The Battle of Kettle Creek

     The Battle of Kettle Creek was one of the most important battles of the American Revolutionary War to be fought in Georgia. The battle was fought on February 14, 1779, in Wilkes County about eight miles (13 km) from present day Washington, Georgia. The victory by the American Patriots virtually ended the movement to remain loyal to the Kingdom of Britain.
     Leadership of the Patriot force that engaged a larger Tory force was shared by Colonels Andrew Pickens (later General), John Dooly (later murdered by British regulars), and Elijah Clarke.
     Andrew Pickens lead his own force of 200 militiamen and was joined by the force led by John Dooly to launch a surprise attack on the Tory force of 700 men led by Colonel James Boyd. Pickens' force (totaling 300 to 340 men) circled and followed the Tory force without their knowledge until he launched the surprise attack on February 14, 1779. The encamped Tories were not wholly surprised, as their pickets fired upon approaching Patriot scouts. Thereafter, a fierce battle ensued and Tory leader James Boyd was killed. Following his death, his force dissolved and fled the battlefield. In April of 1779 five of the Tory prisoners captured at the Battle of Kettle Creek were hanged.
    The Kettle Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution maintains a cemetery in the park for the remains of Revolutionary War veterans. The Georgia Society of the Sons of the American Revolution supports the preservation of the site.

     The Color Guard of the Georgia Society and members of the Lyman Hall Chapter regularly attend this celebration.