12/30/2025
Some might wonder why we should “look after” those old dirt forts.
Because that's where HEROES stood.
Today in 1778, after Savannah, Georgia, had been captured by the British army, the most professional fighting force on earth, a relative of mine, Lieutenant Francis Tennille of the 2nd Georgia Continentals (***they named the Georgia city of Tennille after his family), was sent with messages from General Howe, who was camped near Ebeneezer, Georgia, to the Sunbury garrison, ordering the commander there, Major Joseph Lane, to destroy the post and evacuate to Augusta, Georgia.
Major Lane sent back a response today, likely with Lieutenant Tennille, informing the General that he did not have a trustworthy guide to take them to Augusta. He and his men decided to stay and defend their fort to the last man.
He wrote, “I can muster about (illegible) for its defense, and I am determined, as there is no possibility of a retreat, at all risk of my life, to defend it to the last...We have provisions sufficient to subsist the garrison for a considerable siege, and spirit, resolution, and fortitude in the breast and heart as every soldier in the garrison to conquer or die in case of a storm.”
Just an old dirt fort…
Right here in Liberty County
C. Greenwell
Vice President,
Liberty County Historical Society
