Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, People, Site

Location

12640 Grub Hill Church Rd, Amelia Court House, VA 23002, USA

Lat/Long

37.399709017427, -77.96961731401

Grant Recipient

Virginia Society Sons of the American Revolution

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.

Grub Hill Church Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the community’s early residents. Among those buried here is Major Joseph Eggleston, who served in the Virginia Continental Dragoons during the Revolutionary War.

Throughout the War, Major Eggleston served in multiple capacities, including paymaster, lieutenant and captain. Of note, Major Eggleston was captured in Elizabethtown, New Jersey, and included in a prisoner exchange. From there, he rejoined the conflict in the southern theater, serving in “Lee’s Legion,” and participating in the Battle of Guilford Cout and Eutaw Springs, both in 1781, following which he was promoted to major.

After the War, Major Eggleston was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates. He passed away and was interred in the Grub Hill Church Cemetery in 1811.