Captain Edward Conner was born in Duplin County North Caroline to parents of Edward G. and Margaret Conner. Edward was a officer in the American Revolution War.
It has been speculated that Captain Conner and his wife Sarah may have been buried in the "William Bellamy Graham Cemetery" on Mitchell Swamp, home of his daughter Jane Conner Graham.
Conner owned numerous plantaions. One of these plantations is where Jane was born in Pleasant Meadow Swamp. It's only a hop, skip and a jump from Mitchell Swamp. Simpson Creek ( our farm) connects Pleasant Meadow Swamp, State Line, and Hull's Island. All these plantations were close by with the exception of Hull Island. It was in the direction of Grissettown NC.
My ancestors before me have searched all the old plantations and surrounding areas in abandoned cemeteries for the Captain and his wife's graves without success. I too have searched. Jane and her father were close. The Captain had high regards for his son-in-law Wills. In the sun set of his life Edward and pals sat under the big old oak trees reminising about years gone by. Many of my kinsmen believe Edward and Sarah might have been buried on the gallant old Graham Plantation.
American Revolution War Officer
Captain Edward Conner
1757 - 1837
ID: I032603
Name: Edward CONNER 1 2 3
Sex: M
Name: Edwards CONNER 4
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Duplin County, NC 5
Birth: ABT 1757 in Duplin County, NC 6
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Ireland 7
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in North Carolina 8
Death: 23 MAR 1837 in Horry District, SC 9 10
Death: DEC 1836 in South Carolina 8
Military Service: Capt, American Revolution 8
Census: 1800 Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC
Note:
Enumerated in the 1800 Census of Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC were two males [sons?] born between 1790-1800, one male [I assume it was Edward] aged 45 or older, three females [daughters?] born 1790-1800, two females [daughters?] born between 1784-1790 and one female [his wife?] born between 1755-1774.
DEPOSITION OF EDWARD CONNER
The State of South Carolina Horry District
This e day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three, appears in open court, before me William D. Martin, one of the air it Judges of the said state and Presiding Judge in the Court of Common Pleas according to Law taketh oath to the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed in the seventh day of June 1832 viz:
That he was born on 31st day of December 1757 in Duplin County and State of North Carolina. That when 10 years of age he removed with his rather and family to Kingston County, (same, Horry District) South Carolina, where he has resided and where he now resides.
That in the Autumn of the year 1776 and as he believes in the month of September, he enlisted into the Continental service in the New Hanover County and State of North Carolina as a private solder under the Command of Capt. Wm. Davis. The regiment was (he thinks the first regiment) commanded by Col. Ash. That he enlisted and served for six months. That soon after his enlistment, his Regiment was ordered to Rendezvous at Rock Rish, Cumberland County North Carolina to watch the motion of Tories. They (the tories) retreated down the river Cape Fear. They (the officers accordingly) descended the river in boats and under the command of Genl. Moore, the regiment passed below the Tories, landed on the North of the river, marched up and joined a detachment, and the whole party were under the command of Genl. Caswell and attacked the Tories at Moores Creek just about daylight and defeated the tories. In this action Genls. Campbell and McLeod who commanded the Tories were killed.
His term of enlistment soon after this expired. He was discharged and returned to his father in South Carolina. He remained at home but a short time when Sir Peter Parkers fleet having arrived on the coast, a draft was ordered to march to Charleston. He volunteered as a private under the command of Lients. John Session this Capt. Hawkins, having been already in service Joseph Sessions was Ensign. His conpany marched to Haddrill's point were they arrived just at the time the British commenced tiring on Port Moultrie. At Haddrill's Point he joined the main body and under the command of Col. Daniel Horry who marched on the bridge land to Sullivan's Island when they arrived just about the conclusion of the engagement. He remained in the service at this time one month when he was discharged and returned home. He remained at home but a short time~and finding the Militia service disagreeable, he enlisted into the Regular Service by Capt. Hawkins (Hankins?) who was recruiting as agent for Capt. Weekly of the fourth Artillery Regiment, as a private.
The Battalion of that Regiment were commanded by Major. (later Judge) Grimkie and Lient. Col. Bateman and the Regiment was commanded Col. Owen Roberts. He enlisted for three years. He joined the Regiment at Cat island near George Town.
From thence he was marched to Port Johnson where he was stationed and some time in way Charleston working in the Laboratory . From Charleston he was marched to Purrysburgh. That while the American forces consisting of about 200 men were stationed at Purrysburgh, the British Army crossed over, and the American forces retreated up the river to Black Swamp. The British Army at that time encamped opposite to them in the State of Georgia. The army remained at Black Swamp about two weeks. The British Army marched then up the river with a view of crosssing the River into Carolina.
The American forces advanced up the river having been greatly increased by the Militia who joined them on the march. The American Army crossed at the same place and continued in pursuit in the direction for Charleston. Near Dorchester they were joined by Genl. Lincoln at which time the American forces were still greatly increased. At Bacon's bridge they were bushwacked by a party of 500 Tories under the command of McGirt; during the fight Count Pulaskie arrived with his Cavalry and charged and routed the Tories.
The morning after the engagement at Bacon's bridge, they continued in pursuit of the enemy, we pursued them as far as the lines, but Genl. Moultrie being then in possession of the City of Charleston, the British recrossed the Ashley River,and encamped at Stone and while there our Army under the command of Lincoln marched to attack them, that in this engagement which lasted about 2 hours the Americans wre defeated and retreated, Col. Roberts who commanded this Regiment was killed. That shortly after this battle and having enlisted in his stead Nicholas Prince and Mark Marlowe he returned home having served two years in the regular service.
He remained home for nearly six months when he was elected Captain having before been elected Lieut. in the Militia of the State of South Carolina in Kingston County. That soon after he was appointed Captain he marched with a detachment of [end]
AFFIDAVIT
Nicholas Prince a clergyman appeared before me, Wm. D. Martin one of the Circuit Judges as afore and being duly sworn according to Law declares and says that he has been acquainted with Capt. Conner who hath subsribed the foregoing certificate, from his boyhood, that from his boyhood to the present time that have lived neighbours that during the Revolutionary War he was informed and has always believed that he enlisted in the continental service as he has stated in the foregoing declaraticn. That he did not see captain Conner actually enlist in the Regular Service but he lived with the father of Capt. Conner at the time he was said to have enlisted and he knows that shortly after he was absent and said to have gone into the Army of which he has never doubted. He states his belief to be that Capt. Conner enlisted as a private soldier in the Spring of the year 1777. That some time afterwards the said Conner returned home on Furlough when on the third day of August 1777 this deponant was enlisted by the said Conner as a private soldier in the fourth Artillery Regiment under the command of Col. Roberts and at the same time he also enlisted [?---] into the same Regiment and under the immediate command of Capt. Weekley. That they shortly afterwards went to Camp and joined the Regiment at Cat island That after that Capt. Conner remained in the service with this deponant in the service until after the battle of Stono when he returned home Deponant was captured at the Fall of Charleston and afterwards made his escape and returned to his former residence when he arrived Mr. Conner was in command as Captain until the end of the war and was almost the whole of the time afterwards in actual service as Captain. Deponant further states that the said Conner was a [end]
South Carolina
Horry District
Before me personally appeared, Capt. Edward Conner, who being duly sworn according to law deposeth & sayeth that he was personally acquainted with John Cox resident of All Saints Parish of the district & State aforesaid at & during the time of the American Revolution, that the said John Cox was, during that period, a true whig and a faithful soldier in the Revoluntiorary Army.
[signed] Edward Conner
Sworn to before me this 15th day of Sept., 1828
Benj. Holt
South Carolina Horry District
I do hereby certify that the within deponent Capt. Edward Conner is a man of strict integrity & that his oath may be fully relied on. Given under my hand this 18th day of July, 1829.
Source: Comptroler General AA 1554 Roll 27: l67~lSB, South Carolina Department of Archives at History, Columbia, South Carolina
Marriage and Death Notices from The Charleston Observer, 1827-1845
Issue of January 7, 1837
page 119
Marriages & Deaths, Charleston Observer, 1827-1845, p.121
Died at his residence in Horry Dist., S. C., Capt. Edward Conner, aged 80 years, an officer of the Revolution.
The South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Volume VIII
Spring, 1980 Number 2
A KINGSTON COUNTY PETITION
The Honourable the President and Members of the Senate of Sd. State the Petition of Sundry the Inhabitants of Kingstown County Humbly Sheweth that the Situation of Our County is Suchthat the Deficulties of attending Court at Georgetown is So Great the Crimes of anything of a light nature Go unpunishd Rather than Undergo the Dificulties of attending Court to Prosecute the Offenders Beside many Ohter Grievous Inconveniences Prays the wisdom of the Honourable House to take Our Case in Consideration and Grant us the Preveledge of Having a County Court House and Gaol in Our Said County and We Be under the Same Laws and Preveledges as the Other Counties in Said State where County Courts are already Establishd We have Nominated Capt. Samuel Floyd, Capt. Edward Conner, Capt. Ebenezer Rhame, Mr. Joseph Andrews, Mr. Abraham Belleme, Mr. William Watson and John Graham Esqr. Gentlemen to Be by the Wisdom Your Honourable House appointed Commissioners to fix the Most Centrel and Convenient place in said County where said Buildings shall Be Built also to fix the plan they shall Be Built Upon and Your Petitioners Will Ever Pray
South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Vol. 10
John Detreville's Company: Fleming, James
Richard Brook Robert's Company: Conner, Edward
MILITARY: 4TH SC Artillery, Continental Establishment, under Col. Barnard Beekman. Was Corporal 18 Aug 1778; in Rev. War account file 1554 John Cox is affidavit of Capt. Edward Conner 15 Sep 1828.
Marriage 1 Sarah Wingate GRISSETT b: BET 1755 AND 1774
Children
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Mary CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Rebecca CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daniel C. W. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Edward G. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Jane CONNER b: 30 SEP 1799 in Horry District, SC
________________________________________
The Honorable Captain Edward Conner of (Kingston) a commissioner who resided at Hulls Island (Loris) was born on December 31, 1757 at Dublin Co. North Carolina (before our country was even formed). Edward fought in the North Carolina milita under several different commanders in the American Revolutionary War. Edward was a member of the most famous and romantic bands of all times during the Revolutionary War, the Swamp Fox Band.
Edward Conner owned numberous plantations scattered across Horry County and along the North and South Carolina borders. He was a emeritus soldier of the America Revoluntionary War and took a leading part in all affairs pertaining to the developments of his village and section. He had a gutsy spirit and was a colorful character. Edward Conner was a man of mental prowess, strength of character, physical energy and was highly respected while serving as one of the first commissioners of Kingston.
When Edward was about (10) years of age his family migrated to the South Carolina Kingston area. Edward helped his Pa pack the covered wagon with a few of the bare necessities of life needed and followed the rugged old Native American Indian trails from North to South Carolina.
Life in the Kingston wilderness was very treacherous with wild animals, boggy mesquite infested swamps and born diseases that folks had to work closely together with one another for their own safety and survival. South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union. Commercial and political leaders of the Colonies demanded independence from the king of England. The shot that was heard around the world was delivered by horseman to neighboring Isaac Marion who was living at the Boundary House.
"Isaac Marion, descendant of French Huguenots lived at a house that sat directly on the line between the province of North and South Carolina called the Boundary House. While Isaac was living here he entertained his younger brother Francis. He was there when the news came of the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, which touched off the American Revolutionary War. The courier did not reach South Carolina until May 9, 1775. Marion forwarded the message to the Committee of Safety in Little River, part of a defense and information network connected to Charleston. From Little River it was sent to Georgetown and onto Charles Towne (Charleston South Carolina). The committee constituted the only governing body in the area in the days before state government could take hold. They could require local residents to show opposition to the English crown by signing an oath of allegiance to the new government
In autumn of 1776 this young patriot left his fathers home to embrace the cause. Edward enlisted first in North Carolina. He served under several different commanders while becoming an emeritus soldier in the American Revolutionary War. Edward Conner gallantly rode with and served under General Francis Marion. Conner was a member of the most famous and romantic military bands of all time, the fearless ‘Swamp Fox Band.' Captain Conner received land grants and a pension for serving in the American Revolutionary War. He was a true Patriot serving his country courageously filled with pride. The "Gallant Old Graham Plantations" often sheltered the Old Swamp Fox Buccaneers on Mitchell Swamp. Family history maintains that Francis Marion once put young Mr. Mc Eachern into "chains" in Robeson County North Carolina as a "blacksmith" to help out during the Revolutionary War.
Edward married the amiable Miss Sarah Wingate Grissett, daughter of Mr. George and Mrs. Sarah Grissett from Grisssettown. Together Edward and Sarah carved out a homestead in the wilderness and raised a family. Their children were Dorcas Ann, Edward Grissett, Daniel Cornelius, Sarah, Mary, Rebecca and my great-great grandmother Jane Conner ( born 1799 died 1862) who married William Bellamy Graham of Mitchell Swamp. Today this area is known simply by Loris, South Carolina.
Captain Conner was well-noted furthermore a highly respected gentleman around the villages of the Kingston area. His honorable character earned him legions of friends and followers. He taught his children and grandchildren by example. He was renowned for what would be later termed "taking care of business." He was a godly man of broad charity. Manuscripts and letters that have survived reveal that Captain Edward Conner held positions on boards and committees in Kingston. He believed in being an active participant in local affairs. His dedicated leadership gave him a strong voice in the villages and surrounding area.
"The minute book of the building committee provides historical records indicate that on February 3, 1817, Commissioner Edward Conner, Robert Conway, Silvius Sweets, and John Dicks were guests of Richard Singleton at his home to discuss the building of the first courthouse."
Census records that lead me to military records helped reveal the fascinating history of my ancestor and gutsy hero, Captain Edward Conner. Over, generations spanning more than (250) years my honorable ancestors experienced the everyday life of the nation. My family witnessed the whole transformation of the English Colonies into the most powerful country on earth.
An excerpt from an article on local history clearly shows that Captain Conner was an admirable man who was well respected among his piers. The News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993 says: ‘We, Edward Conner and James G. Cochran, arbitrators indefferenty chosen by John Bessent and Stephen B. Daniell, to hear and determine a case of certain Negroes, namely Chloe and her children and having heard the evidence of William Gore setting forth fully that said Stephen hath bargained with the said John in his prescience and by the papers produced to us, it clearly appears that the said John paid up fully his contract and the said Negroes are the said property of John Bessent, 28 March, 1816. Edward Conner and James G. Crochran, I agree, Stephen B. Daniell.'
President George Washington visited the Little River area on April 27, 1791. He was lodging at the home of Edward Conners friend James G. Cochran. Undoubtedly Edward was afforded the opportunity to meet the first president of the newly formed United States of America. Edward was a large plantation landowner, slave owner and a businessman. He was a Revolutionary War Patriot and a fearless leader of our early nation.
Throughout my great, great, great grandfathers colorful life he always enjoyed the shared camaraderie with his esteemed guerilla backwoods freedom fighters, the famous Swamp Fox Band. Some of Edward and Sarah's friends, neighbors and those old buccaneers included Captain John Merril, William, Joseph, Gilbert and John Graham, Moses and Josiah Harrelson, James G. Cochran, William Gore, John Bessent, Robert Conway, Isaac and Francis Marion, Charles Bullock, Daniel Fowler, Nicholas Prince, Stephen B. Daniell, Benjamin Holt, Matthias Vaught, William and Joseph Hardee, Moses Milligan, Joseph P. Floyd, Thomas Durant, John Sessions, Thomas King, John Cox, John Bellamy, Bryant Mincy, Robert, Adam and James Jordan, Gilbert Johnston, Jr., Hugh Giles, John Ruthledge, Peter and Hugh Horry, Samuel Floyd, Jacob Powell, John Grainger, Shadrack Vaught, Jeremiah Vereen and their families just to name a few.
Thank God for men and woman like Conners that transformed a struggling colony into a great nation. We who look back to the past find we have some large shoes to fill if we are to fulfill the promise of a greater future. Captain Edward Conner was a good hero of the Colonial Era and American Revolutionary War. His spirited legacy lives on in the good works that he began and through the legions of industrious and loving descendants who are spread all over the world today.
I am truly honored and tremendously proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of this unconquerable American Revolutionary War Hero~ Captain Edward Conner~ my champion too!
Written By: Carolyn Jane Harrelson-Buckley
{Great, Great, Great Granddaughter}
News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993
Virgirna Durant Nettles Diary
Graham Family History
Harrelson Family history
Durant-Nettles Family History
It has been speculated that Captain Conner and his wife Sarah may have been buried in the "William Bellamy Graham Cemetery" on Mitchell Swamp, home of his daughter Jane Conner Graham.
Conner owned numerous plantaions. One of these plantations is where Jane was born in Pleasant Meadow Swamp. It's only a hop, skip and a jump from Mitchell Swamp. Simpson Creek ( our farm) connects Pleasant Meadow Swamp, State Line, and Hull's Island. All these plantations were close by with the exception of Hull Island. It was in the direction of Grissettown NC.
My ancestors before me have searched all the old plantations and surrounding areas in abandoned cemeteries for the Captain and his wife's graves without success. I too have searched. Jane and her father were close. The Captain had high regards for his son-in-law Wills. In the sun set of his life Edward and pals sat under the big old oak trees reminising about years gone by. Many of my kinsmen believe Edward and Sarah might have been buried on the gallant old Graham Plantation.
American Revolution War Officer
Captain Edward Conner
1757 - 1837
ID: I032603
Name: Edward CONNER 1 2 3
Sex: M
Name: Edwards CONNER 4
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Duplin County, NC 5
Birth: ABT 1757 in Duplin County, NC 6
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Ireland 7
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in North Carolina 8
Death: 23 MAR 1837 in Horry District, SC 9 10
Death: DEC 1836 in South Carolina 8
Military Service: Capt, American Revolution 8
Census: 1800 Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC
Note:
Enumerated in the 1800 Census of Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC were two males [sons?] born between 1790-1800, one male [I assume it was Edward] aged 45 or older, three females [daughters?] born 1790-1800, two females [daughters?] born between 1784-1790 and one female [his wife?] born between 1755-1774.
DEPOSITION OF EDWARD CONNER
The State of South Carolina Horry District
This e day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three, appears in open court, before me William D. Martin, one of the air it Judges of the said state and Presiding Judge in the Court of Common Pleas according to Law taketh oath to the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed in the seventh day of June 1832 viz:
That he was born on 31st day of December 1757 in Duplin County and State of North Carolina. That when 10 years of age he removed with his rather and family to Kingston County, (same, Horry District) South Carolina, where he has resided and where he now resides.
That in the Autumn of the year 1776 and as he believes in the month of September, he enlisted into the Continental service in the New Hanover County and State of North Carolina as a private solder under the Command of Capt. Wm. Davis. The regiment was (he thinks the first regiment) commanded by Col. Ash. That he enlisted and served for six months. That soon after his enlistment, his Regiment was ordered to Rendezvous at Rock Rish, Cumberland County North Carolina to watch the motion of Tories. They (the tories) retreated down the river Cape Fear. They (the officers accordingly) descended the river in boats and under the command of Genl. Moore, the regiment passed below the Tories, landed on the North of the river, marched up and joined a detachment, and the whole party were under the command of Genl. Caswell and attacked the Tories at Moores Creek just about daylight and defeated the tories. In this action Genls. Campbell and McLeod who commanded the Tories were killed.
His term of enlistment soon after this expired. He was discharged and returned to his father in South Carolina. He remained at home but a short time when Sir Peter Parkers fleet having arrived on the coast, a draft was ordered to march to Charleston. He volunteered as a private under the command of Lients. John Session this Capt. Hawkins, having been already in service Joseph Sessions was Ensign. His conpany marched to Haddrill's point were they arrived just at the time the British commenced tiring on Port Moultrie. At Haddrill's Point he joined the main body and under the command of Col. Daniel Horry who marched on the bridge land to Sullivan's Island when they arrived just about the conclusion of the engagement. He remained in the service at this time one month when he was discharged and returned home. He remained at home but a short time~and finding the Militia service disagreeable, he enlisted into the Regular Service by Capt. Hawkins (Hankins?) who was recruiting as agent for Capt. Weekly of the fourth Artillery Regiment, as a private.
The Battalion of that Regiment were commanded by Major. (later Judge) Grimkie and Lient. Col. Bateman and the Regiment was commanded Col. Owen Roberts. He enlisted for three years. He joined the Regiment at Cat island near George Town.
From thence he was marched to Port Johnson where he was stationed and some time in way Charleston working in the Laboratory . From Charleston he was marched to Purrysburgh. That while the American forces consisting of about 200 men were stationed at Purrysburgh, the British Army crossed over, and the American forces retreated up the river to Black Swamp. The British Army at that time encamped opposite to them in the State of Georgia. The army remained at Black Swamp about two weeks. The British Army marched then up the river with a view of crosssing the River into Carolina.
The American forces advanced up the river having been greatly increased by the Militia who joined them on the march. The American Army crossed at the same place and continued in pursuit in the direction for Charleston. Near Dorchester they were joined by Genl. Lincoln at which time the American forces were still greatly increased. At Bacon's bridge they were bushwacked by a party of 500 Tories under the command of McGirt; during the fight Count Pulaskie arrived with his Cavalry and charged and routed the Tories.
The morning after the engagement at Bacon's bridge, they continued in pursuit of the enemy, we pursued them as far as the lines, but Genl. Moultrie being then in possession of the City of Charleston, the British recrossed the Ashley River,and encamped at Stone and while there our Army under the command of Lincoln marched to attack them, that in this engagement which lasted about 2 hours the Americans wre defeated and retreated, Col. Roberts who commanded this Regiment was killed. That shortly after this battle and having enlisted in his stead Nicholas Prince and Mark Marlowe he returned home having served two years in the regular service.
He remained home for nearly six months when he was elected Captain having before been elected Lieut. in the Militia of the State of South Carolina in Kingston County. That soon after he was appointed Captain he marched with a detachment of [end]
AFFIDAVIT
Nicholas Prince a clergyman appeared before me, Wm. D. Martin one of the Circuit Judges as afore and being duly sworn according to Law declares and says that he has been acquainted with Capt. Conner who hath subsribed the foregoing certificate, from his boyhood, that from his boyhood to the present time that have lived neighbours that during the Revolutionary War he was informed and has always believed that he enlisted in the continental service as he has stated in the foregoing declaraticn. That he did not see captain Conner actually enlist in the Regular Service but he lived with the father of Capt. Conner at the time he was said to have enlisted and he knows that shortly after he was absent and said to have gone into the Army of which he has never doubted. He states his belief to be that Capt. Conner enlisted as a private soldier in the Spring of the year 1777. That some time afterwards the said Conner returned home on Furlough when on the third day of August 1777 this deponant was enlisted by the said Conner as a private soldier in the fourth Artillery Regiment under the command of Col. Roberts and at the same time he also enlisted [?---] into the same Regiment and under the immediate command of Capt. Weekley. That they shortly afterwards went to Camp and joined the Regiment at Cat island That after that Capt. Conner remained in the service with this deponant in the service until after the battle of Stono when he returned home Deponant was captured at the Fall of Charleston and afterwards made his escape and returned to his former residence when he arrived Mr. Conner was in command as Captain until the end of the war and was almost the whole of the time afterwards in actual service as Captain. Deponant further states that the said Conner was a [end]
South Carolina
Horry District
Before me personally appeared, Capt. Edward Conner, who being duly sworn according to law deposeth & sayeth that he was personally acquainted with John Cox resident of All Saints Parish of the district & State aforesaid at & during the time of the American Revolution, that the said John Cox was, during that period, a true whig and a faithful soldier in the Revoluntiorary Army.
[signed] Edward Conner
Sworn to before me this 15th day of Sept., 1828
Benj. Holt
South Carolina Horry District
I do hereby certify that the within deponent Capt. Edward Conner is a man of strict integrity & that his oath may be fully relied on. Given under my hand this 18th day of July, 1829.
Source: Comptroler General AA 1554 Roll 27: l67~lSB, South Carolina Department of Archives at History, Columbia, South Carolina
Marriage and Death Notices from The Charleston Observer, 1827-1845
Issue of January 7, 1837
page 119
Marriages & Deaths, Charleston Observer, 1827-1845, p.121
Died at his residence in Horry Dist., S. C., Capt. Edward Conner, aged 80 years, an officer of the Revolution.
The South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Volume VIII
Spring, 1980 Number 2
A KINGSTON COUNTY PETITION
The Honourable the President and Members of the Senate of Sd. State the Petition of Sundry the Inhabitants of Kingstown County Humbly Sheweth that the Situation of Our County is Suchthat the Deficulties of attending Court at Georgetown is So Great the Crimes of anything of a light nature Go unpunishd Rather than Undergo the Dificulties of attending Court to Prosecute the Offenders Beside many Ohter Grievous Inconveniences Prays the wisdom of the Honourable House to take Our Case in Consideration and Grant us the Preveledge of Having a County Court House and Gaol in Our Said County and We Be under the Same Laws and Preveledges as the Other Counties in Said State where County Courts are already Establishd We have Nominated Capt. Samuel Floyd, Capt. Edward Conner, Capt. Ebenezer Rhame, Mr. Joseph Andrews, Mr. Abraham Belleme, Mr. William Watson and John Graham Esqr. Gentlemen to Be by the Wisdom Your Honourable House appointed Commissioners to fix the Most Centrel and Convenient place in said County where said Buildings shall Be Built also to fix the plan they shall Be Built Upon and Your Petitioners Will Ever Pray
South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Vol. 10
John Detreville's Company: Fleming, James
Richard Brook Robert's Company: Conner, Edward
MILITARY: 4TH SC Artillery, Continental Establishment, under Col. Barnard Beekman. Was Corporal 18 Aug 1778; in Rev. War account file 1554 John Cox is affidavit of Capt. Edward Conner 15 Sep 1828.
Marriage 1 Sarah Wingate GRISSETT b: BET 1755 AND 1774
Children
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Mary CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Rebecca CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daniel C. W. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Edward G. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Jane CONNER b: 30 SEP 1799 in Horry District, SC
________________________________________
The Honorable Captain Edward Conner of (Kingston) a commissioner who resided at Hulls Island (Loris) was born on December 31, 1757 at Dublin Co. North Carolina (before our country was even formed). Edward fought in the North Carolina milita under several different commanders in the American Revolutionary War. Edward was a member of the most famous and romantic bands of all times during the Revolutionary War, the Swamp Fox Band.
Edward Conner owned numberous plantations scattered across Horry County and along the North and South Carolina borders. He was a emeritus soldier of the America Revoluntionary War and took a leading part in all affairs pertaining to the developments of his village and section. He had a gutsy spirit and was a colorful character. Edward Conner was a man of mental prowess, strength of character, physical energy and was highly respected while serving as one of the first commissioners of Kingston.
When Edward was about (10) years of age his family migrated to the South Carolina Kingston area. Edward helped his Pa pack the covered wagon with a few of the bare necessities of life needed and followed the rugged old Native American Indian trails from North to South Carolina.
Life in the Kingston wilderness was very treacherous with wild animals, boggy mesquite infested swamps and born diseases that folks had to work closely together with one another for their own safety and survival. South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union. Commercial and political leaders of the Colonies demanded independence from the king of England. The shot that was heard around the world was delivered by horseman to neighboring Isaac Marion who was living at the Boundary House.
"Isaac Marion, descendant of French Huguenots lived at a house that sat directly on the line between the province of North and South Carolina called the Boundary House. While Isaac was living here he entertained his younger brother Francis. He was there when the news came of the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, which touched off the American Revolutionary War. The courier did not reach South Carolina until May 9, 1775. Marion forwarded the message to the Committee of Safety in Little River, part of a defense and information network connected to Charleston. From Little River it was sent to Georgetown and onto Charles Towne (Charleston South Carolina). The committee constituted the only governing body in the area in the days before state government could take hold. They could require local residents to show opposition to the English crown by signing an oath of allegiance to the new government
In autumn of 1776 this young patriot left his fathers home to embrace the cause. Edward enlisted first in North Carolina. He served under several different commanders while becoming an emeritus soldier in the American Revolutionary War. Edward Conner gallantly rode with and served under General Francis Marion. Conner was a member of the most famous and romantic military bands of all time, the fearless ‘Swamp Fox Band.' Captain Conner received land grants and a pension for serving in the American Revolutionary War. He was a true Patriot serving his country courageously filled with pride. The "Gallant Old Graham Plantations" often sheltered the Old Swamp Fox Buccaneers on Mitchell Swamp. Family history maintains that Francis Marion once put young Mr. Mc Eachern into "chains" in Robeson County North Carolina as a "blacksmith" to help out during the Revolutionary War.
Edward married the amiable Miss Sarah Wingate Grissett, daughter of Mr. George and Mrs. Sarah Grissett from Grisssettown. Together Edward and Sarah carved out a homestead in the wilderness and raised a family. Their children were Dorcas Ann, Edward Grissett, Daniel Cornelius, Sarah, Mary, Rebecca and my great-great grandmother Jane Conner ( born 1799 died 1862) who married William Bellamy Graham of Mitchell Swamp. Today this area is known simply by Loris, South Carolina.
Captain Conner was well-noted furthermore a highly respected gentleman around the villages of the Kingston area. His honorable character earned him legions of friends and followers. He taught his children and grandchildren by example. He was renowned for what would be later termed "taking care of business." He was a godly man of broad charity. Manuscripts and letters that have survived reveal that Captain Edward Conner held positions on boards and committees in Kingston. He believed in being an active participant in local affairs. His dedicated leadership gave him a strong voice in the villages and surrounding area.
"The minute book of the building committee provides historical records indicate that on February 3, 1817, Commissioner Edward Conner, Robert Conway, Silvius Sweets, and John Dicks were guests of Richard Singleton at his home to discuss the building of the first courthouse."
Census records that lead me to military records helped reveal the fascinating history of my ancestor and gutsy hero, Captain Edward Conner. Over, generations spanning more than (250) years my honorable ancestors experienced the everyday life of the nation. My family witnessed the whole transformation of the English Colonies into the most powerful country on earth.
An excerpt from an article on local history clearly shows that Captain Conner was an admirable man who was well respected among his piers. The News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993 says: ‘We, Edward Conner and James G. Cochran, arbitrators indefferenty chosen by John Bessent and Stephen B. Daniell, to hear and determine a case of certain Negroes, namely Chloe and her children and having heard the evidence of William Gore setting forth fully that said Stephen hath bargained with the said John in his prescience and by the papers produced to us, it clearly appears that the said John paid up fully his contract and the said Negroes are the said property of John Bessent, 28 March, 1816. Edward Conner and James G. Crochran, I agree, Stephen B. Daniell.'
President George Washington visited the Little River area on April 27, 1791. He was lodging at the home of Edward Conners friend James G. Cochran. Undoubtedly Edward was afforded the opportunity to meet the first president of the newly formed United States of America. Edward was a large plantation landowner, slave owner and a businessman. He was a Revolutionary War Patriot and a fearless leader of our early nation.
Throughout my great, great, great grandfathers colorful life he always enjoyed the shared camaraderie with his esteemed guerilla backwoods freedom fighters, the famous Swamp Fox Band. Some of Edward and Sarah's friends, neighbors and those old buccaneers included Captain John Merril, William, Joseph, Gilbert and John Graham, Moses and Josiah Harrelson, James G. Cochran, William Gore, John Bessent, Robert Conway, Isaac and Francis Marion, Charles Bullock, Daniel Fowler, Nicholas Prince, Stephen B. Daniell, Benjamin Holt, Matthias Vaught, William and Joseph Hardee, Moses Milligan, Joseph P. Floyd, Thomas Durant, John Sessions, Thomas King, John Cox, John Bellamy, Bryant Mincy, Robert, Adam and James Jordan, Gilbert Johnston, Jr., Hugh Giles, John Ruthledge, Peter and Hugh Horry, Samuel Floyd, Jacob Powell, John Grainger, Shadrack Vaught, Jeremiah Vereen and their families just to name a few.
Thank God for men and woman like Conners that transformed a struggling colony into a great nation. We who look back to the past find we have some large shoes to fill if we are to fulfill the promise of a greater future. Captain Edward Conner was a good hero of the Colonial Era and American Revolutionary War. His spirited legacy lives on in the good works that he began and through the legions of industrious and loving descendants who are spread all over the world today.
I am truly honored and tremendously proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of this unconquerable American Revolutionary War Hero~ Captain Edward Conner~ my champion too!
Written By: Carolyn Jane Harrelson-Buckley
{Great, Great, Great Granddaughter}
News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993
Virgirna Durant Nettles Diary
Graham Family History
Harrelson Family history
Durant-Nettles Family History
Captain Edward Conner was born in Duplin County North Caroline to parents of Edward G. and Margaret Conner. Edward was a officer in the American Revolution War.
It has been speculated that Captain Conner and his wife Sarah may have been buried in the "William Bellamy Graham Cemetery" on Mitchell Swamp, home of his daughter Jane Conner Graham.
Conner owned numerous plantaions. One of these plantations is where Jane was born in Pleasant Meadow Swamp. It's only a hop, skip and a jump from Mitchell Swamp. Simpson Creek ( our farm) connects Pleasant Meadow Swamp, State Line, and Hull's Island. All these plantations were close by with the exception of Hull Island. It was in the direction of Grissettown NC.
My ancestors before me have searched all the old plantations and surrounding areas in abandoned cemeteries for the Captain and his wife's graves without success. I too have searched. Jane and her father were close. The Captain had high regards for his son-in-law Wills. In the sun set of his life Edward and pals sat under the big old oak trees reminising about years gone by. Many of my kinsmen believe Edward and Sarah might have been buried on the gallant old Graham Plantation.
American Revolution War Officer
Captain Edward Conner
1757 - 1837
ID: I032603
Name: Edward CONNER 1 2 3
Sex: M
Name: Edwards CONNER 4
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Duplin County, NC 5
Birth: ABT 1757 in Duplin County, NC 6
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Ireland 7
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in North Carolina 8
Death: 23 MAR 1837 in Horry District, SC 9 10
Death: DEC 1836 in South Carolina 8
Military Service: Capt, American Revolution 8
Census: 1800 Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC
Note:
Enumerated in the 1800 Census of Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC were two males [sons?] born between 1790-1800, one male [I assume it was Edward] aged 45 or older, three females [daughters?] born 1790-1800, two females [daughters?] born between 1784-1790 and one female [his wife?] born between 1755-1774.
DEPOSITION OF EDWARD CONNER
The State of South Carolina Horry District
This e day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three, appears in open court, before me William D. Martin, one of the air it Judges of the said state and Presiding Judge in the Court of Common Pleas according to Law taketh oath to the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed in the seventh day of June 1832 viz:
That he was born on 31st day of December 1757 in Duplin County and State of North Carolina. That when 10 years of age he removed with his rather and family to Kingston County, (same, Horry District) South Carolina, where he has resided and where he now resides.
That in the Autumn of the year 1776 and as he believes in the month of September, he enlisted into the Continental service in the New Hanover County and State of North Carolina as a private solder under the Command of Capt. Wm. Davis. The regiment was (he thinks the first regiment) commanded by Col. Ash. That he enlisted and served for six months. That soon after his enlistment, his Regiment was ordered to Rendezvous at Rock Rish, Cumberland County North Carolina to watch the motion of Tories. They (the tories) retreated down the river Cape Fear. They (the officers accordingly) descended the river in boats and under the command of Genl. Moore, the regiment passed below the Tories, landed on the North of the river, marched up and joined a detachment, and the whole party were under the command of Genl. Caswell and attacked the Tories at Moores Creek just about daylight and defeated the tories. In this action Genls. Campbell and McLeod who commanded the Tories were killed.
His term of enlistment soon after this expired. He was discharged and returned to his father in South Carolina. He remained at home but a short time when Sir Peter Parkers fleet having arrived on the coast, a draft was ordered to march to Charleston. He volunteered as a private under the command of Lients. John Session this Capt. Hawkins, having been already in service Joseph Sessions was Ensign. His conpany marched to Haddrill's point were they arrived just at the time the British commenced tiring on Port Moultrie. At Haddrill's Point he joined the main body and under the command of Col. Daniel Horry who marched on the bridge land to Sullivan's Island when they arrived just about the conclusion of the engagement. He remained in the service at this time one month when he was discharged and returned home. He remained at home but a short time~and finding the Militia service disagreeable, he enlisted into the Regular Service by Capt. Hawkins (Hankins?) who was recruiting as agent for Capt. Weekly of the fourth Artillery Regiment, as a private.
The Battalion of that Regiment were commanded by Major. (later Judge) Grimkie and Lient. Col. Bateman and the Regiment was commanded Col. Owen Roberts. He enlisted for three years. He joined the Regiment at Cat island near George Town.
From thence he was marched to Port Johnson where he was stationed and some time in way Charleston working in the Laboratory . From Charleston he was marched to Purrysburgh. That while the American forces consisting of about 200 men were stationed at Purrysburgh, the British Army crossed over, and the American forces retreated up the river to Black Swamp. The British Army at that time encamped opposite to them in the State of Georgia. The army remained at Black Swamp about two weeks. The British Army marched then up the river with a view of crosssing the River into Carolina.
The American forces advanced up the river having been greatly increased by the Militia who joined them on the march. The American Army crossed at the same place and continued in pursuit in the direction for Charleston. Near Dorchester they were joined by Genl. Lincoln at which time the American forces were still greatly increased. At Bacon's bridge they were bushwacked by a party of 500 Tories under the command of McGirt; during the fight Count Pulaskie arrived with his Cavalry and charged and routed the Tories.
The morning after the engagement at Bacon's bridge, they continued in pursuit of the enemy, we pursued them as far as the lines, but Genl. Moultrie being then in possession of the City of Charleston, the British recrossed the Ashley River,and encamped at Stone and while there our Army under the command of Lincoln marched to attack them, that in this engagement which lasted about 2 hours the Americans wre defeated and retreated, Col. Roberts who commanded this Regiment was killed. That shortly after this battle and having enlisted in his stead Nicholas Prince and Mark Marlowe he returned home having served two years in the regular service.
He remained home for nearly six months when he was elected Captain having before been elected Lieut. in the Militia of the State of South Carolina in Kingston County. That soon after he was appointed Captain he marched with a detachment of [end]
AFFIDAVIT
Nicholas Prince a clergyman appeared before me, Wm. D. Martin one of the Circuit Judges as afore and being duly sworn according to Law declares and says that he has been acquainted with Capt. Conner who hath subsribed the foregoing certificate, from his boyhood, that from his boyhood to the present time that have lived neighbours that during the Revolutionary War he was informed and has always believed that he enlisted in the continental service as he has stated in the foregoing declaraticn. That he did not see captain Conner actually enlist in the Regular Service but he lived with the father of Capt. Conner at the time he was said to have enlisted and he knows that shortly after he was absent and said to have gone into the Army of which he has never doubted. He states his belief to be that Capt. Conner enlisted as a private soldier in the Spring of the year 1777. That some time afterwards the said Conner returned home on Furlough when on the third day of August 1777 this deponant was enlisted by the said Conner as a private soldier in the fourth Artillery Regiment under the command of Col. Roberts and at the same time he also enlisted [?---] into the same Regiment and under the immediate command of Capt. Weekley. That they shortly afterwards went to Camp and joined the Regiment at Cat island That after that Capt. Conner remained in the service with this deponant in the service until after the battle of Stono when he returned home Deponant was captured at the Fall of Charleston and afterwards made his escape and returned to his former residence when he arrived Mr. Conner was in command as Captain until the end of the war and was almost the whole of the time afterwards in actual service as Captain. Deponant further states that the said Conner was a [end]
South Carolina
Horry District
Before me personally appeared, Capt. Edward Conner, who being duly sworn according to law deposeth & sayeth that he was personally acquainted with John Cox resident of All Saints Parish of the district & State aforesaid at & during the time of the American Revolution, that the said John Cox was, during that period, a true whig and a faithful soldier in the Revoluntiorary Army.
[signed] Edward Conner
Sworn to before me this 15th day of Sept., 1828
Benj. Holt
South Carolina Horry District
I do hereby certify that the within deponent Capt. Edward Conner is a man of strict integrity & that his oath may be fully relied on. Given under my hand this 18th day of July, 1829.
Source: Comptroler General AA 1554 Roll 27: l67~lSB, South Carolina Department of Archives at History, Columbia, South Carolina
Marriage and Death Notices from The Charleston Observer, 1827-1845
Issue of January 7, 1837
page 119
Marriages & Deaths, Charleston Observer, 1827-1845, p.121
Died at his residence in Horry Dist., S. C., Capt. Edward Conner, aged 80 years, an officer of the Revolution.
The South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Volume VIII
Spring, 1980 Number 2
A KINGSTON COUNTY PETITION
The Honourable the President and Members of the Senate of Sd. State the Petition of Sundry the Inhabitants of Kingstown County Humbly Sheweth that the Situation of Our County is Suchthat the Deficulties of attending Court at Georgetown is So Great the Crimes of anything of a light nature Go unpunishd Rather than Undergo the Dificulties of attending Court to Prosecute the Offenders Beside many Ohter Grievous Inconveniences Prays the wisdom of the Honourable House to take Our Case in Consideration and Grant us the Preveledge of Having a County Court House and Gaol in Our Said County and We Be under the Same Laws and Preveledges as the Other Counties in Said State where County Courts are already Establishd We have Nominated Capt. Samuel Floyd, Capt. Edward Conner, Capt. Ebenezer Rhame, Mr. Joseph Andrews, Mr. Abraham Belleme, Mr. William Watson and John Graham Esqr. Gentlemen to Be by the Wisdom Your Honourable House appointed Commissioners to fix the Most Centrel and Convenient place in said County where said Buildings shall Be Built also to fix the plan they shall Be Built Upon and Your Petitioners Will Ever Pray
South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Vol. 10
John Detreville's Company: Fleming, James
Richard Brook Robert's Company: Conner, Edward
MILITARY: 4TH SC Artillery, Continental Establishment, under Col. Barnard Beekman. Was Corporal 18 Aug 1778; in Rev. War account file 1554 John Cox is affidavit of Capt. Edward Conner 15 Sep 1828.
Marriage 1 Sarah Wingate GRISSETT b: BET 1755 AND 1774
Children
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Mary CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Rebecca CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daniel C. W. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Edward G. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Jane CONNER b: 30 SEP 1799 in Horry District, SC
________________________________________
The Honorable Captain Edward Conner of (Kingston) a commissioner who resided at Hulls Island (Loris) was born on December 31, 1757 at Dublin Co. North Carolina (before our country was even formed). Edward fought in the North Carolina milita under several different commanders in the American Revolutionary War. Edward was a member of the most famous and romantic bands of all times during the Revolutionary War, the Swamp Fox Band.
Edward Conner owned numberous plantations scattered across Horry County and along the North and South Carolina borders. He was a emeritus soldier of the America Revoluntionary War and took a leading part in all affairs pertaining to the developments of his village and section. He had a gutsy spirit and was a colorful character. Edward Conner was a man of mental prowess, strength of character, physical energy and was highly respected while serving as one of the first commissioners of Kingston.
When Edward was about (10) years of age his family migrated to the South Carolina Kingston area. Edward helped his Pa pack the covered wagon with a few of the bare necessities of life needed and followed the rugged old Native American Indian trails from North to South Carolina.
Life in the Kingston wilderness was very treacherous with wild animals, boggy mesquite infested swamps and born diseases that folks had to work closely together with one another for their own safety and survival. South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union. Commercial and political leaders of the Colonies demanded independence from the king of England. The shot that was heard around the world was delivered by horseman to neighboring Isaac Marion who was living at the Boundary House.
"Isaac Marion, descendant of French Huguenots lived at a house that sat directly on the line between the province of North and South Carolina called the Boundary House. While Isaac was living here he entertained his younger brother Francis. He was there when the news came of the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, which touched off the American Revolutionary War. The courier did not reach South Carolina until May 9, 1775. Marion forwarded the message to the Committee of Safety in Little River, part of a defense and information network connected to Charleston. From Little River it was sent to Georgetown and onto Charles Towne (Charleston South Carolina). The committee constituted the only governing body in the area in the days before state government could take hold. They could require local residents to show opposition to the English crown by signing an oath of allegiance to the new government
In autumn of 1776 this young patriot left his fathers home to embrace the cause. Edward enlisted first in North Carolina. He served under several different commanders while becoming an emeritus soldier in the American Revolutionary War. Edward Conner gallantly rode with and served under General Francis Marion. Conner was a member of the most famous and romantic military bands of all time, the fearless ‘Swamp Fox Band.' Captain Conner received land grants and a pension for serving in the American Revolutionary War. He was a true Patriot serving his country courageously filled with pride. The "Gallant Old Graham Plantations" often sheltered the Old Swamp Fox Buccaneers on Mitchell Swamp. Family history maintains that Francis Marion once put young Mr. Mc Eachern into "chains" in Robeson County North Carolina as a "blacksmith" to help out during the Revolutionary War.
Edward married the amiable Miss Sarah Wingate Grissett, daughter of Mr. George and Mrs. Sarah Grissett from Grisssettown. Together Edward and Sarah carved out a homestead in the wilderness and raised a family. Their children were Dorcas Ann, Edward Grissett, Daniel Cornelius, Sarah, Mary, Rebecca and my great-great grandmother Jane Conner ( born 1799 died 1862) who married William Bellamy Graham of Mitchell Swamp. Today this area is known simply by Loris, South Carolina.
Captain Conner was well-noted furthermore a highly respected gentleman around the villages of the Kingston area. His honorable character earned him legions of friends and followers. He taught his children and grandchildren by example. He was renowned for what would be later termed "taking care of business." He was a godly man of broad charity. Manuscripts and letters that have survived reveal that Captain Edward Conner held positions on boards and committees in Kingston. He believed in being an active participant in local affairs. His dedicated leadership gave him a strong voice in the villages and surrounding area.
"The minute book of the building committee provides historical records indicate that on February 3, 1817, Commissioner Edward Conner, Robert Conway, Silvius Sweets, and John Dicks were guests of Richard Singleton at his home to discuss the building of the first courthouse."
Census records that lead me to military records helped reveal the fascinating history of my ancestor and gutsy hero, Captain Edward Conner. Over, generations spanning more than (250) years my honorable ancestors experienced the everyday life of the nation. My family witnessed the whole transformation of the English Colonies into the most powerful country on earth.
An excerpt from an article on local history clearly shows that Captain Conner was an admirable man who was well respected among his piers. The News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993 says: ‘We, Edward Conner and James G. Cochran, arbitrators indefferenty chosen by John Bessent and Stephen B. Daniell, to hear and determine a case of certain Negroes, namely Chloe and her children and having heard the evidence of William Gore setting forth fully that said Stephen hath bargained with the said John in his prescience and by the papers produced to us, it clearly appears that the said John paid up fully his contract and the said Negroes are the said property of John Bessent, 28 March, 1816. Edward Conner and James G. Crochran, I agree, Stephen B. Daniell.'
President George Washington visited the Little River area on April 27, 1791. He was lodging at the home of Edward Conners friend James G. Cochran. Undoubtedly Edward was afforded the opportunity to meet the first president of the newly formed United States of America. Edward was a large plantation landowner, slave owner and a businessman. He was a Revolutionary War Patriot and a fearless leader of our early nation.
Throughout my great, great, great grandfathers colorful life he always enjoyed the shared camaraderie with his esteemed guerilla backwoods freedom fighters, the famous Swamp Fox Band. Some of Edward and Sarah's friends, neighbors and those old buccaneers included Captain John Merril, William, Joseph, Gilbert and John Graham, Moses and Josiah Harrelson, James G. Cochran, William Gore, John Bessent, Robert Conway, Isaac and Francis Marion, Charles Bullock, Daniel Fowler, Nicholas Prince, Stephen B. Daniell, Benjamin Holt, Matthias Vaught, William and Joseph Hardee, Moses Milligan, Joseph P. Floyd, Thomas Durant, John Sessions, Thomas King, John Cox, John Bellamy, Bryant Mincy, Robert, Adam and James Jordan, Gilbert Johnston, Jr., Hugh Giles, John Ruthledge, Peter and Hugh Horry, Samuel Floyd, Jacob Powell, John Grainger, Shadrack Vaught, Jeremiah Vereen and their families just to name a few.
Thank God for men and woman like Conners that transformed a struggling colony into a great nation. We who look back to the past find we have some large shoes to fill if we are to fulfill the promise of a greater future. Captain Edward Conner was a good hero of the Colonial Era and American Revolutionary War. His spirited legacy lives on in the good works that he began and through the legions of industrious and loving descendants who are spread all over the world today.
I am truly honored and tremendously proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of this unconquerable American Revolutionary War Hero~ Captain Edward Conner~ my champion too!
Written By: Carolyn Jane Harrelson-Buckley
{Great, Great, Great Granddaughter}
News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993
Virgirna Durant Nettles Diary
Graham Family History
Harrelson Family history
Durant-Nettles Family History
It has been speculated that Captain Conner and his wife Sarah may have been buried in the "William Bellamy Graham Cemetery" on Mitchell Swamp, home of his daughter Jane Conner Graham.
Conner owned numerous plantaions. One of these plantations is where Jane was born in Pleasant Meadow Swamp. It's only a hop, skip and a jump from Mitchell Swamp. Simpson Creek ( our farm) connects Pleasant Meadow Swamp, State Line, and Hull's Island. All these plantations were close by with the exception of Hull Island. It was in the direction of Grissettown NC.
My ancestors before me have searched all the old plantations and surrounding areas in abandoned cemeteries for the Captain and his wife's graves without success. I too have searched. Jane and her father were close. The Captain had high regards for his son-in-law Wills. In the sun set of his life Edward and pals sat under the big old oak trees reminising about years gone by. Many of my kinsmen believe Edward and Sarah might have been buried on the gallant old Graham Plantation.
American Revolution War Officer
Captain Edward Conner
1757 - 1837
ID: I032603
Name: Edward CONNER 1 2 3
Sex: M
Name: Edwards CONNER 4
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Duplin County, NC 5
Birth: ABT 1757 in Duplin County, NC 6
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in Ireland 7
Birth: 31 DEC 1757 in North Carolina 8
Death: 23 MAR 1837 in Horry District, SC 9 10
Death: DEC 1836 in South Carolina 8
Military Service: Capt, American Revolution 8
Census: 1800 Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC
Note:
Enumerated in the 1800 Census of Kingston County, Georgetown District, SC were two males [sons?] born between 1790-1800, one male [I assume it was Edward] aged 45 or older, three females [daughters?] born 1790-1800, two females [daughters?] born between 1784-1790 and one female [his wife?] born between 1755-1774.
DEPOSITION OF EDWARD CONNER
The State of South Carolina Horry District
This e day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three, appears in open court, before me William D. Martin, one of the air it Judges of the said state and Presiding Judge in the Court of Common Pleas according to Law taketh oath to the following declaration in order to obtain the benefit of the Act of Congress passed in the seventh day of June 1832 viz:
That he was born on 31st day of December 1757 in Duplin County and State of North Carolina. That when 10 years of age he removed with his rather and family to Kingston County, (same, Horry District) South Carolina, where he has resided and where he now resides.
That in the Autumn of the year 1776 and as he believes in the month of September, he enlisted into the Continental service in the New Hanover County and State of North Carolina as a private solder under the Command of Capt. Wm. Davis. The regiment was (he thinks the first regiment) commanded by Col. Ash. That he enlisted and served for six months. That soon after his enlistment, his Regiment was ordered to Rendezvous at Rock Rish, Cumberland County North Carolina to watch the motion of Tories. They (the tories) retreated down the river Cape Fear. They (the officers accordingly) descended the river in boats and under the command of Genl. Moore, the regiment passed below the Tories, landed on the North of the river, marched up and joined a detachment, and the whole party were under the command of Genl. Caswell and attacked the Tories at Moores Creek just about daylight and defeated the tories. In this action Genls. Campbell and McLeod who commanded the Tories were killed.
His term of enlistment soon after this expired. He was discharged and returned to his father in South Carolina. He remained at home but a short time when Sir Peter Parkers fleet having arrived on the coast, a draft was ordered to march to Charleston. He volunteered as a private under the command of Lients. John Session this Capt. Hawkins, having been already in service Joseph Sessions was Ensign. His conpany marched to Haddrill's point were they arrived just at the time the British commenced tiring on Port Moultrie. At Haddrill's Point he joined the main body and under the command of Col. Daniel Horry who marched on the bridge land to Sullivan's Island when they arrived just about the conclusion of the engagement. He remained in the service at this time one month when he was discharged and returned home. He remained at home but a short time~and finding the Militia service disagreeable, he enlisted into the Regular Service by Capt. Hawkins (Hankins?) who was recruiting as agent for Capt. Weekly of the fourth Artillery Regiment, as a private.
The Battalion of that Regiment were commanded by Major. (later Judge) Grimkie and Lient. Col. Bateman and the Regiment was commanded Col. Owen Roberts. He enlisted for three years. He joined the Regiment at Cat island near George Town.
From thence he was marched to Port Johnson where he was stationed and some time in way Charleston working in the Laboratory . From Charleston he was marched to Purrysburgh. That while the American forces consisting of about 200 men were stationed at Purrysburgh, the British Army crossed over, and the American forces retreated up the river to Black Swamp. The British Army at that time encamped opposite to them in the State of Georgia. The army remained at Black Swamp about two weeks. The British Army marched then up the river with a view of crosssing the River into Carolina.
The American forces advanced up the river having been greatly increased by the Militia who joined them on the march. The American Army crossed at the same place and continued in pursuit in the direction for Charleston. Near Dorchester they were joined by Genl. Lincoln at which time the American forces were still greatly increased. At Bacon's bridge they were bushwacked by a party of 500 Tories under the command of McGirt; during the fight Count Pulaskie arrived with his Cavalry and charged and routed the Tories.
The morning after the engagement at Bacon's bridge, they continued in pursuit of the enemy, we pursued them as far as the lines, but Genl. Moultrie being then in possession of the City of Charleston, the British recrossed the Ashley River,and encamped at Stone and while there our Army under the command of Lincoln marched to attack them, that in this engagement which lasted about 2 hours the Americans wre defeated and retreated, Col. Roberts who commanded this Regiment was killed. That shortly after this battle and having enlisted in his stead Nicholas Prince and Mark Marlowe he returned home having served two years in the regular service.
He remained home for nearly six months when he was elected Captain having before been elected Lieut. in the Militia of the State of South Carolina in Kingston County. That soon after he was appointed Captain he marched with a detachment of [end]
AFFIDAVIT
Nicholas Prince a clergyman appeared before me, Wm. D. Martin one of the Circuit Judges as afore and being duly sworn according to Law declares and says that he has been acquainted with Capt. Conner who hath subsribed the foregoing certificate, from his boyhood, that from his boyhood to the present time that have lived neighbours that during the Revolutionary War he was informed and has always believed that he enlisted in the continental service as he has stated in the foregoing declaraticn. That he did not see captain Conner actually enlist in the Regular Service but he lived with the father of Capt. Conner at the time he was said to have enlisted and he knows that shortly after he was absent and said to have gone into the Army of which he has never doubted. He states his belief to be that Capt. Conner enlisted as a private soldier in the Spring of the year 1777. That some time afterwards the said Conner returned home on Furlough when on the third day of August 1777 this deponant was enlisted by the said Conner as a private soldier in the fourth Artillery Regiment under the command of Col. Roberts and at the same time he also enlisted [?---] into the same Regiment and under the immediate command of Capt. Weekley. That they shortly afterwards went to Camp and joined the Regiment at Cat island That after that Capt. Conner remained in the service with this deponant in the service until after the battle of Stono when he returned home Deponant was captured at the Fall of Charleston and afterwards made his escape and returned to his former residence when he arrived Mr. Conner was in command as Captain until the end of the war and was almost the whole of the time afterwards in actual service as Captain. Deponant further states that the said Conner was a [end]
South Carolina
Horry District
Before me personally appeared, Capt. Edward Conner, who being duly sworn according to law deposeth & sayeth that he was personally acquainted with John Cox resident of All Saints Parish of the district & State aforesaid at & during the time of the American Revolution, that the said John Cox was, during that period, a true whig and a faithful soldier in the Revoluntiorary Army.
[signed] Edward Conner
Sworn to before me this 15th day of Sept., 1828
Benj. Holt
South Carolina Horry District
I do hereby certify that the within deponent Capt. Edward Conner is a man of strict integrity & that his oath may be fully relied on. Given under my hand this 18th day of July, 1829.
Source: Comptroler General AA 1554 Roll 27: l67~lSB, South Carolina Department of Archives at History, Columbia, South Carolina
Marriage and Death Notices from The Charleston Observer, 1827-1845
Issue of January 7, 1837
page 119
Marriages & Deaths, Charleston Observer, 1827-1845, p.121
Died at his residence in Horry Dist., S. C., Capt. Edward Conner, aged 80 years, an officer of the Revolution.
The South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Volume VIII
Spring, 1980 Number 2
A KINGSTON COUNTY PETITION
The Honourable the President and Members of the Senate of Sd. State the Petition of Sundry the Inhabitants of Kingstown County Humbly Sheweth that the Situation of Our County is Suchthat the Deficulties of attending Court at Georgetown is So Great the Crimes of anything of a light nature Go unpunishd Rather than Undergo the Dificulties of attending Court to Prosecute the Offenders Beside many Ohter Grievous Inconveniences Prays the wisdom of the Honourable House to take Our Case in Consideration and Grant us the Preveledge of Having a County Court House and Gaol in Our Said County and We Be under the Same Laws and Preveledges as the Other Counties in Said State where County Courts are already Establishd We have Nominated Capt. Samuel Floyd, Capt. Edward Conner, Capt. Ebenezer Rhame, Mr. Joseph Andrews, Mr. Abraham Belleme, Mr. William Watson and John Graham Esqr. Gentlemen to Be by the Wisdom Your Honourable House appointed Commissioners to fix the Most Centrel and Convenient place in said County where said Buildings shall Be Built also to fix the plan they shall Be Built Upon and Your Petitioners Will Ever Pray
South Carolina Magazine of Ancestral Research, Vol. 10
John Detreville's Company: Fleming, James
Richard Brook Robert's Company: Conner, Edward
MILITARY: 4TH SC Artillery, Continental Establishment, under Col. Barnard Beekman. Was Corporal 18 Aug 1778; in Rev. War account file 1554 John Cox is affidavit of Capt. Edward Conner 15 Sep 1828.
Marriage 1 Sarah Wingate GRISSETT b: BET 1755 AND 1774
Children
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daughter CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Mary CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Rebecca CONNER b: BET 1784 AND 1790
Daniel C. W. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Edward G. CONNER b: BET 1790 AND 1800
Jane CONNER b: 30 SEP 1799 in Horry District, SC
________________________________________
The Honorable Captain Edward Conner of (Kingston) a commissioner who resided at Hulls Island (Loris) was born on December 31, 1757 at Dublin Co. North Carolina (before our country was even formed). Edward fought in the North Carolina milita under several different commanders in the American Revolutionary War. Edward was a member of the most famous and romantic bands of all times during the Revolutionary War, the Swamp Fox Band.
Edward Conner owned numberous plantations scattered across Horry County and along the North and South Carolina borders. He was a emeritus soldier of the America Revoluntionary War and took a leading part in all affairs pertaining to the developments of his village and section. He had a gutsy spirit and was a colorful character. Edward Conner was a man of mental prowess, strength of character, physical energy and was highly respected while serving as one of the first commissioners of Kingston.
When Edward was about (10) years of age his family migrated to the South Carolina Kingston area. Edward helped his Pa pack the covered wagon with a few of the bare necessities of life needed and followed the rugged old Native American Indian trails from North to South Carolina.
Life in the Kingston wilderness was very treacherous with wild animals, boggy mesquite infested swamps and born diseases that folks had to work closely together with one another for their own safety and survival. South Carolina was the first to secede from the Union. Commercial and political leaders of the Colonies demanded independence from the king of England. The shot that was heard around the world was delivered by horseman to neighboring Isaac Marion who was living at the Boundary House.
"Isaac Marion, descendant of French Huguenots lived at a house that sat directly on the line between the province of North and South Carolina called the Boundary House. While Isaac was living here he entertained his younger brother Francis. He was there when the news came of the Battle of Lexington on April 19, 1775, which touched off the American Revolutionary War. The courier did not reach South Carolina until May 9, 1775. Marion forwarded the message to the Committee of Safety in Little River, part of a defense and information network connected to Charleston. From Little River it was sent to Georgetown and onto Charles Towne (Charleston South Carolina). The committee constituted the only governing body in the area in the days before state government could take hold. They could require local residents to show opposition to the English crown by signing an oath of allegiance to the new government
In autumn of 1776 this young patriot left his fathers home to embrace the cause. Edward enlisted first in North Carolina. He served under several different commanders while becoming an emeritus soldier in the American Revolutionary War. Edward Conner gallantly rode with and served under General Francis Marion. Conner was a member of the most famous and romantic military bands of all time, the fearless ‘Swamp Fox Band.' Captain Conner received land grants and a pension for serving in the American Revolutionary War. He was a true Patriot serving his country courageously filled with pride. The "Gallant Old Graham Plantations" often sheltered the Old Swamp Fox Buccaneers on Mitchell Swamp. Family history maintains that Francis Marion once put young Mr. Mc Eachern into "chains" in Robeson County North Carolina as a "blacksmith" to help out during the Revolutionary War.
Edward married the amiable Miss Sarah Wingate Grissett, daughter of Mr. George and Mrs. Sarah Grissett from Grisssettown. Together Edward and Sarah carved out a homestead in the wilderness and raised a family. Their children were Dorcas Ann, Edward Grissett, Daniel Cornelius, Sarah, Mary, Rebecca and my great-great grandmother Jane Conner ( born 1799 died 1862) who married William Bellamy Graham of Mitchell Swamp. Today this area is known simply by Loris, South Carolina.
Captain Conner was well-noted furthermore a highly respected gentleman around the villages of the Kingston area. His honorable character earned him legions of friends and followers. He taught his children and grandchildren by example. He was renowned for what would be later termed "taking care of business." He was a godly man of broad charity. Manuscripts and letters that have survived reveal that Captain Edward Conner held positions on boards and committees in Kingston. He believed in being an active participant in local affairs. His dedicated leadership gave him a strong voice in the villages and surrounding area.
"The minute book of the building committee provides historical records indicate that on February 3, 1817, Commissioner Edward Conner, Robert Conway, Silvius Sweets, and John Dicks were guests of Richard Singleton at his home to discuss the building of the first courthouse."
Census records that lead me to military records helped reveal the fascinating history of my ancestor and gutsy hero, Captain Edward Conner. Over, generations spanning more than (250) years my honorable ancestors experienced the everyday life of the nation. My family witnessed the whole transformation of the English Colonies into the most powerful country on earth.
An excerpt from an article on local history clearly shows that Captain Conner was an admirable man who was well respected among his piers. The News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993 says: ‘We, Edward Conner and James G. Cochran, arbitrators indefferenty chosen by John Bessent and Stephen B. Daniell, to hear and determine a case of certain Negroes, namely Chloe and her children and having heard the evidence of William Gore setting forth fully that said Stephen hath bargained with the said John in his prescience and by the papers produced to us, it clearly appears that the said John paid up fully his contract and the said Negroes are the said property of John Bessent, 28 March, 1816. Edward Conner and James G. Crochran, I agree, Stephen B. Daniell.'
President George Washington visited the Little River area on April 27, 1791. He was lodging at the home of Edward Conners friend James G. Cochran. Undoubtedly Edward was afforded the opportunity to meet the first president of the newly formed United States of America. Edward was a large plantation landowner, slave owner and a businessman. He was a Revolutionary War Patriot and a fearless leader of our early nation.
Throughout my great, great, great grandfathers colorful life he always enjoyed the shared camaraderie with his esteemed guerilla backwoods freedom fighters, the famous Swamp Fox Band. Some of Edward and Sarah's friends, neighbors and those old buccaneers included Captain John Merril, William, Joseph, Gilbert and John Graham, Moses and Josiah Harrelson, James G. Cochran, William Gore, John Bessent, Robert Conway, Isaac and Francis Marion, Charles Bullock, Daniel Fowler, Nicholas Prince, Stephen B. Daniell, Benjamin Holt, Matthias Vaught, William and Joseph Hardee, Moses Milligan, Joseph P. Floyd, Thomas Durant, John Sessions, Thomas King, John Cox, John Bellamy, Bryant Mincy, Robert, Adam and James Jordan, Gilbert Johnston, Jr., Hugh Giles, John Ruthledge, Peter and Hugh Horry, Samuel Floyd, Jacob Powell, John Grainger, Shadrack Vaught, Jeremiah Vereen and their families just to name a few.
Thank God for men and woman like Conners that transformed a struggling colony into a great nation. We who look back to the past find we have some large shoes to fill if we are to fulfill the promise of a greater future. Captain Edward Conner was a good hero of the Colonial Era and American Revolutionary War. His spirited legacy lives on in the good works that he began and through the legions of industrious and loving descendants who are spread all over the world today.
I am truly honored and tremendously proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of this unconquerable American Revolutionary War Hero~ Captain Edward Conner~ my champion too!
Written By: Carolyn Jane Harrelson-Buckley
{Great, Great, Great Granddaughter}
News Reporter of Whiteville North Carolina on May 3, 1993
Virgirna Durant Nettles Diary
Graham Family History
Harrelson Family history
Durant-Nettles Family History
Family Members
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