James Brenton (1740–1782) facts for kids

James Brenton (1740–1782) was a brave officer during the American Revolutionary War. He fought for American independence. Sadly, he was killed by Native Americans during a battle called the Battle of Blue Licks. This happened in what is now Robertson County, Kentucky. James Brenton was married twice. First to Rebecca Scott, and later to Mary Woodfield.

Early Life and Military Service

In 1768, James Brenton traveled across the Allegheny Mountains. He settled in an area that is now Washington County, Pennsylvania. His home was near the Monongahela River. It was also close to Redstone Old Fort, which is now Brownsville, Pennsylvania. James and his brother William might have helped build Williams Cabin. This cabin was near Old Bedford Village in Bedford County, Pennsylvania.

Joining the Fight

In 1774, James Brenton became a Captain. He was chosen by Colonel Angus McDonald. Captain Brenton joined about 400 men for a campaign. This was part of Lord Dunmore's War. During this time, several Shawnee villages were burned. These included Wakatomika (near Dresden, Ohio). Three Native American Chiefs were also captured.

Defending the Frontier

In 1777, James Brenton helped protect the frontier. He served as a First Lieutenant in the Virginia Rangers. This group was from Monongalia County. In 1779, he was promoted to Captain. Later, he became a Major. These promotions were given by Patrick Henry, a famous American leader.

Later in 1779, James and his family moved. They went to Harrodsburg, which was then in Virginia. They spent the winter there. In the spring of 1780, they settled near Danville. This area is now Boyle County, Kentucky.

Crawford Expedition

In 1782, Major Brenton was given an important job. He was made fifth in command of the Crawford expedition. This expedition aimed to stop Native American attacks on settlers. James Brenton was one of four majors chosen for this mission. Other majors included David Williamson and John McClelland.

People thought highly of Major Brenton. Consul Willshire Butterfield wrote about him. He said Brenton was a "brave and active soldier." He also mentioned Brenton's "coolness and bravery" in danger. His fellow soldiers praised him for these qualities.

During the Battle of Sandusky, Major Brenton was wounded. He was a scout and fired at two Native Americans. After he was hurt, Daniel Leet took over his division.

The Battle of Blue Licks

Major Brenton is even mentioned in a song. The song is called "Crawford's Defeat by the Indians". It talks about his bravery in battle:

There was brave Major Brinton, the first in command

In the front of the battle he boldly did stand

With courage and conduct, his part did maintain

Though, bullets like hail, in great showers they came

And as this brave here was giving command

The rifle balls rattled on every hand

He received a ball, but his life did not yield

He remained with the wounded men, out on the field

Soon after the Crawford Expedition, Major Brenton was killed. This happened at the Battle of Blue Licks on August 19, 1782. This battle was one of the last ones in the American Revolutionary War. It took place near the Licking River. Today, this area is Robertson County, Kentucky.

About 50 Loyalists and 300 Native Americans fought against 182 frontier militiamen. The Loyalists and Native Americans ambushed the militiamen. James Brenton's son, also named James, was there. He was part of the group that buried the dead after the battle. Family stories say that James Jr. brought his father's body back to Harrodsburg for burial.