Matthew(1732-1814) and John(1759-1832) French

Matthew and John French are perhaps my favorite ancestors. They were my first to be researched, after hearing my grandfather talking about his ancestor that fought in the Revolution. I discovered that he had two that fought. Father and son. Numerous sources indicate that Matthew and his son John on 09/12/1777-Swore allegiance To Captain Joseph Cloyd's Company. They fought at the Battle of Whetzell's Mill and Guilford County Courthouse in North Carolina as well as defending areas close to their home on Wolf Creek, Giles County Virginia.

Not much else is said of Matthew, but sources have more to say about John. On February 10, 1781 Colonial William Preston ordered the militia of Montgomery County to assemble at the Lead Mines and on the appointed day 350 men obeyed the orders of their commander. One company from the Middle New River Valley which was commanded by Captain Thomas Shannon was among the assembly.
Some of the names of the privates who went along with Shannon included Matthew French and his eldest son John. March 6 1781 at Whetzell's Mill North Carolina, Lee's Legion and Colonel Preston's Backwoodsmen met the British and a bloody battle took place. On the Eve of this battle, John was detailed as one of the guards to protect the wagons. The next day when the shooting started John left his post against his commanding officer's orders and went to the fight and shot several of the enemy. The officer in charge of the wagons reported John for disobedience of orders and demanded that he be court martialed. Major Joseph Cloyd made the remark that since John ran to the fight instead of away from it, if they court martialed French for such a cause, he would never again fight.

He served during the Revolutionary War. Remained in the 86th Regiment of Virginia Militia and served as Captain of the 86th regiment in the War of 1812.

Attached are photos, one of the Giles Co Memorial to soldiers of the Revolution which stands in front of the court house. Matthew and John French are among those listed. Also a photo of the Tombstone of Matthew French erected by the Daughters of the American Revolution

Mitchell Clay (1736-1811)

When people think of the first battle of the American Revolution they think of Lexington and Concord. The shot heard round the world. Did you know that some historians believe that the first battle was actually the Battle of Point Pleasant? It was also called Dunmore's War. Many of my ancestors participated in this battle. Including Mitchell Clay. Mitchell's father William was also there but was killed by Indians while he was out hunting for the troops prior to the battle. Mitchell and his family were living in Giles County Virgina not far from Narrows. (Note: This does not include Mitchell's military service for the French and Indian War)

On to Mitchell's military service: June 2, 1774 Mitchell is listed as a private in Capt. Daniel Smith's Company of Militia in Fincastle County Revolutionary soldiers.

As stated below, between 1774 and 1777 Mitchell went from a private to Captain. He was reimbursed for provisions during the time he and his sons worked as spys.

Swore Oath of Allegiance October 12, 1777.
Mitchell Clay recommended as capt 2nd Batallion, 86th regiment. Listed on Capt Daniel Smith's Co of Fincastle Co Militia. Capt George Parris Co. Particiapant in Battle of Point Pleasant. Capt James Robertson Co 51 days, paid 3.16.6 51 days rations. Spy. Mitchell Clay and sons, Ezekiel and David, swore alligiance to the state of Va 10-13-1777 51 days on duty, found one provision. On Michael Woods List.

Celebrating the 4th of July

As a genealogist I appreciate history. My ancestors lived what we learn about in the history books. That's why I've always been fascinated by genealogy. In this last week of June and beginning of July I will be showcasing the military service of some of my ancestors who fought in the American Revolution. There are quite a few who served to make this country free. Some, I know a lot of their service, others not so much beyond a few militia muster rolls. However, all of them did what they could to survive the birth of a new country. Look for future postings on the military might of my early american ancestors. For them, I have much to celebrate this holiday.