Bob Lockwood, "Battle of Brandywine"

Gifted and dedicated, Bob Lockwood is one of those rare people who believes that only their best effort should be given in any task undertaken. The musicians backing up Bob's narrative are: Otis Forrest on piano; Wendy Holcombe and Otis on fiddle; Joe Huffman on dobro; Ron Dini, Joe Huffman, David Ezell on guitar; Harold Huffman on drums and backup vocals by The Nashville Edition. May each of us give serious thought to the sacrifices and courage of our Founding Fathers and those who so gallantly fought for freedom so many years ago, and by so doing may we all be encouraged and strengthened to willingly continue the struggle and fight for independence. Let us never forget the bloody struggles of the past and the brave men and women who have fought and died to maintain freedom -- may we be more deeply resolved to honor "Old Glory."

Some might think history class is a snooze fest, but the story of George Washington, Patrick Ferguson and the Battle of Brandywine is anything but boring. The way that Washington and Ferguson's paths crossed -- in a single moment -- could have changed history. It took place at the Battle at Brandywine which signaled the fall of Philadelphia into British hands. However, a single event at the location could have changed not only the outcome of the war, but the entire country's future as well. As with much of history, experts differ about the event, but the overall story seems factual. According to one source, a British captain named Patrick Ferguson was scouting the American lines near Chadds Ford when he heard approaching horses. The first horseman was a French officer, while the second -- wearing a traditional blue and buff uniform -- appeared to be an American senior officer. Ferguson knew the officer was of high distinction, but couldn't identify him. Initially Ferguson ordered the men with him to shoot the riders, but then he quickly signaled them to ignore the command. Instead, Ferguson made himself visible, at which point the French officer alerted his fellow American rider and they galloped off. Ferguson, being a crack shot, admitted he could have easily shot them before they was out of range. But he did not shoot because he was a gentleman. The thought of shooting non-threatening soldiers in the back was "disgusting." Other accounts have Ferguson getting the opportunity to shoot the high-ranking officer on September 11, 1777, during the Battle of Brandywine, when the "rebel" leader and escort were out riding. In both accounts the story ends with the officer safely retreating. Moments or days later (depending on the account being considered) Ferguson was struck in the right elbow by a musket ball, landing him in a field hospital. While there, he learned that the officer he could have shot was none other than George Washington himself. Even after being told this, Ferguson reaffirmed his gentlemanly decision not to shoot.

The material Bob Lockwood performs on this slideshow is taken from his album, THE FIGHT FOR INDEPENDENCE, which can now be purchased and/or downloaded on CDbaby.com.

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