Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, Religion, Site

Location

477 New Scotland South Rd, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA

Lat/Long

42.630094, -73.90757

Grant Recipient

Columbia-Mid Hudson Valley SAR Chapter

The origins of the American Revolution can be traced back to 1775, when the first shots were fired between colonial and British forces at the Battle of Lexington and Concord. Soon after, the American Colonies declared their independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. As the newly formed United States went to war with Great Britain, hundreds of men across the Thirteen Colonies joined the fight. These men came from different walks of life; some were farmers, others were tradesmen, lawyers, doctors and merchants. Despite their differences they desired the same thing: freedom and independence. Colonial forces faced severe challenges, including lack of supplies and military training; however, in the face of obstacles they were undeterred. After nearly 8 years the colonies defeated Great Britain and successfully achieved their independence. It is important to remember the lives and sacrifices made by those who fought for American freedom.

The New Scotland Cemetery and abutting New Scotland Presbyterian Churchyard Cemetery are the final resting places of many of the community’s early residents. Among those buried are at least eleven veterans of the Revolutionary War: William Allen, Lot Ferguson, Gershom Fuller, John Burbeck, Robert Hall, Jacob Moak, John Patterson, John Ramsey, Anthony Waine, James Wands and William Warren. In addition, James Bell, John McMillen, John Moak, Ebenezer Wands and John Wands are believed to have served and been interred here, though, as of 2023, definitive primary evidence of either burial or service has yet to be discovered.