wataugans

Updated: June 16, 2025

This was intended for ourselves, and WAS DONE BY CONSENT OF EVERY INDIVIDUAL." The petition goes on to state that, among their measures for upholding law, the Wataugans had enlisted "a company of fine riflemen" and put them under command of "Captain James Robertson." One hundred and thirteen names are signed to the document.

Constance Lindsay Skinner - Pioneers of the Old Southwest: a chronicle of the dark and bloody ground

But for nearly three years before their political status was thus determined, the Wataugans were sharing "in the glorious cause of Liberty" by defending their settlements against Indian attacks.

Constance Lindsay Skinner - Pioneers of the Old Southwest: a chronicle of the dark and bloody ground

It is in Sevier's handwriting and its style suggests that it was composed by him, for in its manner of expression it has much in common with many later papers from his pen. That Wataugans were a law-loving community and had formed their government for the purpose of making law respected is reiterated throughout the document.

Constance Lindsay Skinner - Pioneers of the Old Southwest: a chronicle of the dark and bloody ground

Nolichucky Jack was presently holding a court of his own in the tavern, with North Carolina's men at arms as many as were within call drinking his health. So his sons and a company of his Wataugans found him, when they rode into Morgantown to give evidence in his behalf with their rifles.

Constance Lindsay Skinner - Pioneers of the Old Southwest: a chronicle of the dark and bloody ground