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The Revolutionary War in Greenwood

Welcome to Greenwood County, SC, where our incredible history reaches back to America’s earliest years. More Revolutionary War battles were fought in South Carolina than any other state—more than 200—and the first battle south of New England was fought at Ninety Six, South Carolina. Read on to learn more about Greenwood's Revolutionary War influential figures and  significant war sites.

Ninety Six National Historic Site & Visitor Center

Ninety Six National Historic Site preserves an area of unique historical and archeological significance. The site commemorates the 1775 Battle of Ninety Six, one of the first Revolutionary War battles fought outside of New England. Also preserved is the Star Fort, an 18th century earthen fortification besieged by General Nathanael Greene and his patriot troops during the longest field siege of the Revolution.

At Ninety Six, you can learn about the area’s strategic importance and the people and events that helped shape our nation. Hear the story of Patriot James Birmingham, the first southern soldier to lose his life during a battle in 1775. Find out about the longest field siege of the American Revolution in 1781 and explore the only remaining military mine (tunnel) from the war. The visitor center and museum house hundreds of fascinating artifacts. A 25-minute film and several trails highlight the area's foundational role, leading visitors through crucial sites and natural features used by both armies.

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Influential Local Figures

Francis Salvadore
John Montague
Andrew Williamson
John Hodges
John Lewis Gervais
Jane Black Thomas
James Mayson
Agrippa Hull
Thaddeus Kosciusko
William Cunningham

Significant Revolutionary War Sites and Events

Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Ninety Six National Historic Site was a crucial battleground during the Revolutionary War, embodying the strategic significance of the South Carolina backcountry. It was here that one of the earliest battles outside New England took place, and where the Star Fort became the center of the longest field siege of the Revolution. The site was also home to the only military mine used during the war, underscoring its importance in the military strategy of the time. These events at Ninety Six played a foundational role in shaping the course of American independence, making it a site of profound historical importance.

Herrenhausen

The plantation belonging to merchant and statesman John Lewis Gervais was called Herrenhausen. It was located on a headwater stream of Hard Labor Creek near today’s Promised Land Community. The plantation was producing indigo, hemp, wheat, black cattle, sheep, hogs, horses, and potash with a potential for wine and silk.

Swancey’s Ferry

A skirmish between Loyalists and Patriots occurred at Swancey’s Ferry (called Puckett’s Ferry today) near the Saluda River. The loyalists were commanded by “Bloody Bill” Cunningham, but little is known about the battle.

Corn Acres

Coroneka (also commonly called Cornacre) in 1774, where Francis Salvadore lived.

Battle of Long Cane

Located in Troy, SC on the McCormick/Greenwood County borders, the Battle of Long Cane took place. On December 12, 1780, Lieutenant Colonel Isaac Allen and a British force of 400-500 men stationed at Ninety Six defeated Colonel Elijah Clarke and 100 Americans, an advance detachment of a Patriot force commanded by Colonel Benjamin Few.

Whitehall

White Hall Plantation was the home of Patriot militia commander Andrew Williamson and a gathering place for local militias. It was the site of the election of delegates to the first provisional congress of South Carolina. Loyalists attacked the fortified plantation and took it over on Dec. 5, 1781.

Greenville Presbyterian Church Cemetery

Founded in 1773, Greenville Presbyterian Church Cemetery is a resting place for 35 Revolutionary War soldiers who fought in the area. For additional information on Greenwood's Revolutionary War Cemeteries, click here.

discover greenwood

Not only rich in history, Greenwood is a place of surprising and unforgettable stories—stories of inspiration through music, art and history; one-of-a kind shops and international cuisine; memorable festivals and breathtaking beauty. Greenwood County, SC, is alive with fun and Southern charm.

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