Today marks the beginning of Jack Jouett's Ride in 1781. When Jouett spotted a British force moving toward Charlottesville, Virginia to attempt to capture the Viriginia government and Governor Thomas Jefferson, the "Revere Of The South" rode 40 miles in rough terrain to beat the British there and sound the alarm. He first notified Jefferson at Monticello, where several legislators were staying, then rode to Charlottesville a few miles further. Jouett's efforts saved Jefferson, most of the legislature and General Edward Stevens from capture by the British.