STORIES OF REVOLUTIONARY WAR SOLDIERS

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William Davidson

William Davidson was first presented to his fond parents in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in 1746 and when but four years of age removed with his father to Rowan County, North Carolina. At an early age, he enlisted under the star spangled banner and was presented with the commission of major in one of the first regiments raised in North Carolina. Under General Nash he repaired to the main Army then in New Jersey. In 1779 he returned south, colonel of his regiment. By calling a few days at his home he escaped being made prisoner at the surrender of Charleston. He was very efficient in raising troops and supplies in his own state. In an engagement at Colson's Mills he was severely wounded and disabled for five weeks. On the last day of January 1780, General Greene detached him with 300 men to prevent the enemy from passing the Catawba river. His corps was too small to repel the overwhelming force of Lord Cornwallis. He made a desperate defence and was instantly killed at his post. Colonel Hall and several more of the British fell at the same time. In life Colonel Davidson was greatly beloved and was an officer of great promise. His loss was keenly regretted and sincerely mourned.

Source: The Sages and Heroes of the American Revolution by L. Carroll Judson