How many of us truly know the history of our family beyond that of our grandparents? The further back in time you go, the murkier the waters get. If you’re anything like me, then you’re fascinated by origin stories.
This site will primarily serve to explore the familial line of Hugh Kirkpatrick II born sometime around 1734 and who died around 1810. It will also serve as a Revolutionary War blog and delve into the geographical, political, and military history that were contemporaneous to Hugh’s life. More broadly, I will also be exploring the Kirkpatrick bloodline through genealogy.
“The time is now in the early 1700’s. Many Kirkpatrick men and families were leaving Scotland and Ireland for a new and richer life in America. Most were Presbyterians and they settled in Pennsylvania, Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, and the Carolinas.” – Ronald Kirkpatrick, Hugh Kirkpatrick I 1697-1768, his brother John 1687-1772, and all known descendants of Hugh Kirkpatrick II 1734-1810: A Revolutionary War Veteran
The Kirkpatrick’s have a penchant for embedding themselves in rebellious causes. They played an active role in the wars for Scottish Independence in the 13th century and were involved in political assassination and intrigue. Taking up arms against not only other rivals to the Scottish throne, but also against King Edward the First of England and later, King George the Third. The traditional coat of arms for the Kirkpatrick’s features a hand holding a dagger dripping with blood
“I’ll make sure” – Sir Roger de Kirkpatrick, 10 February 1306 on ensuring the assassination of John “The Red” Comyn.
If you are as intrigued as I am about this history, then stick around. Eventually I will be establishing a newsletter, setting up collaborations with other genealogists and historians, and making site visits to places of familial and historical significance.