Battle of Moore's Creek Bridge

On this day, 250 years ago, the fate of North Carolina was decided. Tensions between Patriots and Loyalists had simmered over the past several months. By February, a large force of Loyalists had organized in the interior. They planned to march on the coast and link up with British troops.

The Patriots learned about the plan and were determined to stop them. They erected their defenses at Moore’s Creek Bridge, a small wooden crossing just north of Wilmington.

Reconstructed bridge. Photo from the National Park Service website

The battle was decisive. The Loyalists charged across the bridge. The Patriots responded with a hail of musketry that stopped the Loyalists in their tracks. 

Also from the NPS website

The battle was over in minutes – 30 Loyalists were killed and another 850 captured. The Patriots suffered two casualties.

Three Big Things

Let’s look at 3 big things about the battle.

1. Last Highland Charge - Long before the American Revolution, the Scottish Highlands were home to fierce warriors—Highlanders. They were famous for terrifying battlefield charges with broadswords raised. In the 1700s, many of these warriors resettled in North Carolina, carrying their traditions with them. At Moore’s Creek Bridge, some of the Loyalists were Highlanders.  They charged with broadswords like their forefathers. But the Patriot musketry stopped them cold. The attack collapsed—marking not only a Patriot victory, but the last Highland charge.”
2. Preparation Leads to Success - Patriot preparations were crucial in the victory. The Patriots recognized the bridge as a perfect defensive position. They set up earthworks on the far side and prepared for battle. As one final touch, they removed the planks from the bridge and greased the remaining beams with lard — turning it into a slippery trap. These preparations blunted the Loyalist attack and led to victory.
3. Momentum for Independence - The Patriot victory thwarted the Loyalist uprising and deterred the British from invading the colony. This preserved North Carolina for the cause. In turn, it would be in the forefront of the independence movement. In April 1776, North Carolina’s legislature issued the Halifax Resolves, the first official colonial action calling for full independence from Britain.

And there you have it – America 250 years ago.

Stay tuned for more updates leading to America’s 250th birthday.