The War of 1812 in Florida-- Part 5: George Matthews, Georgia Governor

From the New Georgia Encyclopedia.

In the last post I mentioned a General George Matthews leading the capture of Fernadina and Amelia Island.  I looked him up and he had an interesting career and life.

Born in Virginia, he was a veteran of the American Revolution and colonel of the 9th Virginia whose members were all either killed or captured at the Battle of Germantown in Pennsylvania.  After that, Matthews spent time as a POW until September of 1781 when he was released and rejoined Washington's Army and posted to Georgia and South Carolina.

While there, he bought a sizable tract of land in Georgia and became quite wealthy and involved in politics, eventually serving as state legislator, member of Congress and governor.

More to Come.  --Brock-Perry