During the Revolutionary War, loyalists in theVirginia backcountry periodically conspiredagainst the Revolutionary authorities. ColonelsCharles Lynch, James Callaway, and other militiaofficers and county justices formed extralegalcourts to punish them, which were "not strictlywarranted by law." "Lynch's Law," or lynching, assuch punishment has been called, did not at firstinclude hanging. According to local tradition,accused loyalists were tied to a large black walnuttree here at Lynch's home, Green Level, and whipped,not hanged. In contrast with the lynchings thatbegan the next century, legally appointed officialsmeted out "Lynch's law" mostly with fines andjail terms. Later, the Virginia General Assemblypassed acts protecting Lynch and his associatesfrom prosecution for their activities.
Comments 0 comments