2. George McCoy, eldest son of James McCoy and Ann Bruce McCoy his wife, was reputed of extraordinary musical ability; a composer of music and contributed much to the national music of his day. It is said of him that he was known to have composed his music, poetry and sung it at the same time. He was a gunsmith, took and active part in the Revolutionary War, never married, lived to a good old age, thrown from his horse and killed, died in Ohio.
The following letter written by him to John McCoy of Clarke Co., Ind., his nephew, and son of Rev. Wm. McCoy, is preserved in the original handwriting, folded in old thumbpaper style, with red seal and postscript, written in ink by Postmaster, "Urbana, O. Mar. 27" Postage "18-3/4 cts.," and directed in large plain letters "To Mr. John McCoy, near Charlestown, Clark County, Indiana State".
Urbana, 8 March 1815, Ohio St.
"Dear Cousin John- I received your letter dated August 5, 1813, in a few days after it was rote. I was glad to receive a letter from you, yet very sorry at the melancholy news of my Brother's death, for I was very desirous to have saw him onst more, but it appears that god had otherwise determined, - but it is a grait consolation that it appears the he departed in peace, for happy they that are prepared for death and judgment before they are called out time into Eternity.
I am intending to come down the ensuing summer, but I wish you to write to me at Urbana and let me know how you all are. Also let me know Mr. Graybill is making out and if this note is yet in any of your hands, and please inform me how land rtes in your neighborhood - for I have sold my land in this state, and if I should like your parts when I see it, perhaps I may purchase somewhere near you. I remain deaf but very healthy and remain single. Please to inform me how complete Rifle Guns rate with you, as I follow the Gunsmith business for a livelihood and my customer allow that I can make a handsome gun. I shall fetch one down when I come, for if I am spaired my health and strength you may look for me by the last of May next. Please remember my best respects and good wishes to your mother, if living, also to your wife and all the family, also to all your brothers and their families.
This from you affectionate Uncle,
George McCoy"
"To John McCoy