The Carolina Gamecock - Thomas Sumter
The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter, South Carolina.
But where did Fort Sumter get its name?
After none other than Revolutionary War hero Thomas Sumpter.
Today, we look at Sumter’s story.
Thomas Sumter
As a young man, Thomas Sumter joined the Timberlake Expedition.
This journey consisted of just four people who met with several Cherokee leaders in various towns over the course of a year.
Afterward, Sumter accompanied three of these leaders to London, though unfortunately they were not permitted to see the King.
Upon their return to North America, the colony of Virginia refused to reimburse Thomas for his expenses and he fell on hard times. He even spent time in debtors prison.
The Carolina Gamecock
Unhappy with the treatment he received in his home of Virginia, Sumter decided to relocate to South Carolina.
When the Revolutionary War began, Thomas was chosen as an officer in the South Carolina Militia. By war's end, he would achieve the rank of Brigadier General.
Sumter’s fighting style was so ferocious that he was given a nickname by his enemy...The Carolina Gamecock.
Thomas’ bravery (or, arguably, his recklessness) led to a serious wound received at the Battle of Blackstock’s Farm.
Politics
After the war, and the ratification of the United States Constitution, Sumter was elected as an inaugural member of the House of Representatives.
Thomas spent four years as a Delegate from South Carolina, went back home for four years, then returned to the House for another four years.
This was immediately followed by an appointment to the US Senate, where he spent a full decade leading the young country.
Sumter retired in 1810 and enjoyed two decades of private life before passing away at the ripe old age of 97.
Here are some other Founders from SOUTH CAROLINA:
William Henry Drayton and the Annexation of Georgia
Alexander Gillion - Commander of the South Carolina Navy
Rawlins Lowndes Overrules the Stamp Act
Somehow, I do not know of a single biography written about Sumter.
For a bit more on the setting he fought in, I recommend ‘The Revolutionary War in the Southern Back Country.’
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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