Jane Thomas

Jane Thomas (c. 1720–April 16, 1811) was the wife of John Thomas, a colonel in South Carolina who fought for the rebels in the American Revolution. She passed key intelligence that thwarted an ambush of Whig forces. William J. Bennett and John T. E. Cribb state that Jane Thomas' intervention before "the Battle of Cedar Springs helped launch a resurgence of Patriot fortunes in South Carolina, and brought a much-needed boost in morale." Markers were erected to honor Jane and her husband Col. John Thomas for their contributions during the American Revolution. A monument was installed by the Greenville County Historical Preservation Commission and Mark III Properties and a highway marker was installed by the Spartanburg Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Background Men and women of the Thirteen Colonies were essentially tested throughout the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783) as to what side had their allegiance. Loyalists aligned with the British and the English King George III. Patriots, also called rebels, were dedicated in the opposition to being ruled by the British. For them, the conflict was a War of Independence. Colonialist's allegiances could be decided by their means of income, for example, if their livelihoods relied on trade with England, they might then have more loyalty to The Crown. In the Province of South Carolina, like other colonies, people were essentially at war with their neighbors. The Thomas family—Jane, John, their children, and their children's spouses were all patriots. After the Fall of Charleston (May 12, 1780) the infighting became more fierce in South Carolina. British General Charles Cornwallis had the mission to take control of Carolina. Leaders of the patriots in South Carolina created and distributed Articles of Association to identify and obtain the signatures of the people who would fight against the British government. The Thomas family, including their sons-in-law, were committed to protecting their homes and to fight against the Loyalists.