The American Revolutionary War was a pivotal moment in the history of the United States, as the thirteen colonies declared their independence from British rule. The war lasted from 1775 to 1783, and settlers in the area where Alpharetta, Georgia stands today were actively involved in the conflict.
During the Revolutionary War, the area now known as Alpharetta was sparsely populated and mostly covered by forests. However, there were a few settlements in the region, including the town of Milton, which was located about six miles to the northeast of Alpharetta.
Many of the early settlers of Alpharetta and the surrounding areas were staunch supporters of American independence. They were farmers, tradesmen, and craftsmen who were eager to defend their new nation against the British Empire.
One notable area resident who played a prominent role in the Revolutionary War was Francis Cumming. Cumming was born in 1731 in Scotland and emigrated to America in 1754. He settled in the area that is now Alpharetta and became a successful planter and landowner.
During the Revolutionary War, Cumming served as a captain in the Georgia Militia. He participated in several important battles, including the Battle of Kettle Creek in 1779, which was a significant victory for the American forces. Cumming was later promoted to the rank of colonel and served as a delegate to the Georgia Constitutional Convention in 1789.
Another notable figure from the Alpharetta area who fought in the Revolutionary War was Thomas Wooten. Wooten was born in Virginia in 1759 and moved to Georgia with his family when he was a child. He served in the Continental Army and fought in several important battles, including the Battle of Guilford Courthouse in 1781.
Wooten survived the war and settled in what is now the city of Alpharetta. He became a prominent landowner and businessman and played an active role in the development of the community.
In the early 1800s the Alpharetta area was known as Milton County, named after John Milton, a Revolutionary War soldier and Georgia governor.
In addition to these three men, other early settlers of Alpharetta and the surrounding areas fought in the Revolutionary War. They served in the Georgia Militia or the Continental Army and participated in battles throughout the colonies.
The contributions of these early settlers to the cause of American independence cannot be overstated. Their courage and sacrifice helped to secure the future of the United States and ensure that future generations would enjoy the blessings of liberty and freedom.
