DRAYTON WILLIAM HENRY commenced his infantile career at some place in South Carolina in 1742—at what point the record saith not. He was educated in England but did not fall in love with the principles of monarchy. He was among the first, boldest, ablest and most energetic patriots of his native state. He did much with his pen to open the minds of the people to a sense of their true condition politically. In 1774 he addressed a pamphlet to the Continental Congress under the title of "Freemen" which raised him to a prominent position among the patriots. It contained a bill of American Rights which was substantially adopted by that Congress. In 1775 he was President of the Provincial Congress and issued the first official order to oppose the enemy by force of arms. It was addressed to Col. William Moultrie directing him to "oppose the passage of any British naval armament that may attempt to pass Fort Johnson." This marked his boldness and his zeal. He passed through several judicial offices up to Chief Justice of the state. In April 1776 he used this remarkable language in his charge to the grand jury—remarkable in point of time and the then existing circumstances of the Colonies. "The Almighty created America to be independent of Britain. Let us beware of the impiety of being backward to act as instruments in the Almighty hand now extended to accomplish his purpose." So long as South Carolina can produce such men she will not secede from the UNION but leave the fanatics of the north to blow off their harmless gas in their political deploys at home. In 1778-9 Mr. Drayton was a member of the Continental Congress and died at his post in Philadelphia in September 1779. He was cut down in the prime of life and in the midst of a bright career of usefulness. He had earned an imperishable fame and stood approved by his country—his conscience and his God.
DYER ELIPHALET commenced his first stage of human life at Windham, Conn. on the 28th of September 1721. He was liberally educated and became a sound lawyer. He took command of a Connecticut regiment in 1755 and served ungrateful mother Britain faithfully during most of the French war. In 1763 he went to England on business and there became thoroughly acquainted with the base designs of the ministry upon the American Colonies. On his return he was prepared to warn the people of approaching danger. He was an ardent whig—afearless opposer of tyranny. He was a member of the Congress of 1766-74. He was Chief Justice of his state for many years and retired from public life in 1793. He adorned the prominent virtues that dignify a man and make him useful in life—happy in death. He closed his earthly pilgrimage in 1807.
ELLSWORTH OLIVER was born at Windsor, Conn. on the 29th of April 1745. He graduated at Princeton College, N.J. and became an eminent member of the Bar. He was a firm advocate of chartered rights—a stern opposer of British wrongs. He used his noblest exertions to induce the people to strike forliberty. In 1777 he was elected to the Continental Congress. His commanding talents, stern integrity, powerful eloquence, keen perception, conclusive logic, lucid demonstrations—all combined to render him an efficient and highly appreciated member. He was a useful delegate of the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution. In 1789 he was elected to the U. S. Senate—in 1796 appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States—in 1799 Envoy Extraordinary to France and dignified each of these high stations. Owing to ill health he resigned his seat at the head of the Supreme Bench in 1800. Several high offices were subsequently tendered to him which he respectfully declined. His whole life was chastened with a republican simplicity and primitive purity seldom found among those in high life at the present ominous era. All admire his brilliant examples—too few will imitate them. Judge Ellsworth slumbered in death on the 26th Nov. 1807.
FORREST URIAH was ushered into life in the county of St. Mary, Md. in 1756. In his youth he was commissioned a lieutenant in one of the Maryland regiments and soon gained the reputation of a brave and skillful officer. He rose rapidly to the rank of lieutenant-colonel. He acted a brilliant part in the battle of Germantown where he lost a leg which closed his active military career. A man of strong intellect improved by a good store of useful knowledge—he had a bright career before him. He was a man of unbounded popularity and influence—filled various public stations in his native State—was a member of the Continental Congress—of the Legislature of Maryland and a member of Congress under the Federal Constitution. He was for many years major-general of the Maryland militia. In all his public stations he acquitted himself nobly—in private life he had the esteem of a large concourse of friends. The time of his final exit is not upon the record.
GADSDEN CHRISTOPHER was born in South Carolina in 1724. He was the originator of theLiberty treein America. To cut loose from mother Britain was a cherished project in his penetrating mind long before the Revolution. He did not join in the general joy caused by the repeal of the Stamp Act. He looked upon it like the transient calm in a storm that often precedes the increased fury of the elements. As early as 1762 he frequently said that nothing but open resistance would ever obtain justice from Great Britain. Upon these matured conclusions he continued to act until his long nursed vision became a happy reality and was eclipsed by the more refulgent glories of the Declaration of Independence. He was a member of the Congress convened at New York in 1765 and of the one at Philadelphia in 1774. He was also a general of militia. He was of great service in rousingthe people to action. He was among the prisoners at the city of Charleston and then lieutenant-governor. Being ill he was paroled. On the 27th of August 1780 he was dragged from his sick bed—put on board a prison ship and taken to the castle at St. Augustine in violation of the rights of prisoners on parole. He was there treated with great cruelty. A parole for the town was offered him at St. Augustine which he indignantly refused, saying he could place no dependence on any promise from a British officer. When Maj. Andre was executed Gen. Gadsden was tauntingly admonished to prepare for death as he would be made the retaliatory sacrifice. He firmly replied—"I am always prepared to die for my country." A more inflexible patriot, a more noble spirit, a more ardent friend of Liberty never came from the clean hands of the Creator. Gen. Gadsden had the love, sympathy, confidence and admiration of every friend of the American cause. He died in 1805.
GANSEVOORTPETER entered upon the first stage of human life at Albany, N. Y. on the 16th of July 1749. His taste for military tactics was manifested in his boyhood. When he arrived at manhood he raised a company of grenadiers that elicited the admiration of every beholder. Not one of its members was under six feet—Capt.Gansevoortwas six feet three. In point of discipline and martial appearance, this company had no superior. Being a firm Whig Capt. G. was ready to do good service for his country at the commencement of the Revolution. He was appointed a major by Congress on the 19th of July 1795. On the 19th of the next month he took command of the second battalion of the New York forces and shared the perilous campaign with Gen. Montgomery which terminated the life of the latter. Congress made him lieutenant-colonel on the 19th of March 1776 and on the 21st of November of that year appointed him colonel of the 3d Regiment in the Continental army. His defence of Fort Stanwix in August 1777 was one of the most brilliant achievements of the American Revolution. It was besieged by a large body of British, Tories and Indians, commanded by Col. St. Leger, who threatened summary vengeance unless an unconditional surrender was made. He soon found he had waked up the wrong passenger. He was promptly informed that Col.Gansevoortnever surrendered. The fort was defended until aid was sent when Col. St. Leger was compelled to leave suddenly. For this brave act Congress recorded him a vote of thanks on the 4th of October of that year. In 1778 he was ordered to Albany—the next year accompanied Gen. Sullivan in his expedition against the Indians and with a chosen band of kindred spirits surprised and took the lower Mohawk castle and a large number of prisoners. In 1781 an arrangement was smuggled through Congress by improper influences that legislated this officer and several other gallant men out of the army to the great mortification of Washington. His native State made him a major-general Of militia. After the war he held the office of sheriff in Albany County—was commissioner to fortify the frontier posts—make treaties with the Indians—military agent of the Northern Department and in 1802 was commissioned a brigadier-general in the army of the United States which he held until the 2d of July 1812 when he was suddenly called from time to eternity at the moment our country needed just such men to conduct the second war of Independence. Gen. Gansevoort wasendowed with an unusual share of the noble qualities that dignify a man in public and private life all of which were purified by a life of practical piety.
GIBSON JOHN was born in Lancaster, Pennsylvania on the 23d of May 1740. At the age of 18 he was an excellent classical scholar. He was in service under Gen. Forbes when Fort Du Quesne [now Pittsburgh] was taken from the French and Indians. He settled there in 1763 for the purpose of trade. In a short time he was taken prisoner by the Indians and had his life saved by an old squaw who adopted him in the room of a lost son. He was detained several years—became familiar with the language of several tribes—with the general habits of red men which prepared him for future duties. On gaining his liberty he returned to Pittsburgh and served under Lord Dunmore in his expedition against the Shawnee Towns which resulted in a treaty with children of the forest. Gen. Gibson was the mediator and interpreter. To him alone was the celebrated speech of the noble hearted Logan delivered in a copse a short distance from the council ground. By him it was communicated to the other Chiefs and to Lord Dunmore. At the commencement of the Revolution Gen. Gibson commanded a regiment in the regular army—served a short time in New York and New Jersey—was then transferred to his more appropriate place upon the frontiers to keep in check the Indians. After the war he filled various civil stations and was appointed Secretary of Indiana in 1800 and filled the office until the state was formed. He then took up his residence with George Wallace, near Braddock's Field, who had married his daughter with whom he lived until the 10th of April 1822, when his immortal spirit returned to Him who gave it.
GIBSON GEORGE first made his appearance among his friends at Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1747. He was well educated—became a clerk to a merchant in Philadelphia—sailed to the West Indies several times as supercargo and finally went to his brother John at Pittsburgh. There he was employed in a trading voyage down the Ohio and was unfortunate. He changed his location and business several times up to the period of the Revolution when he raised a company of the border men who were not of polished manners but would fight like tigers. With them he joined the Virginia troops at Williamsburgh, Virginia. They were all sharp-shooters of which Lord Dunmore became convinced on the 25th of October 1775 when he attacked Hampton with a naval force and was driven back by this company with considerable loss. Capt. Gibson performed a perilous journey to New Orleans for the purpose of obtaining powder for the army from the Spanish which was a very delicate mission and was performed with skill and success. He returned through the wilderness and Indian tribes and travelled 1800 miles on foot. Wonder how many public functionaries we have now who would perform a similar journey for the sake of their country—even if they should get their mileage, hot toddy, roast beef and $8 per day. On his return he was put in command of aVirginiaregiment and joined Lee's division of the Continental army at New York. This division covered the retreat of the main army and formed a junction with it on the west bank of the Delaware. At the battle of Trenton Col. Gibson served under the direct command of Washington.He continued with him and participated in the battles, privations and sufferings of that forlorn hope of American Freedom up to 1779 when the term of his regiment expired. He was then put in command of the prison station near York, Pennsylvania, where he continued to the close of the war. In 1791 he commanded a regiment under Gen. St. Clair and acted a most gallant part in the unsuccessful sanguinary battle of the 4th of November of that year where his regiment was nearly annihilated and himself mortally wounded. He lingered in great pain at Fort Jefferson until the 11th of December following when death relieved him from his sufferings. While living he was the delight of every circle in which he moved—noble, generous, warm hearted, persevering, brave, prudent, just and honest. His well earned fame is enduring as history.
GREENE CHRISTOPHER commenced his earthly career at Warwick, Rhode Island in 1737. He received a good English education—became familiar with mathematics—was partial to military tactics and became a member of the "Kentish Guards" at an early age and was made their Lieutenant. In May 1775 he was commissioned a Major in the brigade under his kinsman Gen. Nathaniel Greene. At the attack on Quebec he commanded a company in the division of Gen. Montgomery and headed the party that entered the town and was taken prisoner. Soon after he was exchanged he was put in command of the regiment previously commanded by Gen. Varnum. In 1777 Washington placed Fort Mercer, at Red Bank on the Delaware, in his charge with only 500 men. This was attacked soon after the battle of Brandywine by Col. Donop on the Jersey side with 1200 men. The enemy were repulsed with great slaughter—Col. Donop, Lieut. Col. Mingerode and several other officers were killed and 400 of their soldiers killed and wounded. At the same time the British fleet and a battery on the Pennsylvania side opened a heavy fire on the contiguous Fort Mifflin, then called Mud Fort, and succeeded in having their favorite ship Augusta, of 64 guns, blown up with a part of her crew and the armed ship Merlin burned—glory enough for one day. Col. Greene received the thanks of Congress and was voted a splendid sword which was presented to his son Job in 1786. In 1781 Col. Greene was posted in advance of the army near Croton river above New York and had quartered his men in several farm houses. On the night of the 13th of May of that year he was suddenly attacked by a superior force of refugeesaliastories. They broke into the room of the Colonel who despatched a number of them with his sword but was eventually overpowered and cut up in the most horrid manner. Maj. Flagg was also murdered with every soldier they could find. No officer fell during the Revolution more deeply lamented—no one of his grade better deserved the gratitude and esteem of his country.
GRAEFF GEORGE was born in Lancaster, Pa. in 1755. He was a brave captain in the Continental army and did good service in the cause of Independence. He acted a gallant part at the battle on Long Island in 1776. Subsequent to the war he filled several civil offices with credit and usefulness. He was emphatically an honest man. He died at his native town on the 13th of November 1823.
GRIFFIN CYRUS was one of the bold Virginians who earlyadvocated the glorious cause of Independence. He used every energy to rouse the people to a sense of impending danger. He ably filled various public stations—was a member of the Continental Congress and one of the Presidents of that august assemblage of Sages. He lived in the esteem of his country and associates until 1810 when he made his exit to the spirit world.
GURNEY FRANCIS was first introduced on this whirling planet in Bucks County, Pa. in 1738. His military genius became early developed. He entered the service of mother Britain at the age of 18 and braved the perils and hardships of the French war from its commencement to its close. His reputation for bold enterprise and noble daring he carved high in the temple of epic fame. At the capture of Cape Breton he acted a conspicuous part. At the taking of Guadaloupe his bravery was a subject of general remark. At the close of these arduous services he commenced a successful career in the mercantile business in the city of Philadelphia. There he was when the revolutionary storm loomed up. He looked upon the conduct of mother England as basely ungrateful. He snuffed the breeze of Liberty and struck for Freedom. His noblest energies were roused to action. His large military experience and keen perception enabled him to point out those who were best calculated to make efficient officers. Mifflin, Cadwalader and others were first recommended by him. His zeal and activity in the cause of suffering humanity were above all praise. Believing he could render more service out of the army than in it—he declined a commission until the 25th of May 1775 when he took command of an infantry company of volunteers. The next year he entered the regular service with the commission of lieutenant-colonel in the 11th regiment of the Pennsylvania Line. He was in the battle of Iron Hill, Brandywine and Germantown where he fully sustained his reputation for daring bravery. The wire-working system of promotions that was early introduced and injuriously pursued did not comport with his fine sense of military usage which caused him to resign. This did not abate his zeal in the cause—he continued to advance the best interests of the patriots until he saw his country free from bondage. After the Revolution he resumed his business at Philadelphia—filled many municipal and legislative stations—commanded a regiment in the army of 1794 which put down the whiskey insurgents—became brigadier-general of militia—performed every duty that devolved upon him in public and private life with ability and fidelity—was in all respects a man who commanded the confidence and esteem of all who made his acquaintance—adorned the Christian character and slumbered in death at his country seat near Philadelphia on the 25th of May 1815.
GWINN WILLIAM was born in Ireland in 1748. In 1772 he came to Pennsylvania and from that time to the close of his life manifested a deep interest for the welfare of his adopted country. During the Revolution he served in the staff of Gen. Mifflin and was highly esteemed for his faithful performance of every duty and his uniform zeal in the cause of Independence. After the war he removed to Monkton Mills, Baltimore County, Md. where he lived highly respected until the 1st of October 1819 when he died deeply mourned by his numerous friends.
HALE NATHAN entered upon his eventful career of life at Coventry, Conn. at what time we have no word. He was liberally educated—ayoung man of great promise and entered the army at the commencement of the Revolution in command of a company under Col. Knowlton. He was at the battle of Long Island on the 27th of August 1776 and one of the 9000 who effected a retreat during the night to the great chagrin of the British who were encamped not over 600 yards from the Americans. Shortly after that disastrous affair Washington employed Capt. Hale to enter the English camp as a spy. Unfortunately he was detected and executed the next morning by order of Sir William Howe under circumstances of fiendish barbarity that left a black spot upon the escutcheon of that proud officer that time or angel's tears can never expunge. He was denied a clergyman and a bible and the letters that he wrote to his widowed mother and relatives were destroyed. He died a brave and willing martyr to the cause of Liberty and lamented with his last breath that he had but one life to sacrifice for his country. How great the contrast between the course our country has pursued in memory of this young hero and that of England towards Andre. In point of talent and exalted character, Hale was equal to him. The one was engaged as a simple spy—the other was in league with a base traitor on a grand scale. The one has no extended notice in our history—the other has been lauded to the skies by the historians of both nations. Not a stone marks the resting place of Capt. Hale—a splendid monument has been erected by England sacred to the memory of Andre. The family of the one was neglected by our government—that of the other pensioned in a princely manner. The fact that our nation was then just bursting into life is the only apology to be offered.
HAMILTON ALEXANDER was born on the Island of Nevis in 1757. His father was an Englishman, his mother an American and brought him to New York in 1773 and placed him in Columbia college. His towering genius burst upon the world like a blazing meteor in the darkness of night. At the age of 17 he grasped the mighty concerns that were then rocking England and America in the cradle of fearful commotion. He then wrote several essays upon the rights and wrongs of the two nations that were attributed to Mr. Jay. College walls could not keep him from the field of glory. At the age of 19 he commanded a company of artillery and was ever ready for a little more grape when it could be used to advantage. He soon attracted the attention of the penetrating Washington who appointed him one of his aids in 1777 with the rank of lieutenant-colonel. A selection was never more judiciously made—no commander could be better served. From that period to the close of the war our country was benefited by the combined wisdom and noblest efforts of two of the brightest constellations ofgeniusthat have ever illuminated our world. In every battle where Washington commanded Col. Hamilton was at his post regardless of danger. When the two destructive redoubts were carried at the siege of Yorktown facing a storm of iron hail he led the advanced corps under La Fayette. Not a gun was fired—the charge was like a rushing avalanche. The surrender of that garrison closed his Revolutionary services. His manly brow was decked with epic laurels that can never lose their amaranthine freshness whilst patriotic fire glows or history endures.
In 1782 he was elected to Congress and shed fresh lustre on that august body of sages. He grasped every subject with a gigantic mentalpower that filled the more experienced members with astonishment and admiration. He originated measures with a surprising facility and wisdom that were truly beneficial. He was a member of the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution. He was in favor of what he considered a stronger government than the one formed—one that some would callultrafederal. At the final organization under the new Constitution he was placed at the head of the Treasury Department. To the surprise and joy of all concerned he raised the credit of the nation rapidly from the lowest depths of depreciation to a lofty eminence of credit. At the end of six years he resigned and resumed the practice of law in the city of New York. When the provisional army was raised in 1798 in anticipation of a war with France, he was placed next in command to Washington and proved one of the most efficient disciplinarians that ever graced the profession of arms. On the disbanding of this army he again resumed his profession at the bar. In 1804 he was challenged by Col. Burr and sacrificed his life on the barbarous field of false honor contrary to his better judgment and finer feelings. He was mortally wounded on the 11th of July 1804 and died the next day. So opposed was he in principle to duelling that he fired his pistol in the air. He died deeply regretting the sad error, with full faith in the merits of his Saviour to wash every stain from his noble soul and present him with a crown of unfading glory. His sudden death and the manner his bright career was terminated spread a mantle of gloom over our country and the civilized world. His transcendent talents had attracted the admiring gaze of Europe and America. He was in all respects a remarkable man. His flashes of genius were like vivid lightning that startles—their force like crushing thunderbolts that shiver every obstacle in their way. He mastered everything in the course of his business by talismanic intuition. He filled the orbit of every station he occupied—he illuminated his pathway with a brilliancy that dazzled, he left a pillar of living light on the bright pages of history that will reflect its mellow rays on the horizon ofLibertythrough all time.
HAMILTON PAUL was one of the unflinching native patriots of South Carolina who resolved on Liberty or death. He filled a large space in the public mind and performed many public duties with ability and fidelity. He was governor of his State—Secretary of the Navy under President Madison and dignified every station he occupied. He bid farewell to his friends, earth and its toils in 1816.
HATHAWAY BENONI was born in Now Jersey in 1754. He was among the first who boldly struck for Liberty. He did not wait until the iron was hot before he raised his hammer but heated it by continuous heavy blows. He commanded a company of citizen rangers that became a terror to the scouting and foraging parties of the enemy and frequently captured them and the sentinels of their main camp in the darkness of night. When Gen. Kniphausen was encamped at Elizabethtown with his Hessians his most bewitching hours were often interrupted by this sleepless company. At one of these attacks Capt. Hathaway was wounded in the head by a musket ball and was unconscious for several hours but recovered and continued his guerrilla warfare until the last loyal Briton made good his retreat across thegreat heron pond. He was highly esteemed through life and met death with Christian fortitude at Newark, N. J. on the 19th of April 1823.
HAWKINS NATHAN was first introduced to the human family in Rhode Island in 1749. His patriotism grew with his growth and strengthened with his strength. When a mere youth he was the delegate of South Kingston to carry assistance to the citizens of Boston when reduced to distress by the infamous Port Bill. The war-cry from the heights of Lexington broke his slumbers at the hour of midnight—in less than twelve hours he was leading a brave volunteer corps to the rescue. He served faithfully during the whole period of the Revolution—acted a gallant part in several battles and is fully entitled to a place upon the records of enduring fame. When the war closed he located and closed his life at Charlestown, Mass.—filled several civil offices—was highly esteemed by his fellow citizens—sustained the noble reputation of an honest man—died October 3d 1817.
HAWLEY JOSEPH entered upon his earthly pilgrimage in Northampton, Mass. in 1724. He was one of the first who opposed the usurpations of the crown officers and the patriot who wrote to John Adams just as the Congress of 1774 closed and used the truly prophetic language—"after all we must fight." He was a man of strong intellect, great penetration of mind, a close observer of men and things, an inflexible friend to the cause of equal rights. In public meetings, in the legislature, in his social intercourse—at all proper times and places—he sowed the seeds of Liberty broadcast. When told the Colonies were too weak for resistance he replied—"We must put to sea—Providence will bring us into port." He was a lawyer of eminence and strongly opposed to accepting public office although he served his State in the Legislature several times. He exemplified the Christian religion by a life of primitive piety but was an uncompromising foe to fanaticism, bigotry, sectarianism and the dogmatical creeds of men. His charity spread its broad mantle over the whole family of man. He held the commission of major of militia but owing to his frequent and sudden attacks of illness he did not serve in the tented field. He enjoyed the esteem and confidence of every friend of freedom and passed peacefully from earth on the 10th of March 1786.
HAYNE ISAAC—[see the Biography of John Pennin Part I.] I can find no record of his birth.
HEATH WILLIAM was born in Roxbury, Mass, in 1737. He left his plough in the furrow the moment the war-cry reached him and hastened to the field of epic glory. He was constitutionally a military man. Congress conferred upon him the commission of brigadier-general in 1775. The next year Congress raised him to the rank of major-general. He commanded a division at the battle of King's Bridge in 1776 and next year was placed over the Eastern Department with his headquarters at Boston and filled that arduous station until November 1778. Burgoyne and his army were under his charge as prisoners of war and at first gave him much trouble. The haughty British general and his officers supposed General Heath a novice in the rules of military etiquette and put on airs that induced insubordination among the English soldiers. In this they were mistaken. Gen. Heath had been a close military student from his boyhood. He had nothing new to learnfrom these high dignitaries but an insolent assumption of importance that he soon cured and reduced them to their proper level. With the humanity of a philanthropist and the polish of an old school gentleman he united the firmness of a Roman, the courage of a hero and the dignity of a nobleman.
In the summer of 1780 he was master of ceremonies at Rhode Island on the reception of the French fleet under the command of Admiral de Ternay with the troops that were sent to aid in sustaining our Independence. A mutual pleasure was experienced on that occasion which matured into lasting friendship. In 1781 Gen. H. was successfully employed at the east in raising supplies for the army. When Gen. Washington repaired to Yorktown Gen. Heath was left in command of the northern and eastern branches of the army that remained to sustain the garrisons upon the Hudson and Atlantic. At all times and under all circumstances he acquitted himself nobly and received a letter of sincere thanks from Washington at the close of the war for his zeal and promptness in the performance of the long and arduous services that had devolved upon him. After the war closed he filled various legislative and judicial stations with dignity and ability. He was elected lieutenant-governor in 1806 but refused to serve. He had earned a lasting fame—was beloved by his countrymen at large and glided down the stream of time peacefully until the 24th of January 1814 when his spirit returned to its original happy home.
HESTON EDWARD was ushered into Hestonville, county of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1745. He was one of the brave farmers who exchanged the plough for the sword. He entered the army as Captain and rose to the rank of Lieut. Colonel. By his vigilance in watching Lord Cornwallis when in Philadelphia he saved the brigade of Gen. Potter from being captured. The day previous to the battle of Germantown, with a few bold spirits he faced a heavy fire and succeeded in cutting the rope at the middle ferry to prevent the communication of the enemy with Philadelphia. In a skirmish with a party of British he received a severe sword cut on the back of his head, was taken prisoner and sent to Long Island where he was detained for seven months. After the Revolution closed he was an active member of the legislature of his native state and was esteemed through life for benevolence, charity, patriotism and rigid honesty. He died at his residence in Hestonville on the 14th day of March 1824.
HOLDEN LEVI was born in New Jersey in 1754. He entered the Continental army as Captain in 1776 and served faithfully until mother Britain relinquished her maternal care over the Colonies and left her froward child to act its own will and pleasure—a prudent course for the old lady and a fair business transaction. For three years Capt. Holden was attached to Washington's life guard and was highly esteemed by him. After the war he located at Newark, New Jersey where he enjoyed the esteem of the community for 30 years and descended to the tomb on the 19th day of April 1823, ripe in years and rich with honors.
HOUSTON JOHN was one of the nucleus of patriots who put the Revolutionary ball in motion at the Liberty Pole meeting in Georgia. Himself and Mr. Bullock were among the few who dared express theiropinions at that meeting. Before it adjourned the fire of patriotism was kindled in so many bosoms that royal power trembled at the probable result. Mr. Houston was a member of the Continental Congress in 1775 and performed his duty nobly. He was subsequently a judge of the Supreme Court and governor of his state. He was a man of fine talents, great energy, sterling integrity and devoted patriotism. He enjoyed the full fruition of the love of his country and friends until 1796 when he passed peacefully from time to eternity.
HOWARD JOHN EAGER commenced infancy in Baltimore Md. in 1752. He resolved on Liberty or death at the commencement of that long and doubtful struggle that resulted inFreedomto America. He was among those who dared snatch the laurels from the proud sons of mother Britain and place them upon their own manly brows. He entered the army with the commission of Captain and was raised to the rank of Lieut. Colonel in 1779. He was one of the bravest of the brave. At the victory of Cowpens he held the swords of seven British officers at one time who had surrendered personally to him. His skill and bravery were exhibited at the battles of Germantown, White Plains, Monmouth, Camden and Hobbick's Hill. So highly were his services appreciated by Gen. Greene that he used this strong language—"As a patriot and soldier Col. Howard deserves a statue of gold no less than the Roman and Grecian Heroes." This short sentence is the crowning capital of the climax of eulogy. At the close of the Revolution Col. Howard returned to his large real estate in the city of Baltimore. Subsequent to the formation of the Federal government he was a member of the United States Senate and Governor of Maryland. No man was more beloved by his fellow citizens—no one better deserved their esteem. He died at his residence in 1827.
HUMPHREY DAVID commenced his career of life in Derby, Conn. on the—of July 1752. He was a graduate of Yale college and frequently danced attendance to the muses. He was a staunch friend of his country and entered the army a Captain. In 1778 he was aid to Gen. Putnam and in turn aid to Parsons, Greene and in 1780 became an aid to Gen. Washington with the rank of Lieut. Colonel with whom he remained until Lord Cornwallis fired his last gun at Yorktown. On all occasions Col. Humphrey acted a brave and noble part. His chivalrous conduct at the siege of Yorktown induced Congress to vote him an elegant sword. In 1784 he was the secretary of Mr. Jefferson then minister to France. In 1786 he retired to his native place and was elected to the legislature. In 1788 he was placed in command of a regiment raised for the western service. In 1790 he was appointed ambassador to the Court of Portugal and in 1797 minister plenipotentiary to the Court of Madrid. On his return from Spain he introduced the Merino sheep into the United States and deserves great credit for his successful exertions in the improvement of wool and its manufacture. In all the multiform duties of his active life Col. Humphrey had the full approbation of his country. In private life he exemplified the virtues that make a good citizen. He closed his useful career at New Haven Connecticut on the 21st of February 1818.
HUNTINGTON JEDEDIAH was born in Norwich, Connecticut in 1743. He was a graduate of Harvard College, an enterprising merchant and a whig of the first water. He led his regiment to the head quarters of the army at Cambridge early in 1775. His activity, zeal, courage and efficiency in the field gained the admiration of Washington who procured his advancement to the rank of Brigadier General. He rendered his best services to promote the glorious cause of Independence and remained in the field during the whole period of the war. He subsequently filled various civil offices. He was appointed Collector of the Port of New London by Washington and performed his duties faithfully during four consecutive administrations. He enjoyed the profound respect of the very intelligent citizens of New London until the 25th of September 1818 when he took his departure to the spirit world.
IRVINE ANDREW was a native of Ireland, brother to Gen. William Irvine spoken of more at lengthin Part I. Dr. Matthew Irvine of Charleston, South Carolina was a third brother and served in the Continental army. Andrew entered the regiment of his brother William as Lieutenant and was engaged in the Canada service under Gen. Wayne. He was in every action with that General up to the massacre of Paoli where he received seventeen bayonet wounds and miraculous as it was, recovered and was actively engaged in the northern and southern campaigns. No officer of his rank did more service—no one could do it in a more heroic manner. After the war he lived in the esteem of the citizens of Carlisle, Pa. where he died on the 4th of May 1789.
IRWIN JARED was born in Mecklinburg, North Carolina in 1751. At the age of seven years he became a resident of Georgia. At the commencement of the Revolution he was a pioneer in one of the frontier settlements adjacent to the Indian tribes where he became the leader of his neighbors in keeping the red men at bay and teaching the tories salutary lessons. In that department he rendered himself eminently useful during the war. He was a member of the first legislature of Georgia under the new government which convened at Savannah in 1784. From that time forward he became emphatically a leading public man. He was long a member of the Georgia Senate and for many years its president. He was repeatedly Governor of the state. He filled every station in a manner that gained the unqualified approbation of his constituents. His public life was adorned by those private virtues that are indispensable to render a man truly great. He died at Union, Washington County, Georgia, on the 1st of March 1818.
JACKSON ANDREW commenced his brilliant life in the Waxhaw settlement, S. C. in 1767. He was constitutionally a patriot, soldier and statesman. He enlisted in the Continental army at the age of 14 and performed feats of noble courage that would have honored manhood. When fighting bravely for his country he was wounded and taken prisoner. After much suffering he was exchanged and at the close of the war prosecuted his studies and became a respectable member of the Bar. He commanded a successful expedition against the southern Indians—in 1820 was the commissioner to receive the Floridas from Spain—was made governor of that territory and performed many public duties with great energy. He was a major-general during the last war with mother Britain. His defence of New Orleans against the veteranarmy of Gen. Packenham has no parallel in modern warfare. In 1828 Gen. Jackson was elected President of the United States and served two terms. He was emphatically a man of the people. In point of physical and moral courage he had no superior. He was stern in his integrity, honest in his purposes, unbending in his resolves—determined in his course of action. When time shall absorb the bitterness of party spirit that his bold administration created—the historian will trace the fair lines of the career of Andrew Jackson and present a picture to after generations that will command their profound admiration. He lived a patriot—he died a Christian in 1845.
{Andrew Jackson portrait and signature}ENGRAVED BY T.B. WELCH FROM A DRAWING BY J.B. LONGACRE.
JACKSON JAMES first inhaled the atmosphere at Moreton Homstead in the County of Devon, England, on the 21st of September 1757. His father was a strong whig and brought him to Georgia in 1772 and left him with his friend John Wereat, Esquire. James Jackson did not fancy hereditary monarchy or purse-proud aristocracy. His very nature was republican. At the dawn of the Revolution he was ready to peril his life in the cause of equal rights. The war cry that came rushing on mighty wind from the blood stained heights of Lexington he hailed as the day-spring offreedom—the morning star ofliberty. At the age of 18 he was a volunteer in the party of bold spirits that made a descent on Savannah. At the attack on Tybee his dauntless courage attracted the attention of Archibald Bullock who was the acting head of the patriots. In a short time Jackson was in command of a volunteer company of light infantry. In 1778 he rose to the rank of brigade-major of the Georgia militia. At the storming of Savannah his gallantry could not be excelled. He was in the battle of Blackstocks on the 20th of August 1780. After Tarleton had retreated Major Jackson was put on his track and brought back 30 horses. At the battle of Cowpens the Major received the thanks of Gen. Morgan on the battle field. When in service under Gen. Pickens his noble daring was particularly noticed in the reports of that officer. About this time he was made a Colonel with the privilege of raising his own regiment, which he quickly accomplished. He commanded at the capture of the British fort at Ogechee, the post at Butler's White house and seemed to court danger whenever an opportunity presented. In his victory over Col. Brown on the 21st of May 1782, Gen. Wayne awarded great praise to Col. Jackson. On the 12th of July of that year the British surrendered Savannah and by arrangement delivered the keys to this brave Colonel who continued to command it until the close of the war. He then commenced a successful practice of law and stood on a lofty eminence of merit. He was hailed as one who had contributed largely towards achieving the Liberty all then enjoyed. He was raised to the office of major-general of militia—was a member of the legislature—quorum of the state and a member of the U. S. Senate. He was found equal to every station he was called to fill. He died at Washington city while at his post in the Senate on the 19th of January 1806.
JAMES JOHN was born in Ireland in 1732. His father and several of his neighbors came to Virginia in 1783 and settled at Williamsburg which name they gave to the place in honor of King William. They had all imbibed an unconquerable dislike towards England. At the commencement of the Revolution all their descendants were prepared to oppose her unjust pretensions. No one amongst them was a moredetermined opponent than John James. Familiar with border warfare he was prepared to act efficiently. He had long been a captain of militia under the crown and at once resigned his commission. His company all declared for Liberty and retained him in command. In 1776 he left his plough and marched his men to the defence of Charleston where he remained for some time. He was soon promoted to the rank of major and became one of the most active officers in service. He was with Gen. Moultrie when he was closely pressed by Gen. Provost. At the skirmish at Tulifinny he commanded the rifle corps. He acted a brave part at the battle of Eotaw. His riflemen expended 24 rounds of cartridges on the enemy and rarely wasted any ammunition. He was the original nucleus of Marion's brigade. He performed many bold exploits—had numerous hair-breadth escapes. At one time he was alone and attacked by two British dragoons who were in advance of their comrades. As they drew their sabres to cut him down he brought them to a sudden halt by drawing an empty pistol and then leaped over a chasm a little too broad for Tarleton's sportsmen. Just previous to the close of the war he returned to his rusty plough and lived in the high esteem of a grateful country and his numerous acquaintances until 1791 when he closed his useful career in death. He was a member of the Virginia legislature and filled several civil offices with credit and fidelity.
JASPER WILLIAM was a brave sergeant in the division of Gen. Moultrie. For personal bravery and shrewdness he had few equals. In the heat of the attack upon Fort Moultrie the flag staff was shot off by a cannon ball. The banner fell outside of the works. Amidst a storm of iron hail Jasper leaped from one of the embrasures, recovered the flag, mounted it on his spontoon staff and unfurled it to the breeze. He was promoted to the highest rank he would accept—a roving commission and the privilege of selecting his companions to aid him in his bold and romantic enterprises. He often brought in prisoners before Gen. Moultrie was aware of his absence. On one occasion several prisoners were ironed and put under a guard of eight soldiers with a corporal and sergeant and started for Savannah with a fair prospect of the hemp. One was a Mr. Jones whose young wife was in great agony on his account and followed him with their only child—a lovely boy five years of age. Jasper and his kindred spirit Sergeant Newton, resolved on their rescue. Within two miles of Savannah in a copse of wood is a spring of excellent water about six rods from the road. There Jasper and Newton lay in ambush. When the party arrived eight of them laid down their guns in the road and went to the fountain to drink, leaving two to guard their prisoners. The next moment the two on guard slumbered in death—the rest of the British party were all made prisoners—the Americans released and the whole arrived at the American camp the next morning at Perrysburg. The distressed wife had no intimation of the heroic adventure until the crack of the two guns from Jasper and Newton. The next moment she clasped her fond husband to her convulsed bosom. Her joy may be faintly imagined—not described. Gov. Rutledge presented Jasper with an elegant sword for his noble daring at Fort Moultrie. Soon after the brave defence of Fort Moultrie Mrs. Elliott presented a splendid stand of colors to Col. Moultrie's regiment that composed the force in that action. At thestorming of Savannah two officers fell in an attempt to plant these colors upon a redoubt of the enemy. When a retreat was ordered Jasper was mortally wounded while in the act of rescuing this standard from the enemy. After the retreat Maj. Horry called to see him and was made the bearer of the following message. "I have got my furlough. That sword was presented to me by Governor Rutledge for my services in defence of Fort Moultrie. Give it to my father and tell him I wore it in honor. If the old man should weep tell him his son died in hope of a better life. Tell Mrs. Elliott I lost my life in supporting the colors she presented to our regiment. Should you ever see Jones, wife and son—tell them Jasper is gone but the remembrance of that battle which he fought for them brought a secret joy in my heart when it was about to stop its motion for ever." In a few moments after he closed this message his noble soul soared to heaven.
JAY JOHN was born in the city of New York in 1745. He was one of the noble sages who dared to be free. He took an early and decided stand in favor of Liberty. He was of great service in rousing the people to a sense of their true interests. He was elected to Congress and took his seat in that body the latter part of 1776 and presided in the presidential chair for some time. In 1778 he was minister to Spain—in 1782 he was one of the commissioners to negotiate a treaty with Great Britain. In 1795 he was elected governor of the Empire State. He was an able public officer—a valuable private citizen. His soul joined its kindred in the spirit world in 1829.
JOHNSON FRANCIS was born in Pennsylvania in 1749. At the commencement of a conflict with mother Britain he was enjoying a lucrative practice at the bar. He well understood the merits of the high contending parties and enlisted under the banner offreedom. He commenced his military career with Gen. Wayne with the commission of lieutenant-colonel in the first regiment raised by that brave officer. He shared with him all the fatigues and glory of the numerous expeditions and battles in which he was engaged up to the time Gen. Wayne went south. He succeeded him in the command of the 5th Pennsylvania regiment. His services were ably and zealously rendered and highly appreciated. He ventured his life and spent his fortune for Liberty. After the close of the Revolution he was elected sheriff of the city and county of Philadelphia as a tribute of merit awarded by both political parties. No man could be more generally beloved—no one better deserved it. He died in Philadelphia on the 22d of February 1815.
JOHNSON SAMUEL was one of the most talented and ardent patriots of the chivalric south. From the dawn of the Revolution he boldly espoused the cause of equal rights. He was a member of Congress and after the adoption of the Federal Constitution he was made a United States Senator. He was a judge of the Supreme Court of North Carolina and governor of that State. He discharged the duties of public and private life with energy, ability and scrupulous fidelity. His career of life was closed in 1806.
JOHNSON WILLIAM SAMUEL was a native of Connecticut and a zealous friend of the cause of Independence. He was a man of strong native talents improved by a sound education. He exercised a salutary influence over his constituents and served them faithfully in variouspublic capacities. He was a member of the old Congress—a delegate to the Convention that framed the Federal Constitution and the first United States Senator from his native State. He lived in the esteem of his numerous friends until 1819 when his lamp of life went out.
JONES JOHN PAUL commenced his remarkable life in the district of Galloway, Scotland, in 1747. His original name was John Paul and Jones was added when he came to America in 1775. He had been a mariner from the age of 15 and was master of his profession. He left England in disgust in consequence of improper treatment by the authorities relative to his quelling a mutiny on board his ship, in doing which he was compelled to kill the ringleader, for which he was tried and acquitted and was threatened with a second trial. In the expedition of Com. Hopkins against New Providence he was a lieutenant and exhibited a dauntless spirit that at once placed him on the list of the brave. On his return he was placed in command of a sloop with 12 guns. In a short time he captured a British vessel with 18 guns. He then cruised boldly along the coast of Scotland—made several landings and a few contributions and proceeded to the Irish coast where he found the English armed vessel Drake in the harbor of Waterford—gave her a challenge—she entered the list of combat—was quickly flogged and hastened back to her old moorings crippled and her commander mortified. In the summer of 1779 he was put in command of the Bon Homme Richard of 40 guns and 415 men with some small craft. After visiting France he sailed from there on the 14th of August of that year—took several vessels of war and merchantmen and proceeded in search of the Baltic fleet which he discovered on the 22d of September at 2 P. M. off Flamborough Head under convoy of a frigate and sloop of war. He at once prepared for action. Just as the moon was rising, at quarter before 8 P. M. one of the most desperate naval actions commenced that can be found recorded on the pages of history. When the two larger ships came within pistol shot the British frigate opened the ball with a brisk fire from her upper and quarter deck. Jones returned the compliment with the grace of a naval hero. At the onset three of his six 18 pound guns burst and killed those around them. He ordered the other three not to be used. This accident induced him to grapple with the frigate and come to close quarters which he accomplished so completely that the muzzles of the guns of each were in contact. The rage of battle then commenced with all the desperation of gladiators. The Englishman had nailed his flag to the mast—Jones never surrendered. His ship was the most crippled—more of his guns silenced than on the frigate. This preponderance of metal was soon changed by a brave tar advancing over the frigate on the main yard of the American ship with a basket of hand grenades and lighted match. He dropped these messengers of death among the enemy and through the scuttles—killing many and setting the cartridges on fire in every direction. The fight raged on—the frigate was several times on fire—the Bon Homme Richard was leaking from shots between wind and water—all her guns silenced but four and not until both ships took fire was the fury of the conflict relinquished for a moment. When the flames were extinguished the carnage was renewed. Jones had taken over 100 prisoners and put them to the pumps under the direction of Lieut. Dale who was severelywounded. The English flag was at last torn down by the captain of the frigate which proved to be the Serapis mounting 50 carriage guns commanded by Capt. Pearson. All hands were removed on board the prize and at 10 the next morning the Bon Homme Richard went to the bottom. Capt. Pearson had 137 men killed and 76 wounded. Capt. Jones had 165 killed, 137 wounded. It is supposed many of his men were killed and wounded by one of his own vessels that fired into him some time by mistake at pistol shot. At the commencement of the action he received the fire of both British vessels until he closed with the frigate. The next morning the Pallas, Capt. Cotineau, attacked the British sloop of war and after a severe battle of over two hours compelled her to surrender. She was the Countess of Scarborough. Capt. Jones then proceeded home with his prizes and prisoners and was hailed with an enthusiasm that none but freemen so ardently feel and so strongly express. On the 14th of April 1781 Congress passed a strong resolution expressive of their high appreciation of his valuable services. A more skilful, daring and resolute man never commanded a ship.
After the termination of the Revolution he visited Russia and held a naval commission for a time under the Empress Catharine. From there he went to Paris in France where he died in 1792.[A]