Benjamin Jones, a towering figure both in stature and character, was born on April 25, 1752, in Culpeper County, Virginia. A great-grandson of David Jones—the first documented settler of Baltimore, Maryland—Benjamin came from pioneer stock. When his father died during his childhood, the mantle of responsibility fell to the nine-year-old, shaping the man of strength and principle he would become.
Known affectionately as “Poplar Foot Jones” for his extraordinary height of six feet eight inches and his unusually large feet, Jones was revered not just for his imposing presence but also for his generosity and integrity. He was a steadfast friend to the poor and suffering, a true Virginia gentleman of the old school, and a proud patriot who brought honor to Henry County.
In July 1776, as the American colonies broke from British rule, Jones enlisted as a Culpeper Minute Man. He served under Colonel Taylor on the Potomac, monitoring British naval movements under Lord Dunmore. His military service is confirmed by records in the War Department, which show him receiving payment for service on the Continental Establishment in 1786.
During the war, Jones worked alongside Dr. White, a military surgeon. This hands-on experience sparked a lifelong dedication to medicine. In time, Jones established himself as a respected physician and surgeon.
He married Elizabeth de Remi (Reamey) on September 7, 1776, in Prince William County. She was the great-granddaughter of Jean de Remi, a French Huguenot who fled persecution in Picardy and settled in Charleston in 1690. Benjamin and Elizabeth were devout Episcopalians, wed by Rev. Devereux Jarrett.
After briefly residing in North Carolina, where Jones rebuilt and operated the Troublesome Iron Works, the family relocated to Henry County, Virginia, in 1792. The journey was made entirely on horseback, with Elizabeth cradling an infant as she guided her horse. They settled on land near what is now Martinsville. Jones Creek in Martinsville/Henry County is named after Benjamin Jones.Â
Jones quickly became a prominent local figure. He built one of the county’s earliest painted and weather-boarded homes, and even kept over 100 deer in a private park for his grandchildren’s amusement. A small bell worn by a pet deer remains a family heirloom.
Politically active, Jones served multiple terms representing Henry County in the Virginia legislature. He died in 1848 at the age of 91 and is buried with his wife and son in Oakwood Cemetery, Martinsville.
Elizabeth Jones lived to be over 100 and remained vigorous throughout her life. She often recounted George Washington’s visit to their home during the Revolutionary War—an event later confirmed by Washington’s own diary. She passed peacefully in 1856, leaving behind a legacy of strength, grace, and patriotism.
Jarred Marlowe is a local resident and historian. He is a member of the Col. George Waller Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Blue & Gray Education Society, and the committee chair for the Martinsville-Henry County 250 Committee. He may be reached at marloweja15@gmail.com.Â
