Diana Saunders resided at Rocky Point on Dry Branch of Swago in Pocahontas County soon after the War of 1812. Saunders, a widow, arrived with her four children: Anna, Eleanor, Cyrus, and Isaac.
**She built a cabin near the head springs of Dry Branch, close to the Rocky Point schoolhouse.**
### Children's Lives
* Cyrus Saunders became a prominent merchant in Madison County, Virginia.
* Isaac Saunders reached adulthood and relocated to Fayette County, where he married and settled near the Hawk's Nest on the banks of New River. His sister, Anna, lived with him for a period before marrying a resident of Fayette County named Ewing.
* Eleanor Saunders married Barnett Adkisson of Madison County and resided at Spruce Flat near the head of Swago. Information about her children was provided by John Adkisson.
Saunders' Character
Diana Saunders possessed an engaging personality and, in her younger years, was considered exceptionally beautiful.** Based on her conversations about Presidents James Madison, James Monroe, and Thomas Jefferson, it's speculated that she spent her youth in Orange or Albermarle counties.
Saunders as a Healer
**For over 50 years, Saunders provided essential medical care in the absence of local physicians.** People often requested her assistance, particularly during challenging situations like storms and flooding. Although the intimate nature of her work necessitates discretion, it's noted that Saunders remained composed even during emergencies. **She often used expressions like "Hold on old girl, we can't spare you yet" and "Well, you ugly beast, if you won't let me kiss you, come in and see what a pretty thing the good Lord has sent your old woman."**
### Saunders' Later Years
**In the late 1850s or early 1860s, Saunders moved to New River to live with Isaac and Anna.** **It's believed she died there at approximately 103 years old.** The source describes her as a dear friend and notes that few individuals like her had lived in that region.
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