Jonathan Bryan facts for kids

Jonathan Bryan (born September 7, 1708 – died March 9, 1788) was an important American leader. He was born in South Carolina but later moved to Savannah, Georgia. There, he helped James Edward Oglethorpe start Georgia's very first colony.

Jonathan Bryan also held many important political jobs in Georgia. He owned a lot of land and was a successful farmer. Today, Bryan County in Georgia is named after him. Also, Bryan Street in Savannah is named to honor him and his brothers.

Life and Career

Jonathan Bryan was born on September 7, 1708, in a place called Pocotaligo, South Carolina. He had two older brothers, Joseph Jr. and Hugh, and a sister named Hannah. His father, Joseph Sr., came from England. Jonathan's mother passed away shortly after he was born.

Revolutionary War Role

During the American Revolutionary War, Jonathan Bryan was a strong supporter of American independence. In 1779, he and his son were captured by British forces. They were held as prisoners on Long Island for two years.

Jonathan Bryan also served in important government roles in Georgia. He was a member of the Provincial Congress, which was a special meeting of leaders. He also served on the Council of Safety, a group that helped protect the colony. In 1777, he even served as the acting vice-president and commander-in-chief of Georgia. This meant he was a top leader in the state.

Landowner and Family

Jonathan Bryan was known for his successful farms. He was also connected to George Whitefield, a famous religious leader. Bryan was known for treating the people who worked on his farms with unusual fairness. This approach helped his plantations become very successful.

Jonathan Bryan was the grandfather of another important person named Joseph Bryan.

Death

Jonathan Bryan passed away on March 9, 1788, when he was 79 years old. He was buried in the cemetery at Brampton Plantation.

During the American Civil War, soldiers from the Union Army visited his grave. They were looking for valuables that they thought locals might have hidden there.

Legacy

Jonathan Bryan's name lives on in Georgia. Bryan County is named just for him. Bryan Street in Savannah honors him and his brothers.

There is also a special historical marker in Savannah's Franklin Square. This marker, put up by the Georgia Historical Society, stands in front of the First African Baptist Church. It helps people remember Jonathan Bryan and his contributions to Georgia's history.