Battle of Point Pleasant
The Battle of Point Pleasant was a conflict between the Virginia militiamen, led by Colonel Andrew Lewis, and Indian tribes lead by the Shawnee Chieftain Cornstalk. The battle occurred on October 10, 1774 at the confluence of the Kanawha and Ohio Rivers which is currently part of the West Virginia Tu-Endie-Wei State Park.
The log cabin overlooking the Ohio and Kanawha rivers is the home of the Mansion House Museum
The conflict has been considered the first battle of Revolutionary War. Lord Dunmore, then Governor of Virginia, ordered the militia to be organized and sent them to quell troubles with the Indians in the west. The deployment had the benefit of removing a number of troops from aiding in the struggle against the British, and more than 50 fighters did not return. The battle, however, was a victory for the Colonel Lewis's men that led to peace with the Indians, and the remaining militiamen were then able to return to the fight for independence.
The SAR and other historical organizations gather each year at the site of the battle to commemorate those that fought and died at Point Pleasant. The memorial ceremony is a part of Battle Days, an annual celebration of the battle and its historical significance. Additional information on the battle can be found at the Tu-Endie-Wei State Park website.
Reenactors prepare the cannon of for a salute during the annual Point Pleasant memorial ceremony
Battle of Point Pleasant
October 4th, 2009
The VASSAR Colorguard. From left to right: Allen Brahin, Larry McKinley, Andrew Johnson, Darrin Schmidt, and Dennis Fritts
The combined Colorguard lining up in formation
The Colorguard preparing to present the Colors at the Point Pleasant memorial ceremony
The Virginia National Guard Colorguard. The Silver Memorial Bridge can be seen crossing the Ohio River in the background.
An Honor Guard comprised of Larry McKinley (left) and Andrew Johnson (right) accompany Compatriot Darrin Schmidt with the Fairfax Resolves wreath
Compatriot Darrin Schmidt presents the Fairfax Resolves wreath
Compatriot Darrin Schmidt and the Honor Guard salute in recognition of the sacrifices of our ancestors
Members of the Andrew Lewis Volunteer's Fife and Drum Corps perform at the Battle of Point Pleasant memorial ceremony
VASSAR members gather for a picture in front of the Monument to the battle in Point Pleasant