News/Photos
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Table of Contents
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2024 News/Photos
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Sweetwater Chapter of D.A.R. Presents S.A.R. Casimir Pulaski Chapter's George Wheeless with The Hannah White Arnett Bronze Medal of Distinction
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 is 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.
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Special Presentation of S.A.R. Marker and Years of Service Medals to the Late Compatriot Bob Hilliard's Daughter and Grandson at their Home in Evans, GA
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.
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Casimir Pulaski Chapter Annual Meeting/Lunch and Medals Awarded
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:
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Battle of Kettle Creek Celebration
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:
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New Member Swearing in Ceremony for Tim Clark
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.
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2023 News/Photos
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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.
DPD Holding Military Appreciation Cookout on Saturday
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).
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Compatriot Franklin D. Veal Receives Silver Good Citizenship Medal
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.
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Compatriot Franklin D. Veal Receives Silver Service Medal
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.
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2023 History Awards Program at the University of West Georgia
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:
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Casimir Pulaski Scholarship Awarded
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.
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The Alleghany Chapter of the D.A.R. Presented the National Defense Committee ROTC Medal to Three High School Cadets
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.
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New Members Inducted; Medals and Certificates Awarded
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.
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Grants Awarded for Conservation and Outdoor Recreation to Include Expanding Kettle Creek Battlefield Park
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
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2022 News/Photos
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Donation to Veterans Day Fund
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.
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Honoring American Veterans
On Veterans Day: Chapter President Jim Swinson and Secretary/Treasurer Mike Campbell honor chapter member and veteran Franklin Dewey Veal for his service.
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John Ferling Distinguished Lecture Series in American History
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.
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Patriot Grave Marking: Maher Shallal Hasby Lyle
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.
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Patriot Grave Marking: Michael McCarty
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.
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Revolutionary War Soldier Nimrod Jones-Grave Site Cleanup
April 30, 2022
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.
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Stronger Together: Organizations Join Forces to Endow Ferling Scholarship at UWG
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
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2021 News/Photos
Wreaths Across America to be at Marietta National Cemetery on December 18, 2021
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.
Here is the text of an October 26, 2021 news release from Wreaths Across America:
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.
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Indian Grinding Stone Returns Home to Heard County
November 30, 2021
“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.
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Sweetwater DAR Honors Veterans Through Wreaths Across America
November 22, 2021
On Dec.18, at 9 a.m., Wreaths Across America will be at cemetery locations across the state, to remember and honor veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s military veterans.
Sue Carlton, vice regent of the Sweetwater Chapter of Daughters of American Revolution (DAR), is very involved and was contacted by phone.
Carlton said the Sweetwater Chapter of DAR is affiliated primarily with the Georgia National Cemetery (GANCCA) in Canton at 1080 Veterans Cemetery Road, which lists 16,100 vets interred.
The WAA goal of ‘remembrance, honor and teach’ aligns with that of the DAR Carlton said, “... to honor the men and women who achieved American independence and promote the development of an enlightened public opinion and sponsor patriotic citizenship.”
The laying of wreaths ceremony is a deliberate process done respectfully and not brusque, or as an afterthought, Carlton explained.“The wreath is laid and that veteran’s name is said aloud with their service. Then the volunteer will step back and pause for a moment. If that volunteer is military, they may also salute,” she said.
“We’re also involved at the Marietta cemetery,” Carlton said.
Many there at Marietta are Civil War. According to Congress, all from the Civil War are veterans, Carlton said.
In addition to Canton, there are five other Georgia cemetery locations involved and listed on the WAA website at www.wreathsacros america.org, including West Georgia Memorial Park at 4194 Carrollton Villa Rica Hwy. in Carrollton.
And according to the WAA website information, “If you don’t see a location near you, Wreaths Across America will support you in becoming a Location Coordinator for a cemetery in your area. There is no cost to become a participating location and host a Wreaths Across America ceremony.”
The story behind how the program came to be is also provided at the WAA website.
“The donation of wreaths from the Worcester Wreath Co. of Harrington, Maine, began as a personal tribute from the Worcester family to military veterans who gave their lives for this country. The family quietly made these wreath donations to Arlington National Cemetery for nearly 15 years before a photo set them on a path they hadn’t dreamed about.
The photo — of the company’s wreaths at Arlington covered in snow — went viral in 2006. Shortly thereafter, the Worcester Wreath Co. began receiving unsolicited money from people who wanted to participate by sponsoring wreaths themselves. Because there was no mechanism in place for the family to accept the donations, money was returned to donors.
In 2007, the Worcester family, along with veterans, and other groups and individuals who had helped with their annual veterans’ wreath ceremony in Arlington, formed Wreaths Across America, a non-profit 501©(3) organization, to continue and expand this effort.
In 2008, over 300 locations held wreath-laying ceremonies in every state, Puerto Rico and 24 overseas cemeteries. Over 100,000 wreaths were placed on veterans’ graves. Over 60,000 volunteers participated. And that year, Dec. 13 was unanimously voted by the U.S. Congress as “Wreaths Across America Day.
In 2014, Wreaths Across America and its national network of volunteers laid over 700,000 memorial wreaths at 1,000 locations in the U.S. and beyond, including ceremonies at the Pearl Harbor Memorial, as well as Bunker Hill, Valley Forge and the sites of the Sept. 11 tragedies. This was accomplished with help from 2,047 sponsorship groups, corporate contributions, and donations of trucking, shipping, and thousands of helping hands. The organization’s goal of covering Arlington National Cemetery was met in 2014 with the placement of 226,525 wreaths.”
While coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December is a big part of what WAA does, their mission is carried out throughout the year. From the Remembrance Tree program to the Wreaths Across America Museum in Maine, there are many different ways to get involved. WAA also participates in veterans’ events throughout the year, and has a veteran liaison on staff to work with local veterans organizations.
The deadline for donations is Nov. 30. Anyone who cares to make a donation locally can do so by visiting https://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/45270 or calling Sue Carlton at 404-502-6611.
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Dr. Mike Campbell presents Dr. John Ferling with the Meritorious Service Award Certificate
November 18, 2021
Dr. Mike Campbell presenting award to Dr. John Ferling. Photo by UWG University Communications and Marketing.
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Bench Dedicated in Honor of Heard County Veterans
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.
20th Anniversary Celebration of Chapter Founding
On Saturday, October 9, 2021, we celebrated the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of SAR. Chapter members and members of local DAR chapters, and their spouses, gathered at Atlanta's Finest Catering in Douglasville for a nice dinner, speeches, and conversation.
Long-time President George Wheeless had previously announced to the chapter that he would be stepping down as president. At the end of the evening, George reiterated his intention to step down and passed the gavel to Vice President Jim Swinson, who is now the chapter president. George's leadership will be missed. He did an outstanding job leading the chapter. Jim will no doubt do the same.
Here are some photos from the event:
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Carrollton 2021 4th of July Parade
On Saturday, July 3, 2021, members of the chapter and the D.A.R. participated in the Carrollton Fourth of July Parade. As usual, the Chapter had a float in the parade and was positioned near the front of the procession. In the photo above: Back row left to right: Tina Clune, Mary Mallory, Sandy Vierling, and Alice Robinson. Front row left to right: Jim Swinson, Mike Campbell (both in Continental uniform), George Wheeless, Jim Rowell, Norman Alter, and Dick Whitten (militia attire).
May 15, 2021 Memorial Service for Compatriot Hugh Will Barrow (Bill)
May 25, 1926 – May 6, 2020
Where: Bowdon City Cemetery, 450 West Avenue, Bowdon, Georgia
Order of Service:
Posting of the Colors – Casimir Pulaski Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution.
Procession - Family, Reverend Patton, Sons of the American Revolution, Sons of Confederate Veterans, American Legion, Eagle Scouts.
Reverend Patton – Opening prayer
“In the Garden” - Carrolltones
Reverend Patton – Introduction and summary remarks
United States Navy Hymn – Carrolltones
“How Great Thou Art” - Carrolltones
Sons of the American Revolution - Presentation of Wreath, Service Medal
Sons of Confederate Veterans
Eagle Scouts - Pledge
American Legion - Presentation of Flag, Taps, Gun Salute
Reverend Patton – Closing Prayer
“Anchors Aweigh” - Carrolltones
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Memorial Day weekend to include Veterans Park rededication
May 20, 2021 Updated Jun 29, 2021
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.
Junior ROTC Award Presented by SAR
Alexander High School
April 10, 2021
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.
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Pamela Ann Lyle Provides Outstanding Service for Veterans
By Carla Brown James Stewart Chapter NSDAR
Mar 31, 2021 Updated May 8, 2021
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.
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2020 News/Photos
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DCHS grad Bogstie to join Space Force
SPECIAL TO THE SENTINEL Nov 30, 2020 Updated Jan 7, 2021
U.S. Air Force Col. Heather Brandt Bogstie, a 1994 graduate of Douglas County High School, is joining the Space Force at Los Angeles Air Force Base in California in February of 2021.
Bogstie is currently the Senior Material Leader of the Rapid Development Division within the Space and Missiles Systems Center’s (SMC) Development Corps at the LA AFB annex.
In this capacity, Bogstie oversees a 64 person team executing a 13 program, $800 million portfolio critical to the nation’s endowment of rapid response to known and emerging space threats.
Her division focuses on rapidly inserting and exploring on-orbit emerging capabilities and architectures and delivering to warfighters.
Her portfolio includes partnerships with over 425 U.S. companies in the Space Enterprise Consortium, the national labs, and coalition partners, all driven by the singular focus of rapidly advancing the next generation of space innovation and capabilities to the warfighter, thereby enabling a resilient national space enterprise.
Prior to this role, she led the SMC workforce of 6,000 personnel through a crucial transition to a new organizational structure designed to accelerate delivery of space capabilities and execute innovative new concepts.
Bogstie earned an electrical engineering degree in 1998 at Auburn University and received her commission in the Air Force as a scholarship student.
She was commissioned in 1998 through the ROTC program at Auburn. Her first assignment was a Minuteman III missile operator/instructor/flight chief at Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota. She then moved to the Air Force Technical Applications Center at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, as a systems engineer for the Nuclear Treaty Monitoring Directorate, upgrading and installing 15 seismic stations spanning all seven continents.
Afterwards, she became the Chief of Payload Products, Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) Wing at Los Angeles AFB, delivering the critical SBIRS GEO-2 missile detection and warning payload for spacecraft integration. After attending Air Command and Staff College, she was a Political Military Planner in the Western Hemisphere Directorate of J5, The Joint Staff, Pentagon, coordinating Defense Support of Civil Authorities and Pandemic Influenza and Infectious Disease policies with interagency partners. She followed that assignment as Chief, Space Vehicle Engineering Branch at the National Reconnaissance Office where she led a 1,500-member joint team for $4.3 billion-plus SIGINT space vehicle development.
She then became Material Leader for Space Operations with SMC’s Advanced Systems and Development Directorate at Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, and led the $152 million RDT&E Support Complex, operating $672 million in Department of Defense NASA missions. While there she was dual-hatted as Program Manager for the $94 million ORS-5 mission which successfully launched in August 2017 delivering a space situational awareness capability to the warfighter and pathfinding technology for future space systems.
Following that successful tour, she moved to Los Angeles AFB to become Chief of the SMC Commanders Action Group, leading a high performing team that directly supported the Commander and Center leaders through various high profile efforts and events.She recently received an award for Outstanding Air Force Acquisitions Staff Officer (Military), Commander’s Action Group, Air Force Space Command, El Segundo, Calif.
Bogstie is a current member of the local Sweetwater Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.She is the daughter of Michael and Penny Brandt of Douglasville.
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DAR presents Basil with Community Service Award
Nov 5, 2020 Updated Dec 13, 2020
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.
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A Decorated History of the American Flag
Jun 13, 2019 Updated Sep 6, 2020
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.
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Sweetwater DAR Recognizes Local Students
Apr 21, 2020
Remodeling of Casimir Pulaski Chapter SAR Meeting Room
in the Veterans Building in Carrollton
Here are a few pictures of the room provided by Mike Campbell. Thanks to Jim Swinson for much of the remodeling, furniture, and labor. Thanks to Gerald and Shane Lyle for the donation of the flooring. We are looking forward to having the room finished soon.
July 3, 2020
Carroll County, Georgia's Revolutionary War Soldiers
Carroll County's Revolutionary War Soldiers
This article was written by Ken Denney and published in The Times-Georgian Newspaper on July 3, 2020
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 revolutionary 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 find out more about 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.
Sweetwater DAR celebrates Flag Day
By Ron Daniel-Editor
Jun 16, 2020 Updated Dec 24, 2020
Sue Carlton/SpecialSue Carlton, regent for the Sweetwater Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), said that while COVID-19 made celebrating Flag Day on Sunday more difficult, it is important for people to still remember what the American flag means to them.
“It was flown in battles all over this world, and it still stands on the moon,” Carlton said.
Carlton said that in 2008, Congress approved the first Braille flag and the Sweetwater Chapter of DAR presented a Douglas County third-grader with a Braille flag and copies of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
“Due to the virus this year, many of our celebrations will be trimmed from the calendar,” Carlton said. “I’m always proud to see the flags hanging from house walls, mailboxes or gates or on utility poles on city and county streets. Although we are not having a ceremony or a Fourth of July parade this year, we can still be proud of the flag of our nation and perhaps do small community parades.”
Another suggestion Carlton had is to go to cemeteries and put small flags beside the graves of veterans. She noted that some flags had been stolen from the graves of local veterans recently.
“These veterans took our flag with them wherever they were sent and saluted it properly and proudly,” Carlton said.
The History Channel website notes that when the American Revolution broke out in 1775, the colonists weren’t fighting under a single flag. On June 14, 1777, the Second Continental Congress took a break from writing the Articles of Confederation and passed a resolution stating the “flag of the United States be 13 stripes, alternate red and white” and that “the union be 13 stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”
In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson marked the anniversary of that decree by officially establishing June 14 as Flag Day.
2020: Certificates, Awards, Streamers, Flags, and Pins
Right: SAR logo.
2019 News/Photos
'Daughters' Celebrate Constitution Day
- Sep 19, 2019 Updated Dec 24, 2020
Decked out in colonial-era attire, members of the Sweetwater Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) along with the Casimir Pulaski Chapter Sons of the American Revolution from Carrollton commemorated Constitution Day by handing out free pocket-sized Constitutions, a Flag Code, Pledge of Allegiance, and America’s Creed Cards.
According to Sue Carlton, regent for the Sweetwater Chapter, over 200 pocket copies of the Constitution were handed out on Tuesday.
Carlton said Douglas County Commission Chairman Romona Jackson Jones was among those who stopped by.
“We had quite a few people stop by, go into the courthouse, and stop by again on their way out,” said Carlton.
Earlier in the day at an assembly at Mason Creek Elementary, Carlton shared several unknown facts with both teachers and students about the Constitution—including information on Jacob Shallus, the penman of the original copy of the United States Constitution. The handwritten document that Shallus penned is currently on display at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C.
Towards the end of the assembly, Carlton presented a Braille copy of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution— documents that forged America’s identity— to Caleigh Caston, a visually impaired third grader. Additionally, Caston also received a copy of the flag featuring the Pledge of Allegiance, information on the flag colors, and the number of stars and stripes—all in Braille form.
Later Tuesday, the Sweetwater DAR chapter was presented with a proclamation declaring Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week at the Board of Commissioners regular voting meeting.
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) started this celebration of the Constitution, after petitioning Congress to set aside September 17-23 annually to be dedicated for the observance of Constitution Week in 1955. The resolution was later adopted by the U.S. Congress and signed into public law by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on August 2, 1955.
As part of Constitution Week, Constitution Day is also known as Citizenship Day, due to many naturalization ceremonies taking place, according to Carlton.
They have been the foremost advocate for the awareness, promotion, and celebration of Constitution Week. This annual observance, which marks the signing of the Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787, provides countless opportunities for educational initiatives and community outreach— two mission areas that are important to the group.
One of the largest patriotic women’s organizations in the world, DAR has more than 185,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and internationally.
Founded on Oct. 11, 1890, the lineage-based service organization offers membership to women who are direct descendants of a person involved in the country’s efforts towards independence.
Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible to join the DAR. She must provide documentation for each statement of birth, marriage, and death, as well as of the Revolutionary War service of her Patriot ancestor.
For additional information about DAR and its programs, including scholarships, visit www.dar.org.
DAR Promotes Constitution Week; Sweetwater Chapter Giving Out Free Copies at DC Courthouse on Sept. 17
- Sep 5, 2019 Updated Dec 24, 2020
There are two documents of paramount importance to American history: the Declaration of Independence, which forged our national identity, and the United States Constitution, which set forth the framework for the federal government that is still in use today. While Independence Day is a beloved national holiday, fewer people know about Constitution Week, an annual commemoration of the living document that upholds and protects the freedoms central to our American way of life. This year, the annual celebration begins Sept. 17, 2019.The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) initiated the observance in 1955, when the organization petitioned the U.S. Congress to dedicate September 17–23 of each year to the commemoration of Constitution Week. Congress adopted the resolution, and on Aug. 2, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into Public Law #915. The celebration’s goals are threefold: to encourage the study of the historical events that led to the framing of the Constitution in September 1787; to inform people that the Constitution is the basis of America’s great heritage and the foundation of our way of life; and to emphasize U.S. citizens’ responsibility to protect, defend and preserve the Constitution.The Sweetwater Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and the Casimir Pulaski Chapter, Sons of the American Revolution of Carrollton will be in front of the Douglas County Courthouse on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. handing out free pocket Constitutions, Flag Code, Pledge of Allegiance Cards and the America’s Creed Cards.Sue Carlton, regent for the Sweetwater Chapter, urges residents to stop by the Douglas County Courthouse to pick up a copy of the Constitution.The Sweetwater Chapter meets the second Sunday each month at 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church on Campbellton St. Visitors are always welcome, Carlton said.DAR has been the foremost advocate for the awareness, promotion and celebration of Constitution Week. This annual observance provides innumerable opportunities for educational initiatives and community outreach, two mission areas of crucial importance to the National Society’s work. By fostering knowledge of and appreciation for the Constitution and the inalienable rights it affords to all Americans, DAR helps to keep alive the memory of the men and women who secured our nation’s independence, whose bravery and sacrifice made possible the liberties we enjoy today.“The framers created a Constitution that translated into law the ideals upon which our nation was built,” said DAR President General Denise Doring VanBuren. “Their vision was so forward thinking that their words still guide us today. No American history education can be complete without a thorough understanding of the impact the Constitution has had on the lives of American citizens past and present.”One of the largest patriotic women’s organizations in the world, DAR has more than 185,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters across the country and even in numerous foreign countries. DAR strives to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, citizenship programs, service to veterans, meaningful community service, and more. For additional information about DAR and its programs, visit www.dar.org.
DAR ready for Constitution Day on Sept. 17
Sep 14, 2019 Updated Dec 24, 2020
The Sweetwater Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), along with the Sons of the American Revolution, will be dressed up in colonial attire on Tuesday morning to celebrate the of the signing of the United States Constitution, a document that set forth the framework for the federal government that is still vital today.
“We try to promote patriotism,” said Sweetwater Chapter Regent Sue Carlton.
The groups will be in front of the Douglas County Courthouse handing out free pocket Constitutions, Flag Code, Pledge of Allegiance Cards and America’s Creed Cards on Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Carlton urges residents to stop by the Douglas County Courthouse to pick up a copy of the Constitution.
The DAR began the observance of Constitution Day in 1955 when the organization petitioned the U.S. Congress to dedicate Sept. 17-23 of each year to the commemoration of Constitution Week. Congress adopted the resolution on Aug. 2, 1956, and then-President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into public law.
According to Carlton, it is also known as Citizenship Day, due to many naturalization ceremonies taking place. In addition to handing out pocket Constitutions, the local chapter will also be donating a Braille form of the Constitution to a visually impaired third-grade student during an assembly at Mason Creek Elementary School on Constitution Day. The student will also receive Braille American flag.
“This is sort of helpful teaching aid,” Carlton said.
The first local DAR was first organized with 18 members on March 29, 1921. The chapter was soon named Ama-Kanasta—which translates to “sweet water” in English—in honor of the Cherokee Indian Chief. The Sweetwater Chapter will be in attendance at the next Board of Commissioners' meeting later that night, where a proclamation will be presented, declaring Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week.
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) was founded on Oct. 11, 1890. The lineage-based service organization offers membership to women who are direct descendants of a person involved in the country’s efforts towards independence.
Any woman 18 years or older who can prove lineal, bloodline descent from an ancestor who aided in achieving American independence is eligible to join the DAR. She must provide documentation for each statement of birth, marriage, and death, as well as of the Revolutionary War service of her Patriot ancestor.
With 185,000 members and 3,000 chapters nationally and internationally, the DAR strives to promote historic preservation, education and patriotism via commemorative events, scholarships and educational initiatives, and more.
For additional information about DAR and its programs, visit www.dar.org
September 9, 2019: Dedication of the Charles Carroll Portrait
The Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution made a significant donation to the citizens of Carroll County, Georgia, to honor the history of Carroll County. The photographs below are from the unveiling.
About the two photos above: The Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, based in Carrollton, Georgia, presented to the citizens of Carroll County a portrait of Revolutionary Period Patriot Charles Carroll of Carrollton. While Charles Carroll of Carrollton lived in Maryland, and never visited Georgia, his dedication to the independence effort gained him notoriety across the country with many counties and cities named after him.
Charles Carroll of Carrollton (1737-1832) was a signer of the Declaration of Independence from Maryland. He was the last survivor of all 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, dying in 1832 in his 96th year. Six years before the time of his death, the western part of Georgia was opened up to settlers, many of them veterans of the Revolutionary War. To honor the Patriot Charles Carroll, the county of Carroll was carved out of this rugged west Georgia frontier. The county seat of Carrollton was named after the estate of Charles Carroll’s home in Maryland.
The Casimir Pulaski Chapter sought the services of a local artist to create an original portrait to present to the citizens of Carroll County. Artist Ralph Van Pelt, of Carrollton, was chosen to create the portrait, and period framing was performed by Carrollton resident Jan Nielsen.
On September 9, 2019 a formal presentation was made by the Casimir Pulaski Chapter to the citizens of Carroll County, Georgia. A large number of Casimir Pulaski Chapter members attended the presentation in the historic Carroll County Courthouse in Carrollton, Georgia. Carroll County Commission Chair Michelle Morgan accepted the portrait on behalf of the citizens of Carroll County, and the Carroll County Commission. The historic presentation was made 193 years and three months after the establishment of Carroll County. This is the first portrait of Charles Carroll of Carrollton to be displayed in the Historic Carroll County Court House in Carrollton, Georgia. The portrait is now on display in the grand hallway of the historic Carroll County Courthouse in Carrollton, Georgia.
Portrait of a Patriot
- Sep 7, 2019 Updated Sep 6, 2020
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.
2017 News/Photos
Spirits of 76: The American Revolution veterans who made their homes in Carroll County
Jul 2, 2017
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.
Honoring American Patriots
May 11, 2017
Jim Rowell, great-great-great-great grandson of American patriot Jesse Rowell, had a chance to brag about his family on Saturday at a marker dedication ceremony in Tallapoosa.
The ceremony was to honor his ancestor and Jesse Peters, who were both American Revolutionary War veterans.“We wouldn’t have this country if it weren’t for people like that,” Jim Rowell said before the ceremony. “They were giving up everything; they could lose their homes. They could be tried for treason. They felt strongly enough to really put their lives on the line.”
He’d heard stories about Jesse Rowell all his life, Jim Rowell said. His grandfather and father told stories about him and his mother did research about the patriot’s life, he said.
Jesse Rowell served in the Continental Army for four years and survived a British prisoner ship in Charleston Harbor after being captured during the siege of Charleston in 1779. He was extremely tough, Jim Rowell said. In his 80s, the elderly Rowell wanted to see Texas and loaded up a wagon, hitched it to oxen and made the long trip there with family. Once there, he decided he didn’t like it and came back to his home in Haralson County, Jim Rowell said with a laugh. Jesse Rowell lived to 102 and was buried in what is now Haralson County in 1850 in the Rowell-Philpott Cemetery. That property is now private and is not recognizable as a grave, Jim Rowell said.
The memorial ceremony, sponsored by the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and the Tallapoosa Historical Society, was held at Sparrow Chapel in Tallapoosa, where the two markers are located. It drew dozens of people from all over the area including a good number dressed in period uniforms and clothing.
George Wheeless, president of the Casimir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, attended in full Continental Army uniform. He said the ceremony to honor the two patriots was organized after the chapter recently discovered that the markers were there. The markers were placed at the Sparrow Chapel by the Tallapoosa Historical Society in about 2000, Wheeless said.
In absence of a descendent of Jesse Peters, Wheeless delivered the patriot’s biography during the ceremony.
Jesse Peters was born in North Carolina, but moved to Georgia before the Revolutionary War. He served in the Continental Army from 1776 to 1779. He lived in Wilkes, Oglethorpe and Walton counties in Georgia. He moved to Carroll County with his son, William, in 1831 and died in 1839 at about the age of 87, Wheeless said. No one knows exactly where Jesse Peters was buried, Wheeless said.
“A resident of Carroll County, it is now believed he was buried in an unmarked grave on the land then owned by his son,” he said.The ceremony included presentations of wreaths at the markers, a musket salute, and “Taps” played on the bugle by Bill Palmer, a member of the Button Gwinnett Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.
Many of the people gathered said they were here to honor the patriotism Jesse Rowell and Jesse Peters displayed in their service.Lane Brooks, of the Sweetwater Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, said members of her chapter came to the ceremony to take part in something that is bigger than themselves.
“To show gratitude to those who have given everything so that we can live the lives that we have today,” Brooks added.
Sue Carlton, regent of the Sweetwater Chapter, agreed. The group supports historic preservation and works with two schools: one in Grant, Alabama, and one in Georgia, as part of their mission, she said.
“We want to educate everybody to support patriotism,” Carlton said.
Some also noted that it’s important to remember our nation’s history.
“A country that fails to recognize and honor their past will never ever fully recognize the potential of their future,” said Wayne Brown, president of the Georgia Society of Sons of the American Revolution.----------
Carroll to honor its 17 veterans of the Revolutionary War
Apr 22, 2017
After the American Revolution, when Carroll County was brand new and twice the size it is today, at least 17 veterans of America’s War for Independence moved here.
On April 30, those men will be recognized when a memorial wall will be dedicated in their honor at 2 p.m. at the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park, 1050 Newnan Road. The Abraham Baldwin Chapter DAR, and the Casimir Pulaski Chapter SAR are sponsoring the event.
George Wheeless, president of Sons of the American Revolution chapter, has been involved in intense research on the lives of these men, all of whom moved to Carroll County in the decades following the war.
At the time of the American Revolution, 1775 to 1783, this region was part of the Creek Nation and not part of the then-colony of Georgia. After independence, a treaty with the Creeks signed in 1825 led to the division of Creek lands into five sections, the fifth of which eventually became Carroll County.
In that early incarnation, the county’s southern border followed the Chattahoochee River from near what is now Six Flags, southwesterly to what is now West Point, with the northern border stretching from Six Flags to the Alabama border, northwest of Buchanan in Haralson County.
This large, pizza wedge-shaped tract of land attracted many pioneers, including veterans of the Revolutionary War. Wheeless said he has been researching those 17 people he has thus far identified as war veterans who settled in the region, either as heads of households or who moved here as elderly members of an extended family.
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. Wheeless said it is possible that other veterans moved to the region, which in the centuries since has been carved up into Douglas, Haralson and Heard counties.
One way Wheeless has been identifying patriot soldiers is through pension records. In 1835, a four-volume reference work was published that identifies soldiers eligible for pensions due to their Revolutionary service. These records show the name of the soldier and information about their service.
But Wheeless said the information is not completely accurate, because to qualify for a pension, the veterans had to provide proof of their service. In many cases, Wheeless said, soldiers could not provide such evidence. Sometimes that was because a militia unit had kept their ranks a secret from the British.
So far, Wheeless has identified these men: John Barber, Peter Helton, Nimrod Jones, Levi Phillips Sr., Gabriel Smith, William Meryman, John Carmichael, Thomas Hinesley, Minor Mead, John Robinson Sr., Zachariah Stedham, Tobias Honea, Alexander Goggans, Lazarus Hinson, Jesse Peters, Jesse Rowell and William York.
Those names have been inscribed on a block of stone which will be unveiled during the April 30 ceremony.
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2015 News/Photos
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.
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2014 News/Photos
TMS student takes top honors in essay contest
- Mar 18, 2014 Updated Apr 23, 2020
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.
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2013 News/Photos
With these words, five groups — The Sons of the American Revolution, The Sons of Confederate Veterans, The American Legion, The Marine Corps League, and the Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association — had a new home, and new hope for the future. Each of these groups had been bouncing from one temporary meeting location to another for the past several years, and in need of stability. They now get on with their individual and collective community and veteran assistance programs from a central location. This is also a convenience for those who hold membership in more than one of these organizations.
The community will also benefit from this new alliance between the county and the veteran groups using the Veterans Building. Each of the organizations is filled with members who have researched the time periods of the veteran groups they represent and some members who have even participated in the history that was made. Some of these groups have some excellent artifacts from the periods they represent. In other words, the collective knowledge and artifact collections have now become something of a museum that represents the American military from Valley Forge to Afghanistan today.
Casmir Pulaski Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution begins the trail of history and represents those veterans who fought in our War for Independence. The goals set for this organization include: to commemorate and provide memorials for the people and events of the American Revolution and to preserve related records, to support research and presentations, and to inspire the community with the principles on which our nation was founded. Membership requires documented verification of lineage to a veteran of the Revolutionary War. The ancestor’s record of service must also be of “Acceptable Service.” Applicant must also be recommended by two members.
McDaniel-Curtis SCV Camp 165 is the next organization in the trail. The Sons of Confederate Veterans is a historical organization that exists to preserve the legacy and factual history of the Civil War, and to honor the veterans who fought. The SCV supports and participates in historical and patriotic events and living history displays for the community. Membership requires proof of direct blood lineage to an ancestor who served honorably and was a veteran of the war. The applicant must be of good moral character and approved for membership after credential check and recommendation by membership.
American Legion Post 143 is the largest of the groups and is part of an organization dates back to 1919. The American Legion is now the nation’s largest wartime veterans service organization and promotes the motto, “For God and Country.” It is strongly committed to both veteran and community assistance while also promoting the causes of strong national security, patriotism and honor. The Legion has been very successful in meeting these goals due to the memberships’ dedication and devotion to their fellow veterans and to their community. Membership requires an honorable discharge and a DD 214 copy for verification of eligibility.
Aubrey Gilbert Marine Corps League Detachment is part of an organization that goes back to 1923. It is an organization catered to those Marines on active duty, honorably discharged veterans and FMF corpsmen. The mission for this group is to join together for the purpose of preserving the traditions and promoting the interests of the United States Marine Corps and the ideals of American freedom and democracy. The organization provides aid and assistance to all Marines, FMF corpsmen, their widows and orphans. Membership requires active duty service, honorable discharge and a DD 214 copy for verification of eligibility.
Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park Association is the most visible of the veterans groups because of the beautiful park that has been built by their hard work. Without this group, we would not have one of the best memorial sites in our area. The goal of this group is to honor all veterans of Carroll County, purely for their service to our country. Presently, more than 1,000 local veterans are honored on the walls, and many more on the brick walk ways through the park. There are veterans from the Revolutionary War forward to the War on Terror shown on the walls. The CCVMPA makes sure all is done correctly, honorably and available for all veterans. Membership in this organization is the easiest of all; just attend a meeting and pay five dollars to join.
All of the groups listed here are looking for members. If you have interest in joining, their meeting schedules are listed in the Daybook of the Times-Georgian. These groups are providing services to the community that just would not exist without their services. Remember, “All gave some; some gave all.” Think about giving some back by joining.
Robinson, a Vietnam-era veteran and member of American Legion Post 143, writes a weekly column for the Times-Georgian on veterans issues.
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2009 News/Photos
2007 News/Photos
SAR presents ‘living history’ to students
Aug 25, 2007 Updated Feb 17, 2021
Douglas County High School students got a “living” history lesson Friday as members of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) dressed in character to talk about patriotism and its symbols.SAR members recreated the history of the American flag, the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem for the morning assembly of student leaders and athletes. Shawn LaGrua, Georgia inspector general, also spoke to the group.SAR is a nonprofit patriotic organization with 26,000 members in 500 chapters located in the U.S. and several foreign countries. Members are descendants of the men and women who fought in the American Revolution. Members of the Sons of Liberty and Capt. John Collins SAR chapters presented Friday’s school show.“These are the symbols that represent patriotism,” said Kendall Abbott, SAR presenter. “Just like schools have mascots and companies have logos, our country has its symbols.”Abbott said these include the U.S. flag, a flower (the rose), a bird (bald eagle) and song (Star Spangled Banner).The American flag is believed to have been designed by Congressman Francis Hopkinson and put together by Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross. It was authorized by Congress on June 14, 1777, the basis of our Flag Day.The Pledge of Allegiance was first published in 1892 in the Boston based “The Youth’s Companion” magazine. It was written by the circulation manager Francis Bellamy and was suggested as a pledge to be repeated by students on Columbus Day that year, the 400th anniversary of the voyage. About 12 million students recited the words that day and it soon became a school day ritual. Congress recognized the pledge in 1942. The words “under God” were added in 1954.The “Star Spangled Banner,” our national anthem, was written in 1814 by attorney and amateur poet Francis Scott Key as he watched the bombardment of Ft. McHenry near Baltimore. The poem was first titled, “Defence of Fort M’Henry” and was printed in several newspapers. A Baltimore actor made it a song by adding the tune of “To Anacreon in Heaven,” a popular British song, and sang it on stage. It was sang as a patriotic song for many years and became the U.S. National Anthem in 1931.In her presentation, LaGrua urged the students to register and vote.“The greatest thing we have in this country is the right to vote,” she said. “It controls all our other rights. It’s the most important thing you can do.”LaGrua asked how many students planned to attend college and get a HOPE scholarship. A large number of hands were raised.“You know how to keep the HOPE scholarship?” she asked the crowd. “Vote for the people who support it. That’s how you voice your opinion.”The SAR presented several gifts to the school including a U.S. flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol for Douglas County, compact disks (CDs) of history lessons and an autographed copy of a George Washington biography.SAR members participating in the ceremony, in addition to Abbott, included Larry Guzy, Allen Henson and Rodney Pritchett.The Douglas County High Junior ROTC Color Guard presented the colors.
Aeneas Campbell Grave Marking Ceremony
April 28, 2007
On April 28, 2007, a grave marking dedication ceremony honoring Aeneas Campbell, American Revolutionary War patriot and four times Mike Campbell's great grandfather, was held at New Hope Baptist Church near Statesville, North Carolina.
