Marks Wants to Honor Towson's War of 1812 General

He's the real general behind  Generals.

And now, as Baltimore celebrates the 200th anniversary of the beginning of the War of 1812, County Councilman feels Nathaniel Towson should get his due.

On Sunday, Marks that he has suggested that business and community leaders help honor one of Towson's (the town's) greatest contributions to the war.

In particular, Marks suggested "that we dedicate one of our structures in his honor, perhaps the bridge at Dulaney Valley Road leading into Downtown Towson."

According to a 1842 biography (available free on Google Books), Nathaniel Towson was born in what was then Towsonton in 1784. The town had first been settled by his father William and his uncle, Thomas, in 1752.

In 1801, a land dispute kept Nathaniel Towson from cultivating a family farm in Kentucky, so he settled in Louisiana and enlisted in an artillery company. In the War of 1812, he distinguished himself as a captain in the battles of Stoney Creek, Buffalo, Queenstown and others.

At the end of the war, Buffalo gave him a celebratory sword marked with gratitude for his services. Maryland presented him a sword inscribed with the "names of the actions in which he was the most conspicuous," the biographer wrote.

Towson died in 1854.

How do you feel General Towson should be honored? Tell us in the comments!