On a gorgeous October 26 Autumn morning, Descendants of Patriot Matthew McCauley, from New York, Florida, and the Triangle Area, members of the North Carolina Brigade, Society of the Descendants of Washington’s Army at Valley Forge, and members of North Carolina Sons of the American Revolution, celebrated his service in an America 250 Grave Marking at the McCauley Family Cemetery.

Matthew McCauley was born circa 1755 in Country Antrim, Ireland. After leaving Ireland he settled in Hillsboro, North Carolina.

Matthew McCauley was 27 when he enlisted as a Lieutenant in the 10^th North Carolina Regiment in July, 1777. He joined Washington’s Main Army and trained at Valley Forge. He was promoted to Captain in the summer of 1778. He was at the Battle of Briar Creek, and mustered out in the Fall of 1779.

After returning home, McCauley joined the militia as a Captain. He was captured in September, 1781, and held on the prison ship Eske. He was exchanged in April, 1782, and returned to Hillsboro, where he continued to serve in the militia until the end of the war.

Matthew McCauley married Martha Johnston on September 3, 1780. Together they had seven children. In 1792, McCauley donated 150 acres of land in Chapel Hill to help found the University of North Carolina.

Matthew McCauley died on September 6, 1821, and is buried at the McCauley Family Cemetery in Chapel Hill.

Plaque at UNC McCauley Cemetery

Support for this event was provided by Bruce and Barbara Stroud. Bruce is a descendant of Matthew McCauley.

Additional support was provided by the North Carolina Brigade, DVF, and the General Francis Nash and Raleigh Chapters, SAR.