William Gilbert

William Gilbert served in the Virginia and Georgia Troops and received bounty land in Georgia for his services. He drew land in the 1827 Georgia land Lottery as a Revolutionary War Soldier and resident of DeKalb County. Dedication Statement by Edgar B. Sterrett, Jr., Vice President Central Region, GASSAR “We are here today to mark the graves of two men, about whom most of us knew nothing until just now, when some facts were given on each. I have asked to ask “why would we come so far to this area to be involved with these men – long deceased – who are buried here. Most of us could have spent our time productively in some other pursuit, and quite possibly have worn clothes that allow for more relaxing. Why are we here? Is it curiosity? Is it so we can be seen among those attending? Is it so we can see who comes to these ceremonies? It seems to me that all of us have at least one thing in common. We have a very healthy respect for this country of ours, and revere those who helped to form it. I did not find the names of William Gilbert nor Isham Hendon among those who signed the Declaration of Independence or the Articles of Confederation. I am not aware of whether they served in the Continental Army, or a state militia, or even on the Committees of Correspondence or Safety. I do not know if they served two months or two years, fought in any battles or were wounded. Does any of that make a difference? It is sufficient to know that they gave of themselves and endured the hardships of Revolutionary life in order to help this country gain its independence from a mother country whose government and king gave little respect to those who lived here. These men wanted freedom for themselves and their families. They were willing to die – if necessary – to be sure that their descendants would not have to endure life under a totalitarian government and despotic king who seemed to care little for the rights of the individual. I think I have answered my question. We are here to honor those who prevailed through hardship and sorrow, so that we can stand in the midst of peace and plenty, enjoying the fruits of their sacrifices. As we honor these two men, we pay tribute to all who served the cause. Hopefully the time we spend here will help to remind us of the principles for which they fought, and for which we must continue to fight, in order to preserve those marvelous freedoms we enjoy today.” In the name of the Georgia Society, Sons of the American Revolution, and all of its members, these markers are dedicated in grateful recognition of William Gilbert and Isham Hendon, Patriots of the American Revolution.