Tag: Grave Markings

Washingtonburg Chapter Honors Revolutionary War Patriots

The Washingtonburg Chapter, PASSAR sponsored a grave marking ceremony, which recognized the contributions of five Revolutionary War Patriots buried in the Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery, Newville, Pennsylvania. The Patriots who received the SAR Grave Markers are: Capt. Thomas Buchanan, Major William McFarlane, Sgt. William Denning, Artificer William Ferguson, and Pvt. Peter Tritt.

Washingtonburg Chapter President, Dale John Joseph Leppard officiated at today’s ceremony.
President Leppard provided the backdrop regarding the significance of those who were honored.
Washingtonburg Secretary/Treasurer, Steven Scott Burd, was our guest speaker.
Secretary/Treasurer Burd places a SAR Marker on the grave of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
SPCO Todd Allen Hockensmith, USN (Retired) places a marker on the grave of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
The SAR Grave Marker that was placed on five Patriot graves today.
Associate Member Raymond Andrew Mowery IV, Washingtonburg Chapter, PASSAR and Jeffry Peter La Marca, President Jockey Hollow Chapter, NJSSAR carry wreath honor all of the Revolutionary War Patriots buried at the Big Spring Presbyterian Church Cemetery (including Patriots whose graves have not yet been marked).
Associate Member Mowery and President La Marca, adjust wreath.
(Left to Right): Jockey Hollow President La Marca, Washingtonburg President Leppard, and Associate Member Mowery in authentic 18th Century garb.
Following today’s grave marking ceremony, Washingtonburg Chapter Members and guest attended a BBQ and Chapter Meeting at the William Denning State Park.
President Leppard led today’s meeting. In addition to Washingtonburg Chapter business, he also discussed the Intolerable Acts in recognition of events that eventually sparked the revolt against the British.
Secretary/Treasurer Burd receives the Bronze Henry Knox Medal from President Leppard in recognition of his outstanding service to the Washingtonburg Chapter.
Compatriot Steven Pearson Messner receives the Bronze Henry Knox Medal from President Leppard in recognition of his outstanding service to the Washingtonburg Chapter.
Compatriot Steven Lee Dedmon and Associate Member Glen Halliman are related to Danel Boone! However, both men are descended from two of his sisters.

SAR Commemorates 250th Anniversary of Intolerable Acts

and Conducts Grave Marking Ceremony that Pays Tribute to Cumberland County Patriots

The Washingtonburg Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) is hosting a commemorative event to honor fallen patriots from the American Revolution. This solemn ceremony will be held on Saturday, June 15th, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at the historic Big Spring Presbyterian Church in Newville, Pennsylvania.

The event will feature an official SAR Grave Marking Ceremony at the Big Spring Cemetery, located next to the church. Participants are welcome to wear 18th-century attire to add to the historical significance of the occasion.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to a catered lunch at a nearby pavilion within Colonel Denning State Park. A nominal fee will cover the meal, with details provided upon RSVP (reservation) to help with headcount.

Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the Intolerable Acts

This gathering coincides with the 250th anniversary of the Intolerable Acts, a series of punitive laws passed by the British Parliament in 1774 in response to colonial resistance, culminating in the Boston Tea Party.

The afternoon will feature a brief presentation on the Intolerable Acts, followed by the Washingtonburg Chapter SAR regular quarterly business meeting with award presentations.

Earning the Bronze 250th Anniversary Medal

All participants are eligible to earn points towards the Bronze 250th Anniversary Medal program. This program recognizes individuals who contribute to events commemorating the American Revolution.

RSVP and Participation

To RSVP for the event and the catered lunch, please contact us. Indicate the number of people attending in your RSVP.

We encourage everyone to join us in honoring the sacrifices of the patriots who secured American independence. This event is a meaningful way to connect with history and celebrate the legacy of our forefathers.

Additional Information

The NSAR Washingtonburg Chapter awards medals for participation in commemorative events. For details on the Bronze 250th Anniversary Medal program, please contact us.

About the National Sons of the American Revolution

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR) is a lineage society composed of male descendants of the patriots who fought for American independence in the Revolutionary War. The NSSAR is dedicated to preserving American history and promoting good citizenship.

Respectfully,
Dale J. J. Leppard
President and Genealogist, Washingtonburg Chapter SAR