounded in the leg).

 

HAMMETT, WILLIAM, Capt., page 108 (Moss)

b. 16 Nov 1749

d. 23 Aug 1832, Marion County, MS

m. Martha ____

 

James Hammett, the son of William Hammett, alleged that his father entered the service in Wilkes County, GA, early in the war and served as a captain under Col. Elijah Clarke. He was in the battles at Sullivan's Island, Kettle Creek (where he was wounded and two of his brothers were killed), and Kings Mountain.

 

HAMMOND, Sr., ABNER, Roster of the South Carolina Patriots in the American Revolution p. 407

 

Pension No. W 25753 served in SC under Col LeRoy Hammond, an uncle.  He later served as a Captain under his brother, Col Samuel Hammond.  He was listed as serving at the first Siege of Augusta and was supposedly captured.  Later, he joined a regiment of refugees under Col William Chandler [Candler].  He was possibly son of Charles Hammond and is listed in one source as a member of Candler’s unit along with a George Hammond.

 

HAMMOND, Samuel, Roster of the South Carolina Patriots in the American Revolution p.407

 

Pension No. S 21807 was in many battles including Musgrove Mill, Augusta, Kings Mountain and more.  He may have been with SC troops.

 

Hammond, Charles

 

Charles and his son, Abner, are both listed on the three companies of refugee soldiers under Colonel William Candler (15 September 1780) the Telamon Cuyler Collection University of Georgia Libraries now know as the Hargrett Rare Books and Manuscripts Library.  From the "Roster of the South Carolina Patriots in American Revolution", page 407,   Charles is listed as a lieutenant and captain in the militia and wounded at Savannah.  Younger brother Samuel Hammond is listed as being at King's Mountain. 

 

Source-http://members.aol.com/galinahist/aiken/hammond.htm Book "The King's Mountain Men", page 181, Charles Hammond, was born in Richmond County, 1716, and died in Edgeville District, SC, 1794.  He was present at King's Mountain under Captain Candler....His son Abner (1750-1810) was a lieutenant in SC, and descendants hold that he too was in the battle.  “Lineage Book 31, D.A.R."

 

HEARD, RICHARD, page 116 (Moss) b. 1756, VA

 

d. 6 Oct 1817

m. Elizabeth Coleman, 1780, Wilkes County, GA

 

May be relative of Stephen Heard, later Governor of GA. The son of Richard Heard alleged that his father was the captain of a unit from Wilkes County, GA during 1779/1780. Heard was in the siege of Savannah under Col. Williamson, at the siege of Augusta in the same unit, at the battle of Long Cane under Col. Elijah Clarke, and at Dogwood Springs against the Indians. The son thought he had also heard his father say that he was at Kings Mountain and Cowpens.

 

HILLEN, GEORGE, page 123 (Moss)

 

b. 29 August 1762, Richmond, NC

 

At an early age George Hillen moved with his parents to Barnvile (Barnwell?), SC. He was residing there when he entered service during May 1779 under Capt. Ferguson to guard Garret's Ferry on the Savannah River against the Tories under Col. Daniel McGirt. Thereafter, he enlisted in Edgefield District under Capt. John Ryan, Col. LeRoy Hammond, and Gen. Williamson. Afterwards, he was promoted to sergeant. Hillen moved to Rutherford County, NC, where he volunteered on Green River under Capt. William Nevel and Col. Miller. Learning that Miller was not going to Kings Mountain, Hillen volunteered under Capt. Abraham DeMoss and Col. Cleveland, was in the battle at Kings Mountain and was present when Williams died. About 25 November 1780, he joined Capt. Marmadue (a Frenchman), Maj. Patrick Carr, and Col. Clarke and went in pursuit of Maj. Dunlap, one of Ferguson's officers. They caught up with Dunlap's unit at Hog Skin Mill on Long Cane River in Laurens District, SC, and defeated him. About 10 December 1780 Hillen enlisted under Capt. Dennis Tramell and Co1. Roebuck and marched to Puck Hill, where they attacked Col. Cunningham. About 1 January 1781 Hillen enlisted again under Capt. Marmadue, Maj. Patrick Carr, and Col. Clarke, marched to Grindal Shoals, joined Morgan, and was in the battle at Cowpens. They marched to attack Grayson's and Brown's Forts in GA. He was in the engagement at Brick House. Thereafter, he joined Co1. Benton and in 1782 served under Marion.

 

HUDSON, HALL, page 130 (Moss)

 

Hall Hudson enlisted sometime in June 1775 under Capt. Abram Penn at Pittsylvania Courthouse, V A. He was marched against the Shawnee Indians and was stationed at Farlee Fort on the Big Kanawha River. He joined Lewis and marched against the Indians at Point Pleasant. Early in May 1776 he enlisted under Capt. Samuel Scott, was placed under Capt. George Walton, and marched to GA. There they were placed under Gen. 10hn McIntosh and Col. Habersham. Later, he was under Col. Elbert. He was then under Col. Moore and went to Amelia Island, which was taken after a brisk fight. About the last of July 1779 he enlisted under Capt. Daniel Caslin (?) as a ranger on the frontiers of Wilkes and Surry Counties, NC. In August 1779 he volunteered under Capt. Underwood for an expedition against the Tories at Ramsour's Mill. During October 1780 he volunteered at the Moravian towns under Cot Shelby and was in the battle at Kings Mountain. Late in 1780 he volunteered under Capt. Joseph Phillips and was in the battle at Cowpens.  He followed Cornwallis to Cape Fear River, where he was discharged.

 

Johnson, Stephen, Capt., page 40 (Moss)

 

Started with the name Captain Johnson.  Listed under Major Candler remarks as being at King's Mountain by Bobby Moss in his book "The Patriots at Kings Mountain", page 40.  Actual statement from Colonel Stephen Johnson, pages 23-25 of "Revolutionary Memoirs and Muster Rolls" by Mary B. Warren, identify that he was the Captain that served with Major Candler (text says Col. Chandler) at King's Mountain with Georgians.

 

KELLY, JACOB, page 278 (Moss)

 

Kelly known to be in the campaign but not in the battle of Kings Mountain, - FPA R5843 (GA)

 

LOCHRIDGE (LOCKRIDGE), JAMES, page 156 (Moss)

 

b. 10 March 1757, Rockbridge County, VA

d. 28 July 1840, Maury County, TN

                       m. Ann ____,21 August 1788, Rockbridge County, VA

 

As a boy, James Lochridge moved with his family to Abbeville District, Sc. While residing there he enlisted during the fall of 1774 and marched against the Indians. He served at various times as a private and spy under Capts. William Baskin, Joseph Pickens, Alexander McAlpin, Thomas Means, and William Strain and Cols. Anderson, Williamson, Clarke, and Pickens. Lochridge was in the siege of Augusta and the battles at Long Cane Creek, Kings Mountain, Oconee River, and the siege of Ninety-Six. While acting as a spy near Ninety-Six he was shot through the left thigh and little finger of the left hand, captured by the Tories, and escaped after several days.

 

MANN, THOMAS, page 162 (Moss)

 

d. 31 May 1834

m. Sarah Tackett, 1 May 1781, Spartanburg District, SC

 

The widow of Thomas Mann alleged that while residing in Abbeville District, SC, he served in the militia. He enlisted during 1779 or 1780 and was in the battle at Kings Mountain, Ninety-Six, Eutaw Springs, and Augusta. Mann was under Capt. William Pullium of the GA militia. He supposedly served under Capt. Andrew Hamilton, Maj. Noble, and Col. Anderson, and Gens. Williamson and Pickens.

 

McBEE, VARDRY, Capt., page 168 (Moss)

 

b.c. 1740/1745, VA

d. 1787

m. Hannah Echols, c.1764

 

Vardry McBee moved to SC in 1766 and enlisted in the 5th Regiment on 26 March 1776. He was a captain in the militia under Col. Roebuck from 10 June 1780 to 10 January 1782. McBee was in the taking of Fort Thicketty, at battle at Kings Mountain, and it is thought that he was in the battle at Cowpens. A skirmish was fought near Limestone Springs (where his home was located) and the wounded Whigs (one of who was the brother of Col. Elijah Clarke) were taken in and cared for by McBee's wife.

 

McCLASKEY, (McCLOSKEY, McCLESKEY), JOSEPH, pages 169-170 (Moss)

 

b. 1756, Abbeville District, SC

d. 25 February 1837, Lincoln County, TN

m. Mary Green 17 November 1781, Ninety-Six District, SC

 

After enlisting during the fall of 1776 or 1777 while residing in Abbeville District, SC, Joseph McClaskey served under Capts. Pickens, Winn, and Caldwell and Cols. Williamson, Pickens, Campbell, and Armstrong. He was in the battles at Beaufort, Kettle Creek, the siege of Savannah, Kings Mountain, Cowpens, the siege of Ninety-Six (where he was wounded in the right arm), and Eutaw Springs. In addition, he was on the Florida Expedition and two expeditions against the Cherokee Indians.

 

McKINNEY, WILLIAM, page 178 (Moss)

 

While residing in Charlotte County, VA, William McKinney enlisted during 1775 under Capt. Thomas Collier and was in the battle at Gwyn's Island and on an expedition under Gen. Lewis against the Indians at Holston Island. About two weeks after returning home he went to GA and enlisted under Capt. Austin and was on an expedition against the Indians. Next, he enlisted in GA under Capt. Logan and Gen. Williamson and was in the engagement at Trout Creek. He returned to VA, but in a few weeks went again to Augusta, GA, where he was taken prisoner, held four months, and then paroled. McKinney broke his parole, joined Gen. Clarke and was in the battle at Augusta. He then says he was under Col Sevier at the battle at Kings Mountain.  In his pension application, maybe just went with a better name – Sevier.. And says he was under Sumter in the battle at Blackstock's Plantation.  Again, a big name instead of Candler or Clarke.    Worth checking out.

 

McMASTER, WILLIAM, pages 180-181 (Moss)

 

b.c. 1759, Ireland

d. 18 March 1824, Abbeville District, SC

m. Rebecca Towne

 

William McMaster came to America with his parents at the age of thirteen. After enlisting, while residing on the Savannah River in Abbeville District, SC, he was in the battles at Kettle Creek, Briar Creek, Siege of Augusta, Beaufort, Hanging Rock, Kings Mountain (where he was under Col. Williams), Blackstock's Plantation, Cowpens, and the siege of Ninety-Six (where he was wounded by a gunshot in the left hip). McMaster was captured after being wounded and was treated at Ninety-Six. He served under a Capt. McCan and Col. Anderson. Makes him a prime candidate for this list.  Williams had 30 men at Kings Mountain.  He was joined by Candler, according to Draper.  As a group the South Carolinians under Lacey, Hawthorne, and the Georgians under Candler assaulted with Williams from the west side of the U.S. monument at Kings Mountain.  McMasters statements of being with Williams worth checking out.

 

NOBLES, LEWIS SANDERS, page 197 (Moss)

b. 1758/1760

d. 01 November 1856

m. Ester Robinson

 

Lewis Sanders Nobles enlisted under Col. Elijah Clarke while residing in Edgefield District, SC. Thereafter, he was under Col. Roebuck. He was in the battles at Camden, Kings Mountain, Cowpens, and the siege of Yorktown.

 

O'BANNON, BENJAMIN, pages 197·198 (Moss)

 

b. 1750, Fauquier County, VA

m. Delilah ____

 

While residing in Mecklenburg County, NC, Benjamin O'Bannon enlisted under a Capt. Marshall. After this service he enlisted under a Capt. Williams and Col. Elijah Clarke of GA and was at the siege of Augusta. Next he enlisted as a horseman under Capt. Henry Hampton of SC. He was in the battles at Camden, Kings Mountain, Cowpens, Guilford Courthouse, and the siege of Ninety-Six.

 

PATTERSON, JOHN, pages 203-204, (Moss)

 

b. January 1763, Ireland

 

While residing in Ninety-Six District, SC, John Patterson enlisted as a substitute for his father, Samuel, during August 1778 under Capt. Cowan, Col. Reed, and Gen. Williamson. The unit rendezvoused at Beaverdam Creek in GA and marched against the Indians. In 1780 he was drafted to go to Charleston under Capt. Cowan and Col. Pickens but the city fell before they reached their destination. Patterson went to Soap Creek in GA during September 1780 and joined Capt. Joseph Dunn and Col. Clarke. He was in the attack on Augusta and in the battle at Kings Mountain. When Dunn's company of volunteers dispersed he went to Mecklenburg County, NC, and remained with mends until January 1781. After Cornwallis commenced his march to VA, Patterson volunteered as a light horseman under Capt. Grimes and was engaged in guarding the fords of the Catawba River. He was in several skirmishes. During the summer of 1781 he enlisted under Capt. Francis Moore" Col. Middleton and Gen. Sumter in a SC unit.

 

RAINEY, JOHN, page 306 (Bailey)

 

John Rainey was a young Georgia Private, who died of his wounds on the Jacob Randall property, same location as Col. Williams. Private Rainey is buried a short distance to the southwest of the Randall residence and on the slope overlooking the little stream which passes below.

 

RICHARDSON, AMOS

 

b. 08 September 1764, Loudoun, VA

d. 15 September 1847

m. Susannah Smith

 

While residing on the Holston River, Amos Richardson enlisted on 1 September 1780 under Capt. George Russell and Col. Campbell and was in the battle at Kings Mountain. He also served from 4 February 1781 to 15 December 1781 under Capt. Samuel Alexander and Col. Elijah Clarke.

 

STROZIER, PETER, page 242, (Moss)

 

b.c. 1740, Westphalia, Germany

d. 18 January 1807, Wilkes County, GA

m. Margaret (Peggy) Dozier, October 1758, Rowan County, NC

 

Peter Strozier arrived in Philadelphia on 9 September 1751 aboard the ship "Patience".  He had a land grant in NC but moved to GA before the war. The widow of Peter Strozier alleged that while residing in Wilkes County, GA he enlisted during May 1779 under Capt. Paddy Carr and Col. Elijah Clarke and was in all of Clark's actions. He was in the battles at Kettle Creek and Kings Mountain.

 

T AYLOR, GEORGE, page 244 (Moss)

 

George Taylor served as a captain under Cols. Clarke and Shelby in the battle at Musgrove's Mill. He joined Col. Charles McDowell and may have been in the battle at Kings Mountain. In 1781 he was under Maj. Joseph Jolly and Cols. Brandon and Roebuck.

 

Torrence, John

 

"John Torrence was one of the 30 soldiers sent with Colonel Candler." from Torrence's, Torrence and Allied Families, page 143, primary source unknown.  I show something on page 320 from "The King's Mountain Men"

by Kathrine Keough White, but cannot locate reference.  Also per Lucian Lamar Knight's "Georgia's Roster of the Revolution", page172, Issued certificate as refugee soldier, Wm. Candler, Col., Ref. Regt, Petitioner prays 287 1/2 acres in Franklin Col Warrant 1469."

 

Trammel, Dennis

 

Bobby Moss lists two brothers (?) Peter and William as serving at King's Mountain.  Per Moss, "Peter Trammel was in both sieges of Augusta...he enlisted in the militia under his brother, Dennis Trammel, and was compelled to retreat over the mountains with Col. Elijah Clarke.  He was in the battle at King's Mountain, where one of his brothers (?) was wounded.  (page 249-Moss)  The company commanded by his brother (Dennis) served at various times under Col. Clarke, Col. Brandon, Col. Farr, and Col. Campbell."  Under Lucian Lamar Knight's book Georgia's Roster of the Revolution, page 172, Dennis Trammel, "Certificate as refugee soldier, Benjamen Few, COL., May 15, 1784.  Petitioner prays 287 1/2 acres in Washington Co.”  Only circumstantial evidence on Dennis Trammel, but with his brothers serving at King's Mountain and him serving with Clarke, bears some scrutiny.

 

TRAMEL (TRAMMELL), PETER, page 249 (Moss)

 

b. Hillsborough, NC

 

Sometime in 1775 or 1776 Peter Tramel enlisted under Capt. Benjamin Few near Hillsborough, NC. He was placed under Col. McIntosh who marched him immediately to GA, where he helped build a fort on the Ogeechee River and was on several excursions against Tories and Indians. After being discharged he returned to NC where he remained 8 or 10 months before returning to GA. He enlisted at the house of Col. Canter under a Capt. Forsyth and was placed under Gen. Lincoln. For the next three years he was a diver of baggage wagons and was in the two sieges of Augusta. At the end of this service he enlisted in the militia under his brother, Dennis Trammel, and was compelled to retreat over the mountains with Col. Elijah Clarke. He was in the battle at Kings Mountain, where one of his brothers was wounded. Shortly after returning to SC, he was in the battle at Cowpens. Not long thereafter he was in the engagement at Hogskin' s Mill against Dunlap. The company commanded by his brother served a various times under Col. Clarke, Col. Brandon, Col. Farr, and Col. Campbell.

 

WALLACE, JOHN, page 256 (Moss)

 

b. 05 March 1762, Hawfield, VA

d. 27 May 1848

 

While residing on Rayburn's Creek in Laurens District, SC, John Wallace enlisted on 10 March 1778 under Capt. Wilbourn and Col. Barbour. He was in a skirmish with Tories at Cherokee Ford (might be battle between GA & SC militia with Col. Boyd prior to Kettle Creek) on the Broad River and in the battles at Kings Mountain and Cowpens. Next, he was under Capt. Humphrey Barnett and was in the battle at Eutaw Springs.

 

YOUNG, WILLIAM, CAPT., page 277 (Moss)

 

b. 21 July 1759, Loudoun County, VA

d. 07 November 1826, Greenville District, SC

m. Mary Salmon, 1789/1790

 

William Young of SC enlisted during 1775 and served under Cols. Brandon and Thomas and was on the Snow Campaign. After the fall of Charleston he became a lieutenant under Col. Brandon and Gen. Sumter. In addition, he served under Col. Miller of GA. He was in the battles at Briar Creek, Stono, Musgrove's Mill, the siege of Augusta (where he was wounded), Kings Mountain, Blackstock's Plantation, Cowpens, and the siege of Ninety-Six. He rose to the rank of captain.

 

 

Notes on COLONEL (aka Brigadier General) JAMES WILLIAMS

OF SOUTH CAROLINA, page 270 (Moss)

 

b. November 1740, Hanover County, VA

d. 8 October 1780

 

For Georgians participating in the Battle of King's Mountain, one cannot tell the story without including the role of James Williams from South Carolina. He was hated almost as much as Major Ferguson at the Battle of Kings Mountain.  Certainly no love lost with many of the South Carolina militiamen who served under Sumter and the Georgians who served under Clarke. Although it’s been rumored he was killed by Patriot fire, it is hard to prove but not hard to believe.  Of the seven deadly sins listed, try to find one that doesn’t apply to James Williams:

 

Page 255-264 (Bailey)

James Williams’ first battle is at Ninety-Six, SC in November 1775.  His company consists of 2 officers, 2 sergeants, and 24 privates and he is a Captain.  About 1780 he returns to the war, with most of his District controlled by Crown Forces.  He applies with Col. Sumter to be his commissary.  He is given 1 officer, 25 men, and 4 wagons with teams.  He takes off with some public stores and Col. Sumter sends Col. Lacey to stop him.  Lacey puts a pistol to Williams’ chest to swear he will not run off with the goods.  Williams doesn’t keep that oath once he gets back with his men.  On 17 August 1780 he joins Col. Isaac Shelby and Col. Elijah Clarke in an attack on Loyalist forces at Musgrove Mill. The Patriots find out they are out-numbered and their horses are exhausted, so they go on the offensive. Clarke is credited with turning the battle. But with concern that Crown Forces with Major Ferguson are near, they withdraw.  Col. Clarke is given charge of nearly 70 prisoners. Near Gilbertown, NC, Clarke is anxious to return to GA, he passes the prisoners to Col. Williams. The fact that Clarke gets no mention or credit later for his role at Musgrove Mill is sort of a "tough Cheetos" at this point, he passed the torch. Williams shows up at Hillsboro, NC where not only the North Carolina government is gathered, but General Gates (still cringing after his Camden debacle), and the exiled Governor Rutledge of SC. They are so impressed with Williams' prisoners and his version of his victory at Musgrove Mill that he is commissioned a SC Brigadier General. Williams then proceeds to Sumter's camp and has his commission read and commanded that Sumter's officers and privates submit to his authority. Sumter rejects him.

 

During the battle of Kings Mountain, part of the 70 South Carolina troops participating were usually led by Col. Thomas Sumter, but he had gone to meet with Governor Rutledge regarding the command controversy with Williams (Dunkerly, page 7). Williams applied to Governor Nash of NC to raise a corps of 100 men. After issuing a "call to arms" on 23 September 1780, he raised about 40 men.

 

When all the forces joined for an assault on Kings Mountain at Cowpens, Cols. Edward Lacey, William Hill and James Hawthorne were present along with James Williams. Col. William Hill was recovering from wounds received at battle of Hanging Rock. A composite force of 70 South Carolina and 30 Georgians was formed. (Dunkerly) Considering there were three other South Carolina units in addition to Williams, it is doubtful Williams had 40 of the 70 men under his charge. Although the highest-ranking officer, he was the most detested. When there is a war council, Williams is excluded. But he shows up at the battle.

 

Towards the end of the battle, Col. Williams’ horse is hit in the lower jaw. When Col. Williams dismounts he is hit, some say in the groin (ouch) other that the ball was between shoulders and ranged downward. He dies the next day and is buried on the Randall Plantation. A young GA private John Rainey also dies and is buried on the same property. Year’s later Col. Williams grave is sought out and dug up. Apparently he was buried in a cowhide (Bailey).

 

Some footnotes of interest: Col. Williams is buried in front of old library in downtown Gaffney, SC; about 10 miles from battlefield (Dunkerly).  Col. Williams’ estate supplied 150 gallons of whiskey for militia use (Moss). 

Description of Col. James Williams’ appearance is he was 5 feet 9 inches tall and quite corpulent. He also had an uncommonly large nose that was subjects of discussion outside of his hearing. This does provide the re-enactors with a least one good documented case of a well-fed militiaman in the south. But I'd have to think this kind of well-fed appearance would not be well received by over the mountain folks who were of a leaner disposition.

 

Col. Williams was unable to write autobiographies and reports, being dead, as the other Colonels did many years after the battle.  There was no one else to “Remember the 30.” 

 

 

 

 

 

SOURCES

 

By Brett Osborn

 

Kings Mountain. Walking Tour Guide – Robert M. Dunkerly

The Patriots at Kings Mountain - Bobby Gilmer Moss

Commanders at Kings Mountain - J. D. Bailey

Roster of the South Carolina Patriots in the American Revolution

Kings Mountain and Its Heroes. . . Lyman C. Draper

Roster of Georgia Revolutionary War Pensioners.  Lucian Lamar Knight

Robert (Skeets) Willingham, Jr.

Robert Scott Davis

Guyton McCall, Georgia Society SAR Genealogist

 

By Mark Webb

 

Pension record links added