Old Santee Canal Park in Moncks Corner went back in time Saturday, Sept 28.
Those passionate about the Revolutionary War and the time period re-enacted the era in dress and technique as the area’s role in the battle for independence was nurtured and shared during Colonial Day.
Historians, presenters, vendors and more were on-site at all times, emanating from the Berkeley County Museum to share history with the public.
Most people think of the Battle of Bunker Hill, the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the Battle of Yorktown, or the Battle of Trenton when conjuring images of the Revolutionary War. At the same time, areas in and around Berkeley County are often forgotten.
“Berkeley County actually had 36 battles and skirmishes in the American Revolution, and we have Fort Fair Lawn, which is actually a British Revolutionary Fort,” said Shanda Phillips, chair of the Berkeley County Museum. “So, we are one of two in South Carolina that you can actually come and visit. One of the pivotal things in Moncks Corner was the presence of three different elements. The British had taken Biggins’ Bridge, Fort Fair Lawn and Colleton Castle.”
She added that from there, the well-known revolutionary patriot Francis Marion dispatched soldiers to retake areas of Moncks Corner because the British were attempting to halt goods from entering Charleston.
“This is a key spot,” Phillips said. “That is one of the things people forget. The Southern Campaign, even though it is really in 1780, was a key point in turning the American Revolution and that took place in the backwoods of Berkeley County.”
Those visiting Moncks Corner to participate in the living history exhibits did their best to portray what life was like during that time.
So why not celebrate the area’s historic significance in the war? That is what Colonial Day is about. It’s the fourth year for the event, and the turnout was robust. At the event, attendees enjoyed educational history lectures, artillery demonstrations, traditional music performances and guided tours.
“Visitors can learn about the American Revolution,” Phillips said. “Things like what was taking place and what life was like during this time period.”