June 25, 2025

South Carolina Celebrates 249th Anniversary of Sullivan’s Island Victory

News Summary

The Palmetto Society invites all South Carolinians to join the 249th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. This historic event, which commemorates a significant Revolutionary War victory, includes a thanksgiving service, a community parade, and a profound discussion by historian Ben Zeigler. Residents are encouraged to display their Palmetto State flags, and churches will ring their bells in honor of the occasion, reinforcing the enduring spirit and unity of the community.

Charleston, South Carolina – The Palmetto Society is inviting all South Carolinians to participate in the state’s 249th anniversary celebration of the victory at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island on Saturday. This historic event commemorates a significant triumph during the Revolutionary War and promises to engage the community with various festive activities and educational opportunities.

Residents are encouraged to display their Palmetto State flags, including both the original Moultrie Flag and the current version, as a show of pride and remembrance. In a sign of unity and respect, churches across the state are also being asked to ring their bells at 11:30 a.m. to honor the occasion.

The day’s festivities will commence with a service of thanksgiving at St. Michael’s Church at 10 a.m., lasting approximately 50 minutes. Participants will then have the chance to gather at Washington Park by 11 a.m. for a traditional parade that will begin at 11:30 a.m. In the event of inclement weather, Ben Zeigler’s address will be included within the church service.

Ben Zeigler, a lawyer and historian from Florence, will present a talk titled “The Course of the Binding Thread: 1776, The Battle of Fort Sullivan and the Unification of South Carolina.” His discussion will cover pivotal events leading up to the battle, including the Snow Campaign and the conflicts between Tory and Whig militias late in 1775, culminating in the British assault on June 28, 1776.

The Battle of Sullivan’s Island, fought on June 28, 1776, saw British forces attempting to capture Charles Town (now Charleston). A diverse group of patriots, including South Carolinians, North Carolinians, free blacks, enslaved blacks, and Native Americans, successfully defended the fort, known then as Fort Sullivan and now recognized as Fort Moultrie. This victory proved crucial, as it galvanized American resolve for independence during the Revolutionary War.

The day is widely recognized as “Palmetto Day,” highlighting the historical significance of this victory in South Carolina’s narrative. P. Cooper Coker IV, chairman of the Palmetto Society, stresses the importance of remembering this pivotal moment as a vital part of the state’s freedoms. The celebration will feature patriotic music during the church service, enhancing the communal spirit of the day.

The RiverDogs baseball team is also joining in the observance with a nine-game homestand starting June 24, which includes a Carolina Day celebration on June 28. Participants at the RiverDogs games can look forward to themed nights, children’s activities, and a drone show that will visually portray scenes from the Revolutionary War, adding another layer of engagement to the day’s celebrations.

This year’s festivities come on the heels of the Charleston Animal Society’s announcement that South Carolina has been designated a “No Kill State” for animals, further emphasizing the community’s commitment to welfare and support for various causes. Additionally, National South Carolina Day was recently celebrated, focusing on the state’s rich history and culture, including its culinary traditions and stunning landscapes.

As South Carolinians prepare to honor their past, the 249th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island stands as a reminder of the enduring spirit of the state and the importance of community involvement in preserving historical legacies.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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