The Historic Moore House
The 18th century Colonial style house was bought by Augustine Moore after his brother-in-law had some financial problems. Moore would eventually regret buying the property. The American Revolution was being fought so close to his property that a stray bullet killed Moore’s only son. Their neighbor John Turner had a similar fate when he got too close while watching the shelling of the British Army. John Turner died in his wife’s arms when hope was gone from saving him. He was only thirty years old and buried in the Moore cemetery located next to the Moore house.
No one seems to know the reason why British Commander Cornwallis decided on the Moore House to be designated for the signing of the Articles of Capulation known for ending the American Revolution.
Eventually, Moore's wife would join their son. Turner's wife would join Turner in death as well. After his wives death, Moore sold the house. This was not the end for the Moore house however. The Civil War took it’s aim at the Moore house and left it in an unlivable condition. It was eventually renovated and restored by the National Park Service in 1931 to it’s original condition. It is now a museum.
The Moore house has been opened for tours. People have stated that they feel as though an unseen entity watches over them. In fact, there is a red velvet chair that sits in the parlor with actual signs that someone has sat there. The beds also seem as if someone has slept in them.
Daniel Benton had three sons. Two died
during the American Revolution while
the third would become part of a tragic
love story.
Elisha Benton had completely fallen in love with Jemima Barrows. Her parents disapproved of their love, so Elisha tried to win them over by joining the Continental Army. Unfortunately, he was captured and held on a prison ship in the harbor of NY. While being held prisoner, he contracted Small Pox. Eventually, he was exchanged for a British prisoner, but his fate was sealed. He was dying.
During this era, Small Pox was very contagious and very deadly so his family members were forced to flee his home in fear of contracting the deadly disease themselves. Only his mother was able to stay by his side and Jemima sacrificed, knowing she would contract the disease herself, and took care of her love.
Within a few short weeks, Elisha passed away at only 29 years old. As predicted, Jemima contracted the deadly disease as well and died five weeks after - shortly before her 18th birthday. She died alone with no one to care for her. The Benton family, out of respect for Jemimas sacrifice, allowed her to be buried on the Benton’s property and paid for her burial expenses but buried them apart due to the fact that Jemima and Elisha had not been married. There was a carriage drive that divided them before but no longer. They have recently been joined together.
Jemima has been seen and heard crying searching for her Elisha by people for over 80 years. People also see shadow figures within the home, mostly in front of the bedroom where both Elisha and Jemima have passed way. We can only hope that they have found each other.
Elisha & Jemima
Ghost of the American Revolution:
where the war was fought, watch for the shadows among the bright lit fireworks for there may be a departed someone watching along side you. If you do happen to see them, make sure to whisper a sweet "Thank you" for their sacrifices. Hold your loved ones tight and hope that your love story will never turn tragic. Keep the soldiers who are fighting and their families in mind. Happy 4th of July and stay safe.