This year marks the 244th Anniversary of the Battle of Cowpens, a pivotal point in the history of the Revolutionary War. What’s the best way for all history buffs (and the rest of us) to commemorate this day? Attend the event at the end of January at Cowpens National Battlefield (details at the end of this article) and take a journey through South Carolina and our nation’s history anytime throughout the year.

Places to Visit:
- Cowpens National Battlefield – Location: 4001 Chesnee Hwy, Gaffney, SC, 29341. This small town became famous for the Battle of Cowpens, whose battle location is now part of the National Park Service. During this battle, Daniel Morgan and his army destroyed many of Colonel Banastre “Bloody” Tarleton’s British army. This was seen as a turning point in the war.
- Fort Thicketty – Location: State Rd S-11-584, Gaffney, SC, 29340. This colonial fortification pre-dates the American Revolution and was used as a British stronghold to attack nearby patriot homes and farms. Nearly 100 British loyalists eventually surrendered to about 600 patriots during this battle in late July 1780 (with little to no bloodshed). In late July 2025, the fort will reopen as a part of the annual “Liberation Day” celebration. At that time, the historic site will be officially listed as a pull-off site on the South Carolina Liberty Trail. You can take the left-hand trail and view interpretive signs, view the fort, and explore the area!
- Daniel Morgan Monument — Location: Intersection of Magnolia St. and West Main Street, Spartanburg, SC. This historic monument, sculpted in 1881, commemorates the centennial victory at the Battle of Cowpens and the “Spartan Regiment,” which Morgan led to win against the British. His statue is located facing northeast towards Cowpens National Battlefield.
- Walnut Grove Plantation – Location: 1200 Otts Shoals Rd, Roebuck, SC. During the Revolutionary War, American militia forces gathered at the home of Charles and Mary Moore. The Moores actively supported American independence and allowed their house to serve as a recruitment site for the local militia unit. Local tradition inspires us with the story of Margaret Catherine “Kate” Moore Barry, the eldest of Moore’s ten children. She bravely scouted Spartanburg County for Daniel Morgan and warned American forces before the pivotal Battle of Cowpens on January 17, 1781.

All About the Anniversary Event:244th Anniversary Commemoration of the Battle of Cowpens – Location: 4001 Chesnee Hwy, Gaffney, SC, 29341. Date(s) and Times: January 18th, 2025 (10 am – 5:30 pm), and January 19th, 2025 (10 am – 5 pm). This event honors and celebrates the 244th anniversary with many events targeted to history buffs, families, and children over two days. Don’t miss book talks, reenactments, children’s activities, lantern walks, and more! Guided battlefield walks, weapon firing demos, and cavalry talks/demonstrations will happen multiple times during the day. See the complete list of times and events for both days here. This event is free to attend!

Check out this other article for more information about the Battle of Cowpens and where else to explore history in the Upcountry.
By: Sarah (Moore) Gross, Contributing Author