Signs for Biggerstaff Hanging Tree and for the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
NPS Photo
October 13/14, 1780 The Patriots and their Tory prisoners arrived at the home of Aaron Biggerstaff on October 13th. Biggerstaff, a captain in the Loyalist forces, had been killed at Kings Mountain. The Patriots raised complaints of crimes committed by some of the Tories against them and their families. During the night, the officers convened a court marshal and soon convicted over 30 men to death for these crimes. Using a large oak on the property, the hangings were done in groups of 3, but in the end just 9 were executed and the others were reprieved. These hangings served two purposes; they satisfied the complaints of the Patriots, and sent a message to all the Loyalists in the surrounding areas what could happen should they take up arms against the Patriot forces. Fearing pursuit by British reinforcements, the Patriots resumed their march before dawn on the 14th.
The site features an NPS kiosk which interprets the history of the area, as well as a walking trail that leads to the purported site of the hangings and burials of the men. There is a c. 1860’s house on site, built by the Long family. There is also a wooden cabin that may date to the Revolutionary War period.
There are no restrooms at the site currently. Picnicking is allowed on the grounds but no tables are provided. The site is open to the public year round, from sunrise to sunset. There is a locked gate at the entrance, but visitors may park and walk around the gate to get to the site. The gate is unlocked and a gravel parking area is available during special events. If a guided tour or program is desired at the site, Rutherford County historian, Chivous Bradley, may be available. He can be reached by email cbradley@bellsouth.net
