Clark’s Death

Abstract

George Rogers Clark fell at his small Clarksville home in the winter of 1809, burning his right leg so severely it soon required amputation. He was moved to Locust Grove, the most commodious home his siblings could provide, where he lived for the remainder of his life. Having endured at least one stroke, his activity was limited, but his days were not without enjoyment. The Croghans had eight lively children, and their home was filled regularly with various nieces and nephews, neighbors, and men who wished to pay homage to the old soldier. It was at Locust Grove that Clark finally received a pension from Virginia, along with a ceremonial sword bearing an inscription that depicted his victory at Vincennes. His enslaved man, Kitt—a member of the Clark family from birth—joined Lucy Croghan in caring for Clark until his death on 13 February 1818. George Rogers Clark was buried at Locust Grove, and within eight weeks, Kitt was a free man.