The Swamp Fox

By Barbara Lynn Terry

He was born of French immigrants in 1732,

A person of common birth and loving parents,

A wooden sword his only prized toy,

As he was as any other boy.

In 1761 his military career began,

As well as serving as an elected man

For his beloved South Caroline

In seventeen seventy five.

In 1776, he organized to arms

Poorly equipped men,

To protect the hills, valleys, and farms,

As well as a nation they would defend.

Surprising the enemy, blow by blow,

They retreated back to the swampland,

So they could have another go

At forces who could not oppose their hand.

All through the war of the time,

He would sneak in so sublime,

Do his task, and then bask,

In the glory he had done just fine.

From Captain to Brigadier Gen.,

He had the respect of his men,

And a grateful nation to be,

Who would now be able to see,

After great cost and victory,

The independence they so badly need.

Who is this man they could not catch?

His name was Francis Marion,

Who was better know as,

The Swamp Fox.

This is the epitaph of Brigadier General Francis Marion (The Swamp Fox):

Gen. Marion's Epitaph
--------

Sacred to the Memory of BRIG. GEN. FRANCIS MARION,
Who departed this life, on the 27th of February, 1795,~ In the
Sixty-Third Year of his Age; Deeply regretted by all his fellow citizens.

HISTORY will record his worth, and rising generations embalm his
memory, as one of the most distinguished Patriots and Heroes of
the American Revolution; which elevated his native Country TO
HONOUR AND INDEPENDENCE, and secured to her the
blessings of LIBERTY AND PEACE.

This tribute of veneration and gratitude is erected in
commemoration of the noble and disinterested virtues of the
CITIZEN; and the gallant exploits of the SOLDIER; Who lived
without fear, and died without reproach.
Taken from the marble slab at Belle Isle, this 20th September,1821,
by Theodore Gourdin.