Battle of Kettle Creek and Heroes of the Hornets Nest Ceremonies

“The Battle of Kettle Creek was the severest check and chastisement the Tories ever received in South Carolina and Georgia.”
Colonel Andrew Pickens

Dennis and Judy Jane attended the 244th anniversary celebrations of these events February 10 and 11th, 2023 in Washington, Georgia and were presented with streamers for both events for our member/dual/associate SAR/DAR chapters.

The circumstances became that Chapter attendance was a key factor. While the attendance was good it was not at the big pre-Covid numbers and this year was impacted by severe weather forecasts, wind, rain and flooding. The rains came but not until we were indoors Saturday afternoon.

One streamer per chapter was the standard. While advance registrations allowed for published lists, those participating in the ceremonies in person had the opportunity to take back a streamer for their Chapters or recognized descendant organizations. Many members ( regular, dual or associate) represented more than one chapter.

Dennis represented the Cherokee Chapter of the Georgia SAR, the St. Augustine Chapter of the Florida SAR and his Patriot James Williams who fought at the Battle of Kettle Creek.

Judy represented the Hightower Trail Chapter of the Georgia DAR and the St Augustine Maria Jefferson Chapter Florida DAR.

The Heroes of the Hornets’ Nest ceremony was at Elijah Clark State Park in Lincolnton, GA.
The Battle of Kettle Creek Celebration involved a Banquet, a parade and a reenactment.
Both celebrations had speakers, programs, color guard musket and canon salutes.

The programs and speakers were excellent and that information will be well communicated in online postings.
I would call special attention to the archeological work and studies of the Battlefield reports of Col Pickens, Dooley and Clark by Dr. David Noble whose findings have recently changed what we know about the battle.