National Society United States Daughters of 1812 GRAVE MARKING CEREMONY Honring War of 1812 Patriot PRIVATE SAMUEL THARP (1796-1885

Samuel B. Tharp (Tharpe) was born on November 28, 1796, in Brunswick County, North Carolina, to Charles and Sarah Tharp. Raised along the vulnerable coastal lowlands of southeastern North Carolina. Samuel answered his nation's call during the War of 1812. He enlisted as a Private in the 3rd Regiment, 4th Company of the detached North Carolina Militia, a specialized mobile unit tasked with defending Cape Fear's shipping channels, inlets, and vital salt works against sudden maritime raids launched by the British Royal Navy.

Following his military service, Samuel returned home to fully build his community and family. In 1823, he married Susannah, establishing a long-term household in Smithville Township (present-day Southport, NC. Together, they managed a prosperous homestead and raised nine children - four sons and five daughters-leaving a deep, multi-generational lineage rooted permanently throughout Brunswick County.

A well-respected citizen and foundational pioneer of Southport. Samuel lived a long, impactful life, surviving the hardships of the era. He passed away on September 2, 1885, at the advanced age of 88 years, 9 months, and four days. He was laid to rest alongside his family here, at Bethel Cemetery, where his legacy of military service, endurance, and civic leadership continues to inspire his modern descendents. 

Susan Palmer, Chapter President, gave the Opening Remarks at the dedication ceremony.

Rev. Bradley Huggins, Pastor, Bethel Baptist Church, presents the Invocation...

Cindy Sellersm Chapter Treasurer led the National Anthem durinng the Grave Marking Ceremony.

"Presentation of the Colors" Color Guard Detail

Presentation of the Flag of 1812

The Chapter expressed heartfelt gratitude to the following for making the Grave Marking Ceremony possible:

Richard H. Steward, Jr. American Legion Post 543

South Brunswick High School (SBHS) JROTC Cadets

Brunswick County Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol Cadets

For providing combined Color Guard Detail, Firing Squad Detail, Ceemonial Bugler,and 1812 Flag Bearer.

Carole Weiss, Becky DeSilva, Patricia Johnson, and Judy Caison. The four sisters who were proudly recognized the chapter members who are 3rd Great-granddaughters of Patriot Samuel Tharp.

as

Unveiling of Veteran Marker by Descendants of Samuel Tharp. 

The Chaplain: Heavenly Father, we ask that you be present here today as we honor a Soldier of the War of 1812. Amen. 

 

Chaplain Linda Lashley gave the Benediction.

Miscellaneous photos taken before and after the Grave Marking Ceremony...

Ruth Rice and Kathy Miller

Gwen Causey