Joseph James and William Patterson

Joseph James Patterson: A Pioneer and Revolutionary War Veteran

Written by Erika Berrett

Early Life and Military Service

Joseph James Patterson was born on April 3, 1767, in Rockbridge County, Virginia, into a family of Scottish descent. His early years were shaped by the turbulence of the American Revolution. As a young man, Joseph enlisted as a private in the 8th Virginia Regiment during the Revolutionary War. His military service included participation in key moments of the war, including defending Virginia from British forces and responding to the threat of British-backed Native American attacks on the western frontier.

His contribution as part of the Virginia militia came at a critical time when Virginia played a pivotal role in the final stages of the war. His unit was involved in skirmishes and defensive actions along the Virginia coast, as British forces, including the infamous traitor Benedict Arnold, sought to plunder and dominate key settlements. His militia unit also defended the state's western frontier against Native American raids spurred by British agents .

Migration to Kentucky and Missouri

After the war, like many of his generation, Joseph sought new opportunities in the expanding western frontier. In 1806, Joseph and his wife, Jane Walker Patterson, moved their family to Adair County, Kentucky. There, they settled on a farm and began the work of building a new life in the rugged yet fertile lands of Kentucky. Jane passed away in 1810, leaving Joseph to raise their children .

In 1829, Joseph moved with his son, William Patterson, and their family to Marion County, Missouri, near Hannibal and Palmyra. They resided there for several years before continuing westward into Iowa .

Settlement in Iowa and Legacy

In 1837, Joseph joined his son William and other family members in establishing the town of West Point, Iowa. They purchased land and were instrumental in the early development of the settlement. The Pattersons, along with their relatives Green Casey and Alexander H. Walker, played a key role in laying out the town and selling plots, helping to establish West Point as an important community in Iowa's early history.

By 1846, Joseph and his family had moved to Keokuk, Iowa, where they would remain for the rest of their lives. Joseph’s son William became a prominent figure in the area, serving multiple terms as mayor of Keokuk, representing Lee County in the Iowa legislature, and contributing to the establishment of businesses and public infrastructure .

Joseph’s life spanned the American Revolution to the mid-19th century, a period of significant expansion and change in American history. His family continued to shape the community of Keokuk, with his son William being a driving force in its development. Joseph himself is remembered not only for his military service but also for his role in pioneering the early settlements of Missouri and Iowa .

Final Years and Burial

Joseph James Patterson passed away on December 2, 1850, at the home of his son in Keokuk. He was interred in Oakland Cemetery, a final resting place for many of Keokuk’s pioneers and notable residents. His life, spanning from the Revolutionary War to the early years of Iowa statehood, represents the spirit of those who built the nation through perseverance, military service, and community development .

Sources:

1. Constitution-Democrat (Thursday, October 24, 1889) – Biography of William Patterson, including details about Joseph James Patterson.

2. Daily Gate City (Various Dates) – Articles about the Patterson family and their contributions to Keokuk and surrounding areas.

3. Virginia Militia in the Revolutionary War, McAllister's Data, J.T. McAllister, 1913 – Information on Joseph Patterson's military service.

4. Weekly Gate City (October 31, 1889) – Obituary and biographical information about William Patterson and his family, including Joseph James Patterson.

5. National Archives and Records Administration – Revolutionary War records for Joseph Patterson.

6. Southern Campaigns of the American Revolution – Military history and engagements in which Joseph Patterson participated.