Discover Lake Murray Country's Revolutionary History

Explore Lake Murray Country’s Revolutionary Roots

South Carolina 250 Anniversary American Revolution LogoStep back in time and discover the pivotal role Lake Murray Country played in shaping America’s history. From the legends of Tarleton’s Tea Tables in Newberry County to the Revolutionary War heroes honored on Columbia’s streets in Richland County, each area is steeped in stories of courage and resilience. Discover historic homes like Saluda’s Bonham House, visit key battle sites in Lexington County, and immerse yourself in artifacts at local museums. Whether tracing your ancestry, exploring historic landmarks, or simply diving into the rich tapestry of the Revolutionary War era, Lake Murray Country invites you to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

Lake Murray Levels

360' -
350' -
340' -
1.9'
at 358.1'
March 20, 2025 | 1:30 am

Featured Partners

Battle of Camden

South Carolina 250 State Commission

Learn more about the Southern Campaigns (170-1783) and see how the fight for independence was won in South Carolina.

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Liberty trail app image

Liberty Trail

Discover South Carolina's Revolutionary War history with the Liberty Trail SC app, featuring battlefield tours and stories honoring the patriots who shaped America.

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Painting depicting the assault on Ft. Gramby

Revolutionary War Stories Come to Life in Lexington County

Lexington County is rich in Revolutionary War history. The 12,000 Year History Park along the Congaree River showcases events like the British retreat from Fort Granby and Rawdon’s Skirmish. The Cayce Historical Museum honors the legendary Emily Geiger, a brave patriot who delivered a critical message by memorizing it and destroying the written copy when captured. At the Lexington County Museum, over 30 historic structures highlight Dutch Fork life during the era, offering stories of settlers and hands-on history programs for visitors.

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History Meets Legendary Charm in Newberry

 At Tarleton’s Tea Table, Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton, infamous for his harsh tactics, was charmed by Newberry’s ladies during an outdoor tea, delaying British troop movements. Explore more stories like this at The Newberry Museum, and stay tuned for a tour highlighting Tarleton’s time in the region.
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Photo of a display in the Newberry County Museum. Behind glass is a Revolutionary war jacket, a musket, and documents.

Discover Columbia’s Revolutionary Roots

Richland County brings Revolutionary War history to life in the heart of South Carolina. Columbia, named the state capital in 1786, honors heroes like Francis Marion and Thomas Sumter through its historic street names and markers. Explore artifacts at the South Carolina State Museum,  including a British musket from the 71st Highland Regiment, and a recreation of  Ft. Moultrie. Visit the Hampton-Preston Mansion, showcasing leaders like Wade Hampton I, or delve into Southern life at the McKissick Museum on the University of South Carolina Horseshoe. For genealogy enthusiasts, the SC Department of Archives & History offers records, exhibits, and Revolutionary War insights.

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Saluda's Legacy of Heroes

Saluda County invites you to explore its rich history through Revolutionary War connections and more! The 1780 Historic Bonham House, home to Sophie Smith Bonham, has links to both the Revolution and the Alamo through her husband and son. Nearby, the Marsh-Johnson House adds to the era’s history. At the Saluda County Historical Museum, view a mural of the 1755 Saluda Old Town Treaty, which marked a significant Cherokee land negotiation.

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The Bonham House - A 1700s wooden house with 2 brick chimneys.

Events

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“The Shot Heard Round The World” A 250th American Revolution Event

Old Mill Pond

Articles and Itineraries

A historical painting depicting the assault on Fort Granby with soldiers in uniforms engaging in combat near a fort surrounded by dense forest. Cannons are visible in the foreground, and smoke can be seen rising in the background.

Discover South Carolina’s Significant Role in the American Revolution

America Is Turning 250 Years Old Traditionally, when the American Revolution is portrayed the focus is on other colonies with tales like Paul Revere’s ride, protests like the Boston Tea […]

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5 Places You Can Connect With The American Revolution

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Cayce Historical Museum

The City of Cayce is rich in history and the Cayce Historical Museum was established to share this history with you. The museum staff and exhibits chronicle the history of […]

City of Newberry

When it comes to recreation and entertainment, Newberry has something for everyone. Whether your taste is for shopping, dining, museums, and wine-tasting or you prefer outdoor activities like hiking and […]

Lexington County Museum

Founded in 1970, the Lexington County Museum is a 7-acre complex with 30 historic structures. The museum interprets everyday life in Lexington County from ca. 1770 to the start of […]

Newberry Museum

The Newberry Museum opened to the public on December 15, 2019. Funded through generous donations and grants, the Museum is designed to share the priceless treasures of local history with […]

Revolutionary War Trail

Are you a history buff?  Check out our Revolutionary War itinerary through the Capital City/Lake Murray Country region… As you plan your historic Revolutionary War Trail visits, the Capital City/Lake […]