In recognition of the upcoming 250th celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, the DAR America 250! Committee of the Botetourt County Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is placing a spotlight on members’ Patriot ancestors who helped the country achieve American Independence.
William Bassett is the Patriot ancestor of Botetourt County Chapter associate member Lynda Kerstein. William was born April 18, 1755, in Surreyshire, England. Surryshire is England’s most wooded country with rolling hills and valleys. It is probable that he came to America in 1769 or 1770 as an indentured servant. He resided in Botetourt County at the time of his enlistment in the Continental Army in 1776.
He served in the militia with George Rogers Clark’s operation originating out of Kentucky County of the State of Virginia. William was also a private with the Third Continental Light Dragoons, one of four mounted regiments and served under the command of Captain John Stith and Colonel George Baylor.
He was acquainted with General Washington, General Lee, and many others. Under the command of Captain John Stith, he was in the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778. Later that year in September, he was at the Massacre at Tappan. William was stationed in an old barn when the Americans were betrayed by the Torys. He was taken prisoner, making his escape that same night, wounded by a bayonet as he was jumping over a fence. The whole party was killed, injured, and taken prisoner, except a few of those in the barn. Major Clough was killed, and Colonel Baylor was severely wounded.
In May 1779 when in Baltimore, Pvt. Bassett received an honorary discharge signed by Captain John Stith. The paper was consumed by fire at Craig’s Station in Kentucky when it was burned by the Indians. He had served two years, nine months. In addition, William served in the War of 1812 with Captain William Kerley’s Company First Rifle Regiment, Kentucky. The company took part in the Tecumseh Campaign and furnished a detail for the River Raisin March.
He married Margaret (Peggy) McQuiddy in Mercer County, Ky., in November 1786. Peggy was born in Spotsylvania, Va., and they had 10 children. In 1833, William appeared before a Ripley County, Ind., judge for the purpose of making his Declaration for a Pension.
William Bassett died February 6, 1840, in Ripley County at the age of 84 and is buried in the Bassett Farm Cemetery. His name is on a plaque in the courthouse at Versailles for Patriots who came to Ripley County.
The Daughters of the American Revolution is a non-profit, non-political organization open to any woman who has lineage to a Patriot who contributed to the success of the American Revolution. Founded over 125 years ago, it is focused on service to the community and fosters Patriotism, Education and Service. If you are interested or have questions about joining our chapter, contact Membership Chair Emily Talbot-Guillote via email at eptg1019@gmail.com or Registrar, JoElla John, jjohnregistrar@gmail.com.
