Samuel MAYS

     Samuel MAYS, son of Mattox MAYS and Dorcas ABNEY, was born on 23 July 1762 in Halifax County, Virginia.

Samuel and his brother Abney MAYS fought in the Revolutonary War as privates in the 2nd Spartan Regiment, formerly known as the Upper Saluda District Militia. They were at Hanging Rock, Musgrove Mill, and Black Stocks under Gen. Thomas Sumpter. After the British Garrison was defeated at Ninety-Six Samuel Mays was one of twenty men thanked by Congress for bravery and was offered a commission as was his brother, Abney.¹

The website "The American Revolution in South Carolina" lists the following service for "Samuel Mayes"": From Williamsburg District. Sep. 1779, served under Capt. Robert Faris, Capt. Hugh Means, Col. Thomas Brandon. Apr. 1780, served under Col. Thomas Brandon again, unit unknown. Captured by "Bloody Bill" Cunningham and held six weeks. Then, held four weeks by Col. Banastre Tarleton. Escaped. Served under Capt. James Crawford from 5/5/1781 to 10/25/1782. He fought in the following engagements: Musgrove's Mill, Kings Mountain, Blackstocks, Cowpens.²

During the War of 1812, Samuel MAYS was one of the most prominent men in the Saluda section of Old Edgefield. He was a major general of militia and took an active role in the war.³

Samuel MAYS died on 25 January 1816 at age 53.

He married Nancy Grigsby. Children:1) Sally, 2) William A., 3)James Butler, 4)Rhydon G., 5) Samuel Warren, 6) Thomas Sumpter, 7) Richard J.,8) Dannett, 9) Caroline, 10 )Enoch Grigsby.

Inscription on Samuel May's' tombstone, "Sacred to the memory of General Samuel Mays who was born on the 23rd July 1762 and departed this unsullied life on the 25th January 1816. He was a man of frugal habits, of persevering industry, of incorruptible integrity. The events of his life formed an interesting commentary upon the formation of our free institutions. Without any advantage of firth or fortune, he acquired a reputable independence, and, enjoyed for many years the honor of a seat as a member for this district as the Senator of this State. The born justice of his heart and the kindness of his manner deservedly endeared him to his surviving wife and children who have caused this monument to be erected." He was buried in Old Mays Cemetery, Edgefield County, South Carolina.