Author: David Merrill Leonard
James L. Wallace, (b. 12 December 1750 in Cumberland Co., PA) actually grew up in York Co., SC beginning in 1766. He married in 1774, but his wife’s name is not known. He embarked on a military career at the onset of the Revolutionary War. He enlisted in the South Carolina Militia in late 1775 as a Private under the command of Thomas Neel and Capt. William Bratton. His initial two month tour included an expedition against the British Tories commanded by Sheffler and Cunningham. His next two tour commenced on 1 June 1776 under the same command. This campaign engaged in skirmishes with the Cherokees, but saw no general battle.
James was drafted by the State of South Carolina in 1779. The regiment was commanded by General Ash, Capt. John Miller, and Major Francis Ross. The Regiment saw action against the British and was defeated at Brier Creek in Georgia on 3 March 1779. James lost a horse at Brier Creek.
James volunteered on 29 December 1780 under Gen. Sumpter’s Army as a Private and once again served under Col. William Bratton and Capt. Hugh Bratton. James was promoted to Sargent in April 1781, and Lieutenant in June 1781. The Bratton family had been James’ neighbors prior to the war. Their farm remains intact and was featured in the movie The Patriot. During this nine months tour, the unit saw action against the British Tories at Blackstocks, Friday’s Fort, at the Questor House near Charleston, and at Biggin Church. He continued to serve as a volunteer after his service expired and rose to the rank of Colonel. All of his service is documented in his pension application.
After the war, he acquired 150 acres at South Fork Fishing Creek in January 1787. His first wife died in 1812. He married Mary Good Bratton, the widow of his former commander, Col. William Bratton in 1814. At the age of 82, he applied for a federal pension on 20 October 1832. His claim was denied in 23 October 1833. He died on 8 November 1838 in York Co., SC at the age of 88. He is buried at Bethesda Presbyterian Church cemetery at McConnells, SC. He left an estate valued at $7000. Mary died on 14 September 1843 and is buried with James. The heirs of James Wallace pursued his pension, which was finally granted on 21 May 1846. I am descended through his son Samuel.