Sons of the American Revolution Commemorates the Skirmish at Kemp's Landing

On Saturday, November 15, local Sgt Maj John Champe compatriots Ken Bonner and Dave Welker joined other Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution compatriots and community leaders to commemorate the 250th anniversary of a Battle in what is now Virginia Beach. In the autumn of 1775, the tide of Revolution in Virginia was beginning to turn. Across the colony, local men gathered into newly formed battalions and county militias, motivated by the successful defense of Hampton, where citizen-soldiers had stood against British naval forces and prevailed. Yet the road to independence was far from steady. At Kemp’s Landing, that truth became evident. A brave but untested militia—drawn from communities in the Tidewater area of Virginia attempted to challenge Lord Dunmore’s forces and were driven back.

The Patriot setback opened the way for Dunmore to publicly release a Proclamation, declaring martial law, and offering freedom to the enslaved and indentured who joined the British Army. The Proclamation stirred new resolve for Independence in the Patriot cause. These moments—victory at Hampton, sacrifice and learning at Kemp’s Landing—marked Virginia’s passage from unrest into open revolution, as ordinary citizens became the defenders of a new nation’s ideals. It is that courage, commitment, and unfolding promise that were honored at the Commemoration of Kemp’s Landing.

Ken Bonner gave remarks on behalf of National SAR President General Michael Elston and carried the flag of the Commonwealth of Virginia in Color Guard. Dave Welker carried the John Champe Chapter flag in Color Guard and presented the Chapter Wreath in honor of the men who valiantly fought in the Battle at Kemp’s Landing.