SC National Heritage Corridor

Ninety Six National Historic Site

Ninety Six National Historic Site was the scene of various 18th century military conflicts. In the late 1750’s several British regiments encamped on the grounds and assisted with constructing and garrisoning fortifications during the Cherokee War. Fort Ninety Six was completed in 1759 to protect backcountry settlers and was the site of two Cherokee attacks in 1760.

Ninety Six also played a major role in the Revolutionary War because of its strategic location at the convergence of several important backcountry roads, enhancing its military significance for both sides.  The first land battle south of New England was fought here in November 1775. In 1780, the British fortified the town and it became an important outpost. From May 22 - June 18, 1781 Major General Nathanael Greene with 1,000 patriot troops staged a siege against 550 loyalists. Although battered by the siege, the British-built earthen Star Fort remains one of the best preserved examples of an original 18th century fortification. The British finally abandoned Ninety Six and returned to Charleston.