• Aerial View of the Star Fort by William A. Bake

    Ninety Six

    National Historic Site South Carolina

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  • NEW OPERATING HOURS AND CLOSURES

    Effective 3.10.13 UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE: Visitor Center is CLOSED Wednesdays & Thursdays. Fridays - Tuesdays, the Visitor Center will be open 10 AM - 4 PM. Star Fort Pond is CLOSED 9 AM Sundays – 9 AM Tuesdays.

  • Star Fort Pond Dam Repairs

    Until Pond Dam Repairs are completed the following restrictions apply: No boats allowed in pond; No traffic allowed across the dam, including walking; No fishing on the dam; No admittance beyond construction fencing. Fishing is allowed on designated days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Ninety Six get it's name?

There are several legends surrounding how Ninety Six got its name. One romanticized legend revolves around an Indian named Cateechee. She supposedly learned of an Indian attack & rode to warn her British boyfriend. As she traveled she named the streams & found her boyfriend at a trading post at the 96th stream. This supposedly happened in 1760 during the Cherokee War, but we have historic evidence that in 1730 George Hunter, who was the Surveyor General, made a map that marked the area as Ninety Six. The area was believed to be 96 miles from the lower Cherokee Indian town of Keowee (near where Clemson, SC is today).

Are dogs allowed in the Park?

Yes, as long as they are on a leash & under control at all times.

Do you have reenactments?

We have Living History events, not battle reenactments. See Special events for more information.

Do you allow camping in the Park?

No, but Lake Greenwood State Park is nearby. See Lodging for more information.

How long does it take to walk the Historic trail?

The trail is 1 mile in length & it usually takes visitors 30 to 45 minutes to walk the trail depending on how many signs they stop and read along the way.

What should I do if I have trouble walking? Can I still enjoy the trail?

 Yes. We recommend visitors that might have trouble walking, walk the trail backwards. You would start the trail in front of the cabin and end by the Visitor Center. This way visitors go down our biggest hill. There are two small hills along the trail. Benches are along the entire trail to rest and a wheelchair is available in the Visitor Center.

Where are the soldiers buried?

We don't know. Every Ranger has their own ideas, but so far archeological digs haven't revealed exactly where soldiers from either side are buried. We do have two known graveyards within the Park. Patriot James Mayson & his wife are buried along Hwy 248 near the Daughters of the American Revolution monument. Along the Gouedy Trail there is the grave of Robert Gouedy's son, James Gouedy, and a graveyard of about 50 unknown people.

Do you have a list of participants in the battles?

 We have an incomplete list in the Visitor Center. Just ask one of the Rangers on duty.

Did You Know?

Light Horse Harry Lee

Light Horse Harry Lee got his nickname because of his daring rides against the British. Lee’s Legion wore green uniforms like those of the British Cavalryman Banastre Tarleton. It allowed them to operate in enemy territory & blend with the landscape. You can see where Lee fought at Ninety Six NHS.