As we approach the Fourth of July and celebrate the freedom we cherish so, it makes me think about Sevier County's contribution. The very name of our county is based on a true American Hero; John Sevier. He was elected the first governor of the state of Franklin March 1, 1785. The state was named after Benjamin Franklin, but later became Tennessee, at which time Sevier was the governor from 1796 - 1801 and again from 1803 - 1809. That's the boring stuff... When we think about July 4th, we think about the origins of this great democracy and the Revolutionary War. The turning point in that war was created in part by John Sevier. Many consider the Battle of King's Mountain the point where the Patriot militias gained the confidence that they could actually defeat the British. John Sevier led the men who killed Major Ferguson. We should back up several days earlier... less than month before the deadly battle Ferguson sent a message to the Patriots that if they did not “desist from their opposition to the British army, and take protection under his standard, he would march his army over the mountains, hang their leaders, and lay their country waste with fire and sword.” Upon receiving that John Sevier and Issac Shelby met and agreed to attack his troops where the were camped in Gilbert Town, NC. The two gathered around 1,000 men and headed across the mountains. Ferguson got word they were coming and retreated toward Charlotte. Cornwallis was in Charlotte with many more troops and Ferguson must have thought he would be safer there. He didn't make it and after his defeat at King's Mountain Cornwallis withdrew back into South Carolina.
So why do I bring this up on a helicopter tour blog, you ask? Well, when you see the rugged terrain of the mountains and realize these men hiked across them in August no less, it is very impressive! These "Overmountain Men" as they were known played a key role in the freedom we enjoy today and I am very proud of that heritage.
So Happy Fourth of July to you and remember the sacrifices made for these wonderful freedoms we have!
