Thomas Cresap, who lived from 1694 to 1790, was a pathfinder, pioneer, patriot, founder of Oldtown about 1740, and surveyor of the first trail west in 1751. He led in the defense of settlers against hostile Indians, served in the Provincial Assembly, and was active in the Sons of Liberty and the Committee of Safety. His sons included Daniel Cresap, a prominent frontiersman; Thomas Cresap, Jr., who was killed in the Indian War; and Michael Cresap, a captain in Dunmore's and Revolutionary Wars. His grandsons Capt. Michael Cresap, Jr., Lieut. Daniel Cresap, Jr., and Lieut. Joseph Cresap all served in Dunmore's and Revolutionary Wars.