The Michigan Society of the Sons of the American Revolution recently paid tribute to a hero of the American Revolutionary War, Private Nathan Burpee. In a solemn and heartfelt ceremony held at the Perry-McFarlen Cemetery in Grand Blanc, Genesee County, a bronze plaque was dedicated to honor this valiant patriot. It was a momentous occasion attended by descendants, community members, and the Michigan Society Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard, all gathered to remember and honor the legacy of a man who played a vital role in the fight for American independence.
Nathan Burpee: A Hero of the American Revolution
Nathan Burpee’s life was intricately woven into the fabric of the American Revolution. Born on December 12, 1758, in Sterling, Massachusetts, Nathan was the son of Samuel Burpee and Martha Brocklebank. His commitment to the cause of American independence was unwavering, and his story is one of remarkable valor and determination during the turbulent times of the Revolution.
During those challenging years, young recruits like Nathan faced formidable odds. With limited military training, outdated weaponry, and the might of the British forces against them, the determination and accomplishments of patriots like Nathan Burpee are truly inspiring. He enlisted four times between September 1776 and July 1780, dedicating his life to the fight for freedom.
Nathan Burpee’s story is a testament to the enduring patriotism that drove him to defend his fledgling nation. He was not alone in this endeavor; countless heroes like him played crucial roles in securing the independence of the United States. It is these stories that we must preserve and pass on to future generations, ensuring that the sacrifices made for the cause of freedom are never forgotten.
A Commemorative Plaque for a Patriot
The plaque dedication ceremony was a poignant moment for Nathan Burpee’s descendants and the local community. His family gathered to honor their forefather, a man who believed wholeheartedly in the promise of this great nation. The bronze plaque, placed at his resting place in the Perry-McFarlen Cemetery, serves as a tangible reminder of his commitment to the American cause. It is a symbol of gratitude for his sacrifices and a commitment to keeping his memory alive.
Membership in the Sons of the American Revolution is reserved for direct family members of these heroes who fought for freedom. The organization’s goal is to ensure that the memory of these patriots lives on and to educate the next generation about the sacrifices made to achieve the freedom we enjoy today.
As Chuck Burpee, a descendant of Nathan Burpee, aptly stated, “It’s incredibly moving.” These ceremonies not only honor the past but also forge a connection to the common people of that time, allowing modern Americans to appreciate the struggles and sacrifices of those who shaped our nation’s history.
Passing the Musket and the Flag
The dedication ceremony serves a vital role in preserving the legacy of American Revolutionaries like Nathan Burpee. Robert Hawcroft, a member of the Michigan Color Guard, stressed the importance of passing on the legacy of these patriots to the next generation. He remarked, “It’s really incredibly important that we pass the musket so to speak, and the flag, to the next generation. And it’s events like this in the community that will do that.”
In an era when the values and sacrifices of the American Revolution can sometimes be taken for granted, ceremonies like these remind us of the immense price that was paid for our freedom. Nathan Burpee’s dedication to the cause of American independence, and the plaque dedication ceremony held in his honor, inspire us to never forget the heroes of the past and to continue carrying the torch of democracy and liberty. As we gather to honor patriots like Nathan Burpee, we renew our commitment to preserving the history and values that our nation was built upon, ensuring that the stories of these remarkable heroes continue to shape our future.
Read more about the plaque dedication at ABC 12.