Though relatively small, the battle of Cane Creek would have far-reaching consequences. On September 12, 1780 Loyalist (Tory) forces under British Major Patrick Ferguson and Patriot volunteers under Colonel Charles McDowell clashed at the head of Cane Creek. Both sides sustained losses, but the Tories prevailed in the end, and the Patriots retreated over the mountains. Ferguson issued his infamous warning to the back-country settlements in part because of this small battle, but the Patriot settlers weren’t going to stand being threatened. Less than 3 weeks after this engagement, roughly 1,400 militiamen encamped near the site of the battle, hot on the trail of Ferguson.
The site is currently being planned and will be further developed for visitor enjoyment.
The site lies within the South Mountain Game Lands and is open to the public. It is open year round, from 6am-6pm.
