VII Miscellaneous Towns, Plantations, &c.
DeBrahm in his History of the Province of Georgia268 furnishes us with the following classification of the Towns in the Province:
“Besides the Metropolis of Savannah upon Savannah Stream, 17 miles from the Sea,
Are 4 Sea Port Towns,
| Hardwick | upon Great Ogetchee Stream | |
| Sunbury | upon Midway Stream | |
| Darian | } | upon Alatamaha Stream |
| Frederica | } |
4 Towns upon navigable fresh water streams
Brandon(a) upon little River, is navigable only to the Cataract above Augusta, 200 miles from the Sea.
Augusta upon Savannah Stream 150 miles from the Sea.
Queensbury in the Fork of Lambert’s River and Great Ogetchee Stream, 120 miles from the Sea.(b)
Ebenezer upon Savannah Stream 57 miles from the Sea.
(a) Since Gov. Wright’s Administration this Place (being deserted in Gov’r Reynolds’ time by Edmond Grey) revived again under the name of Wrightsborough inhabited by above 60 Families, and its Township contains about 200 Families all Quakers; they are indulged by the Gov’r; that no Person, but such as they approve, shall be permitted to settle among them.
(b) Queensbury is inhabited by about 70, and its Environs by above 200 Families mostly Irish, from which it is generally called the Irish Settlement.
4 Villages of which two are upon a navigable River,
| Acton | } | upon Vernon River |
| Vernonburg | } | |
| Hampstead | } | upon the Head of Vernon River.” |
| Highgate | } |
The enumeration contained in “Histoire et Commerce des Colonies Angloises dans l’Amerique Septentrionale,”269 is essentially similar: “On partage la Georgie en doux divisions. La Septentrionale comprend;
| Savannah | } | Villes. | Old-Ebenezer | } | Villages. |
| New-Ebenezer | } | Hampstead. | } | ||
| Augusta | } | High-Gate. | } | ||
| Abercorn. | } | ||||
| Skindwe | } |
La méridionale est moins peuplée, on n’y trouve que deux villes & un village.
| Frederica | } | Villes | Barikmake | } | Village.” |
| New-Inverness | } |
Savannah and Augusta still exist and are justly reckoned among the most opulent, beautiful, and attractive cities of the Empire State of the South. In their locations the judgment of the early Colonists has been sanctioned by the favorable experience of nearly a century and a half. New Inverness has given place to Darien which, amid shifting fortunes, is still supported by the lumber trade and the rice crop of the Alatamaha. Of the memories of Frederica, Sunbury, New and Old Ebenezer, Bethany, Hardwick, and Abercorn, we have already spoken; and it remains for us in a few words to mention some smaller and insignificant towns, projected in the early days of the Colony, which have long since lost their identity amid the changes of population and the vicissitudes of ownership.
Brandon may be recognized as still maintaining a feeble existence in the later village of Wrightsboro, although its original features and peculiarities have encountered essential modifications. The founder of Brandon was Edmund Grey, a pretending Quaker, who came from Virginia with a number of followers. A man of strong will and marked influence, he was nevertheless a pestilent fellow, and, during Governor Reynolds’ administration, was compelled to abandon his little town. He subsequently formed a settlement on the neutral lands lying between the Alatamaha and the St. Johns rivers. Thither flocked criminals, and debtors anxious to escape the just demands of their creditors.270
Brandon on Little river was revived by Joseph Mattock, a Quaker, who having obtained for himself and friends a grant of forty thousand acres of land, called the town Wrightsboro in honor of Governor Sir James Wright, who favored the establishment of the new colony. Mr. Mattock hospitably entertained Mr. William Bartram in 1773, by whom he is described as a public spirited man about seventy years of age, hearty, active, and presiding as the chief magistrate of the settlement.271 We recall no special incidents in the history of this town. Its life was uneventful, and at present it can scarcely claim even a nominal existence.
Between four and five miles southwest of Savannah, as its limits were at first ascertained, and on rising ground, the village of High-gate was laid out in 1733. Twelve families,—mostly French,—were here located. A mile to the eastward the village of Hampstead was formed the same year, and peopled by twelve families,—chiefly German. These settlers were engaged in gardening, and their principal business was to supply the inhabitants of Savannah with vegetables. Francis Moore, who visited these little towns in the spring of 1736, describes them as being “pretty,” and says that the “Planters are very forward, having built neat Huts and clear’d and planted a great deal of Land.”
It would appear, however, that the prosperity of these villages was of short duration. We are informed that in 1740 but two families remained at High-gate, while Hampstead was entirely abandoned.272
For the protection of the few families to whom a home at Thunderbolt had been assigned, a small fort was erected; but as early as 1737 it had fallen into decay.
On the north-east point of Skidoway island, ten families were placed and a fort built in 1734. This attempt at colonization proved so unsuccessful that four years afterwards the village had disappeared and the fortification was in a deserted and ruinous condition.
A similar fatality attended the effort to plant a colony of ten families near the light-house on Tybee island the year after Savannah was settled.
So long as Fort Argyle was garrisoned, the ten freeholders who established their plantations in its vicinity strove to render their cultivation profitable: but, upon the withdrawal of the Rangers, eight of them removed, and within a short time all signs of industry disappeared.
The labors of the Scottish colonists at Joseph’s Town were prosecuted but a few years, and that settlement was quickly numbered among the failures which occurred on every hand.
Near fort St. Andrew on the north-east extremity of Cumberland island grew up the village of Barrimacké, which, about 1740, embraced some twenty-four families. When General Oglethorpe’s regiment was withdrawn from the southern frontier, this town speedily died, and for more than a century all traces of its former existence have been entirely wanting.
Similar is the history of the German village of gardeners and fishermen which stood near the southern end of the military road connecting Frederica with St. Simons.
Of the meagre and uneventful lives of Acton and Vernonburgh on Vernon river, of Goshen and Bethany near the Savannah, of Williamsburgh, and Fort Barrington on the Alatamaha, and of Queensbury on the Great Ogeechee, we feel scarce called upon to speak. Were we not dealing exclusively with the dead towns of Georgia, we might enumerate others which, in their moribund condition and present dilapidation, perpetuate little more than the names and sites which they at first received.
Of the more prominent plantations established at an early date we may mention those of Colonel Cochran, Captain Gascoin, and Lieutenant Horton on St. Simon’s island,—of Messrs. Carr and Carteret on the main,—of Sir Francis Bathurst, Walter Augustine, Robert Williams, Patrick Tailfer, Jacob Matthews, Mr. Cooksey, and Captain Watson on the Savannah river,—of Mr. Houstoun on the Little Ogeechee,—of the Messrs. Sterling on the Great Ogeechee river,—of Messrs. Noble Jones, Henry Parker, and John Fallowfield on the Isle of Hope,—of Oxtead, the settlement of Mr. Thomas Causton on Augustine creek,—of the Hermitage, the abode of Hugh Anderson,—of Mr. Thomas Christie,—of the twenty German families sent over by Count Zinzendorf,—of Mr. William Williamson,—of the Trustees, committed to the care of William Bradley,—of Mr. Thomas Jones,—and of president William Stephens at Bewlie. This last plantation consisted of a grant of five hundred acres at the mouth of Vernon river, and was confirmed by General Oglethorpe on the 19th of April, 1738. Of this place Mr. Stephens, on the 21st of March, 1739, writes as follows: “I was now called upon to give the Place a Name; and thereupon naturally revolving in my Thoughts divers Places in my native Country, to try if I could find any that had a Resemblance to this; I fancied that Bewlie, a Manor of his Grace the Duke of Montague in the New Forest, was not unlike it much as to its Situation; and being on the Skirts of that Forest, had Plenty of large Timber growing everywhere near; moreover a fine Arm of the Sea running close by, which parts the Isle of Wight from the main Land, and makes a beautiful Prospect; from all which Tradition tells us it took its Name and was antiently called Beaulieu, though now vulgarly Bewlie; only by leaving out the a in the first Syllable, and the u in the end of the last.”273
This is the true account of the original cession and naming of that attractive bluff rendered memorable in after years by the debarcation of Count D’Estaing on the 12th of September, 1779, and by the erection of formidable batteries for the protection of this approach to the city of Savannah during the Confederate struggle for independence.
These plantations, and others which might be enumerated, have, with a single exception, so far as our information extends, lost all traces of primal occupancy and passed into the ownership of strangers. We allude to the beautiful plantation of Wormsloe on the Isle of Hope. Of this interesting spot we have the following description penned by an intelligent visitor who made his observations in 1743. He was then, in an open boat, journeying towards Savannah from St. Catharine’s island, where a short season had been spent in the companionship of the friendly Indians who were dwellers there. “We arrived in somewhat more than two Days at the Narrows where there is a kind of Manchecolas Fort for their Defence, garrison’d from Wormsloe, where we soon arriv’d. It is the settlement of Mr. Jones 10 Miles S. E. of Savannah, and we could not help observing as we passed, several very pretty Plantations.
“Wormsloe is one of the most agreeable Spots I ever saw, and the Improvements of that ingenious Man are very extraordinary: He commands a Company of Marines who are quarter’d in Huts near his House, which is also a tolerable defensible Place with small Arms. From the House there is a Vista of near three Miles cut thro’ the Woods to Mr. Whitefield’s Orphan House, which has a very fine Effect on the Sight.”274
After concluding his visit to Savannah, this gentleman “set out in one of Captain Jones’s Scout Boats mann’d by a Party of his Marine Company, and had a very pleasant Passage to Fort Frederick on the Island of Port Royal in South Carolina.”275
Noble Jones, the proprietor of Wormsloe, was a Lieutenant commanding thirty men,—volunteers and enlisted from Savannah,—in General Oglethorpe’s expedition against St. Augustine. He was subsequently assigned to the command of a scout and guard boat and a company of marines to watch the “Narrows at Skedoway” and the “Inlets of the near adjoining Sea;” more especially “those near him of Wassaw and Ussuybaw, lest any surprise should happen.” His guard-boat was armed “with a small swivel Gun” in the bow; and, in February, 1741, upon the appearance of a Spanish Privateer on the coast, “One of our smartest Pieces of Cannon,” says Stephens, “carrying a four Pound Ball, and well mounted,” was delivered to him to assist in the coast defense.276
At Wormsloe may still be seen the remains of the Tabby Fortification constructed by Captain Noble Jones. The outline of the work and its general features are well preserved, and constitute, perhaps, the most unique and interesting historical ruin on the Georgia coast.
With all its wealth of magnificent live-oaks, palmettoes, magnolias, and cedars; with its quiet, gentle views, balmy airs, soft sunlight, inviting repose, and pleasant traditions, this beautiful residence has at all times remained in the possession and ownership of the descendants of the original proprietor. Mr. G. W. J. DeRenne now guards the spot with all the tender care and devotion of a most loyal son, and to the memories of the past has added literary and cultivated associations in the present, which impart new charms to the name of Wormsloe.
In this youthful country, so careless of and indifferent to the memories of other days,—so ignorant of the value of monuments and the impressive lessons of antiquity,—where no law of primogeniture encourages in the son the conservation of the abode and heirlooms of his fathers,—where new fields, cheap lands, and novel enterprises at remote points are luring the loves of succeeding generations from the gardens which delighted, the hoary oaks which sheltered, and the fertile fields which nourished their ancestors,—where paternal estates are constantly alienated at public and private sales,—landed acquisitions are placed at the mercy of speculative strangers, and family treasures, established inheritances, and old homesteads are seldom preserved. Thus it comes to pass that ancestral graves lie neglected, abodes once noted for refinement, intelligence, virtue, and hospitality lose their identity in the ownership of strangers, and traditions worthy of transmission, are forgotten amid the selfish engagements of an alien present.
The utilitarian may smile at this, the Republican rejoice in it as a logical sequence of his cherished theories, and the disciples of Benjamin Franklin pronounce in favor of such a condition of affairs, but there is a deal of sadness about it nevertheless; and if this order of things obtain in the coming years as it has in those which are gone, America will continue to be largely a land without permanent homes,—a country devoid of ancestral monuments.
In planting colonies where proper preliminary surveys have not been made, and where the founders are compelled in large measure to grope their way in selecting points for earliest occupancy, errors of judgement will occur, and changes will be necessitated upon a more intimate acquaintance with the territory and during the progress of development. Locations at first deemed essential become subordinate to others, and sometimes prove of no value. Mistakes are committed with regard to the importance of streams, lines of communication, and the desirability of permanent seats. Defensive positions are rendered useless as the tide of human life advances. Barren fields are exchanged for others possessing greater fertility. Diseases are developed at certain points which compel their abandonment.
Settlements increase to the annihilation or absorption of others in their vicinity. The possessions of the many become concentrated in the ownership of the few. Towns perish for lack of support. Thus nothing is more common than to observe, amid the changes consequent upon the development of new plantations, a mortality among villages and settlements for which, at the outset, growth and lasting prosperity were confidently anticipated.
“It hath been a great endangering to the health of some plantations,” says Lord Bacon, “that they have built along the sea and rivers in marish and unwholesome grounds; therefore though you begin there to avoid carriage and other like discommodities, yet build still rather upwards from the stream, than along.”
Had this precaution been observed, fewer towns would have died in Georgia.
After all, however, despite the admonitions of the wisest and the foresight of the most experienced, we cannot hope to arrest the potent influence of inherent decay, or to stay that unseen hand which remorselessly worketh change and destruction among human habitations.
“Out upon Time! it will leave no more
Of the things to come than the things before!
Out upon Time! who forever will leave
But enough of the Past for the Future to grieve
O’er that which hath been, and o’er that which must be:
What we have seen, our sons shall see;
Remnants of things that have pass’d away,
Fragments of Stone rear’d by Creatures of Clay.”
Footnotes
1 “Antiquities of the Southern Indians, particularly of the Georgia Tribes.” New York, 1873.
2 History of the Province of Georgia, pp. 29, 30. Wormsloe, 1849.
3 Extract of the Journals of Mr. Commissary VonReck, &c., p. 32. London, 1734.
4 The Stone of Help.
5 An Extract of the Journals of Mr. Commissary VonReck, &c., pp. 16, 18. London, 1734.
6 Moore’s Voyage to Georgia, p. 11. London, 1744.
7 Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 87. Baltimore, 1855.
8 Voyage to Georgia, &c., p. 23. London, 1741.
In reporting this change of location to the Trustees, Mr. Oglethorpe, on the 13th of February, wrote as follows: “The people at Ebenezer are very discontented and Mr. VonReck and they that come with him, refuse to settle to the Southward. I was forced to go to Ebenezer to quiet things there and have taken all the proceedings in writing. Finding the people were only ignorant and obstinate, but without any ill intention, I consented to the changing of their Town. They leave a sweet place where they had made great improvements, to go into a wood.” Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 13. Savannah, 1873.
Compare Harris’ Biographical Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 130, 132. Boston, 1841. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 113. London, 1867.
9 Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 89. Baltimore, 1855.
10 Reverend Mr. John Wesley, writing in 1737, records in his Journal the following description of this abandoned settlement: “Old Ebenezer, where the Saltzburghers settled at first, lies twenty-five miles west of Savannah. A small Creek runs by the Town, down to the River, and many Brooks run between the little Hills: But the soil is a hungry, barren sand; and upon any sudden Shower, the Brooks rise several Feet perpendicular, and overflow whatever is near them. Since the Saltzburghers remov’d, two English Families have been placed there; but these too say, That the Land is good for nothing; and that the Creek is of little Use; it being by Water twenty miles to the River; and the Water generally so low in Summer-time, that a Boat cannot come within six or seven miles of the Town.” An Extract of the Rev. Mr. John Wesley’s Journal, &c., &c., pp. 59, 60. Bristol, n. d.
11 Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia, vol. I, pp. 226, 227. London, 1742.
In 1740 this Cow-Pen was still in existence at Old Ebenezer, the Trustees having a great number of cattle there. “But,” continues the narrative, “they were much neglected, there not being Horses or Men sufficient to drive up the young and outlying cattle.” A State of the Province attested upon Oath in the Court of Savannah, November 10, 1740, p. 9. London, 1742.
Compare An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, p. 48. London, 1741. Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, &c., vol. II, p. 337. London, 1748.
12 Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 91. Baltimore, 1855.
13 History of the Province of Georgia, &c., Plan facing p. 24. Wormsloe, 1849.
14 An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, p. 47. London, 1741.
Another contemporaneous account is almost identical; “On the Georgia side [of the Savannah river], twelve miles from Purysburg, is the Town of Ebenezer, which thrives very much; there are very good Houses built for each of the Ministers, and an Orphan House; and they have partly framed Houses and partly Huts, neatly built, and formed into regular streets; they have a great deal of Cattle and Corn-Ground, so that they sell Provisions at Savannah; for they raise much more than they can consume.” A State of the Province of Georgia attested upon Oath in the Court of Savannah, November 10, 1740, p. 5, London, 1742. See also idem, pp. 29, 31. “An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia,” p. 13. London, 1741.
Compare Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, &c., vol. II, p. 337. London, 1748.
The Rev. Mr. John Wesley’s description is as follows: “New Ebenezer, to which the Saltzburghers removed in March, 1736, lies six Miles Eastward from the Old, on a high bluff, near the Savannah River. Here are some Tracts of Fruitful Land, tho’ the greatest Part of that adjoining to the Town, is Pine-barren. The Huts, 60 in number, are neatly and regularly built; the little Piece of Ground allotted to each for a Garden, is everywhere put to the best Use, no spot being left unplanted. Nay, even one of the main Streets, being one more than was as yet wanted, bore them this year a crop of Indian Corn.” An Extract of the Rev. Mr. John Wesley’s Journal, &c., p. 60. Bristol, n. d.
15 An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, pp. 69, 72. London, 1741.
Compare A State of the Province of Georgia attested upon Oath, &c., pp. 5, 29, 30, 32. London, 1742. An Account showing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia in America, &c., pp. 66, 69. London, 1741.
16 See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, p. 199. Savannah, 1811.
17 See Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 123. Baltimore, 1855.
18 An Account showing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia, &c., pp. 39, 40. London, 1741.
19 Chapter V, pp. 55, 59. London, 1733.
20 An Account showing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia in America, p. 13. London, 1741.
21 Martyn’s Reasons for establishing the Colony of Georgia with regard to the Trade of Great Britain, p. 9. London, 1733.
22 An Account showing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia in America, &c., p. 32. London, 1741.
23 Gentleman’s Magazine for 1755, p. 185. London Magazine for 1755, p. 186.
24 Silk Culture in Georgia, by Dr. Stevens. Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 410, 411. Boston, 1841.
25 History of the Province of Georgia, &c., p. 20. Wormsloe, 1749.
26 History of the Province of Georgia, &c., pp. 21, 22. Wormsloe, 1849.
27 The Saltzburgers and their Descendants, &c., p. 149. Baltimore, 1855.
28 History of the Province of Georgia, &c., p. 24. Wormsloe, 1849.
29 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, pp. 150, 151.
Under the Writs of Election issued by Sir James Wright in 1761, the following gentlemen were returned as members from St. Matthew’s Parish:
Abercorn and Goshen—William Francis.
Ebenezer—William Ewen, N. W. Jones, and James de Veaux.
McCall’s History of Georgia, vol I, p. 285.
30 Watkins’ Digest, p. 8.
31 See Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 194. Baltimore, 1855.
32 In 1776, Ebenezer had been partially fortified by the Revolutionists. See letter of Sir James Wright to Lord George Germain under date March 20, 1776. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 239. Savannah, 1873.
33 Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, pp. 203, 207. Baltimore, 1855.
34 Ebenezer is not mentioned among the principal towns of Georgia enumerated by George Sibbald in 1801.
See “Notes and Observations on the Pine Lands of Georgia,” &c., pp. 58 to 66. Augusta, 1801.
35 Watkins’ Digest, p. 298.
36 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, pp. 154, 155.
37 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 158.
38 See Strobel’s Saltzburgers and their Descendants, p. 234. Baltimore, 1855.
39 Rev’d P. A. Strobel.
40 Reasons for Establishing the Colony of Georgia with regard to the Trade of Great Britain, &c., pp. 38-41. London, 1733.
41 A New and Accurate Account of the Provinces of South Carolina and Georgia, &c. London, 1733.
42 See Copy of Charter, McCall’s History of Georgia, Vol. I, p. 329 et seq.: Savannah, 1811. Reasons for establishing the Colony of Georgia, &c., p. 29. London, 1733. A State of the Province of Georgia attested upon oath, &c., p. 1. London, 1742.
43 See Letter of Gen’l Oglethorpe to the Trustees under date February 27th, 1735-6. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, Vol. III, p. 15. Savannah, 1873.
44 A Voyage to Georgia, begun in the year 1735 by Francis Moore, p. 17. London, 1744.
Compare Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, Vol. II, p. 330. London, 1748. An Account Showing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia, &c., p. 20. London, 1741.
45 Moore’s Voyage to Georgia, &c., p. 44. London, 1744.
46 Named by Oglethorpe after Frederick, Prince of Wales.
47 These are “long flat-bottomed boats carrying from 20 to 35 Tons. They have a kind of a Forecastle and a Cabbin; but the rest open, and no Deck. They have two Masts, which they can strike, and Sails like Schooners. They row generally with two Oars only.”
48 The Aborigines cleared considerable spaces on the Sea Islands along the Georgia Coast, planting them with maize, pumpkins, gourds, beans, melons, &c. These indications of early agriculture were not infrequent in various portions of the State. The richest localities were selected by the Aborigines for cultivation: their principal towns and maize-fields being generally found in rich valleys where a generous soil yielded, with least labor, the most remunerative harvest. The trees were killed by girdling them by means of stone axes. They then decayed and fell piecemeal. So old were these Indian fields that in them no traces appeared of the roots and stumps even of the most durable trees. The occupancy of these islands by the Red race was general and of long duration. Prominent bluffs are to this day marked by their refuse heaps, composed chiefly of the shells of oysters, conchs, and clams, and the bones of the animals, reptiles, birds, and fishes upon which they subsisted, intermingled with sherds of pottery, and broken articles, and relics of various sorts. Many localities are hoary with ancient shell-mounds, while sepulchral tumuli of earth are not infrequent. Besides the primitive population permanently domiciled on these islands, at certain seasons of the year, large numbers of Indians from the main here congregated and spent much time in hunting and fishing.
49 An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, pp. 40 and 41. London, 1741.
50 Buffalo and quail were found on the Main.
51 State of the Province of Georgia attested upon Oath, &c., p. 25. London, 1742.
Compare Affidavits of Lieut. Raymond Demare, Hugh MacKay, and John Cuthbert, to same effect. An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, pp. 61, 63, 64. London, 1741.
52 Francis Moore, Voyage to Georgia, &c., p. 57. London, 1744.
53 Moore says April. See A Voyage to Georgia, p. 63. London, 1744.
54 Oglethorpe’s letter to the Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 28. Savannah, 1873.
55 This island was named Wissoo by the Indians, signifying Sassafras. It was called Cumberland in memory of his Royal Highness, the Duke of Cumberland, at the suggestion of Toonahowi,—nephew of Tomo-chi-chi,—to whom, during his visit to England, the Duke had given a gold repeating watch, that he “might know how the time went.” “We will remember him at all times,” said Toonahowi, “and therefore will give this Island this name.”
56 Called by the Spaniards Santa Maria.
57 Moore’s Voyage to Georgia, p. 71. London, 1744.
58 On the South-west side of Cumberland island, and upon a high neck of land commanding the water approaches each way, Fort St. Andrews was subsequently built. “Its walls were of wood, filled in with earth. Round about were a ditch and a palisade.” Wesley’s Journal, p. 61. Bristol, n. d.
59 See Wright’s Memoir of Gen’l James Oglethorpe, p. 167. London, 1867.
60 See A Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia, &c., vol. I, p. 98. London, 1742.
61 See one of the Memorials of the Trustees in “An Account Shewing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia,” &c., p. 58. London, 1741.
62 See Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 191. London, 1867.
63 See Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 188, 189. Boston, 1841. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 191. London, 1867. Gentleman’s Magazine, vol. VIII, p. 164.
64 Stephens’ Journal of Proceedings, vol. I, pp. 294, 295. London, 1742.
65 Gentleman’s Magazine for January, 1739, p. 22.
66 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 48. Savannah, 1873.
67 Sketch of the Life of General James Oglethorpe. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, p. 261. Savannah, 1840.
68 Vol. II, p. 332. London, 1748.
69 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 62. Savannah, 1873.
70 Idem, p. 94.
71 See Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 97, 101. Savannah, 1873.
72 Compare Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, vol. II, p. 337. London, 1748.
73 Compare Gentleman’s Magazine, vol. IX, pp. 214, 215. Stephens’ Journal of Proceedings, vol. I, p. 326. London, 1742. McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 124, 125. Savannah, 1811. Hewitt’s Historical Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia, vol. II, pp. 70, 71. London, 1779. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 154, 155. New York, 1847. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, pp. 204, 205. London, 1867. Harris’ Biographical Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 194, 195, 369. Boston, 1841.
74 See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 125, 126. Savannah, 1811.
75 Hewitt’s Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia, vol. II, pp. 72-74. London, 1779.
76 Sketch of the Life of General James Oglethorpe. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, p. 263. Savannah, 1840.
77 See Stephens’ Journal of Proceedings, etc., vol. II, p. 153. London, 1742. Gentleman’s Magazine, vol. X, p. 129. Historical Sketch of Tomo-chi-chi, C. C. Jones, Jr., p. 120, et seq. Albany, 1868.
For the precise location of Tomo-chi-chi’s grave, see Plan of the City of Savannah and its Fortifications by John Gerar William DeBrahm, History of the Province of Georgia, etc., p. 36. Wormsloe, 1849.
78 See Jones’ Historical Sketch of Tomo-chi-chi, pp. 107, 108. Albany, 1868. Gentleman’s Magazine, vol. XII, p. 497. Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 256, 257. Boston, 1841.
79 In the account of this transaction contained in the Gentleman’s Magazine for 1740, (volume X, page 129,) it is stated that after they were shot, the heads of these two Highlanders were cut off and their bodies cruelly mangled by the enemy. The perpetrators of this outrage consisted of Spaniards, negroes, and Indians. See Letter of General Oglethorpe to the Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, dated November 16th, 1739. “The Spanish Hireling detected,” etc., pp. 50, 51. London, 1743.
80 For full details of these incursions see letter of Gen. Oglethorpe to Col. Stephens, dated Frederica, 1st February, 1740. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 105-108. Savannah, 1873.
81 In a letter dated Frederica, December 29th, 1739, General Oglethorpe explained to the Carolina authorities his designs against St. Augustine, and the assistance he desired to receive from that Province. A requisition was therein made for twelve 18-pounder guns with two hundred rounds of ammunition for each piece, one mortar with proper complement of powder and bombs, eight hundred pioneers, either negroes or white men, and the requisite tools “such as spades, hoes, axes, and hatchets to dig trenches, make gabelines, and fascines.” Vessels and boats sufficient to transport the artillery, men, and provisions, and six thousand bushels of corn or rice to feed the thousand Indians who were to unite in the expedition, were also demanded. He also desired that as many horsemen as could be collected, should, under the guidance of Mr. McPherson or Mr. Jones, cross the Savannah and rendezvous at the ferry on the “Alata” river, from which point they would be conducted into “Spanish Florida.” It was suggested that fifty good horsemen might be raised at “Purrisburg,” and that four months’ provisions for four hundred men of his regiment should be contributed, and also boats sufficient to transport them. Of artillery on hand the General reported thirty-six coehorns and about eighteen hundred shells. In addition to the four hundred men drawn from his regiment, and the Indians whom he had engaged, he expected to be able to arm and utilize for the expedition about two hundred men of the Georgia Colony, if arrangements could be made for paying and feeding them. For this letter in full, see Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, vol. II, pp. 338, 339. London, 1748.
See also “The Spanish Hireling detected,” etc., pp. 52-57. London, 1743.
82 See Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 378, 380. Boston, 1841.
83 The object of this fort was to guard the passage of the St. Johns river and maintain communication with St. Marks and Pensacola. It was a place of some strength, and the traces of the earth-works there thrown up may still be seen about a fourth of a mile north of the termination of the Bellamy road. Fairbanks’ History and Antiquities of St. Augustine, pp. 144, 145. New York, 1858.
84 This work had been erected by Don Diego de Spinosa upon his own estate. Its remains, with one or two cannon, are still visible. Idem, p. 144.
85 See Letter of General Oglethorpe to the Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina, under date December 29, 1739. “The Spanish Hireling detected,” etc., pp. 57, 58. London, 1743. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 108, 109. Savannah, 1873.
86 “Spanish Hireling detected,” etc., pp. 59-61. London, 1743.
87 Of South Carolina.
88 This was an out-post on the North river, about two miles north of St. Augustine. A fortified line,—a considerable portion of which may now be traced,—extended across from the stoccades on the St. Sebastian to Fort Moosa. A communication by a tide creek existed through the marshes, between the Castle at St. Augustine and Fort Moosa. Fairbanks’ History and Antiquities of St. Augustine, p. 144. New York, 1858.
89 The main battery on Anastasia island, called the Poza, was armed with four eighteen pounders and one nine pounder. Two eighteen pounders were mounted on the point of the wood of the island. The remains of the Poza battery are still to be seen, almost as distinctly marked as on the day of its erection. Four mortars and forty cohorns were employed in the siege. See Fairbanks’ History and Antiquities of St. Augustine, p. 146. New York, 1868.
90 The light guns, from their long range, caused trifling effect upon the strong walls of the castle. When struck, they received the balls in their spongy, infrangible embrace, and sustained comparatively little injury. The marks of their impact may be noted to this day.
91 Historical Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia, vol. II, p. 81. London, 1779.
92 Stephens says,... Most of the gay Volunteers run away by small Parties, basely and cowardly, as they could get Boats to carry them off during the Time of greatest Action; and Capt. Bull, (a son of the Lieutenant-Governor) who had the Command of a Company in that Regiment, most scandalously deserted his Post when upon Duty, and not staying to be relieved regularly, made his Flight privately, carrying off four Men of his Guard with him, and escaped to Charles Town; for which he ought in Justice to have been tried as a Deserter; but he was well received at home. Journal of Proceedings, &c., vol. II, p. 462. London, 1742.
Compare Ramsay’s History of South Carolina, vol. I, p. 143. Charleston, 1809.
93 Wright’s Memoir of General James Oglethorpe, p. 254. London, 1867.
94 See Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 239, 240. Boston, 1841, quoting from the Gentleman’s Magazine.
95 See “An Impartial Account of the late Expedition against St. Augustine under General Oglethorpe,” &c., London, 1742, which called forth “The Spanish Hireling detected,” &c., London, 1743.
96 For fuller account of this demonstration against St. Augustine see Harris’ “Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels,” &c., pp. 339, 340. London, 1748. “An Impartial Account of the late Expedition against St. Augustine,” &c. London, 1742. “The Spanish Hireling detected,” &c. London, 1743. Stephens’ “Journal of Proceedings,” &c., vol. II, pp. 438, 444-448, 461 et aliter. London, 1742. Hewitt’s “Historical Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia,” vol. II, chap. viii, pp. 65-82. London, 1770. McCall’s “History of Georgia,” vol. I, pp. 143-151. Savannah, 1811. Stevens’ “History of Georgia,” vol. I, pp. 167-179. New York, 1847. Spalding’s “Sketch of the Life of General James Oglethorpe,” Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, pp. 265-272. Savannah, 1840. Harris’ “Biographical Memorials of James Oglethorpe,” pp. 222-242. Boston, 1841. Wright’s “Memoir of General James Oglethorpe,” &c., pp. 235-255. London, 1867. Ramsay’s “History of South Carolina,” vol. I, pp. 140-144. Charleston, 1809, &c., &c., &c. Fairbanks’ History and Antiquities of St. Augustine, pp. 141-152. New York, 1858.
97 Stephens’ “Journal of Proceedings,” &c., vol. II, pp. 467-468, 494-495. London, 1742.
98 Idem, p. 496.
99 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, p. 273. Savannah, 1840.
100 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, p. 274. Savannah, 1840. Bancroft’s History of the United States, vol. III, p. 434. Boston, 1852.
In this estimate may properly be included such officers and men of Oglethorpe’s regiment as were there stationed.
101 Page 106. Charles-Town, South Carolina, 1741.
102 Pages 51 and 52. London, 1741.
Compare “A State of the Province of Georgia attested upon Oath,” &c., p. 11. London, 1742. “An Account Shewing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia,” &c., p. 36. London, 1741. Wright’s Memoir of Gen’l James Oglethorpe, pp. 263, 264. London, 1867.
103 See an Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia, &c., p. 53. London, 1743. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 264. London, 1867.
104 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, p. 258. Savannah, 1840.
105 London, 1741.
106 London, 1742.
107 London, 1743.
108 A Brief Account of the Causes that have retarded the Progress of the Colony of Georgia, &c., Appendix, pp. 1-19. London, 1743.
109 See Letter of General Oglethorpe, dated Frederica, June 8th, 1742. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 298. London, 1867.
110 For 1742. Vol. XII, p. 694.
111 See Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 133 et seq. Savannah, 1873.
112 Consisting of fifty-six sail, and between seven and eight thousand men.
113 This was a large Settee having one hundred and fifty men on board. A few days afterwards the fleet was dispersed by a storm so that all the shipping did not arrive at St. Augustine.
114 These he attacked, driving some of them ashore.
115 “Never did the Carolineans,” says Mr. Hewitt, “make so bad a figure in the defence of their country. When union, activity and dispatch were so requisite, they ingloriously stood at a distance, and suffering private pique to prevail over public spirit, seemed determined to risk the safety of their country, rather than General Oglethorpe by their help should gain the smallest degree of honour and reputation.... The Georgians with justice blamed their more powerful neighbors, who, by keeping at a distance in the day of danger, had almost hazarded the loss of both provinces.” Historical Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia, vol. II, pp. 119, 120. London, 1779.
116 This was on the 21st of June. Most of the accounts place the number of Spanish vessels, then attempting to enter Amelia Sound, at nine, instead of fourteen.
117 In endeavoring to reach St. Augustine for repairs, four of their vessels foundered at sea.
118 This was the merchant ship “Success,” mounting twenty guns. The General sent one hundred soldiers on board of her and filled her with necessary military stores. Thus she became, in the language of one of her crew, “ready for twice the number of Spaniards.”
119 For their passage and outfit, they had agreed to labor for the Trust for a given period.
120 This little fleet consisted of the “Success,” Captain Thompson, of twenty guns and one hundred and ten men, with springs upon her cables,—General Oglethorpe’s schooner of fourteen guns and eighty men,—and the sloop “St. Philip,” of fourteen guns and eighty men. Eight York sloops were close in shore, with one man on board each of them, whose instructions were, in case the enemy were about to capture, to sink or run them on shore. Gentleman’s Magazine, vol. XII, p. 495.
121 This attempt was made by the Spanish Commodore with a ship of twenty-two guns, and a settee with an eighteen pounder and two nine pounders in her bow. So stout was the resistance offered by Captain Thompson with the great guns of his ship, by Captain Carr and his company of Marines, and by Lieutenant Wall and Ensign Otterbridge in charge of a detachment from Oglethorpe’s Regiment, that the Spaniards were obliged to retire with loss. A snow of sixteen guns at the same time attempted to board the Guard Schooner, but was repulsed by Captain Dunbar.
See Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, vol. II, p. 341. London, 1748.
122 From the statement made by live Spanish prisoners captured and brought in by the Creek Indians, it appeared that Don Manuel de Monteano, Governor of St. Augustine, was the Commander in Chief of the Expedition, and that Major General Antonio de Redondo was Chief Engineer. He and two Brigadier Generals accompanied the forces which came from Cuba. The aggregate strength of the expedition was about five thousand men, of whom four thousand three hundred were landed on St. Simons.
Heavy scouting parties were sent out in every direction by General Oglethorpe to observe the movements of the enemy and retard any advance in the direction of Frederica, the defences of which were being strengthened as rapidly and as thoroughly as time and the forces at command would permit.
123 In this charge Oglethorpe encountered one hundred and twenty Spanish Pioneers, forty Yamassee Indians, and an equal number of negroes. So violent was the onslaught that nearly the whole party was either captured or slain. With his own hands the General captured two prisoners. Captain Sanchio commanding this advance, was taken prisoner by Lieut. Scroggs of the Rangers, and Toonahowi, although shot through the right arm by a Spanish officer, drew his pistol with his left and killed his antagonist on the spot.
See Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, p. 305. McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, p. 181.
124 After locating his troops, Oglethorpe hastened back to Frederica to prepare the Rangers and the Marine Company for action at a moments warning.
125 Captain McCall furnishes the following account of this affair:
Captain Noble Jones, with a detachment of regulars and Indians, being out on a scouting party, fell in with a small detachment in the enemy’s advance, who were surprised and made prisoners, not deeming themselves so far in front of the main army. From these prisoners information was received that the whole Spanish army was advancing: this was immediately communicated by an Indian runner to the General who detached Captain Dunbar with a company of grenadiers to join the regulars and Indians, with orders to harrass the enemy on their advance. These detachments having formed a junction, observed at a distance the Spanish army on the march: and taking a favorable position near a marsh, formed an ambuscade. The enemy fortunately halted within a hundred paces of this position, stacked their arms, made fires, and were preparing their kettles for cooking, when a horse observed some of the party in ambuscade, and, frightened at the uniform of the regulars, began to snort, and gave the alarm. The Spaniards ran to their arms, but were shot down in great numbers by Oglethorpe’s detachment, who continued invisible to the enemy; and after repeated attempts to form, in which some of their principal officers fell, they fled with the utmost precipitation, leaving their camp equipage on the field, and never halted until they got under cover of the guns of their battery and ships. General Oglethorpe had detached Major Horton with a reinforcement, who arrived only in time to join in the pursuit. So complete was the surprise of the enemy, that many fled without their arms; others in a rapid retreat discharged their muskets over their shoulders at their pursuers; and many were killed by the loaded arms which were left on the ground; generally the Spaniards fired so much at random that the trees were pruned by the balls from their muskets; their loss in killed, wounded and prisoners, was estimated at five hundred. The loss in Oglethorpe’s detachment was very inconsiderable. From the signal victory obtained over the enemy, and the great slaughter amongst the Spanish troops, the scene of action just described has ever since been denominated the bloody marsh.
History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 185, 187. Savannah, 1811.
Compare Spalding’s Life of Oglethorpe, Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, pp. 281-284. Savannah, 1840.
126 The Spaniards regarded the loss of this officer as more severe than that of a thousand men.
127 In these two engagements the enemy had sustained a loss of two Captains, one Lieutenant, two Sergeants, two Drummers, and one hundred and sixty privates killed; and one Captain and nineteen men captured.
128 This was on the 8th of July.
129 During the 9th and 10th of July all hands were employed on the works at Frederica, except the scouts and Indians; the latter brought in some scalps and prisoners.
130 July 13th.
131 St. Simon’s town was destroyed by the Spaniards prior to their evacuation of the island. To a writer in the London Magazine for 1745, who made his observations in the early part of 1743, are we indebted for the following notice of this place:—“At the South Point of this Island of St. Simon, are the Ruins of the Town of St. Simons destroyed by the Spaniards at their Invasion. By the remaining Vestiges it must have been a very uniform Place; and the Situation is quite charming, tho’ it now makes one melancholy to see such a Desolation in so new a Country. The only Building they left standing was one House which they had consecrated for a Chapel. How different the Proceedings of the more generous English even in their Parts who never leave behind them such direful Remembrances; but here religious Fury goes Hand in Hand with Conquest, resolv’d to ruin whom they can’t convert. The Fort has some Remains still, and seems to have been no extraordinary affair; tho’ no Place was ever better defended, and the Enemies seem, by their Works and Intrenchments to have thought themselves sure of keeping the Town, but found themselves wofully mistaken. Down the Beach to the westward is a Look-out of Tappy-work which is a very good Mark for standing over the Bar into the Harbour; and on the opposite Point of Jekyl Island is a very remarkable Hammock of Trees much taken notice of by Seamen on the same Account. Somewhat lower and more Northerly is the Plantation call’d Gascoign’s which underwent the same Fate with St. Simons. An Officer’s Command is station’d at South Point, who disposes his Centries so as to discover Vessels some Leagues at Sea, and upon any such Discovery an Alarm-Gun is fir’d, and an Horseman sent up with Notice to the Head-Quarters which is nine miles from this Place. If they appear to make for the Harbour, a perpendicular mounted Gun is fir’d as a Signal, which, by the Ascent of the Smoke is a Direction to a Ship a long Way in the Offing, and is a most lucky Contrivance. The road from hence to Frederica is cut through the Woods, and through the Marshes rais’d upon a Causeway.” Page 549.
132 July 16th.
133 For further account of this memorable defence, see—Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, vol. II, pp. 340, 342. London, 1748. McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 170, 190. Savannah, 1811. Hewitt’s Historical Account of the Rise and Progress of the Colonies of South Carolina and Georgia, vol. II, pp. 114, 119. London, 1779. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 180, 196. New York, 1847. Harris’ Memorials of Oglethorpe, pp. 250, 268. Boston, 1840. Wright’s Memoir of Oglethorpe, pp. 299, 317. London, 1867. Spalding’s Life of Oglethorpe, Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. I, pp. 275, 284. Savannah, 1840. Ramsay’s History of South Carolina, vol. I, pp. 144, 147. Charleston, 1809. London Magazine, vol. XI, pp. 515, 516, 568. Gentleman’s Magazine for 1742, vol. XII, pp. 494, 496, 550, 561, 693, 694. Gentleman’s Magazine for 1743, vol. XIII, pp. 84, 638, 639.
134 The following estimate was made of the forces engaged:
Spanish Troops.
| One regiment of dismounted Dragoons | 400 |
| Havanna Regiment | 500 |
| Havanna Militia | 1,000 |
| Regiment of Artillery | 400 |
| Florida Militia | 400 |
| Battalion of Mulattoes | 300 |
| Black Regiment | 400 |
| Indians | 90 |
| Marines | 600 |
| Seamen | 1,000 |
| Total | 5,090 |
General Oglethorpe’s Command.
| His Regiment | 472 |
| Company of Rangers | 30 |
| Highlanders | 50 |
| Armed Militia | 40 |
| Indians | 60 |
| Total | 652 |
See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol I, p. 196. Savannah, 1811.
135 Of the condition of this town in 1743 we find the following account in the London Magazine for 1745: “Our first Stage we made New Inverness, or the Darien, on the Continent near 20 miles from Frederica; which is a Settlement of Highlanders living and dressing in their own Country Fashion, very happily and contentedly. There is an Independent Company of Foot of them, consisting of 70 men who have been of good service. The Town is regularly laid out, and built of Wood mostly, divided into Streets and Squares; before the Town is the Parade, and a Fort not yet finish’d. It is situated upon a very high Bluff, or Point of Land, from whence, with a few cannon, they can scour the River, otherwise it is surrounded by Pine-barrens, and Woods, and there is a Rout by Land to Savannah and Fort Argyle, which is statedly reconnoitred by a Troop of Highland Rangers who do duty here. The Company and Troop, armed in the Highland manner, make an extreme good appearance under arms. The whole Settlement may be said to be a brave and industrious People; but were more numerous, planted more, and raised more cattle before the Invasion, with which they drove a good Trade to the Southward; but Things seem daily mending with them. They are forc’d to keep a very good Guard in this Place, it lies so open to the Insults of the French and Spanish Indians, who once or twice have shewn Straglers some very bloody Tricks.” Page 551.
136 Samuel Cloake,—who was a prisoner on board the “Pretty Nancy” taken by the Spaniards from the English, and fitted out for the invasion of Georgia,—made oath that during the time they lay off the bar the Spaniards often “whetted their swords and held their knives to this deponent’s and other English prisoners’ throats, saying they would cut the throats of those they should take at Georgia.” Harris’ Complete Collection of Voyages and Travels, pp. 342, 343. London, 1748.
137 The governor of South Carolina did not unite in these congratulations and thanks; but the people of Port Royal did, much to his chagrin.
138 In the language of General Oglethorpe, “they were so meek there was no provoking them.”
139 See General Oglethorpe’s letters of the 12th and 21st of March, 1743. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 149, 151. Savannah, 1873. London Magazine for 1743, vol. XII, pp. 356, 357. London Gazette, July 9, 1743.
140 This demonstration had the effect of restraining the Enemy within the lines of St. Augustine; and the active cruizing of the English Guard Schooner and Scout Boats held in check the privateers which were in the habit of annoying the navigation to the southward. “In fine,” writes a Charles-Town merchant to his correspondent in London, under date August 10, 1743, “Georgia is a Gibraltar to this Province and North America, however insignificant some People may make it.” London Magazine for 1743, vol. XII, p. 567.
141 See McCall’s Georgia, vol. I, p. 203. Savannah, 1811. Gentleman’s Magazine for 1744, vol. XIV, p. 393. London Magazine for 1744, vol. XIII, p. 359.
142 London Magazine for 1743, vol. XII, p. 305.
143 A mixture of lime made of Oyster-shells, with Sand, Small Shells, &c., which, when harden’d, is as firm as Stone. I have observ’d prodigious Quantities of Salt Petre to issue from Walls of this Cement.
144 See Lond: Mag: 1742, p. 461, 515, 516, 567.
145 Shingles are split out of many Sorts of Wood, in the shape of Tiles, which, when they have been some Time expos’d to the Weather, appear of the Colour of Slate, and have a very pretty Look; the Houses in America are mostly Shingled.
146 See Lond. Mag. 1744, p. 359.
147 I have been told that in this Explosion near 3,000 Bombs burst, which, had they not been well bedded, would have done much Mischief.
148 The Inhabitants begin to plant this charming Fruit very much, and ’tis to be hop’d will banish their numerous Peach Trees to their Country Settlements, which are Nurseries of Muskettos and other Vermin. The Season I was there, they had Oranges enough of their own Growth for Home Consumption.
149 This was written in the beginning of 1743. See London Magazine for 1745, vol. XIV, pp. 395, 396.
Compare notice in “The North-American and the West-Indian Gazetteer.” London, 1778.
150 Volume XVI, p. 484.
151 A destructive fire had consumed nearly all the houses which time had spared. See Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, p. 446. New York, 1847.
152 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 168, 169. Savannah, 1873.
153 Travels through North and South Carolina, Georgia, &c., pp. 55-60. London, 1792.
154 MS. Order-Book of Col. S. Elbert.
155 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 151.
156 See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 131, 132. Savannah, 1811.
157 See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. II, pp. 137-139. Savannah, 1811. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. II, pp. 161-162. Philadelphia, 1859. White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 468. New York, 1855.
158 Watkins’ Digest, p. 470.
159 Watkins’ Digest, pp. 598, 599.
160 “Notes and Observations on the Pine Lands of Georgia,” &c. Augusta, 1801.
161 Clayton’s Digest, p. 63.
162 Lamar’s Digest, pp. 902, 978.
163 Alluding to Frederica, in 1829, Sherwood says: “The Fort is gone to decay, but there are ten houses in the village.” Gazetteer of Georgia, p. 111.
164 Frances Anne Kemble, who visited Frederica in the spring of 1839, thus records her impressions of the deserted spot: “This Frederica is a very strange place; it was once a town,—the town, the metropolis of the island. The English, when they landed on the coast of Georgia in the war, destroyed this tiny place, and it has never been built up again. Mrs. A.’s and one other house, are the only dwellings that remain in this curious wilderness of dismantled crumbling gray walls compassionately cloaked with a thousand profuse and graceful creepers. These are the only ruins, properly so called, except those of Fort Putnam, that I have ever seen in this land of contemptuous youth. I hailed these picturesque groups and masses with the feelings of a European, to whom ruins are like a sort of relations. In my country, ruins are like a minor chord in music; here they are like a discord; they are not the relics of time, but the results of violence; they recall no valuable memories of a remote past, and are mere encumbrances to the busy present. Evidently they are out of place in America except on St. Simon’s island, between this savage selvage of civilization and the great Atlantic deep. These heaps of rubbish and roses would have made the fortune of a sketcher; but I imagine the snakes have it all to themselves here, and are undisturbed by camp-stools, white umbrellas, and ejaculatory young ladies.” Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation, &c., p. 285. New York, 1863.
165 A Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia, &c., vol. II, pp. 215, 216. London, 1742.
166 For notices of Abercorn, see—“An Extract of the Journals of Mr. Commissary Von Beck, &c., and of the Reverend Mr. Bolzius,” pp. 18, 20, 54, 66, 69. London, 1734. “An Account Shewing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia, in America,” &c., p. 35. London, 1741. Stephens’ “Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia,” &c., vol. I, p. 230. Vol. II, pp. 215, 216. London, 1742. “An Extract of the Rev. Mr. John Wesley’s Journal,” &c., p. 60. Bristol, n. d. “A State of the Province of Georgia, attested upon oath,” &c., p. 5. London, 1742. “A True and Historical Narrative of the Colony of Georgia,” &c., by Tailfer, Anderson, and Douglas, p. 108. Charles-Town, 1741.
167 See Memoir of General James Oglethorpe, by Robert Wright, p. 74. London, 1857.
168 Memoir of General James Oglethorpe, by Robert Wright, pp. 284, 285. London, 1867.
169 See A Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia, &c., by William Stephens, pp. 160, 161. London, MDCCXLII.
170 See An Account Shewing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia in America, &c., pp. 48, 49. London, 1741.
171 History of Georgia, vol. I, p. 255. Savannah, 1811.
172 The following members of that Congress came from the Parish of St. John: James Screven, Nathan Brownson, Daniel Roberts, John Baker, Sr., John Bacon, Sr., James Maxwell, Edward Ball, William Baker, Sr., William Bacon, Jr., John Stevens, and John Winn, Sr. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 106.
173 See McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 7. Savannah, 1816.
174 The Medway, in the county of Kent, is a noble stream. Its trunk and branches cover thirty square miles of the surface of the county, and its length is nearly sixty miles,—of which forty are navigable. This river well deserves the name of Vaga, by which the Britons described its wanderings. The Saxons added the syllable Med, the sign of middle, because the river runs through the centre of the county, and thus gets its present name of Medway. Encyclopædia Britannica, 8th Edition, vol. XIII, Article Kent, p. 65. See also vol. VIII, p. 716.
175 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, pp. 150, 152.
176 Under the writs of election issued by Sir James Wright in 1761, Thomas Carter, Parmenus Way and John Winn were returned as members from Midway and Sunbury in St. John’s Parish. McCall’s Georgia, vol. I, p. 286.
177 DeBrahm says: “The Beach-Hill Congregation settled upon the Heads of the two Newport Rivers early in the year 1752, when they left Carolina in a great Body, they continued drawing their Effects and Cattle after settling all other Concerns in their native Province until 1755, many rich Carolina Planters followed the Example of that Congregation, and came with all their Families and Negroes to settle in Georgia in 1752: the Spirit of Emigration out of South Carolina into Georgia became so universal that year, that this and the following year near one thousand Negroes was brought in Georgia, where in 1751 were scarce above three dozen.” History of the Province of Georgia, &c., p. 21. Wormsloe, 1849.
178 See Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 21. Philadelphia, 1859.
In his letter to Lord Halifax, written in 1763, Sir James Wright says: “I judged it necessary for his Majesty’s service that Sunbury,—a well settled place, having an exceeding good harbour and inlet from the sea,—should be made a Port of Entry; and I have appointed Thomas Carr, Collector, and John Martin, Naval Officer for the same. There are eighty dwelling houses in the place: three considerable merchant stores for supplying the town and planters in the neighborhood with all kinds of necessary goods; and around it for about fifteen miles is one of the best settled parts of the country.”
179 When visited by an English traveller in 1743, this island was inhabited by eight or ten families of Indians, who had considerable tracts of open land, and were largely engaged in the cultivation of corn. It abounded with game, “on which,” says the writer, “the good Indians regaled us, and for Greens boiled us the Tops of China Briars, which eat almost as well as Asparagus.” London Magazine for 1745, pp. 551, 552.
180 McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 214, 215. Savannah, 1811.
181 See Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 453, 454.
182 See Sanderson’s Biography of the Signers, vol. III, p. 120. Philadelphia, 1823.
183 McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 255, 256. Savannah, 1811.
184 See Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 161, et seq. Savannah, 1873.
185 Travels Through North and South Carolina, Georgia, &c., p. 5. London, 1792.
186 His Observations were published in 1792.
187 Idem, pp. 9, 10.
188 See Watkins’ Digest, p. 144.
189 See Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 92. Philadelphia, 1859.
190 See Sanderson’s Biography of the Signers, vol. III, p. 55. Philadelphia, 1823. McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, p. 41. Savannah, 1816.
191 Sir Thomas Browne’s Hydriotaphia.
192 See Letter of the 9th of February, 1775, signed by Lyman Hall, Chairman. White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, pp. 520, 521. New York, 1855. Sanderson’s Biography of the Signers, vol. III, p. 54. Philadelphia, 1823.
193 The apparent tardiness and hesitancy on the part of the Colony of Georgia in casting her lot with her Sister Colonies at the inception of those movements which culminated in a declaration of independence, may be excused or accounted for when we remember that she was the youngest and the least prepared of all the Colonies, and recall the fact that Schovilites, leagued with Indians, were scourging her borders and awakening in the breasts even of the most patriotic and daring, gravest apprehensions for the safety of their wives and children. “The charge of inactivity vanishes,” says Captain McCall, “when the sword and hatchet are held over the heads of the actors to compel them to lie still.”
During the progress of the Revolution the term Schovilite which, at first, was used to designate not only the bandit follower of Schovil, but also every adherent of the Crown in the Southern provinces, was dropped, and that of Loyalist and Tory substituted. The Revolutionists were known as Whigs, Rebels, and Patriots. Many Loyalists who had fled from the Carolinas and Georgia secured a retreat in East Florida whence, having associated with themselves parties of Indians, under the name of Florida Rangers, they indulged in predatory incursions into Georgia to the great loss and disquietude of the southern portions of the Province.
History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 4. Savannah, 1816.
194 See White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, pp. 517, 518. New York, 1855.
195 Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 445, 446. New York, 1847.
196 Journal of Congress, vol. I, p. 375. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 151. Philadelphia, 1859.
Three days afterwards Congress appropriated $60,000 for the support of the battalions thus ordered to be raised.
197 It is not improbable that some of these guns may have been brought from Frederica; for the Council of Safety had ordered all warlike stores at that place to be secured.
198 In compliment to Captain Morris, commanding a company of Continental Artillery raised for coast defence. By this company was the fort garrisoned upon its completion.
199 For the accompanying plan of Fort Morris, I am indebted to a recent survey made at my suggestion by Sam’l L. Fleming, Esq., of Liberty County.
200 The following orders were issued by Colonel S. Elbert, for the fuller instruction of the Artillerists stationed at Sunbury. See MS. Order Book of Col. Elbert.
“Headquarters Savannah, 5th Dec’r, 1777.
“ORDERS TO CAPTAIN DEFATT OF THE ARTILLERY.
“You are to proceed immediately to the Town of Sunbury, in this State, where are a corps of Continental Artillery posted, which you are constantly to be employed in teaching the perfect use of Artillery, particularly in the Field. Both Officers and Men are hereby strictly ordered to attend on you for the above purpose, at such times, and in such places as you may direct; and the Commanding Officer of the Troops in that place on your shewing him these Orders, will furnish Men to do the necessary duty in the Town & Fort; so that there will be nothing to prevent Captain Morris and his Company from being perfected in the Business for which they were raised. Such pieces of Artillery as you approve of, have mounted on Field-Carriages; and for this purpose you are empowered to employ the necessary Workmen, and procure Materials. Your drafts on me for every necessary Expense, accompanying the Vouchers, will be duly honored.
“I am, Sir, your most Obdt Servt,
“S. Elbert, Col. Commd’g.”
201 McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, p. 96. Savannah, 1816.
202 See McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, p. 153. Savannah, 1816.
203 During the year 1777 American privateers were busy off the Georgia coast and among the inland passages. They cruised as far south as St. Augustine and made frequent captures. In his communication of the 8th of October, Sir James Wright informs Lord George Germain that a short time previous a privateer from Sunbury, mounting ten guns, had taken five prizes; two of which were safely carried in. He urges upon the Secretary of War the expediency of stationing a twenty-gun ship or a frigate at Cockspur, two sloops of war in the Savannah river, and one at Sunbury.
From Sunbury, on the 1st of May, 1777, did Col. Elbert embark in transports his troops destined for the expedition against Florida undertaken at the instance of Governor Button Gwinnett.
Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, pp. 246, 248. Savannah, 1873.
204 He had been for some time stationed at Sunbury, and commanded not only the Continental troops there concentrated, but also all detached companies operating to the southward. Captain Morris’ artillery company constituted the permanent garrison of the Fort.
205 The following lines descriptive of the desolations wrought by this invading force, are extracted from a quaint old-fashioned poem composed by John Baker, a son of Colonel John Baker, and found among the MSS of the latter:
“Where’er they march, the buildings burn,
Large stacks of rice to ashes turn:
And me [Midway] a pile of ruin made
Before their hellish malice staid.
“Nor did their boundless fury spare
The house devote to God and prayer:
Brick, coal, and ashes shew the place
Which once that sacred house did grace.
“The churchyard, too, no better sped,
The rabble so against the dead
Transported were with direful fumes,
They tore up and uncover’d tombs.”
206 Bancroft’s History of the United States, vol. X, p. 294. Boston, 1874.
207 Mr. John Couper, in a letter dated St. Simon’s, 16th April, 1842, and written when he was eighty-three years of age, gives the following anecdote of the famous and eccentric Captain Rory McIntosh who, at the time, had attached himself in a volunteer capacity to the infantry company commanded by Captain Murray, forming part of the 4th Battalion of the 60th Regiment. Captain Murray’s company was in the lines which Colonel Fuser had developed around Sunbury and its Fort. “Early one morning,” writes Mr. Couper, “when Rory had made rather free with the ‘mountain dew,’ he insisted on sallying out to summons the fort to surrender. His friends could not restrain him, so out he strutted, claymore in hand, followed by his faithful slave Jim, and approached the fort, roaring out, “Surrender, you miscreants! How dare you presume to resist his Majesty’s arms?” Captain McIntosh knew him, and, seeing his situation, forbid any one firing, threw open the gate, and said “Walk in, Mr. McIntosh, and take possession.” “No,” said Rory, “I will not trust myself among such vermin; but I order you to surrender.” A rifle was fired, the ball from which passed through his face, sideways, under his eyes. He stumbled and fell backwards, but immediately recovered and retreated backwards, flourishing his sword. Several dropping shots followed. Jim called out, “Run, massa—de kill you.” “Run, poor slave,” says Rory. “Thou mayest run, but I am of a race that never runs.” In rising from the ground, Jim stated to me, his master, first putting his hand to one cheek, looked at his bloody hand, and then raising it to the other, perceived it also covered with blood. He backed safely into the lines.” White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 472. New York, 1855.
208 The Legislature of Georgia, in acknowledgment of the conspicuous gallantry of Colonel McIntosh on this occasion, voted him a sword with the words Come and take it, engraven thereon.
209 See White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, pp. 523, 524. New York, 1855. McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, pp. 155, 161. Savannah, 1816. Moultrie’s Memoirs of the American Revolution, &c., vol. I, p. 189. New York, 1802.
210 The inhabitants of Sunbury seem, at times, to have been considerably annoyed by the lawless conduct of the troops quartered in their midst. So marked were these violations of good order, that General Howe on the 16th of January, 1778, deemed it proper to call attention to them in a General Order, from which we make the following extract:
“Complaints have been made to the General that some of the Soldiers have injured the Buildings in the Town; and his own observation convinces him that these complaints are but too well founded. Actions like these disgrace an army, and render it hateful. Any Soldier who either offers Insult or does Injury to the Persons or Property of the Inhabitants will be punished in the severest manner. And officers of every degree are injoined to exert themselves to prevent such Enormities for the future if possible, or to detect those who may commit them, that they may receive that punishment which such Actions so richly deserve. Officers of Companies are to take particular care that their men are made acquainted with this Order.”
211 If we may credit a contemporary writer, the population of the Midway settlement was considerably demoralized.
“Fields once her [Midway’s] glory and her pride,
Weeds, grass, and briars now do hide.
And worst of villains make their home
Where flames had happen’d not to come.
“Instead of preaching, prayers, and praises,
Now on the Gospel holy days
They race, and fight, and swear and game,
Without regard to law or shame.
“They arm’d, disguis’d, with faces blacked,
Do many villainies transact;
The few, few honest that are here,
Do often rob and put in fear.”
MS. Diary of Benj’n Baker.
212 For this disobedience of orders Major Lane was subsequently tried by a Court Martial and dismissed the service. McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, p. 177. Savannah, 1816.
213 This island lying in front of Sunbury, divides Midway river into two channels known respectively as the front and back rivers.
214 McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. II, pp. 177, 179. Savannah, 1816.
General Moultrie, then at Purysburg, before the news of the surrender of Sunbury and its fort had reached him, wrote to Colonel Pinckney: “I fear we have lost Sunberry and the two gallies that took shelter under that battery, last Thursday or Friday, as we heard a very heavy cannonade from that quarter. The officer commanding had about 120 Continentals and some inhabitants within the fort,—refused to evacuate the post; notwithstanding his receiving positive orders for that purpose he, Don Quixote-like, thought he was strong enough to withstand the whole force the British had in Georgia, for which, I think, he deserved to be hanged.” Memoirs of the American Revolution, &c., vol. I, p. 259. New York, 1802.
215 Memoirs of the American Revolution, &c., vol. I, p. 259. New York, 1802.
216 McCall’s History of Georgia, vol. II, pp. 235, 237. Savannah, 1816.
217 McCall’s Georgia, vol. II, pp. 270 and 271. Savannah, 1816. White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, pp. 533, 537. New York, 1855.
218 History of Georgia, vol. II, p. 283, et seq. Savannah, 1816.
219 See letter of Sir James Wright to Lord George Germain, under date Savannah, 20th August, 1780. Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, p. 314. Savannah, 1873.
220 General James Screven, who fell in the skirmish near Midway Meeting House.
221 This monument has never been reared. The obligation is as binding now as when thus solemnly recognized.
222 Quoted in White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 530. New York, 1855.
223 See Watkins’ Digest, pp. 298, 618.
224 See White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 528. New York, 1855.
225 See Historical Address before the Liberty Independent Troop by the Rev. Dr. Charles Colcock Jones, pp. 10, 11. Savannah, 1856.
226 See Watkins’ Digest, p. 431. Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, pp. 128, 129.
227 Clayton’s Digest, p. 213.
228 Clayton’s Digest, p. 243.
229 “Notes and Observations on the Pine Lands of Georgia,” &c., p. 65. Augusta, 1801.
230 Watkins’ Digest, p. 380.
231 Clayton’s Digest, pp. 115, 246.
232 See Watkins’ Digest, p. 618.
233 Gazetteer of the State of Georgia. Philadelphia, 1829.
234 Lamar’s Digest, p. 84.
235 To Mr. G. W. J. DeRenne are we indebted for the following memoranda from H. M. Public Record Office, Georgia, Vol. 35, B. T., touching the primal settlement, and naming of Hardwick:
“May 13, 1754.—The Neck of Land called the Elbow on Great Ogeechee River—which (on the 10th Day of this Month) they had named George-Town.”
“4 Feb., 1755.—His Excellency was pleased (with the approbation of the Board) to name the Town lately laid out at a Place commonly called the Elbow on Great Ogeechee River, Hardwick.”
“Minutes of the Proceedings of the Governor in Council.”
236 Board of Trade. V. 167. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 405, 406. New York, 1847. White’s Historical Collections of Georgia, p. 183. New York, 1855.
237 This river was then called the Great Hogohechie, which responds more nearly to its original Indian name than the appellation subsequently adopted.
238 See Plans and Elevations of the Forts necessary in Georgia, forwarded with Governor Reynolds’ letter of the 5th of January, 1756, and now on file in the Public Record Office, London; Maps B. T., vol. XIII, No. 14.
239 The design of transferring the Capital of the Colony from Savannah to Hardwick, conceived by Governor Reynolds, was adhered to by his successor, Governor Ellis. “The depth of water in the river, its more central position, its greater distance from Charleston—the proximity to which, he argued, restricted the commerce of Savannah—the convenience of its harbour as a naval station, and the fertility of its adjacent lands, were the principal motives which operated with him to enforce the plan suggested by his predecessor. As a consequence of clinging to this scheme of removal, Governor Reynolds had neglected repairing the public buildings of Savannah, and its inhabitants had ceased enlarging and beautifying a town so soon to be deserted. The Filature was out of repair, the Church was so decayed that it was only kept from falling down by surrounding it with props, and the prison ‘was shocking to humanity.’
“The removal of the Seat of Government to Hardwicke, which had received the favorable notice of former Governors, was discouraged by Sir James Wright, who argued that if the object of a removal was to obtain a more central position, Hardwicke was too near; while, on the other hand, a removal there would be very disadvantageous to the present capital which was conveniently settled for intercourse with the Indians and for trade with South Carolina. The project was therefore abandoned, and the attention of the Assembly was directed to enlarging and strengthening the City which Oglethorpe had founded.”
Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, p. 433. Vol. ii, p. 19.
240 History of the Province of Georgia, &c., p. 25. Wormsloe, 1849.
241 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 151.
242 Watkin’s Digest, p. 339.
243 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 167.
244 Jonathan Bryan.
245 Careful search fails to disclose a map of this survey either among the records of Bryan County, or in the State Archives.
246 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, pp. 544, 546.
247 Idem., p. 160.
248 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 174.
249 Lamar’s Digest, p. 211.
250 Page 65. Augusta, 1801.
251 Page 116.
252 Travels through North and South Carolina, Georgia, &c., pp. 321, 322. London, 1792.
253 Watkins’ Digest, p. 325.
254 See Watkins’ Digest, p. 444.
255 Watkins’ Digest, p. 658.
256 Clayton’s Digest, p. 58.
257 Clayton’s Digest, p. 92.
258 Clayton’s Digest, p. 182.
259 “Notes and Observations on the Pine Lands of Georgia,” &c., pp. 62, 63. Augusta, 1801.
260 The original name of this village was the Town of Lincoln. See Sibbald’s “Notes and Observations on the Pine Lands of Georgia,” &c., p. 63. Augusta, 1801.
261 Marbury and Crawford’s Digest, p. 177.
262 Dawson’s Digest, p. 450.
263 Dawson’s Digest, p. 109.
264 Clayton’s Digest, p. 606.
265 Pamphlet Laws of 1836, p. 103.
266 Collections of the Georgia Historical Society, vol. III, part I. Savannah, 1848.
267 Miscellanies of Georgia, part I, p. 67. Columbus, 1874.
268 Wormsloe, 1849, pp. 25, 26.
269 p. 235. A. La Haye, 1755.
270 DeBrahm’s History of the Province of Georgia, p. 30. Wormsloe, 1849. Stevens’ History of Georgia, vol. I, pp. 406, 407. New York, 1847.
271 Travels Through North and South Carolina, Georgia, &c., pp. 35, 36. London, 1792.
272 For further notices of these villages see “Moore’s Voyage to Georgia,” p. 32. London, 1744. “An Account Shewing the Progress of the Colony of Georgia,” &c., p. 35. London, 1741. “A State of the Province of Georgia, attested upon Oath,” &c., p. 10. London, 1742. “Extract of the Rev’d Mr. John Wesley’s Journal,” &c., p. 61. Bristol, n. d. “A True and Historical Narrative of the Colony of Georgia,” &c., p. 109. Charles-Town, 1741. “An Impartial Enquiry into the State and Utility of the Province of Georgia,” &c., p. 51. London, 1741.
273 “A Journal of the Proceedings in Georgia,” &c., vol. II, pp. 166, 318, 319. London, 1742.
274 London Magazine for 1745, p. 552.
275 Idem, p. 604.
276 Stephens’ Journal of Proceedings, vol. II, pp. 472, 492, 497. Idem, vol. III, pp. 13, 16, 17, 124, 206. London, 1742.