Land of Liberty: Experience the American Revolution

Step back in time and relive the history of the American Revolution right here in South Carolina.

Forts and Battlefields

Explore famous battlefields and historic forts to see where important conflicts occurred. Set out on a 30-minute boat ride to Fort Sumter National Monument, located on a sea island just off the coast of Charleston, and visit Fort Moultrie National Historical Park on Sullivan’s Island—both are part of a series of coastal forts that were strategically built to defend Charleston against British occupation. Explore Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center, filled with educational exhibits and unique artifacts.

At the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site in Clinton, visitors can learn about the Patriot militia’s underdog victory over the Loyalists (Americans fighting on the British side) who vastly outnumbered them. Discover a serene wooded landscape marked by the Enoree River and Horseshoe Falls. Follow the interpretive signage along 2.5 miles of wooded nature trails.

In Eutawville, venture to Eutaw Springs Battleground Park, known as the last major revolutionary battle in South Carolina. Next, head to Camden Battlefield & Longleaf Pine Preserve in Camden, commemorating the bravery of American soldiers in a battle that resulted in massive casualties as well as captures. Take a guided tour of the Cowpens National Battlefield to learn about the significant revolutionary battle victory here, and visit Blacksburg’s Kings Mountain National Military Park, the site of a pivotal victory following the British invasion of Charleston.

Must-See Museums

Delve deep into South Carolina’s American Revolution history with informative exhibits. Start at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center at Camden, showcasing exhibits exploring Camden and Kershaw County’s connection to the American Revolution, its Native American and African American heritage, and the role women played in the war.

Brimming with stories, wander the Lexington County Museum in Lexington to discover historic artifacts and structures. In Columbia, the South Carolina State Museum features a permanent exhibit with American Revolutionary War relics. Explore the Cayce Historical Museum, a replica of Fort Granby, a post overtaken by the British, filled with exhibits about the heritage of the area. The Artillery Room, a popular exhibit, outlines Colonial weaponry at the South Carolina Military Museum. Finally, drop by The Charleston Museum founded in 1773, and take a fascinating historic home tour.

Homes of Historic Figures

Gain insight into the everyday lives of iconic figures at their former homes. Tour Charleston’s Heyward-Washington House, the Georgian home of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. Nestled in the South Carolina Botanical Garden in Clemson, the Hanover House showcases a French Huguenot Colonial home built in 1716. At the Walnut Grove Plantation in Roebuck, learn more about the South Carolina backcountry and the Moore family’s support of the Patriots during the Revolutionary War. Also plan a visit to Kershaw-Cornwallis House & Gardens, the reconstructed home of the founder and mayor of historic Camden, and home to a museum as well as a lovely rose garden.

Time Travel

Witness reenactments and living history experiences that send you back in time. The Living History Park in North Augusta gives a firsthand glimpse of Colonial life such as watching a blacksmith at work or glimpsing the local tavern merriment. Listen to musket fire or watch yarn being handspun at the Living History Saturdays at Ninety Six National Historic Site in Ninety Six. Enjoy costumed plays reenacting life in South Carolina during the mid-1700s at the famous Historic Brattonsville in McConnells.

Learn more about South Carolina’s early American history when you download the Reliving the Revolution guide at SCRevWar.com

Featuring a variety of great stories and exciting trip ideas, the 2021 South Carolina Vacation Guide makes planning your next getaway to the Palmetto State easy. Request your free copy or download the guide today.