The text of this historic marker, on U. S. Highway 17 notes: Near here was Ardoch Plantation, home of the McDonalds and Gignilliats from Colonial Days through the Civil War when it was sold to former slaves. During the Revolutionary War these McDonalds were Loyalists, as were many families of Coastal Georgia. In 1782, Patriot companies of Captain Patrick Carr and Captain Samuel West deserted the command of General Anthony Wayne and plundered St. Andrew’s Parish. They murdered eleven Loyalists, including Ardoch’s owner, Charles McDonald. McDonald was killed in his own doorway in the presence of his wife and children and the house was burned. The plantation was confiscated by the State but later returned to his widow.
Such was the fate of many a Loyalist. The word murder could be used, but I prefer the word justice.