SOUTH CAROLINA: 247 Years Later, Historians Remember Battle of Sullivan’s Island
SULLIVAN’S ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — The weekend of June 24-25, the Lowcountry commemorated the 247th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.
Known as Carolina Day, the event is observed annually to celebrate South Carolina’s victory over British naval and land forces at Fort Moultrie in the American Revolutionary War. Historians remember the Battle of Sullivan’s Island shifted how South Carolinians viewed their troops.
“This was the first true battle between Patriot forces and the Royal Navy,” said Erick Nason, commander of the 2nd Regime.Battle stories were told through re-enactments with gun and cannon fire. Guest also viewed what soldiers ate every day on the battlefield – bread, rice / grits, salt pork, and jerky. These diets didn’t include vegetables and led to dietary health issues in a time when health care wasn’t as accessible.
“A third to a quarter of the troops during the time were incapacitated from diseases and illnesses,” regime surgeon Terrance Strater said.
The historic day brought people from near and far to visit the battleground and they became immersed in the victory South Carolina had over the British.
“Thank you, South Carolina, for stepping up and fighting the British to get us free,” said Cindy Reed during her Lowcountry visit.
June 28 is the official anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. There will be a celebration that day at the Battery in downtown Charleston.
–abcnews4.com
