Cowpens National Battlefield - "Spirited Up the People"

January 19, 2013

On this field on January 17, 1781, Daniel Morgan led his Continental Army and the backwoods militia to a brilliant victory over Banastre Tarleton's large force of British regulars.  Daniel Morgan, an experienced soldier, served a teamster in the British Army during the French and Indian War (1754-1763). When the Revolutionary War began, he joined the Continental Army.  In September 1780, Morgan rejoined the army after Gates, who had been given command of Continental forces in the South, suffered a defeat in Camden, SC.  Promoted to a Brigadier general, he was commanding a corps of light troops when Major General Nathanael Greene replaced Gates.  Greene's strategy was to split the army so the British would split as well.  Morgan was the leader for the "Flying Army" and was sent into the western South Carolina to operate on the British left flank and rear.

The British Commander, Major General Charles Cornwallis, sent Banastre Tarleton with the British Legion and some of his best light troops.  The British Legion was well known for its brutality in cutting down unarmed or fleeing soldiers.  Tarleton was wildly hated in South Carolina after his troops butchered Col. Abraham Buford's at Waxhaws in May 1780.  

Morgan knew he was outnumbered and not all of this people were professional soldiers. There are militia units from South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia, who mainly fought in the war to protect their homes in hand-to-hand combat with Indians.  Even though they are courageous, they were no match to Tarleton's army. Morgan chose to fight in an open wood on ground that sloped gently southeast, the direction from which the British would approach.  The field and three low crests separated by wide swales.  Morgan formed his troops in three lines straddling the Green River Road.  In the front line, sharpshooters stood in small groups.  Their job was to slow Tarleton's army and then fall back.  The second line, 90 yards behind the sharpshooters, including Andrew Picken's regional militia.  Morgan ask them for two volleys at a "killing distance", then they were to fall behind the Continentals. In the third line, 150 yards behind Pickens and stretching along the forward crest, were John Eager Howard's 600 crack Maryland and Delaware Continentals and veteran Virginia Militia.  Behind that crest, Morgan stationed 150 cavalrymen under command of William Washington, with orders to protect the militia and be ready to fight.

As Tarleton's men attacked, Morgan instructed the militia to skirmish with them, but to leave the front line after firing two rounds. The British mistook the repositioning of the Americans as a rout and ran into an unexpected volley of concentrated rifle fire coupled with a cavalry charge and followed by the return of the militia. Tarleton escaped, but Morgan's troops decimated his army.  This decisive battle was over in about thirteen minutes.  All I can say is Wow! 

American rifles, scorned by Britain's professional soldiers, proved devastatingly effective in this engagement. The British lost 110 men and 229 wounded, while an additional 600 were captured or missing. The American losses totaled only 24 killed and 104 wounded.  This unorthodox tactical masterpiece had "spirited up the people," not just those of the backcountry of the Carolinas but in all the colonies.  Morgan later told his friend that he had given Tarleton and the British a "devil of a whipping".  I call it Kick-Ass!

Tiger and the Sharpshooter.  Wee! 

A memorial for the American Soldiers who fought at Cowpens.

The Congress of the United States has caused this monument to be erected on the site of the Battle of Cowpens as a testimonial to the valor and in appreciation of the services of he American troops on this field in behalf of the independence of their country.

Tiger is trying to give high fives to the American Soldiers who kicked British's ARSE! Yes apparently there is an "E" in the ass.  

The Calvaryman. :)

Sophie's Final Thought:

This battle was a big turning point for the Americans during the Southern Campaign.  Thanks to the awesome tactics and the ingenious decision by Morgan.  No wonder this war is part of the movie The Patriot.  I love this country! For those who fought and still defending our freedom. Let's not forget the sacrifices people made for us.  

A Canal that Withstand History

The Augusta Canal - Georgia's First Designated National Heritage Area January 5, 2013

I spent a warm January day at the Augusta Canal.  The canal was constructed in 1845 and enlarged in 1874.  There are three levels that make up the canal.  The first level is about 8.5 miles from the head gate, which was part of the Petersburg Boat Tour.  The second and third levels take several paths through downtown Augusta and the Laney-Walker Districts, totally 13.5 miles. 

My journey begun at the Enterprise Mill, which is where the boat tour starts and a museum. The boat ticket also included the admission to the museum.  As part of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, my boat tour focuses on Civil War History.  

 The Petersburg boat was used back in the day to haul goods  in the canal.

Along the canal, there are four mills still standing.  

The Enterprise Mill - 

The Enterprise Mill. 

The Boiler that was used at the Enterprise Mill.

Finished in 1848 as a four-story granite mill that was used for flour mill.  By 1875, it turned into the Enterprise Manufacturing Company.  The Graniteville Company acquired Sibley Mill and in 1923 purchased Enterprise Mill.  Enterprise Mill stayed in operation as a textile mill until it officially closed in 1983.  In 1997, a major renovation allowed the mill to thrive with offices, retails, and the location of the Augusta Canal National Heritage Interpretive Center.

The King Mill- 

Founded in 1881, the John P. King Manufacturing Company was named in honor of a prominent Augustan.  The mill had a massive central stair and water tank tower reminiscent of the villa towers of northern Italy.  This mill has many ornamental brickwork throughout. The Augusta Canal Authority is concerned with the preservation and stewardship of the Historic Augusta Canal and Industrial District National Landmark.  Adhering to its mission, the Augusta Canal Authority recognized an immediate need when the future was uncertain in 2001 and acted quickly to purchase the property and the authority leased the mill to Standard Textile, which put people to work today.  Hospital blankets are their specialties.  

The King Mill

The Sibley Mill- 

To supply the Confederate Army gunpowder supplies, Jefferson Davis appointed Colonel George Washington Rains t create a local gunpowder supply in 1861.  Colonel Rains chose Augusta -  a perfect location that has a canal to provide electricity to design Power Works. Completed in 1862, the powder works lined the banks of the canal for two miles.  The plant was organized for manufacturing efficiency.  Now, the only remaining structure from the powder works is the smokestack in the shape of an obelisk. By April 1865, the operation came to a halt.  During its lifetime, the facility produced approximately 7000 pounds of gunpowder per day for a final total of 2,750,000 pounds.  The Augusta Powder Works produced enough gunpowder to meet the needs of the Confederate Army and still retained a surplus of 70,000 pounds at the end of the war.  In the 1880s, a group of business men formed the Sibley Manufacturing Company, which was the largest and most successful cotton mills in the region.  Eventually Sibley Mill became part of the Graniteville Mills, it continued to operate until 2006.  Even though the production ceased, the mill's water driven turbines still generate electricity which is sold to Georgia Power.  

The Sibley Mill and Confederate Powder Works Chimney

Screen to captures debris and prevent flowing down the canal.

It was a warm day.  The Canal Mascots are greeting us. 

Part II - The Augusta Canal Headgates and the Savannah Rapids Pavilion

There is a wide, level towpath that was used by mules to pull canal boats to the headgates.  It has now turn into a beautiful trail for hikers, cyclists, and runners.  The Cancellation Stamp Location at the headgate can be found in the Lockkeeper's Cottage.  I have got to rent a kayak when it gets warmer! 

Savannah River.  Water is low this time of the year.   

This is the 1875 Gate House and Locks.  The 1845 lock is located left of here. 

 

What a view! 

The Augusta Canal Headgate and the lock.

The Lockkeeper's Cottage.

Tiger was here! 

Roar! 

What a beautiful day! 

Yeah! Tiger and I are having a good time! 

Need to say more?

The Gate House window. 

The view from the 1875 Gate House. 

Tiger's Final Thought:

Augusta Canal is a vision from someone who believes in making the city of Augusta flourish.  Augusta was never the same.  It helped the city with industrial development, creating thousands of jobs.  And in the Civil War, provided the Confederate Soldiers comfort, and protection with gunpowder.  Augusta Canal has changed the history of the surrounding area.  Thanks to those who have believed in the nature and what it has for us.  The thought of having a canal is nothing but a genius idea.  What would happen to Augusta if this awesome canal was never built?  I know for sure, there will be no recreation area for us to enjoy... It was kind of late for us living here for about 3 years and not being at the towpath.  It's time to get our butts there when we can.  It's an awesome place to be.  Everyone should go and just enjoy nature and the life and blood of the city of Augusta!  Well, besides the Augusta Nationals Golf Club for sure. 

Edgefield Discovery Center

Edgefield Discovery Center - Edgefield, SC January 4, 2013

A spend about 30 minutes in and out of this Edgefield Discovery Center.  And then I spend about just as long in Edgefield Downtown area.  My intention was to check out the South  Carolina National Heritage Corridor.  Based on the cancellation stamp list updated in December 2012, the Edgefield Discovery Center is one of them.  However when I went in, the volunteer told me that due to budge cuts, the Federal government has cut the Discovery Center funding and therefore, it is no longer part of the cancellation location.  The Edgefield Discovery Center is no longer part of the National Heritage Corridor.  How sad is that? 

The Discovery Center is the Captain James Miller House.  It was built in 1840 and originally located in Trenton, SC.  As part of the National Heritage Corridor, part of the house (the front three rooms) moved to the current location.  The corridor extends 240 miles, stretching from mountains of Oconee County, along the Savannah River, to the port city of Charleston.  It is divided into four regions.

Edgefield is famous for producing at least 10 governors so far. 

• Andrew Pickens Jr
• George McDuffie 
• Pierce Mason Butler 
• James H. Hammond 
• Francis Pickens 
• Milledge Luke Bonham
• John C. Sheppard 
• Benjamin Tillman - founder of Clemson College and Winthrop. : )
• John Gary Evans 
• J. Strom Thurmond

Edgefield is the home of the National Wild Turkey Federation (NWTF).  

Outside the Discovery Center.

.

Cotton is king! 

The Edgefield County Courthouse. 

Downtown Edgefield. 

J. Strom Thurmond in the town center.

The 10 governors! 

Tiger's final thought:

It is sad to hear that budget cuts could affect such small thing, not having a cancellation stamp and a program to support this beautiful preservation.  It makes me wonder how our government functions.  The fact that National Parks and places like this are intended for the people to enjoy.  Then if other places in the country are experiencing the same thing, how can we expect our next generation to understand the culture, the history, and the way of life?  I wish the government will soon get into some sense of direction and keep moving.  It is sad to see the struggles for National Parks.  They are the jewels of the United States.  

A Quick Stop at the Largest Swamp

Atchafalaya Heritage Area-Louisiana December 27, 2012

After visiting my parents in Houston, TX for Christmas, I stopped at the Atchafalaya Basin, or the Atchafalaya Swamp.  An American-Indian word, "Atchafalaya" (Think of a sneeze: uh-CHA-fuh-lie-uh) means long river. Established in 2006, the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area stretches across 14 parishes in south-central Louisiana. It is among the most culturally rich and ecologically varied regions in the United States, home to the widely recognized Cajun culture as well as a diverse population of European, African, Caribbean and Native-American descent.

Yes indeed!  It is the largest swamp in the US.  The basin is about 20 miles in width from east to west and 150 miles in length.  It comprises of wetlands and river delta where the Atchafalaya River and the Gulf of Mexico converge.   

So as I was driving along Intestate 10, there is 18 miles of the interstate on elevated pillars over the swamp.  Pretty amazing.  

Perfect day with a cup of sweet tea and the famous New Orleans Cafe Du Monde beignets.

Tiger hiding in the swamp! 

Tiger's Final Thought:

This National Heritage Area is full of life.  Not only there are so many scenic areas, it is the perfect concept where significant natural resources blended with their unique culture and identity.  Even though I can stay as a swamp tiger... just like the team we just beat in the Chick-fil-A bowl, my heart  BELONGS to Clemson. Oh wait! I AM THE CLEMSON TIGER! 

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! 

2013 is here. I can't believe last year has gone by fast.  It's probably life has kept things interesting.  Last year was an interesting year.  Got a job promotion, pretty good Clemson football season, promotion = more stress.  I think I have an enlightened year.  Mainly because my dad had a stroke in August 2012.  It was life changing.  In addition, my blood work didn't go too well.  Too much triglyceride in my blood and bother line cholesterol level.  I am too young; my dad was too young to have a stroke.  Fortunately, he is recovering pretty well.  Was able to walk again and still working on his left arm and hand.  At least his mind is still strong and clear.  

I think the biggest highlight is that I realized how important it is for me to connect with nature.  To listen to my inner voice and to put down my materialistic mind.  I need to find my happiness. I need to do so by staying healthy, enjoying the time with my family, being there for someone, compassion, and travel.  So here I am, excited about what this year has to offer.  Life is a challenge and I'm ready to take it head on!  So bon voyage.  Sophie/Tiger and I will be traveling whenever we can.  :)

Happy new year to all. May this year bring you joy and laughter. 

A Day at Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park - Hopkins, SC December 8, 2012

On December 8, 2012, I finally made up my mind with great determination to visit Congaree National Park in South Carolina. My goal is to go visit all the National Parks and National Monument, and so I have got to start from my own backyard--Congaree National Park, the one and only national park in the state of South Carolina.  This National Park used to be a National Monument.  In November 2003, it gained the National Park status.  I've gotta say, this is a trip worth going.  

Tiger checked in at the visitor's center and got the cancellation stamp! 

Mosquito Meter  located at the visitors center - Fall and Winter should be in the clear.  

Most people consider this National Park is a big swamp.  Technically speaking, Congaree isn't a swamp, because it does not contain standing water all year long.  Congaree is a floodplain forest that floods about ten times a year from the Congaree River.  The land is the largest contiguous tract of old-growth bottomland hardwoods in the United States.  It is considered one of the best preserved old-growth forest.

Once passing the broadwalk, we went to the Oakridge Trail.  This trail is recommended for a day hike.  Big trees coming up!

Taking a break and look! Floodplain!  

To the Oakridge Trail.

I was fascinated by the perfect balance of nature.  

The resilience of nature. 

Need I say more?  Tiger is loving it!  

What a beautiful day in the woods! 

It's slowly becoming an obsession.  They are so unique!  

Cedar Creek.  Next time I will get in a canoe.

The unofficial Tiger baby carrier.  

Watch out for a tiger lurking in a hollow tree stump.

Enjoyed a picnic at Weston Lake.

The beauty of fall colors and the bald cypress. 

Tiger's Final Thought: 

This place has a lot of struggles.  So much work has been done by some many conservationists starting in the 1970s.  At the beginning of this century, the country's lumber industry moved south, threatening the giant hardwood.  Never underestimate the determination of tree hugger.  Without them, we won't be able to enjoy the serenity of the park.   I thank them for their effort to keep this forest alive and well.  So that people and animals get to be away from the city and the hustle bustle world.  It is important to take care of the things that are vulnerable.  It is OUR job to protect nature and take care of it.  Congaree National Park, what a great place to be!

The trip wouldn't count without taking a picture at the entrance! :) I did it!