Program

Patriot Burials

Subject

Cemetery, People

Location

3533 Wesley Rd, Boonville, IN 47601, USA

Lat/Long

38.106202, -87.31324

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 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.

Wesley Chapel Cemetery is the final resting place of many of the area’s early residents. Among those is Revolutionary War veteran Private William Williams, who served in Virginia. It is also believed that two additional veterans of the War, Benjamin Gray and Hezekiah Hargrave, might possibly be interred here as well; however, as of 2023, primary source evidence of their burial has yet to be discovered.