Image of BonnevillePegram Family Album (online) image from Old Virginia Houses Along the Fall Line, p. 506
Born on November 16, 1773, at "Bonneville" plantation in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, John Pegram was the son of Edward Pegram Jr., a Revolutionary War militia captain, and Ann Lyle. Educated privately, Pegram held local offices early in life, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Dinwiddie. In 1800, he married Martha Ward Gregory and, according to family tradition, built the "Bonneville" plantation house for her, with the year "1800" inscribed on the chimney.1
During the War of 1812, Pegram served as a major general in the Virginia militia, commanding state forces and playing a key role in Virginia’s defense efforts.2 His leadership exemplified Dinwiddie’s tradition of military service.
Pegram served in the Virginia House of Delegates (1797–1801, 1813–1815) and the Virginia State Senate (1804–1808). In 1818, he filled a vacancy in the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democratic-Republican, serving until 1819. He later became U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Virginia in 1821.3
""Bonneville" of late Georgian architecture and Flemish bond chimneys, features 3880 sq. ft. living area including large rooms, high ceiling, spacious hallway used as a sitting room, 5 bedrooms, 4 fireplaces, 2 kitchens, pine floors, portions of which are original and English basement, partially finished..." — Old Virginia Houses Along the Fall Line, p. 506
Pegram died on April 8, 1831, at Bonneville and was buried on the family plantation. His grandsons, including Confederate officers John Pegram and William Ransom Johnson Pegram, continued his legacy of service.4
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Disclaimer
This biographical sketch was prepared by ChatGPT for Ed Olsen, Coordinator of the Dinwiddie County USGenWeb site. Ed Olsen has reviewed and verified the content for accuracy and relevance to the site's mission.
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Coordinator - Ed Olsen
State Coordinator - Jeff Kemp
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