CAMDEN, SOUTH CAROLINA — Human remains discovered in shallow graves in Camden, South Carolina, have been identified as John Pumphrey, a 13-year-old soldier in the Revolutionary War. Battlefield archaeologists Jim Legg and Steve Smith discovered the remains.

A set of remains previously designated as 9B was identified as Pumphrey through genetic genealogy and archaeological evidence. Metal buttons found with the remains indicated the men were Continental soldiers. John Pumphrey, originally from Maryland, enlisted in the Continental Army's 7th Maryland Regiment at the age of 13. His regiment participated in battles alongside Gen. George Washington in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Genetic genealogist Allison Peacock utilized three types of DNA and biographical data to identify the remains. DNA samples from Pam Donahue, Karen Pumphrey Etchison, and Nancy Pumphrey White were instrumental in confirming Pumphrey's identity. Donahue is Pumphrey's fourth-great-niece.

The Pumphrey family, who owned sawmills and real estate in Maryland, lost their estate in a dispute after John Pumphrey's father died, according to court records. Members of the extended Pumphrey family gathered in late June to learn about John Pumphrey's story. Donahue said, "To find out that we do have a young man that sacrificed his life for the development of our country, it's amazing, absolutely amazing." Peacock added, "I think it's a gift to the whole country to know his story."

John Pumphrey's remains are interred in South Carolina. His tombstone, previously marked "Unknown," will be updated with his name. Peacock said, "I'm sure he just was building a new life for himself."

Why It Matters

The identification of John Pumphrey nearly 250 years after his death provides a concrete name and personal history to a soldier from the American Revolutionary War. This discovery highlights the role of young individuals in the conflict and the efforts to identify unknown soldiers from historical battlefields, allowing their descendants and the public to connect with their sacrifices. The use of advanced genetic genealogy ties historical research directly to present-day family members.