Remembering the Battle of Ninety Six: A Memorial Day 2022 Visit | Ninety Six National Historic Site

In honor of Memorial Day 2022, we embarked on a journey back in time to explore the rich history of the Ninety Six National Historic Site in Ninety Six, South Carolina. Join us as we delve into the fascinating events that unfolded on this hallowed ground during the American Revolution.

In 1780, Ninety Six was fortified with a palisade encircled by a deep ditch and abatis, offering a formidable defense. The heart of the defenses was the Star Fort, strategically positioned to provide cover for defenders and enfilade attackers on two sides. An additional redoubt safeguarded the remaining walls and the essential water supply. Colonel Cruger, in command, had a small artillery detachment consisting of three-pound field pieces.

Our journey takes us through the siege of Ninety Six, where General Nathanael Greene and approximately 1,000 troops arrived on May 22, 1781, initiating siege operations. Their primary focus was the Star Fort, and they were led by the brilliant Polish engineer, Col. Thaddeus Kosciuszko. The siege saw frequent skirmishes as Cruger tried to disrupt the construction of siege works and hinder the American forces.

On June 3, 1781, Greene's forces had advanced to within 30 yards of the Star Fort. They constructed a wooden Maham Tower, standing at around 30 feet tall, with a fortified platform at the top. From this vantage point, American sharpshooters had a clear line of fire into the fort, causing significant disruption among Cruger's artillerymen. In response, Cruger raised the parapet with sandbags to protect his own marksmen.

The situation took a critical turn when Lord Rawdon departed from Charleston on June 7 with 2,000 British troops to relieve the siege. Fortunately, on June 6, Andrew Pickens and Henry "Light-horse Harry" Lee successfully captured Augusta, Georgia. Greene, however, was unaware of Rawdon's advance until June 11, prompting him to consider an assault on the fort.

The assault, launched on June 18, saw one party capturing the smaller redoubt while a larger force aimed for the Star Fort. The plan initially succeeded as the attackers penetrated the abatis and pulled down the sandbags, but Cruger's counterstrike with two sorties changed the course of the battle. In a fierce engagement, bayonets and muskets as clubs became the weapons of choice. Unfortunately, the attack's leaders fell, and the assault ultimately failed, leading Greene to call for a retreat.

Join us in paying homage to the bravery and sacrifices made on this historic battlefield. The Battle of Ninety Six is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who fought for freedom. Remember their courage, and never forget the sacrifices they made for our nation.

Don't forget to use #NinetySixNationalHistoricSite and #MemorialDay in your discussions. Subscribe to our channel for more historical explorations and tales of valor. #AmericanRevolution #HistoryBuff #HistoricalBattle

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