Note: Place your cursor over an article in the Table of Contents below and click it. You will be shifted down the page to the article. To return to the Table of Contents, click News/Photos at the top of the page (between Home and News/Videos).
Table of Contents
----------
----------
Our annual meeting and luncheon was held on February 21, 2026, at Sutton's American Grill in Carrolltom, Georgia. All Pulaski members, as well as all members of the Abraham Baldwin DAR, the Sweetwater DAR, and the James Stewart DAR chapters were invited and there was an excellent turnout!
Those present for the meeting were: George Wheeless, Mike Campbell, Ed Carlton, Jim Swinson, Greg Goggans, Dick Whitten, Cliff Potter, Chuck Campbell, Chad Word, Paul Smith, Zack Smith, Steve Jones, and Jim O’Quinn. Our guests for the luncheon were Sue Carlton, Pamela Lyle, Paula Swinson, Cathie Wheeless, Kathy Goggans, Jamie Whitten, Kathleen Adnrzejewski, Linda Mazzola, Theresa Davis, Joan Finch, Sandy Vierling, Mary Mallory, Tara Smith, Sonjia Smith, Sherryll Miles, Fred Miles, Brenda Christian, Elizabeth Dunkin, Jennifer Jones, Susan Jones, Rachel Word, and Laura Campbell.
Vice President Chad Word called the names of those Chapter members who have passed away in the Memorial Recognition part of the program. Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell rang the Memorial Bell for each member recognized. Chaplain Chad Word led in a Prayer of Dedication to those who faithfully served the Pulaski Chapter SAR.
President Jim Swinson presented a State of the Chapter status which included our present membership of 61 members. He also updated the gathering on projects the Chapter hopes to achieve in the next year.
The following members were recognized for their years of service to the Sons of the American Revolution and the Pulaski Chapter:
Stephen Jones - 5 years
Richard Whitten – 10 years
Larry Michael Edge – 10 years
Jim Rowell – 20 years
George Wheeless – 25 years
Special awards were presented to members who have distinguished themselves with their service to the Chapter and to SAR:
Bronze Good Citizenship Medal - Norman Alter
Meritorious Service Medal - Richard Whitten
Bronze Roger Sherman Medal – Stephen Jones
Silver Meritorious Service Medal – Chad Word
Distinguished Service Medal – Ed Carlton
Past Presidents’ Service Awards – George Wheeless, Jim Swinson, and Mike Campbell.
The Pulaski Chapter presented the three DAR Chapters in our service area the SAR 250th Anniversary Streamer for their participation and joining the Pulaski Chapter in celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America. Streamers were presented to the Abraham Baldwin DAR Chapter – Joan Finch receiving, Sweetwater DAR Chapter – Sue Carlton Receiving, and James Stewart DAR Chapter - Pamela Lyle receiving.
Pamela Lyle of the James Stewart Chapter DAR was awarded the Martha Washington DAR Service Medal for her support of the Pulaski Chapter and the America 250th Anniversary.
The Pulaski Chapter inducted two new members into the Chapter:
Zack Smith was inducted by Jim Swinson with his Dad Paul Smith pinning the Rosette, and his wife Tara Smith pinning the flag lapel pin. Jim Swinson presented the SAR induction challenge coin.
Charles (Chuck) M. Campbell was inducted by Jim Swinson with his Uncle Mike Campbell pinning the Rosette, and Jim Swinson pinning the flag lapel pin. Jim Swinson presented the SAR induction challenge coin.
The following Chapter members were called forward to be installed as officers for the Chapter in 2026:
President and Registrar – Jim Swinson
Vice President and Chaplain – Chad Word
Secretary and Treasurer – Mike Campbell
Historian and Webmaster – Greg Goggans
Sergeant-At-Arms and JROTC coordinator – Stephen Jones
The installation was performed by the esteemed Past Chapter President of the Pulaski Chapter, former Vice President of the Georgia Society SAR, former President of the Georgia Society SAR, Trustee of the Sons of the American Revolution, and former State Secretary of the State Society, the Honorable George Herman Wheeless II.
Closing remarks were led by President Jim Swinson
The Benediction was led by Chaplain Chad Word
The Recessional was led by Sergeant-At- Arms Stephen Jones
Here are photos from our annual meeting and luncheon:
----------
----------
November 18, 2925
On Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM, our regular meeting night, we joined the Abraham Baldwin DAR Chapter for a Thanksgiving/Christmas Dinner at Sutton’s American Grill in Carrollton, Georgia. All Pulaski members, as well as all members of the Abraham Baldwin DAR, the Sweetwater DAR, and the James Stewart DAR chapters were invited and there was a great turnout!
Below is a photo of a "1776-2026 DAR America 250! Commendation" for "Demonstration of Extraordinary Effort in Raising Awareness of Revolutionary Patriots and America's 250th Anniversary" being presented to the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of SAR near the conclusion of the dinner by Abraham Baldwin Chapter DAR Regent Joan Finch (left in photo) and James Stewart Chapter DAR Regent Pamela Lyle (right in photo). Accepting the commendation on behalf of the Pulaski chapter is Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson:
==============================
November 14, 2025
Here are photos from the Casimir Pulaski chapter's dedication of a Liberty Tree at Centralhatchee Elementary School in Heard County, Georgia. The Heard County School Board was present for the ceremony.
=================
Below is a photo of Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson with newly inducted member Alan Griffith. Alan was inducted at our September 16th meeting. Welcome to the chapter!
======================
On September 17, 2025, the Pulaski Chapter, in coordination with the Sweetwater DAR Chapter, dedicated the Liberty Tree that was planted in Clinton Nature Preserve in Douglas County, Georgia.
A Liberty Tree was a specific type of tree, often an elm, that became a powerful symbol of colonial resistance against British rule in America before the Revolutionary War. The most famous was in Boston, serving as a meeting place for groups like the Sons of Liberty to hold protests, such as hanging effigies of British officials in defiance of unfair taxes and laws like the Stamp Act. Following the original tree's destruction by British soldiers, colonists in other towns designated their own trees as Liberty Trees to continue the symbolic fight for freedom.
The Pulaski Chapter was represented by Jim Swinson and Mike Campbell in Continental uniforms. Also joining the gathering from the Pulaski Chapter were Dwain Word and Greg Goggans. The dedication speaker was Rachel Word, a DAR member-at-large. A sizable contingent of Sweetwater Chapter DAR members, led by Regent Lisa Meek, and past Regent Sue Carlton, attended the dedication ceremony. The photos below are from the dedication:
Above: Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson standing next to the Liberty Tree.
Above: DAR member-at-large and dedication ceremony speaker Rachel Word
Above: Rachel Word and Jim Swinson
Above: Sue Carlton, Brenda Christian, and Mike Campbell
Above: Sweetwater Chapter DAR and Casimir Pulaski Chapter members present for the Liberty Tree dedication ceremony
======================
The Chapter was invited to join the Sweetwater Chapter DAR in handing out copies of the U.S. Constitution at the Douglas County Courthouse in Douglasville, Georgia. Mike Campbell and Jim Swinson represented the Chapter in Continental uniforms. Greg Goggans was also in attendance for the event. Below are some photos from the event in which DAR and SAR members handed out copies of the U.S. Constitution to people entering and leaving the courthouse:
Above: Left to right: Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson, Linda Wilson, Kathy Goggans, Brenda Christian, Lisa Meek, Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, and Penny Brandt
Above: Left to right: Penny Brandt, Lyn Brown, Lisa Meek, Jim Swinson, Brenda Christian, Mike Campbell, Sue Carlton, Linda Wilson, and Debra Saturday
Above: Sweetwater Chapter DAR President Lisa Meek
============================
Below are photos of new members inducted at our September 16th meeting. We welcome each of you!
Above: Chapter President Jim Swinson, Paul Smith, and his wife, Sonya Smith
Above: Chapter President Jim Swinson, Tyler Paul Smith, his wife, Shannon Smith, and their son, Tip Smith
Above: Chapter President Jim Swinson and Jim O'Quinn
==========================================
July 4, 2025
Carrollton, Georgia
Members of the Casimir Pulaski chapter of S.A.R. and the Abraham Baldwin chapter of the D.A.R. participated in the Independence Day parade in Carrollton.
==================================
February 15, 2025
Sutton’s American Grill, Carrollton, Georgia
Here are photos from the annual meeting and luncheon. Below that is the agenda for the event, including awards, special recognition, list of attendees, and those members who have passed on over the years.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson offering greetings and welcome to those present
Above: Pulaski Chaplain Jim Rowell giving the invocation and blessing of food
Above: Pulaski Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell
Above: The Abraham Baldwin Chapter of the D.A.R. presented to the Pulaski Chapter an illustrated book by the Abraham Baldwin Chapter highlighting all the grave dedications we have done for Patriots in our area. Left to right: Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, Mary Mallory (Abraham Baldwin D.A.R.), Pulaski Chapter Registrar George Wheeless, Abraham Baldwin Chapter Regent Joan Finch, and Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Above: Newly inducted Pulaski Chapter member, Dwain Word, with Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson
Above: Elizabeth Wolfe Johnson, wife of newly inducted Pulaski Chapter member, David Johnson, and Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson
Above: Jerry Wolfe, father-in-law of newly inducted Pulaski Chapter member, David Johnson, David's wife, Elizabeth Wolfe Johnson, and David
Above: Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson and Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell presenting the Henry Knox Medal to Ed Carlton
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson accepting an award from Pam Lyle, Regent of the James Stewart Chapter of the D.A.R., on behalf of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter for its planting of a Liberty tree in Heard County, Georgia
Above: Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson presenting Meritorious Service Medal to new Pulaski Chapter Sergeant-at-Arms Steve Jones
Above: Chad Word: Received a special award for meretorious service. In addition, Chad had never received recognition for 13 years of membership in a chapter in a different state so at this meeting was presented both a five and a ten year Years of Service Awards.
Above: Recent applicant for membership: Allen Griffifth and his wife, Christina Griffith
Above: Pulaski Chapter Chaplain Jim Rowell and Gail Adams
Above: Brenda Christian, Sweetwater Chapter D.A.R., and Elizabeth Duncan, Abraham Baldwin D.A.R. Chapter
Above: Ed Carlton, Pulaski Chapter, Kathy Goggans, Sweetwater Chapter D.A.R., and Greg Goggans, Pulaski Chapter
Above: Pulaski Chapter Compatriot Reid Walker
Above: David and Elizabeth Johnson
Above: Jim Rowell
Above: Left to right: Pulaski Chapter Compatriots Richard Whitten and George Wheeless; Cathie Wheeless (George's wife), and Jamie Whitten (Richard's wife)
Greetings and Welcome to the 24th Annual Meeting of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter Sons of the American Revolution.
Invocation and the Blessing of food – Pulaski Chaplain Jim Rowell
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States and the SAR Pledge – Sergeant-at-Arms - Ed Carlton
Introduction of Guests – (See List Below)
Memorial Recognition, Bell Ringing, Committal Prayer
State of the Pulaski Chapter – President Jim Swinson
Years of Service to SAR and the Pulaski Chapter - (See List)
Special SAR Awards to Pulaski Chapter Members – (See List)
Induction Service for New Members Dwain Word, Jordan Word, and David Johnson
Introduction of Chapter Officers for 2025
Installation of Officers for 2025
Closing Remarks – President Jim Swinson
Benediction – Chaplain – Jim Rowell
SAR Recessional – Sergeant-at-Arms – Steve Jones
Adjourned
Induction of New Members
1. Dwain Word
2. Jordan Word
3. David Johnson
Years of Service Awards
1. J.W. Smith - 20 years
2. Chad Word - Had never received recognition for 13 years of membership - Received 5 year pin and received 10 year pin
Special Awards
1. Meritorious Service - Steve Jones
2. Meritorious Service - Chad Word
3. Henry Knox Service Metal - Ed Carlton
Special Recognition
1. Pam Lyle - Regent, James Stewart DAR Chapter - Award to Pulaski Chapter for planting and dedicating Liberty tree in Heard County
2. Joan Finch, Sandy Verling, and Mary Mallory of Abraham Baldwin DAR Chapter -Presented an illustrated binder of the Pulaski Chapter working with the DAR Chapters
Attendees
Greg Goggans – Pulaski Chapter Historian and Webmaster
Kathy Goggans – Sweetwater DAR member
George Wheeless – Pulaski Chapter Past President
Cathie Wheeless
Dwain Word – New member of the Pulaski Chapter
Reid Walker – Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
David Johnson – New member of Pulaski Chapter
Elizabeth Johnson
Jerry Wolfe – SAR member
Jim Rowell – Pulaski Chapter Chaplain
Gail Jones
Ed Carlton – Pulaski Chapter Sergeant-at-Arms
Sue Carlton – Past Regent Sweetwater DAR Chapter
Mary Mallory – DAR Member – Abraham Baldwin
Chad Word – Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
Theresa Davis - DAR Member
Richard Whitten - Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
Jamie Whitten
Jennifer Jones – DAR Member – Abraham Baldwin
Pam Lyle – Past Regent James Stewart DAR Chapter
Steve Jones - Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
Susan Jones – DAR Member – Abraham Baldwin
Jim Swinson - Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
Paula Swinson
Laura Campbell
Mike Campbell - Pulaski Chapter SAR Member
Brenda Christian – Past Regent Sweetwater DAR Chapter
Sandy Verling – DAR Member – Abraham Baldwin
David Posey
Allen Griffith – Future Member of Pulaski Chapter SAR
Christina Griffith
Joan Finch – Regent – Abraham Baldwin DAR Chapter
Paula Steed – DAR Member - Abraham Baldwin
Deceased Members of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter as of 02/15/2025
Phil Carroll Astin, Jr – 2005 – 165045
Bob Bauchspies – 2006 – 137457
James Donald Denny – 2007 – 158087
George Frankline Romine – 2008 – 140158
Joe Beck Moore – 2010 – 158626
John Gordon Adams – 2011 – 157341
Henry Manning “Dutch” Dreyer, Jr. – 2011 – 149141
William Grant Mitchell – 2012 – 150248
Harrell Case Fountain – 2013 – 76573
Harold LaRoque Gosnell – 2014 – 189653
Fitzpatrick Rhett “Biscuit” Williamson – 2016- 109653
Thomas Augustus Carrere – 2018 – 158808
Robert Howard Claxton – 2019 – 157854
Henry Manning Dreyer III – 2023 – 158898
Donald Bruce Baldwin – 2022 – 159132
Donald Jackson Gordon – 2022- 179489
Orrill Hayes Morris, Jr. – 2023 – 164116
Franklin Dewey Veal, Jr. – 2023- 207535
Robert Donald Hilliard – 2024 - 191442
----------
----------
December 14, 2024
On the above date, 65 wreaths were placed on the graves of veterans at the City Cemetery in Villa Rica, Georgia. Below are photos from the ceremony:
November 19, 2024
Two new members were inducted into the S.A.R. at the Thanksgiving/Christmas dinner of the Abraham Baldwin Chapter of the D.A.R./Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the S.A.R. on November 19, 2024, at Sutton's American Grill in Carrollton, GA: Michael Gardner and his son, Rhys Carlisle Gardner. Here is a photo of Michael being sworn in by Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson:
November 9,2024
A grave marking for Patriot Gabriel Smith was held on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 1:00 P.M. at Poplar Springs Primitive Baptist Church, Bowdon, Georgia. See below for photos and more information about the event. The photos were taken by Janet Edelen and William Edelen.
Newly inducted member Dwain Word with Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson.
----------
November 1, 2024
Below are photos of the Liberty Tree planting at Centralhatchee and presentation of a flag certificate to the mayor of Centralhatchee, Barbi Crockett:
Above left photo: Centralhatchee Mayor Barbi Crockett being presented the S.A.R. flag certificate by Casimir Pulaski chapter President Jim Swinson.
----------
October 15, 2024
In a special ceremony on October 15, 2024, the Casimir Pulaski chapter recognized outstanding first responders, including law enforcement (Carrollton Police and Carroll County Sheriff's Office); Fire Safety - Carroll County and Carrollton City; Emergency Medical Technicians; and Georgia State Patrol. Here are photos of the event:
At our monthly meeting on September 17th, Alan Handermann and Hal Kadel were asked to come forward to participate in their induction into the Sons of the American Revolution ceremony. Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson administered the oath of membership and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, a signer of both applications, presented the SAR Rosettes. Mary Lynne Handermann was asked to come forward to present the SAR/United States flag pin to her husband, Alan. Mike Campbell presented the SAR/United States flag pin to Hal Kadel. Both members were welcomed into the Casimir Pulaski Chapter as members.
From left to right below are: Alan Handermann, Jim Swinson, and Hal Kaden:
----------
September 15, 2024
On Sunday, September 15, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at the First Methodist Church in Carrollton, Georgia, Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson presented Sons of the American Revolution Eagle Scout Certificates to five Eagle Scouts.
In the photo above and the photo below, on the front row are Eagle Scouts Andrew McCrory Camp (2023), James Aaron Price (2024), Tyler Avery Stone (2024), Abel Glenn Akin (2024), and Nicholas David Jenks (2024). On the back row from left to right are Barry Griffin, Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson, and Joy Griffin.
----------
May 25, 2024
Below are photos taken during the celebration of America's 250th Anniversary at the planting of a Liberty Tree at the Carroll County Veterans' Memorial Park in Carrollton, Georgia:
Above: Dedication speaker Dr. Keith Pacholl (University of West Georgia professor). To his left and right are Casimir Pulaski Chapter officers Mike Campbell (Secretary/Treasurer) and Jim Swinson (President).
Above: Left to right: Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, Dr. Keith Pacholl (University of West Georgia professor), and Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Above: Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell beside the Liberty Tree.
Above: Information about the Liberty Tree.
The Liberty Tree and information about it.
Flags at Veterans' Memorial Park, Carrollton, Georgia.
Flags at Veterans' Memorial Park, Carrollton, Georgia.
----------
May 23, 2024
Special to The Times-Georgian
The Casimir Pulaski Chapter, local Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, will begin the celebration of our country’s 250th Anniversary with the planting of a Liberty Tree at the Carroll County Veterans’ Memorial Park in Carrollton. The dedication program for the Liberty Tree will be on Saturday, May 25, 2024 at approximately 11:30AM at the Veterans’ Memorial Park. The Liberty Tree Dedication service will immediately follow the Memorial Day Service, also scheduled for the Veterans’ Memorial Park, starting at 10:00. The Liberty Tree Dedication service will have as the Dedication speaker, Dr. Keith Pacholl, Colonial and Revolutionary Historian of the University of West Georgia History Department.
The Liberty Tree is considered a long-forgotten symbol of the American Revolution. Throughout the years prior to the American Revolution an Elm tree standing tall in Boston Commons became a rallying point for colonists protesting the litany of taxes imposed by England on the colonies. The image and concept of the Liberty Tree became a potent symbol across New England and throughout the American Colonies. Many communities across the American Colonies planted their own Liberty Trees in protest of England’s new taxes on the colonies. The Liberty Tree in Boston was planted in 1646, sixteen years after the founding of Boston. When the British Parliament passed the Stamp Act, the tree was 119 years old. The tree served as a place to keep local citizens informed, post calls to action, and became the site of many demonstrations.
The British Army, and local loyalists, concerned that the tree served as a symbol of protest in Boston, chopped the tree down in August of 1775 four months after Lexington and Concord. While many continued to gather around the stump of the mighty Elm; others erected Liberty Poles at the site adorned with red and white striped banners as the protests continued with the Sons of Liberty.
Many of our early Patriots referenced the Liberty Tree as a lasting symbol of our struggle for independence. Thomas Paine described the Liberty Tree as a temple for freedom. John Adams encouraged a celebration around the Liberty Tree with the repeal of the Stamp Act. Thomas Jefferson wrote in 1787 the Liberty Tree concept must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. In his 1825 tour of Boston, the Marquis de Lafayette noted “the world should never forget the spot where once stood Liberty Tree, so famous in your annals.
The Liberty Trees from Boston, Massachusetts to Charleston, South Carolina were used to promote freedom, to keep an informed citizenry, and to celebrate our liberty. As we approach the 250th Anniversary of the founding of our country, the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution is honored to present this Liberty Tree to the citizens of Carrollton, Carroll County and the West Georgia area in remembrance of our Patriot ancestors – the first veterans of our country, and our great country – the United States of America.
----------
May 21, 2024
At the May 21, 2024, monthly meeting of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the S.A.R., four people were sworn in as new members. In addition, several attendees received medals/certificates in recognition of their accomplishments and service. Below are photos:
Above: Left to right: Georgia State Society S.A.R. President Ed Rigel, Jr., new member Knox Ellington Bretch (five years old), and father Jason Bretch.
Above: Left to right: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, Knox Ellington Bretch, and father Jason Bretch.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell congratulating new member James Frank Skelton.
Above: New member James Frank Skelton being congratulated by Georgia Society S.A.R. President Ed Rigel, Jr.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell and new member William Thomas Orr.
Above: New member William Thomas Orr being congratulated by Georgia Society S.A.R. President Ed Rigel, Jr.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell congratulating new member Michael Damien Gardner.
Above: Left to right: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, new member Michael Damien Gardner, and Georgia Society S.A.R. President Ed Rigel, Jr.
Above: James Stewart Chapter D.A.R. President Pam Lyle presenting Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell The Hannah White Arness Bronze Medal of Distinction.
The medal and certificate are awarded to a member of the S.A.R. for unselfish devotion, tireless efforts, and assistance to the D.A.R.; and the dedication of time, energy, talents, and/or resources to the organization in support and furtherance of the D.A.R. mission of historic preservation, education and patriotism.
Above: James Stewart Chapter D.A.R. President Pam Lyle and Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell holding the The Hannah White Arness Bronze Medal of Distinction certificate.
Above: Robert Estes being presented the S.A.R. Good Citizenship Certificate by Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell.
Mr. Estes spoke at the May 21, 2024 Casimir Pulaski Chapter meeting about his research paper on The Effects of Division in Revolutionary Georgia. He was the winner of the University of West Georgia Elizabeth Parker Scholarship.
----------
April 25, 2024
On the above date, Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell attended the 2024 UWG History Awards Program and presented the chapter scholarship to University of West Georgia student Amaya Williams. Ms. Williams will receive $1,200 ($600/semester) from the scholarship in the 2024/2025 academic year. Below is a photo of the presentation:
Above: Left to right: Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, Scholarship Recipient Amaya Williams, Chapter President Jim Swinson, and University of West Georgia history professor Keith Pacholl.
----------
March 19, 2024
Above: D.A.R. Sweetwater Chapter Vice Regent Sue Carlton presents S.A.R. Casimir Pulaski Chapter former President and current Registrar George Hermann Wheeless The Hannah White Arness Bronze Medal of Distinction.
At the March 19, 2024 monthly meeting of the S.A.R.'s Casimir Pulaski Chapter, Sue Carlton, Vice Regent of the Sweetwater Chapter of the D.A.R., presented George Hermann Wheeless The Hannah White Arness Bronze Medal of Distinction.
The medal and certificate are awarded to a member of the S.A.R. for unselfish devotion, tireless efforts, and assistance to the D.A.R.; and the dedication of time, energy, talents, and/or resources to the organization in support and furtherance of the D.A.R. mission of historic preservation, education and patriotism.
----------
March 3, 2024
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell presents Ann Hilliard Gagnon, and her son, Compatriot Owen Gagnon, with the SAR Memorial marker for their father and grandfather, respectively, the late Bob Hilliard.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell presents Ann Hilliard Gagnon with the ten year membership certificate and pin for her father, the late Bob Hilliard.
Above: Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell presents Compatriot Owen Gagnon his ten year membership certificate and pin. Owen is the grandson of the late Bob Hilliard.
----------
February 24, 2024
On Saturday, February 24, 2024, we held our Casimir Pulaski Chapter Annual Meeting at the Olive Tree Restaurant in Villa Rica, Georgia. Invited and in attendance were members and prospective members of the Casimir Pulaski chapter, and of the Abraham Baldwin, James Stewart, and Sweetwater chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.). Following lunch, various awards and certificates were announced. The list, as well as photos of the event showing recipients receiving awards and certificates from Chapter President Jim Swinson or Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell, are below:
Casimir Pulaski Chapter Henry Knox Achievement Medal
Above: Henry Knox Achievement Medal Presented to George Wheeless by Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Above: Henry Knox Achievement Medal Presented to Mike Campbell by Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Above: Henry Knox Achievement Medal Presented to Jim Swinson by Chapter Sec/Treas Mike Campbell.
Casimir Pulaski Chapter Distinguished Service Medal
Above: Distinguished Service Medal Presented to Greg Goggans by Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Casimir Pulaski Chapter Roger Sherman Commendation Medal
Above: Roger Sherman Commendation Medal Presented to Ed Carlton by Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Casimir Pulaski Chapter Martha Washington Medal
Above: Martha Washington Medal Presented to Abraham Baldwin D.A.R. Chapter Regent Joan Finch by Casimir Pulaski S.A.R. Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Years of Service Medals Awarded for February 24, 2024:
20 Years: Jim Swinson
15 Years: Charles Scott McDonald
10 Years: Robert Donald Hilliard, Charles Grant Hilliard, James Justin Hilliard, Owen Robert Gagnon, Selby Ronnie Pate, Michael Ronnie Pate, and Garrett Michael Pate
5 Years: Gerald Eugene Lyle, G. Shane Lyle, Graham MacDonald Lyle, Carter Lyle Huffman, Cooper Charles Huffman, and Chandler Witt Huffman
Below are photos of those present at the lunch to receive their Years of Service Medals in person:
Above: Jim Swinson (right) receiving 20 Years of Service Medal from Chapter Sec/Treas Mike Campbell.
Above: Ronnie Pate receiving 10 Years of Service Medal from Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Above: Gerald Eugene Lyle receiving 5 Years of Service Medal from Chapter President Jim Swinson.
Some additional photos from our February 24, 2024 annual meeting/lunch:
----------
February 9-11, 2024
The Battle of Kettle Creek was the first major victory for Patriots in the back country of Georgia during the American Revolutionary War that took place on February 14, 1779. It was fought in Wilkes County about eleven miles from present-day Washington, Georgia. A militia force of Patriots decisively defeated and scattered a Loyalist militia force that was on its way to British-controlled Augusta (Source: Wikipedia).
A celebration of the Patriot victory will occur February 9-11, 2024, in Washington, GA, which is along I-20 about 156 miles (approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes) east of Carrollton, GA. The three day celebration includes a wreath presentation; buffet; self-guided walking tour; battlefield reenactment; museum; parade with color guard and other participants; library presentation on activities at the battlefield; and memorial service. Click this link for full details, including how to sign up to participate in some of the events, such as the wreath presentation:
----------
January 6, 2024
Tim Clark was sworn in as a new member of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of SAR on January 6, 2024. Below are photos of the event.
Swearing in ceremony: Chapter President Jim Swinson and Tim Clark.
Chapter President Jim Swinson presenting Tim Clark the Certificate of Membership in the S.A.R.
New Casimir Pulaski Chapter member Tim Clark and Chapter President Jim Swinson.
From left to right: Anne Clark (wife), Tim Clark, and Jim Swinson.
----------
----------
Members of the Sweetwater Chapter of the DAR and the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of SAR were present to offer appreciation and respect to members of the armed forces, past and present. Below the article is a photo of the DAR and SAR members present for this special occasion.
August 9, 2023
By Helen McCoy Special to the Douglas County Sentinel
If you served in the armed forces, past or present, the Douglasville Police Department wants to thank you for your service at an Appreciation Cookout this Saturday. Don’t let the month throw you off, said Chief Dr. Gary Sparks.
A veteran himself, Sparks knows like everyone else that Veterans Day nationally is observed on November 11, so no need to check your calendar or question the sanity of the police department. There’s never a bad time to celebrate military members or say thanks, he said.
“This is our way of appreciating all of our military men and women for their service to our country,” Sparks said. “Traditionally, there’s a parade and a few activities in November, but we thought a day of thanks during the summer would be equally welcomed.”
The event, which is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will be held on the front lawn of the Public Safety Complex, 2083 Fairburn Road.
All military persons, past and present, are invited, along with their family members. Participants will be treated to hamburgers, hot dogs, ice cream and other cookout foods. There will also be games for children, and other activities so everyone is encouraged to bring popup tents and lawn chairs for an opportunity to fellowship and have fun.
There will be 15 tables of representatives providing information on everything from education to senior assistance to the VA, according to Sgt. Shannon Dean, community outreach coordinator. A representative from the American Legion will also be on hand, she said.
“Sometimes it’s just lip service when we see someone in uniform and say, ‘thank you for your service’,” Sparks said. “We just want to show that we appreciate the sacrifices that service members and their families make while serving in the military.”
For additional information, you may contact Sgt. Shannon Dean at 678-293-1621.
Above: Douglasville Police Department Chief Dr. Gary Sparks.
From left to right: Sweetwater Chapter of the DAR Michelle Norfleet, Lisa Meek (Chapter Regent), Charlotte Berry, Sharon Bachtel, Linda Wilson, Brenda Christian; and Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the SAR Greg Goggans (Chapter Historian and Webmaster).
----------
June 8, 2023
The photo below shows Chapter member Ed Carlton (left) presenting the Silver Good Citizenship Medal to compatriot Franklin D. Veal (U.S. Air Force-retired) (right) for his service.
----------
May 29, 2023
The photo below shows Chapter member Ed Carlton (right) presenting the Silver Service Medal to compatriot Franklin D. Veal (U.S. Air Force-retired) (left) on Memorial Day for his service.
----------
April 21, 2023
History awards and scholarships, including the Casimir Pulaski Sons of the American Revolution Scholarship, were presented at the University of West Georgia's 2023 History Awards Program on April 21, 2023. Below is the agenda for the awards program:
----------
April 21, 2023
University of West Georgia student Zachary Taylor was awarded the Casimir Pulaski Sons of the American Revolution Scholarship by Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell at the 2023 History Awards Program at the University of West Georgia. See photos below:
Above: Mike Campbell presenting the Pulaski Scholarship certificate to Zachary Taylor.
Above: Dr. Keith Pacholl (University of West Georgia professor), Zachary Taylor, Mike Campbell, and Jim Swinson.
----------
April 20, 2023
Debbie Haught from the Alleghany Chapter of the D.A.R. presented the National Defense Committee ROTC Medal to three high school cadets: Below from left to right are Debbie Haught and cadets Amanda Passman, Satria Knight, and Grace Lyle:
Below: The D.A.R. National Defense Committee ROTC Medal presented to Senior Army Cadet Grace Lyle.
----------
April 18, 2023
At the April 18, 2023 regular meeting of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, the chapter inducted three new members: Ben Moon, Cliff Potter, and Richard Wagner. Each received a membership certificate from chapter President Jim Swinson.
Pam Lyle, past Regent of the James Stewart Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.), was presented a Daughters of Liberty medal and certificate by President Swinson.
Julia Saint, Regent of the James Stewart Chapter, presented Jim Swinson an Eagle Award in appreciation for his contributions to her chapter.
See photos below:
Above: Ben Moon and Jim Swinson
Above: Cliff Potter and Jim Swinson
Above: Richard Wagner and Jim Swinson
Above: Pam Lyle, past Regent of the James Stewart Chapter of D.A.R., receives the Daughters of Liberty medal and certificate from the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of S.A.R. President Jim Swinson.
Above: Julia Saint, Regent of the James Stewart Chapter of D.A.R., presents the Eagle Award to the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of S.A.R. President Jim Swinson in appreciation for his contributions to her chapter.
----------
Mar 1, 2023
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced the selection of the 2022-2023 Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program “Conserve Georgia” grants for conservation and outdoor recreation projects.
Selected applicants will now be invited to the second-level application, marking the final level of the application process for their proposals. This cycle will commit $28.7 million in funding to support local parks, trails systems and state-owned lands. Grantees have also committed an estimated $35 million to match grant dollars.
“Since the establishment of the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program, applicants have completed 13 projects totaling $106 million dollars of investment,” said DNR Commissioner Mark Williams. “These projects support parks and trails and protect land critical to wildlife. This year’s project slate will expand these efforts to ensure Georgia’s citizens have greater outdoor recreation access than ever.”
The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program is Georgia’s first source of dedicated funding for the conservation of priority lands, the stewardship of state parks and wildlife management areas, and the support of local parks and trails. The competitive 2022-2023 grant cycle produced 55 submissions requesting a total of $107 million dollars in funding. Eligible applicants included local governments, recreation authorities, state agencies and certain non-profit organizations. The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund Board of Trustees reviewed all projects and selected a slate of proposals, which was subsequently approved by the Board of Natural Resources and the Appropriations Subcommittees of the State House of Representatives and State Senate over DNR.
The mission of the Department of Natural Resources is to sustain, enhance, protect and conserve Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources for present and future generations, while recognizing the importance of promoting the development of commerce and industry that utilize sound environmental practices. For more information, visit www.gadnr.org.
Of the 12 selected projects, one is in Wilkes County for $1,423,990 for: Conserving Georgia’s Revolutionary War Victory. Wilkes County plans to acquire two parcels of land totaling approximately 178 acres to expand the Kettle Creek Battlefield Park. This project will construct handicap accessible trails, hiking trails of dirt surfaces, mountain biking trails, restrooms, outdoor classrooms/education pavilion, wildlife viewing, RV and primitive camping sites, parking lot and electric park access gate. Monuments, interpretive signage and way finding signage will be installed.
Department of Natural Resources, State Parks & Historic Sites Division
----------
----------
Casimir Pulaski Chapter SAR President Jim Swinson presents a donation to Abraham Baldwin DAR Chapter Regent Joan Finch to support their Veterans Day flag fund. The presentation was made at the DAR-SAR Luncheon on November 12, 2022 at the Little Hawaiian Restaurant in Carrollton, Georgia.
----------
On Veterans Day: Chapter President Jim Swinson and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell honor chapter member and veteran Franklin Dewey Veal for his service.
----------
On November 3, 2022, Dr. Alan Taylor, a well-known historian and winner of two Pulitzer Prizes for books written in the field of Early America, gave the inaugural lecture in honor of Dr. John Ferling. The event took place at the University of West Georgia.
Dr. Ferling is a leading historian and writer on the American Revolution and founding era. He has spoken to our SAR chapter and appeared in documentaries on PBS, the History Channel, the Learning Channel, and C-Span Book TV.
Several SAR members, including members of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, and DAR members, were in the audience for Mr. Taylor's lecture.
Keynote speaker Dr. Alan Taylor and Dr. John Ferling.
Audience for the lecture.
----------
On October 23, 2022, Daughters, Sons, and Descendants met to dedicate a Grave Marker in memory of Revolutionary War Patriot and Soldier Maher Shallal Hasby Lyle. The ceremony was sponsored by the James Stewart Chapter NSDAR, Casimir Pulaski Chapter GASSAR, and Lyman Hall Chapter GASSAR. Here are a few photos, most of which are from a post on Georgia State Society DAR's (GSDAR) Facebook page by GSDAR member Pamela Samford Dover.
Carter J. Wood, President, Lyman Hall Chapter GASSAR, welcomes guests.
Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson presenting wreath.
Pamela Lyle, Honorary Chapter Regent, James Stewart Chapter NSDAR, and Descendant of Maher Lyle, presents the Patriot's Biography.
The grave and marker honoring Patriot and Soldier Maher Shallal Hasby Lyle.
Descendants and Casimir Pulaski SAR members unveil a photo of the grave marker.
Eden Pethel, Eagles of Liberty NSCAR, presents a wreath.
The SAR honors the patriot.
GSSNSDAR State Regent Betty Harrah brings greetings.
The Color Guard presents the Colors.
Georgia Society SAR Color Guard.
The Musket Salute.
DAR and SAR members present at the ceremony to honor Patriot Lyle.
----------
On September 24, 2022, Daughters, Sons, and Descendants met to dedicate a Grave Marker in memory of Revolutionary War Patriot and Soldier Michael McCarty. The ceremony was sponsored by the Sons of the American Revolution: Button Gwinnett Chapter, Georgia Society, and the Birmingham Chapter, Alabama Society; and by the Daughters of the American Revolution: the Dr. Elisha Dick Chapter of Virginia, and the Cahawba Chapter of Alabama.
The dedication took place at the Franklin Family Cemetery, McCarty Town Road, Quinton, Alabama. Several SAR and DAR chapters presented wreaths.
Private Michael McCarty’s service began at the age of 23 in the Carolina Mounted Militia and took him into battles in SC and GA, including the Second Siege of Augusta in 1782. Michael lived a long life and died in 1850 at the age of 96.
Button Gwinnett Chapter SAR President Don McCarty at his ancestor’s grave marking.
Casimir Pulaski Chapter President Jim Swinson and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell.
Button Gwinnett Chapter SAR President Don McCarty and Casimir Pulaski Chapter Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell.
----------
On April 30th, chapter members Jim Swinson, Dick Whitten, and Ronnie Pate devoted time to cleaning up the grave of Nimrod Jones in the very old Jones family cemetery at 150 Shadinger road in Carrollton, Georgia. Nimrod Jones was an early settler of Carroll county and a Revolutionary War soldier.
Above: Grave site of Nimrod Jones, Revolutionary War soldier and an early settler of Carroll County, Georgia. The grave marker was placed by the Abraham Baldwin chapter of the NSDAR in 1997.
Above: Ronnie Pate, Dick Whitten, and Jim Swinson.
----------
by Julie Lineback
January 12, 2022
https://www.westga.edu/.../endow-ferling-scholarship.php
Thanks to the generous support of the local Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution (GSSAR) and other community members and organizations, the John Ferling Scholarship in the University of West Georgia’s history program has been established as a fully endowed scholarship to support graduate history students with their research.
The scholarship is named for Dr. John Ferling, professor emeritus of history, who taught at UWG for more than 30 years and is considered one of the nation’s leading historians in the American Revolution. It will be presented annually to recognize scholarly activity excellence.
“The John Ferling Scholarship addresses a fundamental need for history graduate students,” said Dr. Keith Pacholl, professor of history. “Our students engage in exciting research that often requires access to sources beyond the university, so this scholarship will open up new doors and allow them to make meaningful contributions in the field.”
Dr. Mike Campbell ‘75 ‘77 ‘85, UWG alum and secretary/treasurer of the GSSAR chapter, said the members have been wanting to officially honor the historian for years.
“John Ferling is one of the most knowledgeable persons on the American Colonial period and the American Revolution in our country,” Campbell said. “This endowed scholarship was not something we had to do but something we wanted to do to show our respect for him and to support the university.”
Violette Denney, chairperson of the Abraham Baldwin Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution, said Ferling embodies her organization’s commitment to preserving American history. It is out of appreciation they made the initial gift that created the fund.
“He is exactly what we need – somebody to record our history accurately,” she said. “All the books he’s written make our history real.”
Before writing critically acclaimed books such as “Jefferson and Hamilton: The Rivalry That Forged a Nation” and “Independence: The Struggle to Set America Free,” Ferling was himself a graduate student who benefited from a grant similar to the one that currently bears his name.
“I had my first taste of research while still in graduate school, thanks to a grant that my mentor, Elizabeth Cometti, secured for me from the Society of Colonial Dames,” Ferling recalled. “It led me to places I never imagined I would go – from the Library of Congress to the New York Public Library to the archives at Mount Vernon.”
Campbell – having multiple degrees in history and social studies from UWG – witnessed firsthand the importance of giving back to the university.
“Being in a graduate program and attempting to do original research can be a daunting task, especially in the financial realm,” he said. “Recipients of the John Ferling Scholarship will be able to use these funds to support their research efforts and encourage them to support scholarships for generations.”
Pacholl said he and the program remain grateful.
“We are incredibly thankful to the donors from our community who have made this scholarship a reality,” he shared. “This unique opportunity will help our students flourish in their careers.”
In addition to the scholarship, the John Ferling Distinguished Lecture Series in United States History is also launching in 2022. Both are representations of Ferling’s legacy at UWG and beyond.
“I hope my students grew to love history more as a result of my courses and learned to think critically,” Ferling concluded. “I hope the books I’ve written will inspire readers not only to read more deeply in the American Revolution and Early American Republic but gain a better understanding of those eras. With a bit of luck, maybe they’ll rethink some of what they might previously have thought they knew about those periods and the men and women who lived in those times.”
For more information about how you can make an impact by supporting UWG through an endowment, scholarship or annual giving, please visit UWG’s Give West page.
Photography by Julia Mothersole
In the group photo above: Front row: Dr. Keith Pacholl, History Department, University of West Georgia (UWG); Ketty Cusick, UWG Senior Director of Development and University Advancement; Dr. John Ferling, UWG Professor Emeritus of History; Dr. Mike Campbell '75 '77 '85, Casimir Pulaski-GSSAR Secretary/Treasurer. Middle row: Sue Carlton, Sweetwater Chapter DAR; George Wheeless '94 '97, Casimir Pulaski-GSSAR Registrar. Back row: Ed Carlton; Lt. Cdr. Jimmy G. Swinson USN (Ret.) '70, Casimir Pulaski-GSSAR president. Photo by UWG University Communications and Marketing.
Dr. John Ferling
----------
On December 18, 2021, at noon, Wreaths Across America will be at Marietta National Cemetery to remember and honor our veterans through the laying of remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country's fallen heroes and by the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud as we lay the wreath. For more information on this event, click here.
Note: The Casimir Pulaski Chapter of S.A.R. participates in the Wreaths Across America Program. Our Chapter sponsors nine wreaths for Marietta National Cemetery in Marietta, Georgia.
Wreaths Across America (WAA) is overwhelmed with the outpouring of support from communities throughout the country for its Mobile Education Exhibit (MEE). The MEE is a rolling interactive exhibit that Remembers the nation's fallen veterans, Honors those who serve, and Teaches the next generation about the value of freedom. In February 2021, the MEE left Maine and began its national tour in Alabama and will be finishing this year's tour as a member of "the escort to Arlington" the weeklong outreach event which will culminate at Arlington National Cemetery for Wreaths Across America Day on Dec. 18th.
Today, WAA announces the plans for 2022. Next year's MEE national tour will begin in February and head to South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida. In March, it returns to Alabama and visits Mississippi for the first time. In April, Louisiana and Arkansas will be the focus of the tour. In May, the MEE will turn north and visit Ohio, Michigan, and parts of Wisconsin. The exhibit will continue in WI in June, but then travel to Minnesota. From there, it will make its way out West, welcoming home Vietnam Veterans in all new areas of the country including Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. Starting in September 2022, the MEE will begin to make its way back East stopping in Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri before joining next year's escort to Arlington.
For more information on Wreaths Across America, click here.
Wreaths Across America - Arlington National Cemetery.
Boy scout laying wreath on the grave of a fallen hero.
“I am so proud that being in the right place at the right time made it possible for an important artifact to return back to Heard County,“ said Pamela Lyle, Regent of the James Stewart Chapter, NSDAR. when she attended the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, NSSAR, she was seated at a table beside Sandra Vierling from the Abraham Baldwin Chapter, NSDAR. As they talked, she mentioned that two of the members of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter were coming to Franklin to take part in the James Stewart Chapter’s Veterans Day program. Sandra and Pam shared their contact information. Sandra told Pam that she had an Indian grinding stone from Heard County that needed to come back to Heard County and asked if Pamela thought the Heard County Historical Society would be interested. Pamela got Sandra’s contact information and called Historical Society President Paige Harrod about the stone. Paige was thrilled to accept the stone so Pam let Sandra know.
About two weeks later Sandra let Pam know that the two gentlemen from Casimir Pulaski SAR would be bringing the stone to Franklin when they came for the program. Pam let Paige know and she contacted Donna Waugh, Museum Coordinator, to make plans for the Indian grinding stone to be welcomed back to Heard County. On November 13th, the stone was delivered to the Old Jail Museum by Jim Swinson and Mike Campbell of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, NSSAR. Paige Harrod and Donna Waugh were on hand to accept the gift.
Sandra Vierling sent her history of the grinding stone along with the stone: “In 1979, my parents, Harold and Nadine Garner, bought the Heard County farm called Corner Post Farm because of the location at Hwy 34 and Pea Ridge Road. Gandy Glover sold it to them and we immediately purchased it from them as a place to get on the land, hunt, enjoy a lake and woods. A sawmill had recently vacated and left piles of wood near the original barn and house. The old house was fixed up a bit so we could spend Friday nights there. My husband, Larry, got a tractor so he could clean things up. He also loved that he had a hayfield to cut and bail and sell the hay. He had Coastal Bermuda grass planted and a pole barn was built onto the existing one. Mr. Dean made three hay cuttings a year for us. The Arringtons, across the street, had been working and planting the garden area next to the driveway of the old house. They put in turnips and greens. One year we decided to plant butternut squash for a summer crop. While turning the ground, we found many arrowheads and a large grinding stone.
We were approached to sell part of our 119 acres to Heard County for construction of a new school. In 2002-3 we sold the whole farm to them. The grinding stone was moved to Carroll County and our new home location on Hog Liver Road for safe keeping. It stayed there until November 2021 when it was donated to the Heard County Historical Society.”
The Historical Society wishes to thank Vierling family for the donation, the members of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, NSSAR, for transporting it to the museum, and Pamela Lyle, Regent of the James Stewart Chapter, NSDAR who facilitated the donation.
Meritorious Award Service Certificate. Photo by UWG University Communications and Marketing.
Dr. Mike Campbell presenting award to Dr. John Ferling. Photo by UWG University Communications and Marketing.
November 13, 2021
A dedication ceremony for a bench honoring Heard County veterans was Saturday in Franklin. Pictured left to right are Mike Campbell, Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR). Tracey Hunt, James Stewart Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution; Bethany Dunmire and Gabby Smith of the Centralhatchee Elementary School Braves Patrol; and Jim Swinson, Interim President of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter NSSAR.
The park that honors all those Carroll County veterans who served our county will be rededicated this Memorial Day weekend, in a ceremony marking 20 years since it was first dedicated.
The Saturday, May 29, program will begin with music by the Carrollton Wind Ensemble at 10:30 a.m. The ceremony will begin at 11 a.m. and conclude at noon. It will be hosted by the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association, while Park Association President and veteran Barry Gardner LTC US Army (ret) will emcee. Carroll County Board of Commissioners Chairman Michelle Morgan will lead the rededication. The park is located at 1050 Newnan Road in Carrollton.
Gardner said the event will include the history of the park and will “honor those whose foresight and dedication made the park possible and rededicate the park to honor the veterans of Carroll County.”
Morgan, who will present a rededication proclamation on behalf of the county, cited the passion of residents who helped the park become a reality. She said her own family was involved from the beginning.
The park was begun as an effort to provide the veterans of Carroll County with an appropriate memorial, to have a prestigious place to assemble for Memorial and Veterans Day programs, and to give people a quiet place to remember their loved ones.
Work on the park began in November 2000, a year after the veteran’s park association held its initial meeting and was first dedicated on Nov. 10, 2001, with Georgia Sen. Max Cleland as the featured speaker.
In 2002, the first Wall of Honor at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park was completed with 24 plaques honoring veterans. Today, 28 completed walls contain the names of more than 1,300 veterans from the county and a 29th is underway.
The park also has a POW/MIA monument and the Killed In Action (KIA) walls that contain the names of all the Carroll County veterans of all the U.S. wars beginning with the American Revolution.
The POW/MIA “Missing Man Table” was the concept and work of Drake Pauley, a Carroll County School System student, and an Eagle Scout.
The KIA Walls honor the 332 from Carroll County killed in action in all wars since the Revolution. Both monuments were dedicated in 2018.
The Women’s Wall brings attention to the contribution of women in all wars since the Revolution. The Emblem Wall contains the official emblem for each branch of the military. The Contributor Wall of Honor contains the names of those who have given $500 or more toward building the park and is updated as new contributors qualify.
Other features at the park include walkways, an information booth, brick and plaque index, bell tower, pavilion flagpole, lamp posts, benches and landscaping.
Veterans organizations that will participate in the May 29 rededication include American Legion Post 143, Military Officers Association of America, Marine Corps League, AMVETS Post 99, Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of Confederate Veterans, and Disabled American Veterans.
The Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park is adjacent to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and across the street from West Georgia Technical College.
On Tuesday, April 20, 2021, Casimir Pulaski Chapter member Ed Carlton presented the Junior ROTC Award from the chapter at the Alexander High School, Douglasville, Georgia, Honors Day program. Also in attendance for the chapter was member Greg Goggans.
Georgia State Society NSDAR Regent OB McCorkle, James Stewart Chapter DAR Regent Pamela Ann Lyle and DAR Service for Veterans State Chairman Nancy Coleman are shown.
Special to The Times-Georgian
The Outstanding DAR Service for Veterans Award is given to a Daughters of the American Revolution member in recognition of outstanding care given to veterans in any of the following areas, including, but not limited to: Department of Veterans Affairs facilities, state veterans’ facilities, nursing homes, shelters, and outpatient clinics.
The outstanding NSDAR volunteer has given more than her time. She has made meaningful contributions to veterans through creative and resourceful outreach.
Pamela Ann Lyle, regent of the James Stewart Chapter NSDAR, was honored as the 2020 Outstanding DAR Service for Veterans Award Recipient at the 2021 Georgia State Society NSDAR Conference Opening Banquet on March 19. Her husband, Vietnam veteran David Posey, and several chapter members were in attendance at the formal dinner held in honor of the Service for Veterans awards winners.
Pamela’s acceptance speech was moving. She humbly thanked others as she said, “Madam State Regent, honored guests, Georgia daughters, as the daughter of a World War II veteran and the wife of a Vietnam veteran, this award has great meaning and I look forward to taking it back home to the dedicated and patriotic women of the James Stewart Chapter that made it possible. I would like to thank Carla Brown for laying the foundation of a great veterans program that we continue to build upon, and to Julia Saint, chapter officer and my friend for letting me drag her up and down Highway 27 on numerous occasions just to take a cup of hot and decent coffee to the veterans in the nursing home.
“In closing, I want to thank my David for being here with me tonight. For 10 years, he never once asked, ‘Why?’ or ‘How much?’ Instead, his questions were always, ‘When?’ and ‘How can I help?’ Thank you again for this honor.”
As part of the New Horizon’s Leadership Program in 2017, her first project with our chapter was the Spirit of ‘45 project to recognize WWII veterans. The Spirit of ’45 was a nationwide project to locate photos and place them on a Wall of Honor that would be placed on the National Mall in September 2020 on the 75th Anniversary of the end of World War II.
Devoting many hours to this project in honor of her father’s service, Pamela wrote and submitted an articles to the local papers, inviting them to be a part of this historic project. Many people from around the community came to the July 4th celebration and brought their pictures with the names of their family members to be honored in this special way.
She spearheads chapter support of local nursing home veterans. Before collecting and buying Christmas gifts for the veterans in our local nursing home and assisted living home, Pamela talked to each veteran and tailored the gifts to fit their needs and wishes.
She brought Paws4Bravery to present a program to our chapter and the American Legion. This introduced the organization to the citizens of Heard County and the local veterans.
She has spearheaded several projects honoring our oldest veteran. She had a flag flown over the capital on May 30, 2018, in Mr. Thomas Lipford’s honor. Members presented it to Mr. Thomas at his home with his family present in June. Pam had May 30, 2019, proclaimed Thomas Lipford Day by our county commissioner in honor of Mr. Thomas’ 100th birthday. Our state Sen. Matt Brass and Mr. Lipford’s children joined chapter members in a ceremony at the courthouse.
Pamela started a “Breakfast for Vets” event. She worked with our local Hardees to start a local Memorial Day/Armed Forces Day “Breakfast for Vets!” program inviting local veterans to join us for a biscuit and drink between 7 and 9 a.m. on Memorial Day. Chapter members handed out tickets to the veterans for their “free biscuit and drink” and presented tokens of appreciation for their service. These included pens, mugs, flags, and cards.
She has organized special Veterans Day programs. In 2018, the James Stewart Chapter held a Veterans Day program/lunch at the local 4-H center and mailed invitations to more than 200 local veterans (with one guest). We had 55 veterans attend. Members decorated the facility with military displays and festive center pieces. Pamela had a special WWII display at the front of the room. All veterans received a special veterans cup and flag pin in their gift bags. The chapter furnished subway sandwiches and the members provided chips and wonderful homemade desserts.
In 2019, Pamela worked with the town of Centralhatchee on a joint Veterans Day program. Chapter members took part in the program at the Veterans Park in Centralhatchee. Pam had members of the Braves Flag Patrol from Centralhatchee Elementary hand out flags to all attendees and hoist the flag for the program. The flag patrol was begun by Pamela and Flag chair Jane Barker to train local students in proper flag etiquette.
Then the veterans and guests were invited to join the JSC DAR ladies at the community center for brunch. We fed more than 60 veterans and all their guests that day and presented each veteran with a veteran appreciation cap.
In 2020, the chapter decided not to get all the local veterans together for a meal because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Pamela worked with her Service for Veterans committee and plans were made to buy a bench for the local veteran’s park and dedicate it to all Heard County veterans. It has been installed and Pam is planning a special dedication ceremony for it once COVID is over.
To celebrate Vietnam Veterans Day, she has arranged for proclamations from our local Commission Chairman and the chapter has started mailing out cards to all our local Vietnam veterans thanking them for their service each March.
Pamela has worked to develop a relationship with our local American Legion. She has invited them to several meetings where our programs were appropriate for both groups, worked together on veteran appreciation projects, and has enlisted them in helping us locate and honor veterans.
Chapter members attended the American Legion flag retirement program. Pamela attended a meeting and presented a Certificate of Appreciation for their Flag Program to the Legion. Chapter members attended the American Legion’s POW/MIA ceremony and thanked the Legion Riders for their service. Christmas 2019, the legion furnished the fruit and our DAR ladies furnished the baskets, wraps, and ribbons to make fruit baskets for the veterans in the nursing home. Chapter members visited each veteran to see what fruit they liked and the baskets were personalized.
Pamela is working with the American Legion as plans are being made for the Vietnam Wall to come to Heard County in 2021.
Under Pamela’s guidance, our chapter nominated local veteran Durell Langley for the DAR Outstanding Veteran Volunteer Award. She did all the paperwork and he won at the state level and at the SE District level.
Not only does Pamela involve the chapter in these wonderful activities, she also has several personal projects. When visiting the nursing home veterans, two mentioned that the coffee was not the best. From that time on, whenever she is in the area, she makes it a point to go by Hardees and get them a coffee fixed just the way they like it.
In the evenings, she crochets blankets for the nursing home veterans. Once one is complete, she delivers it to the lucky vet and then starts another. She carries “Thank You for Your Service “ bags in her trunk to hand out to veterans she might meet, and several other members are now following in her footsteps.
Pamela received a Certificate of Appreciation for her service as a Commemorative Partner with the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War Commemoration on March 12, 2015. This award was presented from the Button Gwinnett Chapter, Georgia Society and the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Working as a safety consultant for federal regulations, she contracts with trucking companies around the metro Atlanta area. New DOT regulations now make it possible for veterans to use their experience in the armed forces to qualify for these positions. She has educated these trucking companies on the changes to the federal rules which has resulted in an increased veteran hiring of 10% up to 33% in her various client-companies.
DAR Chapter Chairman Violette Denney presented Matthew Basil with the certificate and lapel pin at the group’s October meeting.
Special to the Times-Georgian
Recently the Abraham Baldwin Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution presented a Community Service Award to Matthew Basil.
Basil, an Eagle Scout candidate, planned and completed “The Eagle Scout Public Health Education and Awareness Program” as his project. Chapter Chairman Violette Denney presented the Certificate and lapel pin at the Chapter October meeting, in the classroom at Tanner Medical Center.
Prior to the presentation, conductor Terry Lowry and the orchestra presented Historic and Patriotic music along with stories about our history.
The Community Service Award is presented by the Daughters of the American Revolution to honor and recognize individuals for unpaid/volunteer service to their community, which was performed in an outstanding way.
The application for making this award is approved by the State Society and Southeast Division, as well as the National Society DAR.
The group believes that Basil’s project, in which he taught more than 300 students how to properly wash their hands to stop the coronavirus virus, helped to save lives. Each of those who participated shared the information with their family and friends — making it a far-reaching lesson for our community.
Contributed photo Flag Day was officially established by presidential proclamation from President Woodrow Wilson on May 30, 1916, but it would take another 33 years for President Harry Truman to sign an Act of Congress designating June 14 as the official National Flag Day, which he did on Aug. 3, 1949.
The American flag is a symbol of the country’s history, pride and success in overcoming political oppression. Through its many incarnations and variations, the Stars and Stripes has waved over government buildings, schools and private residences.
According to History.com, in 1775, the Second Continental Army led to the creation of the first “American” flag. However, since that flag was too similar to the British Union Jack flag, George Washington requested a revision. In 1777, the Second Continental Congress passed a resolution stating that the “flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white.” Furthermore, the “union” was represented by 13 stars of white in a blue field, “representing a new constellation.”
More than a century later, a small-town Wisconsin teacher named Bernard Cigrand came up with the idea for an annual flag day in 1885. Even though the Fourth of July, a holiday in which the flag is prominently and proudly displayed, had long been celebrated as the birthday of the United States, Cigrand wanted a holiday that would focus specifically on the flag in all its glory.
June 14 was selected because it marked the anniversary of the official adoption of the first flag. Cigrand led his school in the first formal observance of the holiday, and throughout his life continued to advocate for respect of the flag.
Various other organizations advocated the idea of a day to honor the flag, including the State Board of Education of New York, the Betsy Ross House and the New York Society of the Sons of the Revolution. Yet, it wasn’t until May 30, 1916, that Flag Day was officially established by presidential proclamation from President Woodrow Wilson. Still, it would take another 33 years for President Harry Truman to sign an Act of Congress designating June 14 as the official National Flag Day, which he did on Aug. 3, 1949.
Americans can honor the flag by displaying it on Flag Day. Here’s how to display the flag properly, courtesy of Military.com.
• The flag should be free of any obstructions, such as power lines or tree limbs.
• If displayed with other flags, Old Glory should be at the top-most point or in the center of a horizontal array of flags.
• If the flag is displayed on its side, the blue field should be to the left.
• The flag should be raised in the morning at a residence or business and taken down at night. The only exception to the flag being out at night is if it’s illuminated.
• Flags can be repaired. However, if a flag is tattered, it can be removed and brought to a local VFW hall to be properly disposed of.
Charles Carroll of Carrollton, signer of the Declaration of Independence and the namesake of Carroll County, did one thing for his country that no other Founding Father could do:
He outlived them.
Because of that one fact, many places across the country are named after him and more than a dozen are named Carrollton, the Maryland estate that Carroll included in his signature. Nevermind that Carroll never lived at the estate; nevermind that he never visited any of the towns with that name — including Carrollton, Georgia.
But on Monday, Sept. 9, he will arrive here – after a fashion. A portrait of the wealthiest revolutionary in the Continental Congress will be handed over to officials of Carroll County, who soon will put the painting on permanent display in the Historic Court House on Newnan Street.
The ceremony, to start at 9 a.m. in the Commission meeting room, will be conducted by members of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Georgia Society, Sons of the American Revolution. It will be the culmination of a decade-long dream of Chapter members to place a likeness of Carroll in his honorary hometown.
Carroll was one of 56 men to sign the Declaration of Independence, joining other Founding Fathers from Maryland in affixing his name below that of John Hancock, president of the Second Continental Congress.
Contrary to popular belief, that signing took place on Aug. 2, 1776. The Independence Day that we celebrate, July 4, was the date that the final wording of the Declaration was agreed upon by the delegates. It was also the date that Charles Carroll became a delegate – he had nothing to do with the resolution to declare independence or the wrangling over its words.
But in signing the document – an act of high treason in the eyes of the British government – Carroll was risking far more than the other signers, and his doing so was much more an act of defiance than it was for most of the other Founders.
Carroll was born on Sept. 19, 1737, and named after his father and grandfather. The eldest Charles Carroll, called “The Settler” by the family, had arrived in the Colony of Maryland in 1689. In fact, he fled to America to escape religious persecution.
The Carrolls were Catholic, and being Catholic in a Protestant nation – where the King was head of the church and Anglicism was the state religion – was very difficult. Although Maryland was meant to be a haven of tolerance for Catholics within an intolerant kingdom, that changed soon after the elder Carroll arrived. All of Britain, including her colonies, became a place where no Catholic could hold public office, or freely exercise their religion.
But it wasn’t illegal for Catholics to own land, and that was a talent in which all the Carrolls excelled. By the time the third person with the name Charles Carroll arrived, the family was extremely wealthy in land, cash – and people. The family was one of the largest slaveholders in Maryland.
Young Charles Carroll was educated in Europe, where he became fluent in French and was steeped in the Enlightenment philosophy that was fomenting rebellion in the American colonies. The religious discrimination that Carroll personally experienced only fueled his revolutionary fervor.
When he returned to Maryland, Carroll got a name for himself after he was outed as the author of a series of inflammatory, anti-British newspaper columns that he signed “First Citizen.” By then, he was the richest man in Maryland, if not all the colonies, and that made him an attractive target for recruitment by the Patriots, the name that supporters of revolution gave themselves.
In February 1776, Carroll was selected to go on a diplomatic mission to Canada to convince French Canadians, who were under British control, to join the revolution. He failed, but had made an even bigger name for himself in the process, especially since one of the people who went on the mission with him was Benjamin Franklin.
Maryland rewarded him by sending him as a delegate to the Second Continental Congress. He arrived in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776, two days after the Congress had ratified the resolution for independence.
Despite not having taken part in the debate, Carroll was invited to sign the document with the rest of the Maryland delegation. In doing so, he no doubt knew that if the revolution failed and he was put on trial, not only his life, but his family fortune would be forfeit.
There is a story that when he first signed his name, he left out the “of Carrollton,” until other delegates accused him of hiding behind a very common name. Then again, he usually signed himself “Charles Carroll of Carrollton” to distinguish himself from his father, who, in turn, signed himself “Charles Carroll of Annapolis” to make himself distinct from his settler father.
In any event, Carroll’s name was firmly and historically affixed on the Declaration of Independence, along with the names of John Hancock, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams.
Fifty years to the day later, on July 4, 1826, both Jefferson and Adams coincidentally died. That left Carroll, at age 88, the sole survivor of all the signers.
George Wheeless, president of Carrollton chapter of the Sons of the Revolution, said Carroll became a minor celebrity afterward, lending his name unwittingly to dozens of places across the nation he had helped create.
Carroll County was established by the Georgia Legislature on Dec. 14, 1826, and it seemed perfectly appropriate to name the place after the last living signer. The same was true in 1829 when the new county seat was named after Carroll’s estate in Frederick County, Maryland.
Interestingly, Carroll never lived at the estate called Carrollton; his home was in Annapolis. But he did build a home there for his granddaughter, and occasionally he would visit.
Carroll did more than outlive Jefferson and Adams by six years. He remained in politics until 1800 when he retired to concentrate on his business affairs. He also kept thinking about how the new nation could progress, and so helped create one of the first railroads to be established in the United States.
For nearly a decade, the local Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution had wanted to do something to place a likeness of Charles Carroll in Carrollton. Eventually, they approached Ralph Van Pelt, a Carrollton portrait artist, and he agreed to take on the project.
The result is a copy of a painting of Carroll done in 1827 by Thomas Sully — the same artist, by the way — who did the picture of Andrew Jackson that's on the $20 bill.
After Monday’s dedication, the portrait will be installed near the sealed front doors of the old courthouse, the doors that have panels embossed with the Carroll family crest.
Thomas Hinesley's resting place is in the Carroll County Community of Cross Plains. Hinesley was born in Maryland and served five tours with North Carolina Continental Forces, rising in rank from private to colonel. He died in Carroll County in 1834.
The names of the veterans who fought in the Revolutionary War and later moved to Carroll County are carved into a wall at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park.
George Wheeless, standing a the American Revolutionary War wall at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park, has been researching veterans of the revolution who later settled in Carroll County.
Thomas Hinesley's resting place is in the Carroll County community of Cross Plains. Hinesley was born in Maryland and served five tours with North Carolina Continental forces, rising in rank from private to colonel. He died in Carroll County in 1834.
In America’s war for independence, there were not only uniformed soldiers of two opposing armies, there were also rag-tag militias; groups of neighbors and farmers, some who were loyal to the King of England, others who were patriots of a new American republic.
James Alexander Goggans, originally from Virginia, was one of those Americans, and he was nobody’s sunshine patriot. Wounded in the shoulder at the Battle of Kings Mountain in South Carolina, he was injured in the leg shortly afterward. Then, during another pitched battle, he was whacked over the head with a saber and left for dead. Each time he eventually picked himself up and got back into the fight.
Forty-three years after the Revolution ended, Goggans, now 68, made his way down to Georgia. It was 1826, and the Legislature of the new state had just created a new county out of Creek lands. They called it Carroll.
Goggans was one of at least 17 Revolutionary War soldiers who moved to Carroll County in the years after the war, men whose biographies are being sketched together by local researcher George Wheeless.
A genealogist and president of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, Wheeless and other patriotic groups have had the names of those soldiers carved in stone at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park. They’ve left room for more names, because Wheeless is still researching – and believes he will identify more.
About 250,000 men served as regulars or militiamen for the Revolutionary cause, but experts say there were never more than 90,000 soldiers under arms at any one time. When the war was over, these former soldiers traveled across the former colonies in search of new homes, or followed their families into the frontier. Wherever they went, they were venerated and honored for their fight to make the country free.
Wheeless’ task is more complicated than it might appear. Finding these men involves careful researching through census records, war pension applications and land deeds. What’s more, locating these people within the confines of Carroll County is difficult because the boundaries of the county have shifted and evolved.
A treaty with the Creeks signed in 1825 led the Legislature to divide former indian lands in western Georgia into five sections. In its earliest incarnation, Carroll County was pizza shaped. Its southern border followed the Chattahoochee River from near what is now Six Flags, southwesterly to what is now West Point. Its northern border stretched from Six Flags to the Alabama border northwest of Buchanan in Haralson County. Later, the territory was carved up into Campbell (later Douglas) and Heard counties, and parts of what are now Haralson and Troup counties.
Wheeless has been looking at the records of all those counties to come up with the biographies of these old soldiers, and this is what he has come up with:
Jesse Rowell may have had the most storied career of all the veterans. He served as a private in the First Regiment North Carolina Continental Line. He fought in the battles of Brandywine (September 1777) and Germantown (October 1777), both in Pennsylvania, and Monmouth (June 1778) in New Jersey. He was with Washington’s army at Valley Forge. During the British siege of Charlestown (South Carolina) in 1780, he was taken prisoner and spent the remaining years of the war in a “prison ship” in Charlestown Harbor. He died after 1840 in Carroll County.
John Barber, who was born in 1767 and served as a private in the Third Regiment, Maryland Continental Line. He filed for a pension in the State Court of Carroll County, and died after October 1840.
John Carmichael, who was originally from Pennsylvania and served in the First and Second Battalions of the Pennsylvania Continental Line. By 1836 he was living in Carroll County near present day Tallapoosa. He died in 1848.
James Alexander Goggans, who, after moving to Carroll County in 1826, briefly relocated to Alabama, then returned here, where he became active at what is now Bethany Christian Church on the Carrollton-Villa Rica Road. He was buried there in 1852.
Peter Helton, who was born in North Carolina and served as a first lieutenant under that state’s forces commanded by Gen. Nathaniel Greene. He was severely wounded three times in the Battle of Eutaw Springs (September 1781), which left him permanently disabled.
Thomas Hinesley, was born in Maryland and served in the North Carolina Continental Line. He served five tours, rising in rank from private to colonel, and in 1834, he filed for a pension in Carroll County, the same year he died.
Lazarus Hinson, born in Virginia, also served in North Carolina as a militiaman. He was at the Battle of Camden, South Carolina (August 1780), though saw no action.
Nimrod Jones, like some of these other soldiers, was granted land in a state lottery that divided up former Creek and Cherokee lands. The state allowed him three draws in the lottery, based on their oath that they had served in the Revolution. His draw brought him to Carroll County, where he was elected coroner in 1843.
Minor Mead entered military service in the Sixth Regiment of Virginia militia. The 1830 census showed that he was living in Carroll County, and he died here on March 25, 1837.
Jesse Peters was already in Georgia when the war began. He served as a private in the Third Georgia Continental Regiment and was present at three battles in east Georgia and South Carolina. He filed for a pension in the State Court of Carroll County in 1832.
Levi Phillips, Sr. was born on September 20, 1751, in Cecil County, Maryland. He was living in Rowan Co. North Carolina when he enlisted in a regiment of the Rowan County Militia. In 1828 he was living in Carroll County where he applied for a pension in the State Court of Carroll County in 1831. He died January 14,1840.
John Robinson, Sr. was born on July 11, 1752, in Hanover County, Virginia. When the Revolutionary War started, he was living in Chatham Co. North Carolina. He served in the Fourth and Fifth regiments of the North Carolina Militia,
Gabriel Smith was born in Montgomery County, North Carolina, on December 12, 1764. He served in the Montgomery County Regiment of Militia. In the fall of 1781 he was taken prisoner by some Tories (British loyalists), but after about 3 weeks he escaped. He died in Carroll County in 1841.
Zachariah Stedham was born in 1751 in South Carolina. He served with the South Carolina Troops under the command of Col. Wade Hampton and General Nathaniel Greene. He fought at the Battle of Eutaw Springs, where he was wounded in the face and lost sight in his left eye. He died after 1840.
William York was born in 1755 probably in North Carolina. He enlisted in September of 1776 as a private in the First Regiment North Carolina Continental Line. He fought at the battles of Moore’s Creek Bridge (North Carolina), Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth, then was taken prisoner at the Siege of Charlestown in 1780. William died in Carroll County on July 14, 1837.
William Meryman was born in Virginia, but was living in Granville County, North Carolina, when the Revolutionary War began. He enlisted in the Caswell County Regiment of Militia and fought in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse (March 1781) in North Carolina. In March of 1834 he filed a petition for a pension in the State Court of Carroll County.
Tobias Honea (pronounced Honey) was born in North Carolina and enlisted as a private in the New Bern District Brigade of Militia. Over the course of the war, he served in three other militia units in eastern North Carolina. Tobias died about December 25th 1840.
Although the territory that is now Carroll County was owned by the Creeks and was far from the cockpit of war during the Revolution, it became home – sometimes briefly – to these soldiers, who sought new lives in the land they had set free.
Sons of the American Revolution Ronnie Pate, George Wheeless, Norman Alter, Bob Hilliard and Jim Swinson stand in front of a gravestone while cleaning Hinesley Cemetery.
Locating people who live in Carroll County can be a major job, even in our modern age. George Wheeless has undertaken a more monumental task — finding people who settled here nearly 200 years ago.
Wheeless, president of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), is trying to find the names of all the Revolutionary War veterans who settled in Carroll County during its early 1800s formative years.
“I’ve been working on this project most of the year and still have a long way to go,” Wheeless said. “I have 14 names now, but I’m sure more than that came and settled here.”
Wheeless has used online databases to find some of the information. Those sources have included the 1835 Revolutionary War Pension Rolls, the 1840 U.S. Census data, which listed veterans, and pension applications filed by Revolutionary War veterans.
Each of those sources have limitations and have turned up only a few Carroll County names.
“The Special Collections Room in Neva Lomason Library in Carrollton has copies of the 1835 pension roll,” Wheeless said. “Those volumes list all the states and show Revolutionary War veterans on the pension rolls. It doesn’t catch them all, but I found five names there from Carrollton, some I already knew about.”
The 1840 census listed only the head of the household, but did have a listing of anyone with Revolutionary War military history.
“Of course, by that time, most of the veterans were dead,” he added.
Wheeless said the pension applications include names of war veterans and their widows, if that applied.
Once all the veteran names are located, the Sons of the American Revolution is planning some sort of memorial to those patriots.
“We may put up a stone marker to dedicate to them, with a ceremony,” he said. “We’re talking with the Veterans Memorial Park people to see about honoring them with plaques in the park.”
Wheeless also wants to compile all the biographical material he can on Carroll County Revolutionary War soldiers and put it in a book.
“Carroll County was created on June 25, 1825 after Chief William McIntosh ceded a big chunk of land to Georgia,” he said. “It ran from Villa Rica nearly to Columbus. Several counties came from that land, including Carroll, Troup, Muscogee, Lee, Meriwether and Coweta. It was known as the Treaty of Indian Springs, which later got McIntosh killed.”
Wheeless is hoping to interest more people in finding their own Revolutionary War veterans. One way is through educational classes.
“The Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution will be conducting a genealogy seminar, ‘Finding Your Colonial Ancestor,’” he said. “It will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Carrollton High School library. It’s not just for SAR or DAR applicants, but for anybody who wants to find out about their families that far back.”
The class is free, but the size will be limited to 30 people, due to available computers. Pre-registration will be required by emailing alicerobinsondar@gmail.com.
The DAR meets on the third Saturday or third Thursday each month. For more information contact Alice Robinson at alicerobinsondar@gmail.com.
The Casimir Pulaski SAR Chapter meets the third Tuesday of each month, except for July and December. The meeting contact is George Wheeless at ghwhe2@comcast.net.
Students who placed in the essay contest for the Abraham Baldwin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution were as follows: 8th Grade, 1st Place - Emily Hummer; 7th Grade, 1st Place - Andrew Shirley; and 7th Grade, 2nd Place - Taylor Elrod.
Temple Middle School Student Sydney Price is the 8th grade 1st place winner for the Abraham Baldwin Chapter-Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest for the Carroll County and Carrollton City Schools.
Shown with Sydney is Mrs. Kelly Steele, English/Literature teacher, and Mrs. Gail Parmer, Temple Middle School Principal, as she was presented this honor at the Daughters of the American Revolution meeting on Saturday, March 8th.
