History Beneath Our Feet: Lander Program Examines Revolutionary War Sites in Area
Durant Ashmore, left, a battlefield preservationist and historian, joined Dr. Ryan Floyd, chair of Lander University’s Department of History and Philosophy, for a discussion on battlefield discovery and preservation. Photo by Karen Petit
Within a 50-mile radius of Greenwood lie approximately 100 Revolutionary War battlefields and skirmish sites — many of them little known or still waiting to reveal their secrets.
That remarkable concentration of Revolutionary War history was among the discoveries shared by historian and battlefield preservationist Durant Ashmore during a presentation at Lander University. Speaking on “Battlefield Preservation and Discovery,” Ashmore highlighted South Carolina’s pivotal role in the American Revolution and the ongoing efforts of historians and researchers to locate, document and preserve the sites where Patriots and Loyalists fought for control of the Palmetto State.
Ashmore emphasized that the search for South Carolina’s Revolutionary War history is far from over. Across the state, researchers continue to piece together historical records, examine landscapes and investigate clues that may lead to the discovery of long-forgotten battlefields sites. Their work not only sheds new light on the sacrifices and struggles of those who fought for American independence but also underscores the urgency of protecting these historic places before they are lost to development and the passage of time.
Ashmore’s presentation was held in conjunction with the American Revolution Experience, a traveling exhibition hosted by Lander University.