MY STORY

A family legacy deeply intertwined with American history

As a young boy, I embarked on an unexpected odyssey that collectively involved my ancestors of nearly five centuries.

Beginning with a discovery of my own during a childhood bike ride, as life progressed, I grew more familiar with the family, learning of a complex mystery.

These stories take place in the epicenter of early American History – within the 25-mile radius where the United States was founded – and where my ancestors lived, worked, and fought beside or against famous and infamous people in the Colonial and postcolonial history of our country.

Many of the treasures and artifacts of these encounters are still secreted away; yet to be found. 

THE SEARCH

A discovery of untold American history and long-lost treasures.

Much of what started my search came from a little-known published book about my ancestors entitled "A Treasury of Tillage Family History 1732 - 1992" by Janice V. Anderton.

The search continued with ship logs, diaries, and descriptions by my great-grandfather and other ancestors.

Many of the most renowned characters in American history left their legends and their treasures in the vicinity of Sarah's Creek - where much of this historical adventure occurs.

Legends including Pocahontas, Blackbeard, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benedict Arnold, and Abraham Lincoln, to name just a few.

Within this 25-mile radius, some of the most momentous events in the country's heritage took place and are included in these writings.

Although American students are taught only a little of what happened here, it is what you are not taught that will surprise and sometimes shock readers. Many will ask the question, "How come I was not taught these things?"

Through historical research, eye-witness accounts from my ancestors, published books, other documents, and fireside storytelling, the reality of pirates, privateers, and royal fortunes materializes. Much of their treasure still remains hidden to this day.

THE STORIES

A never-before-seen look into the formation of the United States and its influences

One of the main historical themes of my upcoming book, seemingly ignored by mainstream history books, is how the country was overwhelmingly influenced by pirates and privateers.

The many pirates depicted in the famous books and Hollywood movies were all sailing the waters and walking the lands in and around Sarah's Creek.

Some of these famous (or infamous) men and women retired in Virginia and others tried and tragically failed.

Those who like mystery will find it intriguing. Those who like history will find it appealing. However, those who enjoy tales of pirates, privateers, and treasure will not be able to put the reading down as clues sprinkle the pages.

Readers will find themselves in a real treasure hunt with roots in the formation of America.