Unsung American Revolution Civilians

I've spent some time focused on stories of the Revolution looking at my family history connections. The following blogs will look at the contributions of some of my wife, Tammy's, ancestors. Like many of my ancestors several of hers are noted for their willingness to contribute to the cause in ways that did not involve direct combat. The circumstances and details of those contributions are often lost to history, but here I will tease out probable involvements based upon location, time, and any finds I've uncovered. 

Tammy's sixth great grandfather (through her biological father), Mathew Myatt, furnished supplies in North Carolina in 1781. Matthew had nearly 400 acres in Wake County, NC and would likely have contributed to Nathaniel Greene's party that ultimately encountered Cornwallis' forces at Guilford Courthouse on 15 Mar 1781. Matthew's father-in-law, William Utley, in his mid-sixties at the time is also credited with assisting the Revolutionary cause through his actions during the tumultuous period as a Grand Juror and Road Supervisor. 

Like my ancestors, Benjamin Brown and Edward Richardson, Tammy's seventh great grandfather, Matthew Manchester, served on a committee in Rhode Island. While he likely served on many committees, in July and August 1780, he served as Second Deputy to the Rhode Island General Assembly and participated in town meetings that implemented the state’s classing system for military enlistment. His committee work contributed directly to Cranston’s wartime mobilization.

Benjamin Norris, Tammy's seventh great-grandfather, was in New Hampshire during the time of the American Revolution. His contribution to the war effort was associated with his civic roles as an Assessor, Auditor, Constable, Coroner, Culler of Lumber, and Doomer. Benjamin's sons, Andrew (Tammy's sixth great-grandfather), and Eliphalet also served as soldiers in the conflict.

Tammy also had ancestors through her adoptive father's lineage who contributed to the patriot cause through civilian roles.  John Chappell, provided services in North Carolina for which he received some financial compensation. Nathaniel Lancaster, despite being born in England, rendered material aid, in Virginia. Sadly, Nathaniel contributed more than just material aid, as his son, William, died at Valley Forge in May of 1778.

The tales of these ancestors don't make it into the history books. Their actions don't evoke moments of terror or excitement in the heart of some pivotal battle. Nonetheless, each contribution was part of the cumulative efforts of the many others that ultimately gave the patriots the victory. 

Next time I'll look at Tammy's soldier ancestors.