Program

Patriot Burials®

Subject

Cemetery, People, Site

Location

4783 E Co Rd 280 N, Greensburg, IN 47240, USA

Lat/Long

39.37859, -85.390297

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.  

Kingston Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the region’s early residents and members. Among those buried there are two Revolutionary War Veterans, Private Josiah Collins and Private Thomas Donnell. Collins served multiple stints in Maryland throughout the duration of the War totaling about nine and a half months, with enlistments in 1777, 1778, 1781, and 1782, while Thomas served in Pennsylvania as a ranger on the frontier and as a private in the  state militia, enlisting at the age 13 based on military records and the age inscribed on his gravestone. Collins was interred in 1841, while Thomas was interred in 1833.