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Kershaw County Historical Society |
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Camden, South Carolina |
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Southern Campaigns of the American Revolution |
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| Newsletter |
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A
newsletter is mailed prior to each quarterly
meeting or special program. Sample Adapted from the Jan. 2008 Update:
Early
Settlement in the Area In Winter 1969 and Winter 1970 Hope Boykin was author of a two-part article in the distinguished scholarly periodical Names in South Carolina, edited by Dr. Claude Henry Neuffer, University of South Carolina. Part I by Boykin, describing early settlement in Lower Kershaw County, begins: “The southern part of Kershaw County is steeped in history, having lands which were granted as early as 1733. For the most part this land below Camden and on both sides of the Wateree River, continues in the traditional use of the past, being primarily an agricultural area. Large farms and timbered swamps prevail, and in some cases one may still find the same property lines which appear on plats over 100 years old. “The western side of the river has had perhaps undergone greater changes than the eastern side as the original families such as the Englishes, Brisbanes, Dobys, Spears, and Ogilvies has long since become extinct in the area. While there are still large tracts of land here, they are related only by mutual property lines and the pattern of living has greatly changed over the years. “On the other hand, life on the eastern side of the river remains strongly linked with the past. Much of the land has passed from generation to generation. This area is divided into three communities. “The first below Camden is Mulberry, named thus as it surrounds Mulberry Plantation. Charlotte Thompson, which is perhaps the fastest growing area, is named after an old school, which in turn was named for one of Camden’s most beloved citizens. Finally there is Boykin, named for the family which settled there and is still inhabited by many descendants of that clan….” Part II by Boykin, discussing Upper Kershaw County, begins: “Deep within the reaches of northwest Kershaw County lie the headwaters of ten creeks, along the banks of which are sites spanning nearly 250 years of history. “This country, bemoaned by [Rev. Charles] Woodmason in 1768 as backwards, uncivilized and worse, was strongly patriotic during the Revolution and produced many fine leaders of Kershaw County. It remained mainly agricultural and timber producing and is laced by three roads, which generally follow their original lines. “The Beaver Creek Road, running from Camden through Liberty Hill and into Lancaster County, was one of the earliest routes in the county. It gains its name from the creek over which it passes. The road now known as the Flat Rock Road was earlier known as the Waxhaw Road or the Great Road to Lancaster. This was the first northern route from Camden, used first by Indians, they a stage road until the late nineteenth century. Between these roads lies the Graham Road, doubtlessly named for an early settler….” The author, now Hope Cooper, is widely known today as the director of the National Steeplechase Museum in Camden. Earlier in her career, she worked with the Camden District Heritage Foundation, which surveyed the county area to document its early settlement. ............................ Sample from the January 2007 Update: Hunting Arrowheads Traces of Kershaw County’s
Native American past lie in its soil. A rrowhead hunting is addicting— that’s what anybody who has ever found an arrowhead will tell you. It’s a sport, a game to be played for that matter, but it is also so much more.
When you find an arrowhead, you find a legacy. A Native American once used this tool to make dinner or protect himself. Some of the arrowheads were even used to hunt the mastodon in what would much later become the state of South Carolina. The craftsmanship of these tools are beyond anything we’re familiar with. I was once told that a sharpened arrowhead is sharper than a surgeon’s scalpel. While not exactly sure of the validity of the statement, I have found some arrowheads that would seem to prove this statement true. For anyone interested in the hunt, it is well worth the time and effort. There are a few key details that are worth knowing when you start out. Some of us have to learn them the hard way, and frustrations can certainly mount, but the key is to concentrate and be smart about what you do. One of the very first things to note is that the term arrowhead is a misnomer. An arrowhead is a relatively recent invention that came into being with the bow about 1,400 to 1,500 years before the present. Older artifacts called arrowheads oftentime are actually points in reality. These would have been fitted on an atlatl, which is a type of spear-launching device. This contraption allowed for spear points to be thrown much harder than they would have been otherwise with the human arm. This is why some of the giant points seem impossible to fit on an arrow shaft. However, I would not discourage the use of arrowheads as a term, because the idea behind the name is pure. Now that you have entered into the hunt a little wiser, we have a couple of tips that will save you time, encourage success, and heighten the enjoyment of the experience: TIP ONE The first tip is to have good shoes. Arrowhead hunting involves a lot of walking. It’s absolutely great exercise, so consider that an added caveat. It’s not a miracle diet, but you’ll feel better in more ways than one. We recommend wearing boots or a good solid tennis shoe, depending upon what kind of territory you are covering. TIP TWO Make sure to bring plenty of water for long outings. Staying hydrated is crucial. It’s easy to get lost in the hunt and forget that the last drink of water was taken hours ago. We would also suggest bringing along some food if you are going to search for an extended period. TIP THREE One of the most useful implements you can have is a good sharp stick or rod. If push comes to shove, you can always find a solid, fallen limb that will do the trick. An insider secret is to take an old golf club and cut the head off of it. Either way, a good stick will save your back and legs. TIP FOUR Scout areas ahead of time. One of the major issues that frustrate many artifact seekers is looking in the wrong area. Pay attention to place names, talk to locals, find out as much information as you can about the area you plan to search. There are certain characteristics to where the camps will be found. A source of water is vital to finding the right spot. Sometimes this source may have long since dried up. The point is to know the terrain. We won’t share too many more secrets, but water is the first big step. Arrowheads are fairly numerous, so it’s not too difficult to find locations. It’s always a good idea to go hunting after a good hard rain, as well. This will often uncover arrowheads in the same area. TIP FIVE When you search, focus on the ground. It wouldn’t hurt to become familiar with some of the basic rock types such as quartz and chert. A degree in geology is not required by any stretch of the imagination, but being familiar with rock types is a positive. Try to concentrate and get into "the zone." Spend a few moments admiring the beautiful countryside or thinking about something you find calming. Also keep track of where you have been to the best of your ability, as looking over the same ground in the same outing is not advised. Do not be afraid to return to a site in the future, though. TIP SIX Do not hesitate to bring back a pocket full of rocks. You might get an occasional laugh by more experienced seekers, but you will find that this is a good way to learn. Sometimes, even with experience, those pieces that might be overlooked turn out to be worked. This is a great way to train yourself to look for the edges and shapes, and not the rock material. You want to find other instruments besides the flint and other quartz rock type located in our area. You can always return the rocks to their natural habitats in your back yard once you’re done. These discards are often referred to jokingly as wishing rocks/stones or love rocks. Looks can be deceiving. TIP SEVEN Most of the arrowheads you find will be damaged. A perfect (or near perfect) arrowhead is a find indeed. Do not discard the broken ones. A broken arrowhead can be a heartbreak, but do not get frustrated. TIP EIGHT Internet research or book research is a good thing. You can learn about arrowheads by looking at examples or reading up on them. We recommend The Official Overstreet Indian Arrowheads Identification and Price Guide as well as pointing your web browser to a good search engine. It’s not the monetary value that counts; these resources will help you date the arrowheads. You’ll find that they range from 10,000 years old to a couple hundred years old. TIP NINE Our most important recommendation comes in the form of respect. There are important sites located all around our area. Some of them are widely known, others are not. If you ever come across a site that you suspect to be a burial ground or anything of the sort, do not pick up anything. Please remember that these were people too, and in this knowledge, all burial sites should be respected. They are protected by state and federal laws as well. Also respect the current owners of the land as well. Don’t hunt on property that would be in violation of the law. Violations of these simple guidelines are frowned upon for good reasons. The authors may be contacted at
denver@higherpurposes.com ............................ Samples from the February 2001 Update follow.
THE
HOME FRONT
A Lynches Creek Civil War Letter By Harvey S. Teal The War Between the States is a
good example. Letters and other items from
that war that have to do with fighting or battles command prices many times higher than
similar letters describing matters back home. Fortunately many historians and
others have begun to realize this deficiency. Due
to a heightened appreciation of the historical value and worth of these items, many are
now collecting civilian letters that illuminate conditions on the home front and the
emotions and feelings of those back home. A “home front” letter
from my collection datelined Lynches Creek, July1, 1862, from J. M. Kirkley and his mother
to their brother and son, Dan Kirkley, illustrates how these letters contribute to a
fuller understanding of the war. Dan was in
Richmond, Virginia, at the time and was recuperating from a wound. Historic Camden,
Nineteenth Century lists a Daniel M. Kirkley as a private in the Flat Rock Guards, Company
G, 2nd South Carolina Volunteers and describes him as having been wounded. It is assumed this Dan is the subject of this
letter. A transcription of the letter
follows. Misspelled words have been corrected
and some punctuation marks added. Otherwise
the letter appears as written. Dear
Brother—I received a letter from you June 30th dated June 22 [1862]. I was happy to hear from you that you were able to
be up and about one time more. Dan, these few
lines leave father and mother well at present. My
family are well, except myself, hoping they may find you enjoying the same blessing. Dan I
have not been, to say, well, since I left Richmond. I
have been up and about until ten days ago when I was confined to my bed. I am better now, able to be up and about the
house. We have been very uneasy about you
since I left you at Richmond. You say we must
excuse you for not writing to us. If I had
hold of you I would excuse you the right way. The conscript
[draft notice] are ordered to me at Camden today. I
was not able to go. I don’t know what
they will do with me. I intend to get off if
I can. Dan, crops are very sorry, generally speaking. I got behind [with] mine when I was in Richmond and stayed two weeks with you. Left there Monday and never got home until Saturday evening. We are suffering much for rain. At present, it has been three weeks since we have had any rain. Dan, If you can’t get a furlough to come home you must stay where you are until you get perfectly well before you go to camp. If you want a Negro to cook for you, pa says you shall have one. You must write
to some of us every week as I am not able to write much.
I must close, asking you to excuse me for not writing no more, but still
remain your affectionate brother until death. J. M. KirkleyDear Son—Was glad to hear from you [and ]that you are getting well. I have been uneasy about you. We have been looking for a letter from you ever since James came home. I thought you would of wrote us as soon as you was able to write to let us know how you was. We have been looking for you to come home, but I suppose you can’t get a furlough. My son, if you can’t come home, I want you to stay there until you get well before you are to come. [You] wrote that you [would] be glad of some mens clothing. I have clothes [I] would send to you if I had any way to send them to you. I want you to write as soon as you can. I want you to write if you are getting off your cot. You must take care of yourself as well as you can. So nothing more at present, but remain your affectionate Mother until death. Nancy Kirkley............................RESEARCH HELP FOR NON-NATIVE RESIDENTSThink you can’t find research info
here in Camden
“Boy was I wrong!” By Billie Jones In 1997, while my mother and I were visiting my sister in Texas, my niece asked my mother, her grandmother, questions about her ancestors – who they were and where they came from. Realizing we had names of several generations but very little other information, my mother and I decided to take on a project of searching for some answers. The timing was perfect. I had just "retired" and needed something to do so I would have an excuse not to do housework. After discussing the several known lines, we decided to begin on my maternal grandfather’s line. Surely they were not as many Courseys to research as Rabun, Hughes and Smith. [An error in judgment we have since learned] We began with a piece of paper found in my grandmother’s Bible I received upon her death. She had listed her parents and grandparents and those of my grandfather, Odell Coursey b. April 24, 1892, Johnston, Edgefield Co., SC. His parents and grandparents were listed with a notation that his grandfather, John Franklin Coursey was a Civil War soldier. Knowing that my grandfather was born in Edgefield County, we traveled to Edgefield to the Thompkins Library. As novices, we began to get our feet wet in the sea of information, finding few facts but learning a little about the how-to’s. After our trip, which provided us with some other surnames and family lines connected to the Courseys, I decided to visit the State Archives to see what they had. Wanting to find out more, I began looking up census records. One day, after several trips to Columbia, I decided to visit our local Camden Archives and Museum. I had visited it before with my children to view the exhibits in the Museum, but really had no confidence that I would find any information to help me with my Edgefield County families. After all, this is Kershaw County, and we only arrived here in 1969. BOY WAS I WRONG! Since that first visit, I have spent hours in the Camden Archives researching. I found that their collections contain much info, not just on Kershaw County, but on other areas of South Carolina, as well as other states that I am researching. And by far, the staff and volunteers are the most helpful of any of the libraries that I have visited. The first thing my Mother and I did was to read the back issue of every Quill from the Old Edgefield Genealogical Society. The Archives has them on file, as well as issues of other genealogy society newletters. Not long after I started researching seriously and had visited the State Archives for census records, the Camden Archives received copies of the microfilm of all of the SC counties 1790-1920. They also have index books for 1790-1870. And as a result of a recent contribution by Dallas Phelps, the Camden Archives now has all of the Edgefield Co. Cemetery books. I found that the State DAR Library is housed in the Camden
Archives, and found information from SCDAR Traveling Library proving relationship in an
Edgefield County and Virginia line. Instead of traveling to Columbia or Edgefield, I can
review abstracts of deeds in the DAR Collection. A book Edgefield Death Notices and
Cemetery Records by Carlee McClendon is also a part of the DAR collection that I have
used extensively. As I was entering data into a computer file at the Archives to share my findings with other researchers, I also made a list of books at the Archives that I want to look into, filling four legal pages front and back. I don’t think I will live so long as to research all of the information found in this library that might lead to information on my many SC families. So, I have found that the grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence. Although I still love to take trips to visit cemeteries, and get full copies of wills, I have found a real treasure right here at home – The Camden Archives and Museum, Camden, SC. The Camden Archives and Museum, 1314 Broad Street, is open M-F from 8-5 and on the first and third Sundays monthly, 1-5. ............................
Where
Is the 1925 Movie?
A Pageant of Local Area History, was filmed here in 1925 and shown in theaters. (Excerpts below from
April 1925 issues of the Camden Chronicle) CAMDEN Yesterday
and Today Portrayed in Historical Pageant 800---IN
CAST---800 Costumed
by One of Nations Best Costumers Place: Kirkwood Golf
Links, Camden, S. C. Time: Friday: May 1,
Beginning 3:30 P. M. Music
Furnished By Professional Orchestra Admission
Prices ADULTS $1 CHILDREN 50 Cents Historical Pageant
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These stone relics are the tools of survival
of a race of people that literally founded America. They put
these items to good use to survive the cold winters, as well as
the stifling Carolina summers.|
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