Jul 2

Jul 2 Alexander Lillington (Or Maybe it's John Lillington) at Moore's Creek Bridge

Alexander Lillington was one of two Colonels who won the important Battle of Great Bridge early in the Revolutionary War.

Alexander Lillington?

His name was John Alexander Lillington.

Or it was Alexander John Lillington.

Strange as it seems, historians are not very sure.

We do know that he went by Alexander, so that’s the first name we will be using in this discussion. Now, on to his life…

Joining the Fight

Alexander Lillington joined the Patriot Cause as soon as hostilities broke out.

Already known among his powerful North Carolina contemporaries, Lillington was quickly appointed as a Colonel and given command of the Wilmington District Militiamen.

Working under the instructions of James Moore, Alexander joined Richard Caswell in an important confrontation with the British…

The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge

Lillington and Caswell led the Patriots in an astounding victory over British militiamen in the Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge.

In February of 1776, five months before independence was declared, the Americans at Moore’s Creek Bridge destroyed their opponent, dishing out over 400 casualties and taking 850 prisoners.

All while losing only one man!

Further Warfare

Shortly thereafter a reorganization of forces led to Lillington’s absorption into the Continental Army.

He remained with the Continentals until the end of the years before resigning due to ill health.

Eventually, he was convinced to return to the North Carolina Militia when he was given the title of Brigadier General.

Alexander continued to fight with the Southern Department through the end of the war before retiring to his farm.

Here are some other FOUNDERS FROM NORTH CAROLINA:

North Carolina’s First Governor - Richard Caswell

Richard Dobbs Spaight Overcomes Defeat

Breadfruit Seeds From Jefferson - Allen Jones and the Halifax District Brigade

North Carolina’s place in the Revolutionary War is fascinating.

‘North Carolina in the American Revolution’ is exactly as the title implies…a discussion of this central State’s importance in the War.

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).