LISTEN MY CHILDREN AND YOU SHALL HEAR: … about that other guy who took a midnight ride during the American Revolution: Jack Jouett.

On the night of June 3, 1781, Jouett—sometimes called “the Paul Revere of the South”—rode 40 miles on back roads to warn Governor Thomas Jefferson and the members of the Virginia legislature that Col. Banastre Tarleton and his army were coming to get them.

Months before, an unprepared Jefferson had fled Richmond as Loyalist and British soldiers, led by turncoat Benedict Arnold, swept into the largely undefended capital city.  Jefferson was now ensconced at Monticello; members of the legislature had gathered in nearby Charlottesville.

But the British were not inclined to let them alone.

Some say the 27-year-old Jouett was asleep on the lawn of the Cuckoo Tavern when he was awakened by the sound of Tarleton’s “White Coats.” Others say he was at his father’s home. In any event, he sprang into action and managed to get to Monticello and to Charlottesville before Tarleton. Jefferson and most of the legislators were able to flee in time (though a few slow pokes were captured).

The year 1781 was not Jefferson’s happiest. He was widely criticized for what was seen as Virginia’s lack preparation for the advance on Richmond. Having to flee twice was humiliating for him. But Jouett was a hero.  The legislature re-convened in Staunton and voted him a commendation plus a pair of pistols and a sword.  He got the pistols in 1783.  Alas, it’s not clear he ever got the sword. Politicians have never been that great at delivering on their promises.