September 27, 2024
SHELBY COUNTY, KY – Private George Yunt was instrumental to establishing Shelby County and Painted Stone Station. He was among settlers evacuating Squire Boone Jr.’s Painted Stone Station as they were ambushed by Natives during the Long Run Massacre in September 1781. Yunt (1757-1824) enlisted in the 8th PA Regiment at age 18 and saw action during the Revolutionary War at Brandywine and Valley Forge, in addition to the Long Run Massacre. He was married to Mary Elizabeth (Polly) Underwood (1765-1840). On Sunday, October 27, 2024 a Kentucky Society Sons of the American Revolution Patriot Grave Marking Service will be held in his honor at 12:30 pm at Buffalo Lick Baptist Church, located at 2530 Elmburg Road, Shelbyville, KY 40065.
During the Long Run Massacre, Yunt heroically saved young Isaiah Boone. Isaiah, running along on foot, was one of the last to cross Long Run Creek. He stumbled and plunged into the water, soaking himself and his gun. As he scrambled up the bank he looked across the creek and saw a Native on the opposite bank. The nine year old instantly drew up his wet gun and pointed it at the Native, who dodged behind a small bank. George Yunt looked back and asked young Boone what his delay was. “I’m pointing at an Indian that has been trying to kill me.” Yunt asked, “Why don’t you shoot him?” To which Isaiah answered, “My gun is wet and won’t go.” At that moment the Native peered around from behind the clay bank and Yunt shot him through the neck and he rolled into the water. Yunt then shouted to Boone, “Now you, boy, throw away your gun and clear yourself!”
Such bravery and heroic acts are what made up the determined individuals who settled the Kentucky Frontier. This ceremony is to honor one of them.
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