Gunpowder & Lead

Each year, the British sent a large shipment of gunpowder and hunting weapons to the Cherokee in upstate South Carolina as part of their outreach to foster relationships with the Native Americans. When the Revolution came knocking in 1775, the Council of Safety was created as the new governing body for the colony to replace British rule. Led by Henry Laurens, the Council of Safety continued this tradition, sending a large shipment of gunpowder and shot to the Cherokee in an attempt to maintain peace and, hopefully, encourage the Native Americans to take up the Patriot cause.

Loyalists Attack

In 1775, the Council of Safety's shipment of weaponry was intercepted by Loyalist forces, including Capt. Patrick Cunningham of Laurens County, before it could reach its intended recipients. With around 200 men, Cunningham fled north into Cherokee territory to hide. They camped in a dense cane brake near on the Reedy River, where the thick, crunchy cane plants would alert them to approaching Patriots. However, Maj. Thompson's superior manpower won the day, and 130 Loyalists were captured.

The Snow Campaign

As prisoners and Patriot militia alike marched back to Charleston, they faced bitter cold and falling snow - over 8 inches blanketed the backcountry, and the winter weather persisted as they continued toward the coast. This victory, which temporarily dampened Loyalist resistance in the backcountry, ended what would become known as the Snow Campaign.