Cowpens National Battlefield celebrates 227th anniversary
Special events Jan. 19-20 commemorate decisive American victory
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com
Awealth of activities are in store for those making their way to Cowpens National Battlefield this weekend as the park commemorates the 227th anniversary of an American victory over British forces at the site.

A re-enactor holds an example of a muzzle-loading weapon calvary members would have carried in the 3rd Continental Light Dragoon that fought in the Battle of Cowpens.

Park staff has planned a slew of free activities for those at the battlefield for the weekend, as reenactors best replicate how people fought, dressed, lived and cooked during this time period.

"It is definitely a weekend full of activities for the entire family to enjoy," Jeannie Fowler of Cowpens National Battlefield said. "This is an exciting time for us here at the park."

Preparation began several months ago on the celebration, which according to Fowler is virtually unchanged from year to year. Despite the familiar schedule of events, she said the crowds continue to grow with visitors young and old.

"It is basically the same format with maybe a thing or two added each year," Fowler said. "Last year, we had 3,000 people come to the celebration. Who knows... this year we may have more."

At last year's Battle of Cowpens celebration, a blacksmith (top) hammers out a candleholder, called a "cord," while another demonstrator shows how natural herbs and strong medicine drinks were staples of 18th Century medicine.

In hope of attracting more visitors, the park added the Kid's Connection area specifically for children. Activities such as quill writing, cartridge rolling and tin punching will be held in an area behind the Visitor's Center, while other kids will be able to make sachets and play dress up at the Robert Scruggs House in the park.

"This area is set aside for children to be able to make things and learn about the times," Fowler said. "Our goal is to get these kids excited about history."

A special lantern-lit walk is scheduled to take place the night of Jan. 19, with visitors having the opportunity to interact with reenactors and get a taste of how things occurred the night before the Battle of Cowpens. Other battlefield walks are slated to take place throughout the morning and early afternoon hours of the celebration.

Another walk being sponsored by the park is Morgan's Victory March, commemorating Gen. Daniel Morgan's miracle of gathering his force together as they planned for action at the Battle of Cowpens. Those participating in the march will be able to take in much of the 25-mile stretch as they travel from Grindal Shoals to the battlefield.

Also making presentations at the event are Sheila Ingle, author of the book Courageous Kate and the writer of Almost A Miracle John Ferling.

Although trying to bring the battle to life for visitors, Fowler said there will be no reenactment of the famous battle.

"There will definitely be no reenactment of the battle...it is against park policy," Fowler said.

Activities commemorating the battle will take place from 9:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 9:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, call the battlefield at (864) 461-2828 or visit the park's webpage at nps.gov/cowp