Before George Washington wrote the ultimate breakup letter to England, South Carolina was home to many battles and skirmishes during the revolutionary war (almost more than in any other colony). So we compiled a short-list of the historic Upstate battlefields to celebrate our freedom from Great Britain and the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
Cowpens National Battlefield//
History: This battle served as a major victory for colonial forces and was key in the surrender of British Commander Cornwallis, which ultimately led to the end of the war in 1783.
Event: On July 1, the park’s Celebration of Freedom event includes guided battlefield walks, firing demonstrations (grab your muskets), a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and a dramatic 1st-person performance called “Freedom Fighter: The Story of Scipio,” (don’t forget to bring the kids).
Ninety Six National Historic Site //
History: It’s home to two Revolutionary War battles, one of which, the first Southern battle of the war which claimed the lives of more than one hundred settlers.
Event: On Saturday, July 1, an interactive station allows visitors to add their names to the signers of the Declaration of Independence as well as to write a letter with a period quill pen and seal it with wax (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.). You can go on a Ranger-led tour every weekend throughout July.
Musgrove Mill //
History: Isaac Shelby, a Colonel that fought both at Musgrove Mill and Kings Mountain stated in his memoirs that the battle at Musgrove Mill was the “fiercest battle in which he ever fought.” The battle took place August 19, 1780 and lasted 30-minutes (well that was quick). But despite the odds, the Patriots were victorious and the battle was considered an important turning point in the war.
Event: On July 8 from 9 to 11 a.m., a guided hike of the battlefield trail will follow the 1.3-mile trail to part of the battlefield. Snag a ticket for $2 per person; (they apparently sell out fast, so reservations are recommended).
