Colonel Edward Buncombe
Born in 1742 on the Isle of St. Kits, West Indies, Edward Buncombe settled in western Tyrrell County on land inherited from his uncle, Joseph Buncombe. At the age of 25, he built his home, Buncombe Hall, on the banks of Kendricks Creek approximately two miles north of Lee's Mill (now known as the town of Roper). A well-respected farmer, merchant and shipowner, Buncombe held various posts in the government including Clerk of Court (1774-1777); Colonel, Tyrrell County Militia (1775) and Colonel, Fifth NC Regiment (April 1776 - May 1778). In fact, Buncombe used his own funds to raise and support his regiment. Buncombe led his men in both the Battle of Brandywine and the Battle of Germantown where he was severely wounded. After being left on the battlefield as dead, an old friend in the British Army recognized him and had him taken to Philadelphia to be paroled. While recuperating from his wounds, he was sleepwalking and fell, reopening his wounds. Buncombe died in May, 1778 in Philadelphia and was buried at Christ Church among such patriots as Benjamin Franklin. (Source: "More About Buncombe", WCGS News, Shirleyan B. Phelps, Editor, Vol. XVI, No. 7, 8, 9, July, August, September 2005)
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