Much of the defense of Georgia's south border fell to General David Blackshear, who was instructed to construct a series of fortifications for that purpose. Blackshear, like many who fought in the War of 1812, had gained military experience during the American Revolution. He had been at an early engagement of that war at Moore's Creek Bridge in North Carolina.
After the war, he became a surveyor, moving to Springfield in Laurens County, Georgia, settling on a land grant he received for his Revolution service.
After war was declared in June 18, 1812, he returned to military service and was authorized to construct 11 forts along Georgia's southern and western borders.
The first clue to this effort he made can be found on a Georgia historical marker on Highway 300 in Crisp County. It reads: "Blackshear Trail. made by General David Blackshear during the War of 1812, was used by General Andrew Jackson when he led his troops from Fort Hawkins, near Macon, through Hartford, now Hawkinsville, to Fort Early in 1818.
"The section was roadless except for this and a few Indian trails. General Jackson used it in his campaign against the Seminole and Creek Indians. The Battle of Skin Cypress Pond was fought on the Blackshear Trail. During the battle, three U.S. soldiers and a number if Indians were killed.
"They were buried at the site in unmarked graves."
--Brock-Perry
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