Camden Battlefield facts for kids
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Camden Battlefield
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Camden Battlefield Marker
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 Location in South Carolina
Location in the United States
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| Location | 5 miles north of Camden on U.S. Routes 521 and 601, near Camden, South Carolina |
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| Area | 2,000 acres (8.1 km2) |
| Built | 1780 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000707 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
| Designated NHL | January 20, 1961 |
The Camden Battlefield is a very important historical site in South Carolina. It's where a big battle happened during the American Revolutionary War on August 16, 1780. This battle was fought between the American forces, led by General Horatio Gates, and the British army, led by General Charles Cornwallis. The British won this battle, which was a tough moment for the Americans fighting for their independence. Today, the battlefield is a National Historic Landmark, meaning it's a special place protected for its history.
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The Battle of Camden
Why Was Camden Important?
In the summer of 1780, the British General Charles Cornwallis set up his army near Camden. He wanted to control northern South Carolina. This was important to stop the American Continental Army from moving into the area.
The Armies Meet
The American forces, led by General Horatio Gates, marched towards Camden. They arrived near Rugeley's Mill on August 15. Both generals decided to march at night to surprise the other side.
In the dark, around 2:00 AM on August 16, the two armies met by accident. After a short fight, they both got ready for a bigger battle. The main fight started at daybreak.
A Difficult Loss for Americans
The battle was very quick and tough for the Americans. Many American soldiers were part of the "militia." These were regular citizens who joined the fight. When the British attacked, many militia members got scared and ran away.
The professional American soldiers, called the Continental forces, kept fighting. But they were soon surrounded by the British. They had to surrender. Their brave commander, Baron Johann de Kalb, was badly hurt and later died. This defeat was a very low point for the Americans in the war for independence.
The Battlefield Today
The Camden Battlefield covers a large area of about 2,000 acres (8 square kilometers). It is located about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Camden, South Carolina. The area is mostly grasslands and forests, much like it was during the battle.
A road called Flat Rock Road goes through the middle of the battlefield. There is a special marker there to show where Baron de Kalb fell during the battle. This historic site helps us remember the brave soldiers who fought there.
