National Parks:
Ninety Six National Historic Site

Ninety Six, South Carolina -- The Ninety Six National Historic Site is an area of unique historical and archeological significance. The unusual name was given by early traders in the 1700's because they mistakenly believed it was the estimated number of miles to the Cherokee village of Keowee in the upper South Carolina foothills.

By the mid-1700's, European Colonists found it a favorable place to settle. The community was comprised of a mixture of cultures including Europeans, African-Americans, and Native Americans. During the French & Indian War, when troubles with local Indians increased, Ninety Six rose to importance. Cherokees twice attacked settlers at Fort Ninety Six. When the conflicts with the Cherokees settled down, Ninety Six village reached its peak. In the 1770's this important backcountry town boasted a growing population, 12 houses, taverns, shops and a newly constructed courthouse and jail.

Ninety Six also figured prominently in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. The first land battle south of New England was fought here in 1775, and in 1780 the British fortified the frontier town. From May 22 - June 18, 1781 Major General Nathanael Greene with 1,000 Patriot troops staged a 28-day siege (the war's longest) against the defending 550 Loyalists.

DID YOU KNOW

• The site protects significant cultural areas within its 989.14 acres. Because of its importance to the founding of our nation, Ninety Six National Historic Site joined the National Park Service in 1976.
• Many archeologists agree that Ninety Six NHS is one of the most pristine sites associated with the American Colonial period and the Revolutionary War. Its rural setting has ensured that cultural and natural resources have remained virtually undisturbed.
• Every year, more than 200 volunteers donate over 3,000 hours to Ninety Six, especially during the living history programs and events. The dedicated volunteers ensure that our interpretive programs continue to be enjoyed by our visitors.
• The Ninety Six Judicial District encompassed about 12 modern counties and was the center of justice from 1772 to 1779. Court cases were heard each year in April and November in the wooden courthouse and prisoners were held in the strong brick jail.
• James Birmingham was the first southern Patriot to lose his life for freedom here in 1775. A commemorative stone was placed to remember his sacrifice.
• The Revolutionary War was a civil war because Americans fought Americans, especially in the backcountry of South Carolina.

DON'T MISS ATTRACTIONS

• The earthen Star Fort was the focal point of the 28-day siege. It survives today and remains a fine example of 18th century military engineering.
• The only remaining military mine from the American Revolution is still intact at Ninety Six NHS. Colonel Thaddeus Kosciuszko of Poland directed the digging of the tunnel. It was to be used to blast open the British Star Fort's massive earthen walls.
• The park contains one of the largest known populations of a "species of concern", the Oglethorpe Oak.
• Park volunteers participate in many special annual events sharing talents and living history skills. April (alternate years) - "Revolutionary War Days", "Lifeways of the Cherokees and Colonial Settlers"; October - Autumn Candlelight Tour
• Living History Saturdays - May through August. 18th century living history skills are featured at the park's c.1787 log house, the Black Swan Tavern.
• The park is open year round, during daylight hours. The Visitor Center is open 8 am to 5 pm daily, except for major holidays.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE PRIORITIES

• With about 50,000 visitors annually, the greatest need is for a new visitor center to replace the present small, outdated, temporary structure. Increasing visitation, wear and tear on the present building and the need to replace 30-year old museum exhibits bring this to the priority forefront.
• Stabilization and preservation of the still-intact Kosciuszko's mine, dug by the Patriots during the 1781 siege. This military tunnel is an extremely rare example of European-style warfare conducted in America. In the future, when the mine can be stabilized and protected it will be open for visitors to see the original pick and shovel marks still visible in its clay walls.
• The park is planning a celebration in 2006 of the 225th anniversary of the siege of Ninety Six. Reenactors from many states will take part in this historic encampment, which will recreate the essence of the siege of Ninety Six in 1781. It is one of the few sites associated with the American Revolution where a siege was conducted.
• To better serve our visitors, we are in the process of implementing the park's new Long Range Interpretive Plan.

Source: National Park Service