History

SETTING THE STAGE

In 1775, the shot heard “round the world” was fired in Concord, Massachusetts and heralded the beginning of the Revolutionary War. For the next several years, battles raged in the northern colonies. By 1778, the British decided to refocus on the southern colonies. They believed that large numbers of Loyalists would flock to the King’s banners. They also believed that by regaining the south, the British army could march north and finally defeat the American rebels.

On December 29, 1778, the British captured Savannah. From this stronghold, the British advanced. In May 1780, Charleston fell. At Camden in August 1780, the British captured a second southern Continental Army. The war in the south seemed lost.

Over the course of the next year, South Carolinians took to the fields, woods and swamps to keep the British tied down and give the rebel forces time to regroup. Civilians…militia…Continental troops all came together to fight for independence and turn the tide of the war.

Friends & Foes

FRIENDS & FOES

In South Carolina, you were either a Patriot or a Loyalist. Although many tried to remain neutral, either in the beginning or after the British regained control of the state, those fighting against each other rarely acknowledged that neutrality. In the civil war that roiled South Carolina during the American Revolution – you were a Friend or a Foe.

Patriot = Whig = Rebel

Loyalist = Tory = King’s Friend

Minuteman leaves for the war while he is blessed by a priest.

Friends & Foes

CONTINENTAL ARMY

An army established by the Continental Congress and composed of soldiers from all 13 colonies or states. This army was trained by professional soldiers, paid (when paid!) by Congress and fought where needed. The various units were referred to by their state like the “Maryland Line” or the “Virginia Regiment.” Their officers were appointed by and answerable to General Washington and Congress.

Interview of Howe’s messenger with Washington.

Friends & Foes

STATE TROOPS

These troops were raised and (sometimes) equipped by the states. Their officers were appointed by governors. They were supposed to coordinate with the Continental Army but shorter enlistment periods, less training, and a separate chain of command sometimes made coordination difficult.

Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island near Charleston, June 28, 1776.

THE BATTLES

The Revolutionary War Visitor Center at Camden tells the story of the real turning point of the revolution – The Southern Campaign. Discover South Carolina’s hard-fought battles by determined patriots with their hearts set on liberty.

Did You Know? Prior to 1777, the far north west of our state was Cherokee territory.

VIEW MAP

The S.C. Battlefield Preservation Trust is currently developing the Liberty Trail – historic driving routes which will highlight Revolutionary War battles and skirmishes throughout the state.