Reposted with permission from the Journal of the American Revolution. Written and researched by Jim Piecuch on September 12, 2024.
Losing items like buttons or keys can be frustrating, even for soldiers during the Revolutionary War. At Fort Fair Lawn, a British outpost in South Carolina, archaeologists found many objects, including a silver-plated button from the 71st British Regiment, known as "Fraser’s Highlanders." This regiment fought nearby but wasn't stationed at the fort, making the button's presence there a mystery. It could have been lost by a visiting officer or picked up by another soldier. These small artifacts help historians understand the daily lives and sacrifices of those who fought for independence.
The rediscovery of a long-lost portrait of Charleston merchant Richard Lushington sheds light on lesser-known Revolutionary War heroes. Lushington, a Quaker, led a diverse militia called the Free Citizens of Charleston, which included many Jewish men. Despite Quakers' commitment to nonviolence, Lushington fought for independence, possibly seeking acceptance in Charleston society. His unit fought in key battles, and after the war, Lushington became a respected city leader. His portrait, now displayed in Charleston, highlights the contributions of marginalized figures in the fight for American independence.
John Howland, Benjamin Tainter, Stephen Tainter, and Lewis Hurd, all from the same extended family, contributed to American history across generations. Stephen Tainter, who served as a drummer boy in the Revolutionary War and later became a doctor, is especially highlighted in a traveling exhibition by the American Battlefield Trust. His descendants, Stuart Halsan and Steven Pahre, take pride in their family’s history, which they feel personally connected to. They believe that Stephen’s story can inspire young people to stand up for their beliefs and strive to help others, no matter their age or beginnings.
Uncover History in South Carolina
We invite you to visit the preserved locations along the Liberty Trail and to immerse yourself
in the extraordinary events that determined the fate of a nation.
This battleground was the site of three British camps, attacked by Patriot troops on August 6, 1780. It was a fight primarily between countrymen.
With a rotating collection of artifacts and interactive exhibits, the Cherokee County Museum has something for all ages and interests.
Not far from Camden Battlefield, Goodale State Park is lined with cypress trees, a spring-fed lake that offers boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
Andrew Jackson State Park combines history, art and community activities into a setting that has made it one of the state’s most popular parks.
Located within the Santee Wildlife Refuge, this was the last major battle of the war in South Carolina.
This last major battle of the war in the South succeeded in driving the British out of rural South Carolina.
Discover the history of the Scots-Irish and African-Americans through preserved buildings and living history experiences of the Brattonsville community.
The site of the 1780 battle of Musgrove’s Mill where a small force of Patriot militia fought and defeated a larger force of Loyalist and Provincial soldiers in a short but pivotal battle.
Built in 1716 for Paul de St. Julien in Berkeley County. The house was later dismantled and moved to Clemson University and functions as a house museum.
On August 16, 1780, the unexpected Patriot success at Kings Mountain infused those favoring rebellion with new confidence.
As part of their Southern Campaign, the British set their sights on taking the vital port of Charleston.