Program

Patriot Burials®

Subject

Cemetery, Event, People

Location

2712 N Main St, South Boston, VA 24592, USA

Lat/Long

36.719044376176, -78.903164226081

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 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.

These two patriots represent two of earliest burials in this cemetery.  The cemetery land was originally part of the Estes family estate. George Estes’ father, Moses Estes, bought the land in 1771. The Cemetery is now owned by town of South Boston.

George Estes was born in Amelia VA. He entered service in Tennessee in 1782 at 19 as a substitute for his father. He served in the 2nd, 6th and 10th Continental Lines. He returned to VA later in life and was living in Halifax by 1833 when he received his pension. George died in 1859 on the family farm.

Robert Easley was born in Cumberland, VA. He served with the 5th, 11th and 15th Continental Lines. He also provided material aid in the form of one pair of steelyards* weighing 142 lbs. He died in 1814 in Halifax, VA.

*Steelyard is a straight-beam balance with arms of unequal length. It incorporates a counterweight which slides along the longer arm to counterbalance the load and indicate its weight.