Festival revisits key Revolutionary War battle

CAROLINA DAY

This weekend, the National Park Service will host Carolina Day 2009 at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island. The festival celebrates the American colonists' defeat of British land and sea forces in South Carolina during the Battle of Sullivan's Island June 28, 1776. The Battle of Sullivan's Island also marked the first significant victory over the British during the Revolutionary War, just six days before the United States declared its complete indepdence on July 4. However, many South Carolinians consider the colonists' victory at Fort Moultrie as their state's personal declaration of independence from Britain.

At 10 a.m. Saturday, volunteers dressed as Revolutionary era patriots will hold artillery and musket firing demonstrations at Fort Moultrie on the hour until 4 p.m. Demonstrations continue 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday.

Visitors can also see exhibits on 18th century medical practices both days near the Fort Moultrie visitor's center. There will also be presentations about the role of an 18th century doctor during the battle.

After the final artillery demonstration Sunday, the festival will feature a special program about the Battle of Sullivan's Island at 4 p.m. In honor of the festival, admission to Fort Moultrie this weekend is free.

On Monday and Tuesday, the 246th Army Band of the South Carolina National Guard will perform free concerts for the public as part of the festival. Monday's concert will take place at Liberty Square near the Maritime Center and Tuesday's concert will occur at Fort Moultrie. Both performances start at 7 p.m.

Dawn Davis, acting Chief Ranger of the National Park Service at Fort Moultrie, Fort Sumter and Charles Pinckney Historic Site, encourages all ages to come out and celebrate Carolina Day this weekend. "With the fourth of July holiday approaching, it's a great opportunity to reflect on the meanings of freedom and patriotism in America," she said.

Reach Elizabeth Laseter at elaseter@postandcourier.com.