Despite the showers, it was a meaningful and enjoyable Saturday, when on May 30, 2015, Elk River Chapter, NSDAR gathered to honor patriot Patrick Murphy. The weather did not dampen the resolve to highlight this American Revolutionary War soldier, by placing his nameplate on the monument situated on the Braxton County Courthouse lawn.
Regent Ruth Mooney welcomed chapter members and other DAR associates, as well as descendants of Patrick Murphy. Lorraine Bailey led the group in the Pledge to the American flag and Lillie Robinson led The American’s Creed. Cindi Crowe and Mary Stewart offered prayers. Paula Shuman read a narrative written by her mother, Virginia Carr, on the history of the monument placed by Elk River Chapter, NSDAR in 1980. Dale Boggs reviewed the patriotic and military accomplishments and the personal life of Patrick Murphy, followed by a poem.
Patrick Murphy was born in Ireland about 1751 and came to the Boston area about 1763. He migrated to the Botetourt/Greenbrier area. His first wife’s maiden name was Kerney. After she passed, he married Elizabeth Spencer in 1779. Elizabeth died in 1790 and he married a widow, Ann James Miller.
Daughters of Elizabeth and Patrick include: Mary Polly who married George Cutlip, Susan who married James Anderson Boggs and Virginia Jane who married Benjamin Lemasters Boggs. Patrick Murphy, who died in 1821, is buried in Glendon, WV.
The DAR has credited Patrick Murphy with both Military and Patriotic Service. His Military service was with the Va. Militia commanded by Capt. Parker and Col. Posey. As a Patriot, Murphy signed a Greenbrier County Petition in 1781 to request troops from Fort Randolph for protection of the settlers from Indians.
Descendants of Patrick Murphy who attended the celebration ceremony include: Arden Murphy and his son, Patrick Murphy, as well as Craig Smith and Dale Boggs.
Patrick Murphy’s nameplate was added on the plaque with the other names of patriots buried in Braxton County: Andrew Skidmore, Charles Francis Boggs, Peter Shields, John Dobbins and Jacob Fisher.
For more information about this event or the Daughters of the American Revolution, call 304.765.7478 or go to www.dar.org
