NPS Photo October 4, 1780 British Major Patrick Ferguson had set up his headquarters in Gilbert Town in early September. At the time, Gilbert Town was the Rutherford County seat of government. This was the initial destination of the Overmountain Men, the chosen venue for their confrontation. Unfortunately, word of their coming had arrived before them and Ferguson had retreated in the direction of Charlotte. The Patriots made camp here for the night, making it the only known place where both sides camped during the campaign. The militia initially did not know which direction Ferguson had taken, so there was much deliberation about what their next steps should be. They ultimately decided to continue south, in the direction of the fort at Ninety Six. During the first week of October local school children attend an educational program presented by members of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association at the site. On the evening of October 4 a program is presented for the general public to attend. The grave of Loyalist Major James Dunlap, a British officer wounded at Cane Creek, is near the site, also on private property. Restroom facilities and a parking area are provided during events but at no other time of the year. The property is on private property, so on a daily basis the area may only be viewed from the road. Visitors may park along the roadside. There is a sign placed along the road to signify the area. |
Last updated: August 6, 2019