Preparations underway for 'Revolutionary Days' Feb. 8-10

Re-enactors and young marksmen took part in last year's observance.

Representatives from the Sons of the American Revolution and other groups will be in Washington next week to prepare for next month's celebration of Washington-Wilkes "Revolutionary Days."

The 229th anniversary of the February 14, 1779, Battle of Kettle Creek will be celebrated with three days of observances February 8, 9, and 10.

The Georgia Society Sons of the American Revolution, working with groups such as the Children and Daughters of the American Revolution, Washington-Wilkes Historical Foundation, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and VFW Post 5899, the SAR, said William Ramsaur, will "take a step back in time to honor our founding patriots and commemorate battles like this that 229 years ago forged American independence."

The weekend's activities will start with "Georgia Militia after Kettle Creek" at the Mary Willis Library at 3 p.m. Friday

On Saturday morning, a full day of activities begins at 8:30 a.m. with a showing of the Battle of Kettle Creek video at the Mary Willis Library. The video outlines the importance of this battle as a turning point leading up to the colonists' victory over the British at Yorktown.

At 10 a.m., Revolutionary War reenactors and other personalities as well as SAR Color Guard members from several states and local organizations are expected to converge on The Square in Washington. Last year, more than 75 people participated in the parade which was followed by living history demonstrations on The Square.

Also that morning, U.S. Army historians will lead battleground walking tours from 10:30 to 12:30.

As always, the highlight of the day will be the pageantry at the 2 p.m. battleground memorial ceremony at the large monument on the top of War Hill. "Wreath presentations by the various organizations and descendants will honor the memory of the Patriots who fought in the Battle of Kettle Creek," Ramsaur said. "The Kettle Creek DAR Chapter will decorate the commemorative markers which list the names of the battle participants."

In addition on Saturday, the Washington Historical Museum will hold an open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Sunday, February 10, at 9 a.m., a Colonial church service will be held at Bethel United Methodist Church on Skull Shoals Road. At 11:30 Sunday morning, a ceremony will be held at the grave of Elijah Clark in Elijah Clark State Park, which is located seven miles north of Lincolnton on U.S. Highway 378.

All activities are free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Washington- Wilkes Chamber of Commerce at 706-678-2013.

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