Valentine's 1779 Style

I've become cynical of Valentine's Day. After all, if you love someone you should show it everyday. So my Valentine's Day post is a bit different than most. 

As you know, Georgia is rich in history, most of which centers around the Civil War. During my research, I was surprised to discover links to the Revolutionary War, as well. As I thumb through my latest read "A Guide to the Battles of the American Revolution", I find a section on Georgia. 

The Battle of Kettle Creek took place February 14th, 1779. 

When our local militia showed those Red Coats what for!

   After Savannah was lost to the British, they moved through Georgia collecting Tories and taking out pockets of rebels. The Bristish troops were camped out by Kettle Creek. Pumped up by their latest victory, they fell a bit lax. A group of Rebels from South Carolina, teamed up with Georgia locals to surround them. Even though the British had twice as many men, they were surrounded by the militia on their home ground. The determined patriots sloshed through the marshes and hills to attack. The Tories fought hard until their commander, James Boyd, was mortally wounded by a sharp shooter. With the rebels gaining higher ground, the British retreated. 

 Although this campaign only took about an hour, it invigorated the southern spirit and rallied the cause of freedom.

 So this Valentine's Day, instead of buying into commercialism, give thanks to the freedoms we have today, due to those brave men, who refused to give an inch. 

 In honor of the 223rd Anniversary, there will be a reenactment of Revolutionary Soldiers at Fort Washington Park, 2/11/2012. So come on out! What better way is there to celebrate Valentine's?

For more information go to: http://www.washingtonwilkes.org/blog/

*Lynn Hubbard is a local author Follow her Blog at: http://authorlynnhubbard.blogspot.com/

Take a peek at her books at: www.lynnhubbard.com