Cowpens National Battlefield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cowpens National Battlefield |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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 Cowpens National Battlefield
Location in South Carolina
Cowpens National Battlefield
Location in the United States
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| Location | Cherokee County, South Carolina, United States |
| Nearest city | Gaffney, South Carolina |
| Area | 842 acres (341 ha) |
| Established | March 4, 1929 |
| Visitors | 208,936 (in 2005) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Cowpens National Battlefield |
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Cowpens National Battlefield
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| Nearest city | Chesnee, South Carolina |
| Area | 178 acres (72 ha) |
| Built | 1781 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000072 |
| Added to NRHP | October 15, 1966 |
Cowpens National Battlefield, also known as Cowpens National Battlefield Park, is a special place in South Carolina. It is managed by the National Park Service. This park protects the site of a very important battle from the American Revolutionary War. The park is located near Chesnee, South Carolina, close to the North Carolina state line.
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The Battle of Cowpens: A Big Victory
The Battle of Cowpens was a major turning point in the American Revolutionary War. It happened on January 17, 1781. American forces, led by Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, won a huge victory here. They defeated the British troops, who were led by Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton.
Who Fought at Cowpens?
- General Daniel Morgan: He was an American general known for his clever battle plans. He used the land and his soldiers' skills very well.
- Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton: He was a British officer. He was known for being very fast and aggressive in battle.
Why Was This Battle Important?
The Battle of Cowpens was a big win for the Americans. It showed that smaller, well-planned American forces could defeat larger British armies. This victory boosted American spirits and helped them win the war. It is remembered as one of General Morgan's greatest successes.
History of the Battlefield Park
The area became a protected site to remember the battle. It was first called Cowpens National Battlefield Site.
- It was established on March 4, 1929.
- In 1933, it was transferred to the National Park Service.
- On April 11, 1972, it was renamed Cowpens National Battlefield.
- The park was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966.
The park covers about 841 acres (3.41 square kilometers). Most of this land is managed by the federal government.
Visiting Cowpens National Battlefield
Today, you can visit Cowpens National Battlefield to learn about this important part of history.
What Can You See?
- Visitor Center: This building has a museum with exhibits about the American Revolution. You can see how the battle happened on a special fiber-optic map.
- Battlefield Tour: There's a walking tour that takes you across the actual battlefield. You can imagine what it was like during the fight.
- Robert Scruggs' Cabin: You can also see a reconstructed log cabin. This cabin belonged to Robert Scruggs, who farmed the land before it became a park.
Visiting the park is a great way to understand the bravery and strategies of the American Revolution.
