James Brenton (soldier) facts for kids

James Brenton, Sr. (born 1741, died 1782) was an important officer during the American Revolutionary War. He fought bravely for the American side. Sadly, he was killed by American Indians during a battle called the Battle of Blue Licks. This battle 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 Moves

James Brenton was born in 1741. His birthplace was Frederick County, Virginia. This area is now known as Hampshire County, West Virginia.

In 1768, James traveled across the Allegheny Mountains. He moved to Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. This area is now Washington County, Pennsylvania. He settled near the Monongahela River. This was close to a place called Redstone Old Fort. Today, that area is Brownsville, Pennsylvania. It is thought that James and his brother William helped build a cabin there.

Military Service and Rank

Fighting in Dunmore's War

In 1774, James Brenton became a Captain. He was given this rank by Colonel Angus McDonald. Captain Brenton joined about 400 men. They took part in the Wakatomica Campaign. This was part of a conflict called Lord Dunmore's War.

During this campaign, the soldiers burned several Shawnee villages. These villages included Wakatomika in what is now Dresden, Ohio. Three American Indian Chiefs were 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, West Virginia.

Later, in 1779, he was promoted. First, he became a Captain. Then, he was promoted to Major. These promotions were given to him by Patrick Henry. Patrick Henry was a famous leader.

Moving to Kentucky

Later in 1779, James and his family moved. They went to Harrodsburg, which was then in Kentucky County, Virginia. Today, this is Mercer County, Kentucky.

They spent the winter in Harrodsburg. In the spring of 1780, they settled on Clarks Creek. This was near what is now Danville, Kentucky. Today, that area is Boyle County, Kentucky.

Crawford Expedition

In 1782, James Brenton became a Major again. He was made fifth in command of the Crawford expedition. This expedition aimed to stop American Indian attacks. These attacks were happening on frontier settlers.

Major Brenton was one of four majors chosen. The other majors were David Williamson, Thomas Gaddis, and John McClelland.

A writer named Consul Willshire Butterfield described Major Brenton. He said Brenton was a brave and active soldier. He was respected by his fellow volunteers. His courage in danger was remembered by those who fought with him.

Major Brenton also worked as a scout. He was wounded at the Battle of Sandusky. After he was hurt, Daniel Leet took over his command.

A Song About Major Brenton

A song called "Crawford's Defeat by the Indians" mentions Major Brenton. It tells 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

Final Battle and Death

Soon after returning from the Crawford Expedition, Major Brenton was badly wounded. 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. This area is now Robertson County, Kentucky. About 50 Loyalists and 300 American Indians fought. They ambushed 182 frontier soldiers.

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.