NPS Photo September 28, 1780 In 1780 the name Fort Defiance belonged not to the house that currently stands, but to a fort not far from this location. William Lenoir resided in the fort and had joined the militia under Benjamin Cleveland. As the men traveled down the Yadkin River Valley they stopped in the area of the fort to make camp on the night of the 28th. Some believe that the men may have camped in a grove of trees located behind the historic house. William Lenoir kept a journal during the campaign and gained notoriety after the Battle at Kings Mountain for his accounts. When the house was finished in 1792 William Lenoir decided to keep the name Fort Defiance for his new home. The house has over 300 pieces of original furnishings and historic household items. Guided tours are given during operating hours. Restrooms and picnic tables are available on the grounds. Fort Defiance is open April-October: Thursday - Saturday, 10 am - 5 pm, and Sunday, 1 pm - 5 pm. November-March: Weekends only or by appointment. |
Last updated: August 6, 2019