#United States #Austin, Texas #FHD Forensics #Camden Burials #Revolutionary War

Historic Project to Uncover the Stories of America's First Veterans

In an inspiring collaborative initiative, FHD Forensics has joined forces with various organizations, including the Historic Camden Foundation and the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust (SCBPT), to identify the skeletal remains of 14 Revolutionary War soldiers unearthed from the historic Battle of Camden. This multi-agency effort aims to shed light on the contributions of these early American veterans, whose stories have largely been forgotten by history.

The investigation arose following the discovery of the soldiers' remains and their accompanying artifacts, which were threatened by erosion and human interference—specifically, relic hunting. According to James Legg, an archaeologist with the South Carolina Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology (SCIAA), the shallow graves, dug to merely 12 to 14 inches deep, were likely the result of hastily conducted burials carried out by prisoners of war. Tragically, these soldiers were buried with minimal respect and care, a reflection of the harsh conditions they endured.

As part of the Camden Burials campaign initiated in 2022, FHD Forensics is now applying genetic genealogy techniques to the recovered remains in hopes of uncovering the identities and personal histories of these veterans. Alison Peacock, a genetic genealogist with FHD, enthuses that this undertaking represents "the investigation of a lifetime." The initial genetic profiles have already been sequenced, bringing hope that these heroes’ identities will soon be revealed.

The project's significance is deeply felt by those involved. As Peacock states, "The emotional significance of the Camden Burials event inspires us in this new phase." The collaborative effort underscores the belief that providing proper recognition to these soldiers is a moral responsibility and demonstrates the dedication of those working on the project. Cary Briggs, executive director of the Historic Camden Foundation, emphasizes the organization's role as custodians of Camden's historical heritage, stating, "As property owners, we are caretakers of both visible and hidden histories."

Dr. Bill Stevens, deputy coroner at the Richland County Coroner's Office (RCCO), echoes this sentiment, asserting that the recovery efforts are as much about respect and humanity as they are about archaeology. "This was a humanitarian recovery preventing these individuals from being further damaged," he explains. The joint work of various experts in archaeology and forensic science illustrates that even years after their death, these soldiers deserve to be honored and remembered.

In April 2023, a grand reburial ceremony was held for the remains, attended by military representatives from the U.S. and Britain, culminating in an Air Force flyover. This event not only paid homage to these early veterans but also served as a poignant reminder of their sacrifices and the legacies they left behind.

Peacock acknowledges the importance of sharing these stories with the descendants of the soldiers, thereby emphasizing the need for public involvement. She invites anyone with connections to colonial Maryland, Delaware, or North Carolina, or who has ties to the Battle of Camden, to participate in the project or follow updates on social media.

Devoted to the preservation of history, the ongoing DNA analysis indicates a committed effort to reconnect families with their ancestral roots. As SCBPT's CEO Rick Wise notes, this project not only seeks to identify these brave individuals but also aims to celebrate their legacy collectively.

The efforts at Camden serve as a powerful reminder that history is not merely a collection of dates and events; it is a series of human experiences, sacrifices, and stories that deserve to be told. As we continue to unearth the past, we are granted the opportunity not just to remember but to honor the lives of those who paved the way for future generations.

In this context, Peacock stresses the relevance of the findings, asserting, "These gravesites made it real." The physical evidence of battle and burial provides a tangible link to a narrative often relegated to myths, bringing history to life in a way that resonates with the present.