Nearly 40 descendants of Elihu Brown gathered on September 6 at historic Brown’s Chapel and the Gepp Fire Station in Fulton County to honor their ancestral ties to the American Revolution. The event comes as the United States approaches its 250th anniversary.

“Elihu Brown was 21 years old when the American Revolution broke out,” said K.E. Ragland, a Brown descendant. “He joined the Colonial Infantry.” Brown, a Quaker, chose to enlist despite the general pacifist beliefs held by the Religious Society of Friends. Ragland explained that Quakers who took up arms during the conflict were often “read out” or disowned by their congregations, though opportunities for reconciliation were offered after the war.

The reunion included a program highlighting family artifacts, such as the restored saddle of Ned Brown, another notable family member. Featuring metal stirrups, leather strips, and a prominent saddle horn, the piece provided a glimpse into the past. Lyn Cotter, who spoke during the event, noted the significant cost of the saddle during its time. “This saddle would have cost him about $20,” said Cotter. “That would have been three months’ wages at that time.” Cotter also pointed out a partially cut leather strip on the saddle, describing it as a common tactic to sabotage riders by causing the saddle to detach. “In this case, the leather strip was not cut very far,” she added.

Following the program, attendees moved to the Gepp Fire Station on Highway 87 for a potluck luncheon. Long tables were set up in the station’s meeting room and one of its truck bays, with food spread across the station counter. Gepp volunteer firefighter Robert Stone spoke about the station’s role in the community. “We are proud to offer this facility for the people,” he said.

Organizer Rhonda Ross expressed gratitude to all who participated. “We want to thank everyone for coming,” Ross said. “The programs were very good.”

The Brown family reunion occurs annually on the Sunday afternoon of Labor Day weekend, continuing a tradition that celebrates their shared heritage and history.