The 237th Anniversary of the Battle of Waxhaws

     A crowd of nearly 100 people gathered to commemorate the 237th anniversary of the Battle of Waxhaws, where British and Tory forces under Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton defeated mostly Virginia Forces under Col. Abraham Buford.  Over 100 patriots were killed, approximately 150 wounded, and approximately 50 taken prisoner; a significant defeat for the patriots.  However the merciless slaughter of patriots, many of whom laid down their arms and attempted to surrender, turned sentiment against the British.
     Virginia SAR President Mike Elston represented our society, gave remarks, and presented our wreath.  He also spread a box of Virginia soil on the mass grave of 82 of the patriots who died here.  Participating in the ceremony were 5 SAR State Societies, the DAR, C.A.R., and the South Carolina Park Service.  Approximately 30 wreaths were presented.

Wreaths placed around the mass grave.

The SAR Color Guard placed the flags.

Master of Ceremonies, past South Atlantic VPG Greg Ohanesian.

SAR Foundation President Sam Powell represents the NSSAR.

Virginia SAR President Mike Elston speaks for our society.

Virginia SAR President Mike Elston with the Virginia SAR wreath.

Virginia SAR President Mike Elston spreads Virginia soil on the mass grave of Virginia patriots.

Participants from Virginia and North Carolina, left to right Virginia SAR 3rd VP Bill Schwetke, SAR Foundation President Sam Powel, unknown, Virginia SAR President Mike Elston, John Misenheimer.

---

     Following the Commemoration Ceremony President Mike Elston delivered remarks at a Ceremony by the Friends of Buford's Massacre Battlefield to dedicate a plaque listing the names of all the known patriots who fought in this battle.

Virginia SAR President Mike Elston talks at the Plaque Dedication. The Virginia SAR provided funds for the plaque.

The plaque is unveiled.