William Barton Delivers News of Rhode Island's Ratification
William Barton was an important Rhode Island officer during the Revolutionary War.
Barton had several important events on the battlefield, but his most interesting moment might have been when he delivered Rhode Island’s official acceptance into the Union to President Washington.
Please Note: this article is about William Barton the soldier from Rhode Island, not the man from Philadelphia who helped establish the US Mint.
William Barton
William Barton signed up for the Rhode Island Militia in the immediate aftermath of the Battle of Lexington and Concord.
Just two months later Barton participated in the Battle of Bunker Hill.
William quickly ascended through the ranks and within a year was promoted to Captain.
By 1777, Barton was chosen to lead a small contingent in a nighttime raid which led to the capture of British Major General Richard Prescott.
Wounded
Barton’s success led to yet another promotion...this time to Lieutenant Colonel.
William played an important role in defending Rhode Island during the Mount Hope Bay Raids.
Unfortunately, he was seriously wounded during these engagements and was sidelined for over a year.
When he returned to the Continental Army, he spent the remainder of his time guarding the Rhode Island Coast.
Delivering the 13th State
After the Revolutionary War concluded, Barton became a leader in his State.
In addition to serving in the State Assembly, William became a Major General in the Militia.
Furthermore, Barton served in the Constitutional Ratification Convention.
When Rhode Island finally joined the Union (a year and a half late), Barton personally delivered Daniel Owen’s acknowledgment letter to President Washington.
Prison
In his later years, Barton began speculating in Vermont land.
He named a town after himself where he sold separate people the same property.
Barton was sued for not having the cash to refund these buyers their money.
He spent a decade and a half of his later years in debtors prison before finally being bailed out by his friends.
Want to learn about other RHODE ISLAND FOUNDERS?
OK, here you go:
John Collins and the Sacrifice of Popularity for Union
Samuel Ward Sets Petty Issues Aside
Peleg Arnold - The Rare Rhode Island Federalist
For a fairly obscure Founder, you might be surprised to learn that Barton has a biography.
Check out ‘America’s Forgotten Hero’ to learn more about his fascinating life.
If you’d like a copy you can get one through the Amazon affiliate link below (you’ll support this site, but don’t worry, Amazon pays me while your price stays the same).
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