Cowpens National Battlefield commemorated the 232nd anniversary of the Battle of Cowpens over the weekend of January 18th. Nearly perfect weather and improved outreach combined to increase attendance by nearly 2000 more visitors than normal.

The park is fortunate to have partners to assist the small staff with their growing special events. The Daughters and Sons of the American Revolution, in conjunction with the park, held a special ceremony at the Daniel Morgan statue in Spartanburg on Friday afternoon. The park was also able to add a special Friday evening author talk in Spartanburg thanks to a partnership with the SAR and Wofford College.

The South Carolina State Guard assisted law enforcement from Kings Mountain National Military with parking the nearly 6000 visitors. The partnership with the Guard has been so successful that South Carolina Comptroller General Richard Eckstrom said that he wants other Guard units to partner with NPS sites and state parks.

The Guilford Fife and Drum Corps held seven mini concerts over the weekend as well as leading in the participants of Morgan’s March, who walked 25 miles to arrive at the battlefield on the afternoon of January 20th. Additionally, 115 reenactors provided various 18th century demonstrations, from weapons firing to skillet throwing. For the first time in many years, the event included a non-profit food vendor. Visitors were appreciative that the Spartanburg Jaycees provided food on site.

Said Superintendent John Slaughter: "The resounding success of this year’s event is a direct result of the extra efforts of staff, partners, and the surrounding communities working together to make relevant to diverse audiences the significance of the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution… that and it’s just good ol’ family fun!”

The superintendent also recognized the 3rd Continental Light Dragoons as the volunteer group of the year. The group has been an enormous asset to the park for many years, and in October they helped support the park’s Education Day.

Pictures highlighting the 232nd anniversary event are at www.facebook.com/CowpensNationalBattlefield.