Moores Creek National Battlefield is the site of the first significant victory for the Patriots in the Revolutionary War. This battle ended Royal rule in North Carolina forever and helped pave the way for the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The Loyalists, mostly Scottish Highlanders wielding broadswords, expected to find only a small Patriot force thanks to a quick thinking plan by Patriot Colonel Richard Caswell. As the Loyalists advanced across the bridge, Patriot shots rang out and dozens of Loyalists fell, including their commanders. Stunned, outgunned and leaderless, the Loyalists surrendered, retreating in confusion.
The battle ended Royal Governor Josiah Martin's hopes of regaining control of the colony for the British crown. The Loyalist defeat ended British plans for an invasionary force to land in Brunswick, North Carolina.
In addition to ending British authority in the colony, the Patriot victory led North Carolina to be the first colony to vote for independence.
The Battle of Moores Creek Bridge helped to influenced the 13 colonies to declare independence on July 4, 1776.
The National Park Service preserves unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the national park system for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Park Service cooperates with partners to extend the benefits of natural and cultural resource conservation and outdoor recreation throughout this country and the world.
