General Society of the War of 1812
Member jure Private William Ray
(2nd Regiment, Ohio Militia); member no. 8537, state no. 1076
Member jure Private William Ray
(2nd Regiment, Ohio Militia); member no. 8537, state no. 1076
The General Society of the War of 1812 is a lineage society dedicated to preserving the memory and contributions of those who served during the War of 1812. Founded in 1814, the society fosters the remembrance of the war’s significance and honors the patriots who defended American independence during this pivotal period. Membership is extended to male descendants of veterans who served in military or naval forces during the conflict, ensuring their sacrifices are not forgotten.
William Ray (1790–1843) served as a private in the 2nd Regiment, Ohio Militia, under Captain Peter Bacus during the War of 1812. Born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, William later moved to Ohio, where he played an integral role in the young state’s defense against British forces and their Native American allies. His service spanned from August 19, 1812, to February 24, 1813, during which the Ohio Militia contributed to securing the Northwest Territory and protecting settlements along the frontier.
Private William Ray’s unit, part of the Ohio Militia, served during a time when the United States was fighting to maintain its sovereignty and protect its western borders. The militia engaged in activities such as fortifying defenses, engaging enemy forces, and providing logistical support to the regular army. William’s dedication to his community and his nation reflects the spirit of the citizen-soldiers who were instrumental in the war effort.
William married Sarah Bentch on April 19, 1814, in Ross County, Ohio, shortly after his service. The couple had eleven children and settled in Jackson County, Ohio, where William became a respected community member until his death in 1843. His life and service are commemorated at Ray Cemetery in Byer, Ohio.
William Ray was the grandson of Moses Teague, a patriot who served during the Revolutionary War, and the great-great-grandson of Edward Teague, an early settler of Maryland. The Teague family’s multigenerational commitment to defending and shaping the United States highlights a legacy of service and dedication that William upheld during the War of 1812.
The Society of the War of 1812 in Maryland originated from the “Defenders of Baltimore,” a group formed by veterans who repelled British forces during the Battle of Baltimore and was organized on September 14, 1814. As the number of surviving veterans declined, their descendants sought to continue the legacy. This led to the incorporation of the Society of the War of 1812 in Maryland on October 25, 1893, allowing male descendants of veterans to join and perpetuate the society’s objectives.
The Maryland Society focuses on:
By maintaining these objectives, the Society of the War of 1812 in Maryland ensures that the rich history of Maryland’s contributions to the War of 1812 remains an integral part of the state’s heritage.
The General Society of the War of 1812 traces its origins to two primary sources:
These two societies, along with delegates from New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, met in Philadelphia on April 14, 1894, to form the General Society of the War of 1812. They chose to recognize September 14, 1814, as the official establishment date, honoring the Maryland Society’s original formation.
The objectives of the General Society include:
As one of the oldest lineage societies in the United States, the General Society has upheld its mission to preserve the legacy of this pivotal chapter in American history for over two centuries.
Additional memberships will be added as they are approved.
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