Our Chapter

Stephen Heard, for whom our chapter is named, was appointed Governor of Georgia in 1781. He served during the Revolutionary War and was well known in his time.

One legend surrounding Stephen Heard recounts his capture by the British during the Battle of Kettle Creek. He was sentenced to die, but his enslaved servant, Mammy Kate, was determined to save his life. She hid him in a large covered basket that she carried into his cell, and together they were able to walk out past several guards and numerous British and Tory officers. They escaped to waiting horses held by her husband, Daddy Jack. For her bravery, she received her freedom papers, a deed to a small tract of land, and a horse.

Stephen Heard was married twice. His first wife and adopted daughter were driven from their home when it was burned by the Tories and their allies, the Indians; both later died of pneumonia. His second wife, with whom he had nine children, was a niece of George Washington. From 1790 to 1800, Heard practiced law in Elbert County. His great-great-grandson, Bob Heard, is following in his footsteps. A lawyer in Elbert County, he states, “I am very proud to be the great-great-grandson of a pioneer in this area. He was a person honored by people who knew him and held in high esteem.”