Donated book highlights contributions of forgotten patriots

In commemoration of Constitution Week, Sept. 17- 23, the Blue Savannah-Swamp Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) presented a book to the Marion County Library. 

The book, Forgotten Patriots—African American and American Indian Patriots of the Revolutionary War: A Guide to Service, Sources and Studies, was published in May 2008 by NSDAR and identifies over 6,600 names of African Americans and American Indians who contributed to American Independence.  Forgotten Patriots is a unique publication that offers an enormous amount of research in one 872-page resource book. No other similar guide exists for the history of the participation of African Americans and American Indians in the Revolutionary War.

Oscar Marion is one African American patriot listed in the book who is of great interest to Marion County.  Often characterized in history as Francis Marion’s “faithful servant,” Oscar was General Marion’s constant companion during the seven years of the war.  He also served in the Militia.  Oscar appears with Marion in an early 19th Century painting by the artist, John Blake White, titled “General Marion Inviting a British Officer to Share His Meal.”

The original painting has been displayed in the U.S. Capitol since 1899. A print of this well-known painting hangs in the S.C. Room of the Marion County Library. Anyone interested in American history and genealogy is encouraged to visit the library and review this unprecedented new publication.