The Second War for Independence played a great part in the settlement of LaGrange and Elkhart counties. A reward for being a soldier in the War of 1812 was the recipient of bounty land….a farm instead of cash. The newly formed United States was land rich and cash poor from fighting two wars for their freedom. Many of the families of those who received bounty land in these counties still live here. Some of those family names are Barnes, Barry, Fish, Gould, Allen, Denny, Dornbach, and many others who settled, lived, and are buried here.
Soldiers of the War of 1812 are our ancestors who should always be remembered for their part in keeping America independent. Daughters of the War of 1812 are assisting all who want to find that ancestor, and honor him by adding his name to the archives of the soldiers of the War of 1812.
The National Society United States Daughters of 1812 will be sponsoring a family search workshop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 9, at the LaGrange County Library in the quest to honor LaGrange and Elkhart County soldiers of the War of 1812. The event is co-sponsored with the LaGrange de LaFayette Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and the LaGrange County Genealogical Society.
A light breakfast and a lunch will be provided. The workshop is free to the public. Reservations would be helpful by calling 260-562-3775.