Just a field in the woods for now Battle of Camden Historic Landmark
Camden, Kershaw County
Former glory and past deeds don't always mean much on the battlefield. Located in the piney woods just six miles north of Camden, South Carolina, is a quiet area that is rarely visited and mostly forgotten except by those that understand just how close the Patriots of Colonial America came to losing their quest for independence.
The 'Hero of Saratoga', Major General Horatio Gates, was overwhelmed by British forces at this place on August 16, 1780. The forces were nearly even, with approximately 3,000 men mustered into the battle from each of the opposing forces. Gates' troops, however, were comprised of many militia men that had no experience with close in fights - and the British attacked in a fierce bayonet charge. The Patriot milita first faltered, then dropped their own muskets and ran. . . with Gates himself being one of those running the fastest. He left over 800 of his men on the field; dead, dying, wounded and captured. Within hours he arrived in Charlotte, NC, over 60 miles distant. He never again held command and although his loyalty to the new nation was never in doubt, his courage was.
This is a significant battlefield of American history and yet there has been little done to interpret for the visitor how the event transpired. It may be, in the near future, that the US government will build a visitor center here so we may more clearly understand how defeat came so quickly to a leader whose performance in prior battles was exemplary.
