Saturday, April 12, 2014

Society Saturday - Kentucky in the War of 1812

The Illinois State Society of US Daughters 1812 had Eddie Price as our speaker for our state meeting.  He is the author of "Widder's Landing" - historical fiction set in early 19th century Kentucky.

Author Eddie Price in costume, telling about Kentucky's role in the War of 1812
He had done quite a bit of research in preparation for the book and he shared some of his findings with us.
For instance:

  • Kentuckians participated in all battles of the War of 1812 from Thames in the north, to New Orleans in the south, as well as all points in between
  • Of those killed in all War of 1812 battles, 64% were from Kentucky
  • 30 of the 120 counties in Kentucky are named for War of 1812 heroes
  • Kentucky played a major role in the battle of New Orleans, comprising 25% of Jackson's U.S. forces; unfortunately, only 1 in 3 had a decent weapon.

1 comment:

  1. My 1812 ancestor, Clement Gillihan, served from Kentucky. I would have LOVED to see this presentation.

    Vickie Carmichael
    Last Frontier Chapter, USD1812

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