Historical Overview of the Colonel in America
The colonel during the time of Colonial America was the highest appointed office that could be granted to a native colonist. With this authority a person could charter a township, county, company or militia.
The honor of receiving the title of "Colonel" dates back to middle of the 17th century (1600's) in the 13 original colonies. As a title, Colonel was used to distinguish the gentry who lived and worked in these 13 colonies and persisted into the 20th century before becoming known as an honorary and ceremonial status used by governors to distinguish civilians based on their achievements.
Under English Colonial rule, "colonelcy" was purchased from the government resulting in letters patent or an officers commission, which authorized and entitled the subject to form a "company" or "militia". Colonels had the ability to recruit and issue further commissions to those who joined their private companies under the leadership of the person holding the original letters patent. Many of the most prominent figures in history became colonels to protect themselves legally, garner respect and to establish new forts and townships. Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, James Madison, Thomas Paine and many others were either civilian or militia colonels during their political careers.
Prior to and throughout the American Revolution it was very desirable to become a colonel, especially if you were forming a company to head West to start a community in the unexplored areas beyond the Appalachian range.