The Battle of Kings Mountain was between Patriot and Loyalist militias in South Carolina during the Southern Campaign of the American Revolutionary War, resulting in a decisive victory for the Patriots. The battle took place on October 7, 1780, 9 miles south of the present-day town of Kings Mountain, North Carolina. In what is now rural Cherokee County, South Carolina, the Patriot militia defeated the Loyalist militia commanded by British Major Patrick Ferguson of the 71st Foot. The battle has been described as "the war’s largest all-American fight".

Kings Mountain is a unique battle for several reasons. It was one of the few major battles of the war fought entirely between Americans: no British troops served here. In the South, many people were divided. When the war started, some fought for independence, others for loyalty to England.

Kings Mountain is also unique in that large numbers of riflemen fought here. Rifles were not used much by the armies. A rifle was a hunting weapon, used by families on the frontier. The American militia that fought here mainly used rifles; the Loyalist troops had mostly muskets.

As well as learning about the battle, we will enjoy some of the 4000 acres of this large park. Although it will still be late winter, the sights and sounds of early spring will be all around us. Blue-headed Vireos and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers will be singing; and the first Barn, Tree and Northern Rough-winged Swallows will be feeding over the lake and fields.

Join Simon for this new and enjoyable experience down in South Carolina's Upstate!'