Patriot James Wills assisted in establishing American Independence as a Private in Capt.
Burns’ Company, Col. William’s Regiment, Virginia Militia. James also provided patriotic service as a blacksmith
for Lt. Daniel Howe. His service is documented in his pension application S17198 at the U.S. National Archives &
Records Administration. He received a pension starting 13 May 1834 for his service.
James was born 17 July 1763 in Chester County, Pennsylvania and died 17 August 1855 in Ray
County, Missouri. He is buried at the Old New Garden Church Cemetery, adjacent to the Old New Garden Primitive Baptist
Church at 12764 State Highway O, Wood Heights, Ray County, Missouri. James has a private and military tombstone that
is marked by the DAR located north of the church entrance at coordinates: N39° 19' 23.30" and W94° 10' 00.59".
