Cowan's Ford, located on the Catawba River in northwestern Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, is a significant historical site where American militia under Gen. William Davidson attempted to delay Gen. Charles Cornwallis’s forces on February 1, 1781. Visitors can explore the area where the skirmish took place, resulting in the death of Gen. Davidson. The site commemorates the strategic efforts of Davidson's troops to delay the British advance, allowing Generals Nathanael Greene and Daniel Morgan to preserve their forces as they moved towards Virginia.
Nearby, the General William Lee Davidson Monument and the Beaver Dam Historic House offer further insights into Davidson's legacy. The monument marks the spot where Davidson was killed, while the historic house, built by his son, provides a glimpse into the life and times of the Davidson family. These sites collectively highlight the importance of the delaying tactics used by the American forces and the significant impact of Davidson's sacrifice on the Revolutionary War efforts in North Carolina.
What's Nearby
Explore more of The Liberty Trail by visiting these nearby attractions.
Stories from Cowan's Ford
In 1779, after a stalemate in the north, Cornwallis went south as second in command to Sir Henry Clinton. Clinton captured Charleston in May 1780. Cornwallis pressed on to defeat General Horatio Gates at Camden, South Carolina, on August 16, 1780.
Morgan’s main adversary was British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton. Tarleton and Morgan’s forces faced each other at Cowpens in South Carolina on January 17, 1781. Morgan emerged victorious and secured his reputation as a skilled military tactician.
