SC250
Where the Revolution Was Won.
South Carolina was the crucible of American independence, hosting over 400 battles and skirmishes—more than any other colony. From the marshy coast of Sullivan’s Island to the rugged peaks of Kings Mountain, the SC250 Commission invites you to rediscover the turning point of the war. Through preservation, education, and statewide celebration, we honor the diverse heroes—soldiers, women, Native Americans, and enslaved and free African Americans—whose resilience forged a new nation. Step onto the Liberty Trail and discover your South Carolina story.
Facts About the Revolutionary War
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South Carolina was the site of over 400 battles, skirmishes and events during the Revolutionary-era, the second most in the United States.
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In 1775, Colonel William Moultrie was tasked with creating a flag for his troops. He selected the blue from the South Carolina militia’s uniforms, which were dyed with indigo – today’s official state color.
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Built from palmetto tree logs, sand, and clay, Fort Sullivan was able to withstand cannon fire from British ships during the Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28, 1776. The palmetto trees absorbed cannonball impacts, rather than splintering and shattering. Less than a week later, the Declaration of Independence was signed, and the fort’s name was changed to Fort Moultrie in honor of its commander, Colonel William Moultrie.
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The best soldiers could reload a Revolutionary-era musket in 20 seconds.
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Charleston’s own tea party happened a full 13 days before the Boston Tea Party. Rather than dump it in the harbor, the tea was sold to fund the Revolution.
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One-third of all Revolutionary War casualties were in South Carolina.
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South Carolina had the Revolutionary War’s bloodiest battle, the Battle of Eutaw Springs, on September 8, 1781.
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80% of battle casualties were caused by edged weapons.
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African Americans and Native Americans in South Carolina fought on both sides of the Revolutionary War, as Patriots and as Loyalists.
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British and Loyalists evacuated Charleston in December 1782 prior to the signing of the Treaty of Paris, which formally ended the war in 1783, recognizing the 13 American colonies’ independence.
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South Carolina saw more action than any other colony. There were over 200 battles and skirmishes fought within its borders. Because the population was deeply split between Patriots (Whigs) and Loyalists (Tories), much of the fighting was a brutal, neighbor-vs-neighbor civil war