Revolutionary War History The City of Gaffney is the county seat of Cherokee County, which includes three national park areas. Each preserves stories of colonial life in the Upcountry and the quest for national independence. The parks provide educational experiences and recreational activities at no charge to the public. The Gaffney Visitors Center offers free maps and guides to the national parks and other local Revolutionary War points of interest. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail 2635 Park Road, Blacksburg, SC Ph: 864-936-3477 Web: http://www.nps.gov/ovvi/index.htm This 330 mile commemorative route honors the hundreds of Patriot fighters who traveled across the Appalachian Mountains to engage and defeat Major Patrick Ferguson and his Loyalist forces at Kings Mountain. A portion of the motorized route passes through downtown Gaffney. Each year, in early October, members of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association (OVTA) and other participants hold a memorial march along the historic trail, stopping in Gaffney on their way to the battlefield. Kings Mountain National Military Park 2625 Park Road, Blacksburg, SC Ph: 864-936-7921 Web: http://www.nps.gov/kimo/index.htm The Battle of Kings Mountain changed the course of the Revolutionary War. Visitors can view a film about the battle, and explore the museum and gift shop. The 1.5 mile battlefield trail affords perspectives from both sides of the battlefront, and leads travelers to the Kings Mountain monument. Special events throughout the year include encampments of living history interpreters, weapons firing demonstrations, lantern light tours, Junior Ranger Days, and battle anniversary activities on October 7th. The park offers picnic areas, hiking trails, equestrian trails, and bird watching opportunities. Cowpens National Battlefield 4001 Chesnee Highway, Gaffney, SC Ph: 864-461-2828 Web: http://www.nps.gov/cowp/index.htm In January of 1781, Patriot forces gained a critical victory over the British army the Battle of Cowpens. This National Battlefield includes a monument to the men who fought here. Visitors can view a film about the battle, explore historic artifacts in the museum, tour the battlefield, and shop for gifts and souvenirs. Special events throughout the year include encampments of living history interpreters, weapons firing demonstrations, lantern light tours, a scholarly lecture series, and Junior Ranger Days. The anniversary of the battle is commemorated each January17th. Annually, on the weekend closest to July 4, the park staff hosts The Celebration of Freedom. Visitors can enjoy Revolutionary War Weekend activities during the first weekend in October. The park is also available for nature trail walks, jogging, picnics, bike riding and bird watching. Col. James Williams 210 N Limestone Street Col. James Williams led a detachment of Patriots in the Battle of Kings Mountain. He was the highest ranking Patriot officer killed in that battle. Initially buried in a shallow grave near the battlefield, Williams’ remains were later interred in the City of Gaffney, on property adjacent to the Overmountain Victory Trail. A historic marker at the site pays tribute to his valor and contribution to the fight for independence. Limestone Springs Memorial Three British soldiers, who were wounded in the Battle of Cowpens in 1781, were brought to Limestone Springs for care. These unknown soldiers perished and were buried in unmarked graves. A memorial, which includes a marker and fountain, is now located at their gravesites in Limestone Springs on the Limestone College campus. This is the only known final resting place of any of the fallen from the Battle of Cowpens. page 4 • Phone 864-487-6244 • Fax 864-487-8528
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