A monument to the Overmountain Men welcomes visitors to the Sycamore Shoals State Historic Site
NPS Photo
September 25/26, 1780 On the banks of a rocky stretch of the Watauga River stood the settlement at Watauga Old Fields and Fort Watauga which by 1780 already had a rich history. On September 25 it became one of the primary muster sites for the Overmountain Men. More than 600 Patriots under the command of Sevier, Shelby, McDowell and Hampton mustered here once Ferguson’s threat was known. In addition to the men under those commanders, there were those who had traveled from Virginia under Campbell, bringing the total to over 1,000 militia members. They encamped on the flats along the river and on the morning of the 26th of September heard a sermon from Reverend Samuel Doak, who invoked the “sword of the Lord and of Gideon” in praying for and rousing the gathered Patriots. They set off that morning in pursuit of Ferguson and their freedom.
Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area features an interpretive museum and film which tells about the history of the site and the OVNHT. It features a certified section of trail to walk with interpretive waysides, which passes by the section of river the men from Virginia forded, the muster field, and a reconstruction of Fort Watauga. Other sights to see include an arboretum and a butterfly garden.
Restrooms and drinking fountain are available in the visitor center. Picnic tables available outside, as well as pavilions and meeting room available to rent. The Visitor Center is open Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm, Sunday 1pm-4:30pm. The grounds and trail are open daily from sunrise to sunset. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Site Website
