Spartanburg’s rich history dates back to Colonial times and is on display at every turn. A number of exhibits and historic buildings provide history buffs an opportunity to view life as it was in the area’s early days.

In fact, one of the key battles of the American Revolution was fought in Spartanburg County. The National Park Service protects and preserves the COWPENS NATIONAL BATTLEFIELD, located north of downtown, off Interstate 85. The battlefield commemorates a major American victory in January 1781, which helped turn the tide of the war in the Southern Campaign of the revolution. American or Patriot troops, led by Brigadier General Daniel Morgan, outmaneuvered the British forces under the command of Lt. Col. Banastre Tarleton using what war historians have deemed a brilliant series of tactical moves.

While the battlefield commemorates the battle each January with special events and a living history demonstration, the celebration in 2006, commemorating the battle’s 225th anniversary, will be extra special. A two-day slate of events will allow park visitors to get a true feel of what life was like on that day in history. A reenactment of the battle is planned just off park property.

Those who wish to experience the peaceful side of life during the Colonial days can visit several exhibits and sites under the auspices of the Spartanburg County Historical Association. The SCHA is headquartered at the SPARTANBURG REGIONAL MUSEUM on Main Street. Established in 1961, and moved to the old “Belk Building” in 1999, the museum features exhibits on the Revolutionary War, Camp Croft, the Civil War, the textile industry and the Pardo Stone, which is believed to have been left behind by Spanish Explorer Juan Pardo in 1567.

WALNUT GROVE PLANTATION, located off Highway 221 in Roebuck, allows visitors to experience “life on the frontier” during Revolutionary times. Built in 1763 on land granted by King George III, the home vividly portrays life in Spartanburg County at the turn of the 19th Century. In addition to tours of the main abode, visitors can view the wheat house, smoke house, blacksmith forge, barn, well house, an herb garden and family graveyard. Walnut Grove is open year-round.