The Battle of Camden
Battle of Camden
On August 16, 1780, more than 2000 British and Loyalist troops under Lt. General Lord Cornwallis met and defeated over 4,000 American troops commanded by the “Hero of Saratoga,” General Horatio Gates. The Battle of Camden was the worst Patriot defeat of the American Revolution.
The aftermath of the battle saw the southern Continental Army in total disarray while the British Army and Loyalists controlled the colony. Camden became a fortified garrison for the British and the future for the patriot cause in the South was bleak.
Today, Historic Camden owns the 476-acre core battlefield located off US Hwy 521 about 5 miles north of Camden on Flat Rock Road (S-28-58). Known as the Camden Battlefield and Longleaf Pine Preserve, the site offers 3 miles of walking trails with interpretive signage. Guided tour tickets available at Historic Camden’s Cunningham House, 222 Broad Street.
A monument on the battle site marks the spot where Revolutionary War Hero, Johannes Baron de Kalb, was mortally wounded.
Death of Baron de Kalb
Events At The Museum
Want More?
Want to go even deeper into Camden’s Museum Scene?
Here are some additional opportunities to round out your visit.
Revolutionary War Park and Historic Camden
One of the most significant attractions in South Carolina, Historic Camden’s Revolutionary War Park serves as the gateway to the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution and the Liberty Trail in South Carolina. The 110-acre park includes the Historic Camden Colonial Village, nature trails, historic homes and self-directed/guided tours to help you immerse yourself in Colonial South Carolina.
National Steeplechase Museum
There’s a reason Camden is called the “Steeplechase Capital of the World”. For a first-class, one of a kind experience, a visit and tour of Camden’s National Steeplechase Museum is essential. Here you will step into the world of steeplechase racing and learn about the incredible athletes – the breeders, jockeys and horses that have made glorious contributions to one of America’s grandest sports.
Revolutionary War Visitor’s Center at Camden
The Revolutionary War Visitor Center at Camden is the nation’s first permanent exhibit dedicated to telling the story of the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution and South Carolina’s role in turning the tide of the war for independence. The Center is also the gateway to all Camden and Kershaw County have to offer – from historic sites and regional festivals to a multitude of events and activities.