Learn a little history and support veterans

Gerald Teague has his own view on the Battle of Cowpens' defining moment in the American Revolutionary War.

Teague's dad built the family home on the same Green River Road that General Daniel Morgan marched years earlier with his troops on the way to the Battle of Cowpens. He learned more about the battle when he joined historian Dr. George Fields for a walk along Morgan's route during the Cowpens Battlefield 226th anniversary celebration in January.

"My grandparents lived on this road and later my dad built our house literally on it. That explains part of my interest in the battle," Teague said. "However, I had heard stories about Cowpens since I was a small child and always had an interest."

Teague is among several authors and special guests for the Veterans Appreciation and History Day on April 28 The event is from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the American Legion Hut.

The American Legion and Veterans Museum have organized the event for the past four years to cover all areas of military history and highlight the role veterans have played in defending the country.

This year's event will include displays of military and antique vehicles, Indian artifacts, ham radio operators, and bluegrass music.

Teague will sign copies of his book "Spirit of the People - Four Days to Cowpens."

"I hope that the folks that read the book realize what incredible people our ancestors were and how important the South Carolina Piedmont was to our winning the Revolutionary War," Teague said. "I hope that the children, particularly, realize that some of the war happened almost in their own front yard."

Representatives from the Daughters of the American Revolution will help provide additional insight on this time period at the Veterans Appreciation Day. Other military history will be covered by the United Daughters of the Confederacy, Cherokee Historical and Preservation Society (CHAPS) and the Captain Moses Wood No.125.

"Our special guest will be Pat Rodgers from California. He is the director of the Wings and Rotors Air Museum," said Robert Ivey, committee chairman of the Veterans Appreciation Day.

Local potter Jerry Pruitt will demonstrate the art of pottery making and will have items for sale. His pottery has been sold in Europe and throughout the Southeast.

Glassblower Michael Ballenger will display glass items such as flowers, perfume botttles, pendants and ivy hangers.

There will be inflatables and wagon rides for children.