Matthew Lyon lived a life that made him a witness to some of the most important events and figures of early American History. An Irish immigrant, he rose from humble beginnings to becoming a nationally respected figure. He was a veteran of the American Revolution, a pioneer, writer, and respected famous politician in an age that included such American giants as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and James Madison. And his journey would take him all the way to Arkansas.

Lyon was born in Ireland in 1749 to a desperately poor family. At the age of 14, he was apprenticed to a printer but dreamed of better days for himself. In 1764, he left Ireland for Connecticut, becoming an indentured servant to pay the cost of his voyage. By 1774, with his debts repaid and a new wife, he headed to Vermont.

In 1776, he joined the Green Mountain Boys, commanded by Ethan Allen, and rose to the rank of captain. The Green Mountain Boys became a powerful foe to the British across upstate New York........

© El Dorado News Times