The Battle of King's Mountain

The Battle of King's Mountain was one of the most decisive victories for the Patriots in the south during the American Revolution. It took place on October 7, 1890. Charles Cornwallis felt as though there was much ground to cover in the south so he split his army up. He put Patrick Ferguson in command of this new regiment. Ferguson's goal was to cross the Appalachian Mountains and move into what is now Tennessee. Ferguson used many irregular/guerrilla tactics in his fighting. He issued a challenge to John Sevier and his Overmountain Boys. Sevier accepted the challenge. Ferguson felt that he could easily beat Sevier using his irregular tactics. The problem was that Sevier was more familiar with the area. The two sides first encountered each other at Musgrove's Mill where they engaged in a short period of fighting. From there they moved to Sycamore Shoals, where more fighting took place. The Loyalists were defeated in both skirmishes. They were forced to retreat all the way to South Carolina. They took refuge on top of King's Mountain. Historians question this move because the Patriots were able to surround the base of the mountain, trapping the Loyalists on top. The Patriots stormed up the mountain taking the Loyalists by surprise. Fighting started out using muskets, but soon turned hand to hand. After about an hour of fighting the battle ended. The Loyalists suffered numerous casualties, including Ferguson. John Sevier gained much respect as a result of the battle, eventually leading to his election as the first governor of Tennessee. The Loyalists were forced to withdraw from the south and try to win a key battle in the north, eventually setting up the surrender at Yorktown. The Battle of King's Mountain was key in our beloved nation gaining its independence.

Above is a picture of John Sevier.

Above is a picture of Patrick Ferguson.

King's Mountain Military Park has become a site for tourists to visit. This monument is dedicated to the many men who lost their lives fighting in this battle.

Stay tuned for more blog posts about tales from Tennessee and beyond.