Friday, December 17, 2021, the Walhalla Chapter, NSDAR, participated in Wreaths Across America by laying wreaths on four American Revolutionary War soldier graves. A local historian was instrumental in our selection of veterans to honor. Her father, M. C. Sheriff, was instrumental in having the Cleveland family graves moved to Beaverdam Baptist Church cemetery in 1988. The Cleveland family cemetery was under the waters of Lake Hartwell until the waters receded in the drought of 1988. Reverend John Cleveland, an American Revolutionary War veteran, fought in the battle of King’s Mountain. Also honored in that cemetery was Benjamin Marett, an American Revolutionary War veteran. John Keese, an American Revolutionary War veteran, whose grave is in a neighborhood in Fair Play, was also honored. He served as a Colonel under General George Washington. Lastly, Private Jesse Hall, Jr., an American Revolutionary War veteran, whose grave is in South Cove County Park in Seneca, was honored with a wreath. All these veterans have many descendants in Oconee County. Members of the Walhalla Chapter, NSDAR, assisted in the wreath-laying event. A local historian and her husband joined us. She is on the board of directors of the Oconee County Historical Society and is enthusiastic about recording the history of our area. The objective of Wreaths Across America is to “Remember our fallen U. S. veterans; Honor those who serve; and Teach your children the value of freedom.” The symbol of the wreath is “Honor, Respect, and Victory.” Deceased veterans from the American Revolutionary War to the current conflict may be a recipient of a wreath.
Photos courtesy of a chapter member.