William Russell (Virginia politician) facts for kids

William Russell (born 1735, died January 14, 1793) was an important army officer. He was also a well-known settler in the southwestern part of the Virginia Colony. He tried to start a new settlement in what was then called the "Kentuckee Territory." This area is now the state of Kentucky.

Russell was a justice in Fincastle County, Virginia. During the American Revolutionary War, he fought in the famous Battle of Yorktown. He also served as a representative in the Virginia House of Delegates. There, he was known for disagreeing with a plan in 1785. This plan wanted the "State of Franklin" to become part of the United States.

About William Russell's Life

William Russell went to college at the College of William & Mary. His first wife was Tabitha Adams. She passed away in 1776.

Later, he married Elizabeth Henry. She was the sister of a famous American, Patrick Henry. Elizabeth lived more than 30 years after William. She was very important in the early history of the Methodist Church in America. Many of William Russell's family members lived in Russell and Scott Counties in Virginia.

Adventures as a Frontiersman

In September 1773, William Russell led a group of brave frontiersmen. They wanted to settle in the area that would later become Kentucky. At that time, it was part of Fincastle County, Virginia.

During their journey, the group was attacked by Native Americans. Russell's oldest son was killed in this ambush. The oldest son of Daniel Boone, another famous frontiersman, also died. After the attack, the group lost hope and decided to turn back.

Public Service and Military Career

William Russell was chosen to be a justice in Fincastle County, Virginia. He later served in the Virginia House of Delegates. He was still a representative when he died.

Russell fought in Lord Dunmore's War in 1774. He took part in the Battle of Point Pleasant. In 1776, he was promoted to Colonel.

During the American Revolutionary War, the city of Charleston fell to the British in 1780. Russell was captured by the British army and became a prisoner. He was later set free in a prisoner exchange. After his release, he rejoined the Continental Line.

Russell was present when Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown in 1781. This was a very important moment in the war. During this time, he was given the honorary rank of Brigadier General. He commanded the 5th Virginia Regiment until it was officially ended on November 15, 1783.

Legacy and Namesakes

• Russell County, Virginia, is named after him.
• Russellville, Kentucky, is also named in his honor.
• Russell County, Kentucky, is named after his son, William Russell (III).