Program

Patriot Burials®

Subject

Cemetery, Event

Location

14821 Leo Rd, Leo, IN 46765, USA

Lat/Long

41.222498, -85.011326

Grant Recipient

Indiana 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 eight 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.

Old Leo Cemetery is the final resting place for many of the community’s early residents, beginning in 1830. Among those buried here is Revolutionary War veteran William Berry, who fought in the Virginia Militia and was present at the Siege of Yorktown. The Siege of Yorktown, which began September 28, 1781, and ended on October 19, 1781, is considered the effective end of the war with the defeat of Lord Charles Cornwallis. Cornwallis was captured and the British troops surrendered, forcing Great Britain’s hand to negotiate an end to the war.