Would this information allow me to add a Revolutionary War sticker on my ancestor?

Question

This is a Semi-Crosspost. I hope this is OK to do.

You'll have to read this post to get the details as I've tried to keep that post alive but no-one else has jumped in to elaborate or discuss further. But, I'm hoping this information will serve as proof of Rev. War Service.

In Addition, it seems this letter may have been lost or mis-filed and only found withing the last 10+/- years or so. Isham Walker from Colleton District/County SC to Liberty County/Glynn County GA has not shown up anywhere else that I can find and his revolutionary service was always referenced in the Huxford's, Pioneers of Wiregrass Georgia and Huxford's Handwritten notes. It says he had a sworn affidavit which I think is this letter. However, said letter did not show up until someone posted a link to it on Ancestry in their message boards.

NOTE: I'd also like others to continue the discussion as to Bounty/Headrights land as it seems Georgia was a little different in issuing "Bounty" for service in the Revolution. Hoping that Rev War Buff's will jump in and discuss. :)

THanks!

Answer 1

Hi Angela,

I thoughtfully read through the entirety of the other post and I'll offer my opinion:

If this was my ancestor, I wouldn't hesitate for a moment to list them as a Revolutionary War participant.  Qualification for DAR/SAR doesn't require military service; service can be based on taking an oath or affirmation (entire counties were given oaths), paying a tax to support the cause, offering supplies to the cause or sheltering soldiers, etc.  

I remember an episode of "Who do you think you are," the episode with Rob Lowe.  They found out his ancestor was a soldier in the war and he was excited to learn he could join SAR.  Then, they told him that his ancestor was a Hessian, a British mercenary.  He was captured, if I remember correctly, in the George Washington Christmas Eve raid.  Some of the Patriots wanted to treat the POWs badly but Washington was wise and he offered them clemency and even offered their freedom if they wished to stay in the states.  Rob Lowe's ancestor stayed and later, he paid a tax to the cause and they presented Rob with a certificate that he was now a SAR member.

This letter, says he served as a soldier in the war - an irregular soldier, but certainly more than paying a tax or taking an oath.

Comments

Thank you, SJ, for replying. I agree with your thoughts that this is proof of service. I was somewhat hesitant as I can’t find any Bounty Land Warrant for him only a Headrights land grant which I believe is tied to this letter. Hence, my post referenced above and discussion on Bounty vs Headrights and Rev. War Service - even for a ragtag group of militiamen :) .

I’m 99% certain this is my ancestor. I wish I could find more documentation. For instance, I can fin ref to Col. John Baker all over the internet, but I can’t find reference to who he served under or which  company/militia district he lead. (I may be using wrong terms, I’m no war authority!!)

I’m trying to nail this down with a bit more proof as it appears my ancestor is an elusive one. Can’t find him on any census either (his sons/grandsons, yes, but not him)

Thanks for having a look and offer your opinion!

Angela

Ps: using phone to reply and may be auto correct errors in there.

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I agree with SJ. The letter says he was in a militia. If you are still uncomfortable, apply to the DAR. Your local chapter will help you and I expect that the letter is sufficient evidence assuming you can prove descent from him.

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Thanks, David!!

Answer 2

Can anyone find more detailed service info on Colonel John Baker of Sunbury, Ga? Maybe fresh eye can nail down his info and I can search from that for possible leads.

Thanks!!