Battlefields of South Carolina

Civil and Revolutionary War heroes trod through South Carolina and left a trail of history at what are now South Carolina state parks. Rivers Bridge State Historic Site in Ehrhardt, SC, and Musgrove Mill State Historic Site in Clinton are battlefields in the state park system where fierce fights took place.

Rivers Bridge State Historic Site – Civil War

Visitors to Rivers Bridge, a Civil War site, can still see the more than 140-year-old earthen fortifications from the two-day war where Confederate soldiers made their last stand against General William T. Sherman. The Union troops were victorious. About 260 troops were injured or killed, including 170 Confederates. Two weeks later, Sherman made it to Columbia where a fire would later destroy one third of the city.

Guided and self-guided tours of the park are available. One-hour guided tours of the battlefield will be at 10 am July 19, Aug. 2 and Sept. 6. Remember, it is summer, so bring along some insect repellant. Have lunch at the park at one of the picnic shelters and go boating or canoeing on the Salkehatchie River. Canoes and boats must have trolling motors.

Musgrove Mill State Historic Site – Revolutionary War

History buffs will also enjoy time at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site  the Battle of Musgrove’s Mill took place during the Revolutionary War.

The Battle of Musgrove’s Mill’s Anniversary Celebration will be at 1 pm on Aug. 16, 2008. The event will feature an interpretive talk on the battle and its significance and a period firing salute. The Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution pay tribute to the battle.

Patriots and Loyalists are armed with weapons on the grounds of Musgrove Mill during frequent reenactments that bring the battle to life.

The 360-acre park, located off Interstate 26, also offers living history programs to help park visitors understand the struggle that took place there on Aug. 19, 1780. Stop by the park’s visitor center to observe the interesting interpretive exhibits which highlight South Carolina’s role in the Revolutionary War.

In the interpretive center, you can listen to a play-by-play of the battle while watching a set of lights representing soldiers moving on the miniature battlefield.

Living History Day would be a great time to visit the park to learn more about the battle and about life during the American Revolution. This free event (with park admission) will be July 26 and Aug. 9 from 10 am to 4 pm.

Soldiers for the King, another living history demonstration set for the same hourse on July 12, shows how loyalists were recruited and trained in the British Army.

Add a South Carolina state park to your summer plans. It’s a great way to keep your kids engaged in learning while having fun in the great outdoors.