An iconic artwork depicting the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill will return to public display in Camden as part of a special ceremony and battlefield interpretation site dedication.
The City of Camden, in partnership with the South Carolina American Revolution Trust, will formally receive a significant piece of Revolutionary War artwork during a ceremony on May 18 at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center.
The event will mark the official loan of Pamela Patrick White’s 2008 painting depicting the Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill, which will be displayed at the Visitor Center for public viewing. The artwork illustrates Continental infantry providing cover for a cannon crew as they withdraw from the battle, capturing a pivotal moment in the second Battle of Camden on April 25, 1781.
Although British forces claimed victory at Hobkirk’s Hill, their evacuation of Camden on May 9, 1781, and retreat to Charleston marked a significant turning point in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution.
The program begins at 12:30 p.m., with a light reception following the ceremony. After an invocation by Rev. Dr. Paul A. Wood, Jr., Major General Julian Burns (Retired) will speak on the history of the painting and formally transfer the loan to Mayor Vincent Sheheen.
“We are very excited about this addition to the Revolutionary War Visitor Center’s exhibit,” said Rickie Good, Director of the Revolutionary War Visitor Center. “The display of The Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill and the new interpretation site for the battlefield will allow visitors to better understand the significance of the second Battle of Camden to the Southern Campaign. It is a painting that truly captures the desperate efforts by the Continentals on that April day. The efforts of SCART to return this painting, which was on display in Camden from 2008 until just a few years ago, back home to Camden were extraordinary, and we are thrilled that the Visitor Center will have it on display for the next several years.”
Prior to the ceremony at the Visitor Center, guests are invited to attend a ribbon cutting at 11:00 a.m. at the newly developed Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill interpretation site. Transportation will be provided via bus from the Visitor Center at 10:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Due to limited parking at the site, attendees are strongly encouraged to utilize the provided transportation.
Founded in 2023, the South Carolina American Revolution Trust, headquartered at the Historic Robert Mills Courthouse, works collaboratively with partners across the state to preserve, protect, promote, and perpetuate the stories, artifacts, and history of South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution. The organization plans to continue lending significant treasures to public institutions throughout the state.
The Revolutionary War Visitor Center, located at 212 Broad Street, is open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. The painting will be displayed in the Public House. Whether planning a day trip or a longer stay, visitors are encouraged to make the Visitor
Center their first stop to explore the many historical and recreational experiences available throughout Camden and Kershaw County.
For more information on the Revolutionary War Visitor Center and how to view The Battle of Hobkirk’s Hill painting, visit Simply Revolutionary. For more information on visiting the City of Camden, please visit www.experiencecamdensc.com.