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Plan a Road Trip > Explore America > National Parks > Cowpens National Battlefield |
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401 Chesnee Hwy, PO Box 308, Chesnee, SC 29323
Phone: 864-461-2828
Fax: 864-461-7795
Open All Year
Overview. As British commander Banastre Tarleton's experienced dragoons pursued Daniel Morgan's army of Continentals and militia, Morgan had to make a decision: cross the Broad River, or turn and fight. On January 16, 1781, Morgan decided to make camp on the Cowpens, a pasturing field far enough from the river that the troops would have room to maneuver. At dawn on the 17th, the two armies met in what seemed a mismatch pitting battle-savvy British forces against a ragtag collection of patriots. But Morgan's tactical brilliance outwitted Tarleton's strategy; within an hour, the British were scurrying from the field in the face of determined militia fire. Today this 845-acre park commemorates one of several surprising Continental victories in the South.
What to see and do. Begin your two-hour visit at the visitor center, open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day except the major holidays. Before you head to the battlefield, watch the film Daybreak at the Cowpens and visit the museum exhibiting artifacts from the battle site. Take advantage of the fiber-optic map program to familiarize yourself with the troop movements. A wheelchair is available at the center, and most major outdoor sites are accessible.
Outside, you'll find two trails. Drive the 3.8-mile auto tour loop around the far edges of the battlefield. Stop at the wayside exhibits for information about your location, and don't miss the Robert Scruggs log cabin (ca.1828). Hikers and bikers share the road with cars. You may also walk through the battlefield on a 1.25-mile self-guided loop, which runs partly along the historic Green River Road. Horseback riders may take the Green River Road, but they're not allowed on the tour road or walking loop.
Finish up your tour at the picnic area, located on the eastern edge of the auto tour road. If you bring a group, reserve the picnic shelter far in advance. Educational groups need to call two weeks ahead of their visit. Depending on the date of your trip, you can see living history exhibits and special events. Call ahead for details. The site is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Pets: Leashed pets are permitted.
Fees: No fee is charged to enter the site. A small fee is charged for the film in the visitor center.
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Please call ahead to confirm details. We do our best to give you current information, but facts can change. Please let us know if you find something's changed.
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