The duel between General Lachlan McIntosh and Button Gwinnett occurred because of a play for power and jealousy. Gwinnett sought control of the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. It was granted to General McIntosh.
McIntosh was a descendant of John Mohr McIntosh, who came to Georgia from the Scottish Highlands to serve under General Oglethorpe. Lachlan’s family was prominent in military affairs. One connection: Colonel McIntosh performed a rather dramatic stand at Midway, Georgia, against the British when he declared, “Come get me!” However, it was generally believed that Lachlan’s uncle, George McIntosh, supplied the British with goods.
The duel occurred in the streets of Savannah. Both men walked ten paces, turned, and fired their pistols. Gwinnett was shot in the leg and died three days later.
The first will to be probated in Chatham County was Button Gwinnett’s, dated March 5, 1777. Thomas Savage and Lyman Hall were appointed executors.