This book is a compilation and transcription of all the pension applications made by Revolutionary soldiers and widows known to have lived at any time in present Henry, Franklin, Patrick, or Floyd counties in Virginia. These pension applications provide a unique historical perspective on a region situated to become embroiled in virtually every facet of the Revolutionary struggle. From the earliest days of the war soldiers from this area were called upon to help defend the settlers west of the Blue Ridge and the crucial lead mines at present Austinville against Cherokees and Tories. In their pension applications, they describe skirmishes too obscure for the history books, but no less crucial in denying the British the support of Indians, Loyalists, and essential materiel. Those soldiers also participated in more conventional and famous engagements, including the Battle at Guilford Courthouse 60 or 70 miles to the South. There they helped make Cornwallis's victory so costly that he had to delay his invasion of Virginia. When Cornwallis did enter Virginia those soldiers once again answered the call, and many shared the final triumph at Yorktown.
C. Leon Harris
8.25" x 10.25", paper, color cover, internal illustrations, maps, charts, graphs, bibliography, comprehensive index, xiv + 376 pp.
107-RWW
