Quick Facts
Biography
William Voyles (also Voiles, Vowells) (1741 – January 1798) was an American Revolutionary War soldier who enlisted in the militia on the same day as the signing of the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776. He fought with the 1st Battalion of the North Carolina militia, and reenlisted in 1779.
Voyles served under the command of General Francis Marion (known to his contemporaries as the "Swamp Fox"), as well as General Nathanael Greene and Major General Horatio Gates. He was captured by the British during the Battle of Camden, but was able to escape. He later fought in the Battle of Kings Mountain, and the Battle of Cowpens (the turning point for the Patriots in the Southern Campaign of the war).
Early life
Originally from Pembrokeshire, Wales, Voyles came to America circa 1755 with his father, Jacob, brother Thomas, and the twins, John and James.
Indentured servitude
Like many "Welsh Kale," William became an indentured servant (or 'bonded laborer') to a ship's captain for four years. Often, when the ship was docked in Wales, Voyles would spend his time with his uncle, David, who he eventually convinced to immigrate back to the Colonies with him. After returning to America, Voyles settled in North Carolina instead of South Carolina, where his father lived.
Family and farm life
Voyles became a cotton farmer. In 1772, he married Hanna Rhodecia Bundi (1748–1807). Together they raised 11 children: William, Rachel, Rolin, Andrew, Thomas, Abel, David, Moses, Daniel, Hannah and Mary.
Land Grants
He and the other militiamen would often return home to their farms until called upon to fight again. As was custom for the new government, these militia were often paid for their service in grants of land. William executed a land grant on the west side of Big Coldwater Creek on March 6, 1779 for 150 acres (61 ha). Although not officially granted until August 1787 (after the close of the war) the family took up residence at the site almost immediately. On May 22, 1794, he entered the second grant for another 150 acres (61 ha) tract.
Death
William died at his home in what is now Cabarrus County in North Carolina and was buried in the family burial ground on the old farm. His wife Hanna was later buried alongside him.