The battle turned a palmetto fort into a symbol of American resistance and inspired Carolina Day
On June 28, 1776, the greatest British fleet yet assembled in North America sailed toward Charleston Harbor, confident it would crush a small colonial force defending an unfinished fort on Sullivan’s Island. Instead, the attack ended in one of the American Revolution’s earliest and most improbable victories.
Nearly 250 years later, Charlestonians still commemorate that triumph each Carolina Day, when church bells ring, cannons fire, and a parade winds through the historic district in honor of the battle that helped shape the city—and the nation. As the United States prepares to celebrate its sestercentennial, Charleston’s Revolutionary story takes center stage once again.
The Battle of Fort Sullivan, June 28, 1776
Given the odds, it should have been a British victory. The greatest assemblage of British sea power yet seen in North America was descending upon Charles Town. Under the command of Commodore Sir Peter Parker, some 50 ships including transport and supply vessels and nine powerful men-of-war carrying 260 heavy guns were gathering offshore. Upward of 3,000 soldiers and marines under generals Sir Henry Clinton and Sir Charles Cornwallis had landed on Long Island (today’s Isle of Palms) with plans to attack from the north across Breach Inlet.
The patriots’ forlorn hope was an unfinished, hastily erected fortification on the southern end of Sullivan’s Island. There, 435 men under Colonel William Moultrie manned 31 cannons—some not functional. At the island’s northern end, a small contingent of expert riflemen under Colonel William “Danger” Thomson guarded Breach Inlet.
Moultrie’s engineers had designed a conventional fortification with merlons and parapets, but there was no masonry. Instead, they relied on what the barrier island offered: sand and the spongy trunks of palmetto trees. When Continental Army General Charles Lee inspected the structure, he was horrified. Calling it a “slaughter pen,” he demanded its immediate abandonment. Moultrie had heard similar doubts from others. When Captain Clement Lempriere, commander of the South Carolina armed sloop Commerce, warned that the British would “knock it down in a half hour,” Moultrie calmly replied that the South Carolinians would then “lay behind the ruins and prevent them from landing.”
Such bravado notwithstanding, Moultrie and his men were entering this fight with an alarming lack of gunpowder. Half of their meager supply had been transferred to the Mount Pleasant mainland in case the fort had to be abandoned. Yet as the day progressed, despite the unrelenting cannonade from Parker’s men-of-war, the fort was holding its own.
Moultrie ordered the cannons fired at 10-minute intervals and only when the artillerists had a clear target through the smoke.He finally received 500 pounds of additional powder around 5 p.m. along with a brief message from President (Governor) John Rutledge: “Cool and do mischief.”
Moultrie did exactly that. “Never did men fight more bravely,” he later wrote, “and never were men more cool.” He noted that several officers, including himself, smoked their pipes while calmly issuing orders amid the roar of cannon fire. Their greatest concern was the lack of gunpowder; they had less than 30 rounds per gun.
By dusk, the tide had turned. The British had misinterpreted the slow return fire from the fort as weakness and moved in closer. Three of their ships ran aground, one in flames. By nine that evening, Parker’s fleet was forced to retreat. “Night had closed on the scene,” Moultrie recalled. “We could hear the shot very distinctly strike the ships. At length, the British gave up the conflict: The ships slipt their cables and dropped down with the tide and out of reach of our guns.”
The British were equally unsuccessful at Breach Inlet. Unable to ford the inlet on foot (they originally thought the inlet was shallow enough), the British made an attempt to cross in flat boats with disastrous results. Three attempts were raked by well-aimed barrages from Thomson’s batteries. As British soldier Will Falconer wrote in a letter to his brother, “They would have killed half of us before we could make our landing good.”
The victory was decisive for the colonists. Moultrie was promoted to general, and the fort renamed in his honor. As one of the first major patriot victories of the Revolutionary War, it became a rallying cry for independence.
Watch a film about the Battle of Sullivan’s Island.
For 249 years, this time-honored tradition commemorates the unlikely victory that helped secure Charleston’s place in the story of American independence
First known as “Palmetto Day” (the name began to be called “Carolina Day” in the 1870s), this celebration of the victory at Fort Sullivan follows traditions that began on June 28, 1777, one year after the battle.
Then, as now, this observance is hosted under the auspices of The Palmetto Society of Charleston, an organization as old as the celebration itself. Founded in 1777, the society was created to mark the anniversary of the Battle of Fort Sullivan and later expanded its mission to aid widows and orphans of the Revolutionary War. Supporting the Palmetto Society are roughly 40 other benevolent organizations, including the Society of the Cincinnati, Washington Light Infantry, and Charleston Ancient Artillery.
Moultrie historian C. L. Bragg described the first Palmetto Day as a citywide celebration “with the ringing of church bells, the firing of artillery, and a military parade complete with a feu de joie [a running volley of musket fire] returned by ships in the harbor.” Throughout Charles Town feasts were held, toasts made, and glasses raised to honor General Moultrie, Sergeant Jasper, and the 10 soldiers who gave their lives in the defense of Fort Sullivan. Following all came “illuminated entertainments”—fireworks and more cannonades.
While the people and their dress have changed over the centuries, many of the traditions and locations remain the same. Today, as in the past, the events unfold with requisite pomp and ceremony, attended by members of the Palmetto Society and other civic organizations. Many in attendance are descendants of those who fought at Fort Sullivan in 1776.
The observance begins with a memorial service at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Participants then gather at Washington Square on Broad Street before beginning the march down Meeting Street to White Point Garden (the Battery), where speeches and tributes conclude the ceremony. Similar commemorations take place at Fort Moultrie on Sullivan’s Island, some including Revolutionary War reenactors. For more information, visit www.palmettosociety.org.
Witness the pomp and circumstance of last year’s Carolina Day celebration.
What to wear to the Carolina Day festivities
The birth and ongoing evolution of the state flag
The Palmetto State’s current flag is based upon the original flag that flew at the palmetto fort and was the inspiration of Colonel Moultrie and the uniform of his Second South Carolina Regiment. The first flag included a white crescent, similar to the crescent moon of the pin worn on all regimental hats; the indigo blue background of the flag was akin to that of their blue uniforms.
Historian and William Moultrie biographer C. L. Bragg (Crescent Moon Over Carolina: William Moultrie & American Liberty, USC Press 2013) calls the battle “America’s first absolute victory,” writing that it had an effect “beyond keeping the British out of Charles Town.... Reluctant rebels were converted to firebrands. And the state now had a new symbol—the palmetto tree—an emblem that would endure as the central element of the state seal and ultimately, the state flag.”
High Honors
After the battle, William Moultrie (1730-1805), colonel of the 2nd South Carolina Regiment of provincial troops, was promoted to brigadier general and Fort Sullivan was renamed in his honor. Moultrie later served as the 35th governor of South Carolina from 1785 to 1787.
Hot, Hot, Hot
The weather on June 28, 1776, was excessively hot (near 100°F). Combine that with the smoke and intense heat from the incessant British broadsides, and the conditions at Fort Sullivan were miserable. Moultrie later understated that the situation was “honorable, but very unpleasant.”
Left Breechless
Ultimately, the return fire from Fort Sullivan had tragic results for the British navy with heavy losses in men and vessels. Even Admiral Sir Peter Parker was hit during one cannonade. He survived, but the shot literally “blew the backside of his breeches” off.
The days leading up to the Fourth of July are filled all manner of events for patriots of all ages
Revolutionary Conversations: Humanity in History
Facilitated by Tina Singleton in partnership with several Charleston cultural institutions, this inaugural program invites participants to share stories and reflections on freedom, justice, and belonging in the American experience. International African American Museum, 14 Wharfside St. Thursday, 6:30-9 p.m. $10-$5. www.iaamuseum.org
Celebrating American Independence with a Colonial Fair
Storyteller Tim Lowry leads songs and stories from 1776 while families try colonial toys, quill pen writing, and tavern games. Recommended for ages five and up. Wando Mount Pleasant Library, 1400 Carolina Park Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Saturday, 11 a.m.-noon. Free. www.ccpl.org
Life, Liberty, & the Pursuit of Happiness Concert
Music and storytelling celebrate African American, Native American, and Appalachian traditions as Carol Mallett Rifkin and Friends Appalachian Trio and Delia Chariker and Keepers of the Word perform alongside the Bright Family Singers. Ann Caldwell, one of the city’s best-known singers and storytellers, weaves the program together. Sunrise Presbyterian Church, 3222 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island. Saturday, 4 & 7:30 p.m. Free. www.sc250charleston.org
Summer of Revolution Concert
Country stars Lee Brice and Cole Swindell take the stage at Credit One Stadium for an evening of chart-topping hits. Presented in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the outdoor concert promises a spirited celebration of community and music under the stars. Credit One Stadium, 161 Seven Farms Dr., Daniel Island. Saturday, 7 p.m. $177-$37. www.sc250charleston.org
Declaring Independence in Charleston: Text & Context Lecture
Historians Martha King and Cheves Leland discuss Charleston printer Peter Timothy’s publication of the Declaration of Independence and its historical significance. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Tuesday, 6 p.m. Free. www.charlestonmuseum.org
Revolutionary Ideas Symposium
Presented with the Ditchley Foundation and Charleston Literary Festival, this two-day gathering convenes leading historians and authors, including Jon Meacham, to examine the origins, ideas, and legacy of the American Revolution. Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St. Wednesday & Thursday, times vary. $499-$40. www.sc250charleston.org
Battle of Sullivan’s Island Lecture
Historian Doug MacIntyre explores the pivotal 1776 battle that defended Charleston Harbor and inspired the annual Carolina Day commemoration. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Thursday, 4 p.m. Free, $10 suggested donation. www.charlestonmuseum.org
A Conversation with Rick Atkinson
Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Rick Atkinson discusses The Fate of the Day (Crown, April 2025), tracing the middle years of the Revolutionary War, followed by a conversation with historian and Charleston Museum director Carl Borick and a book signing with Buxton Books. Dock Street Theatre, 135 Church St. Friday, 6 p.m. $144-$90. www.sc250charleston.org
Carolina Day Commemorations
Step into the Revolutionary era with musket and artillery-firing demonstrations, colonial games, lectures, and family activities, plus roaming historians and period music. On Sunday at 10 a.m., a ceremony will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, 1214 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island. Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. www.nps.gov
Carolina Day 2026
This annual observance of the 1776 Battle of Sullivan’s Island includes a church service at St. Michael’s and a parade from Washington Park to White Point Garden, where speeches, including words from Pulitzer Prize-winning author Rick Atkinson, and ceremonial cannon firing and wreath laying take place. White Point Garden, 2 Murray Blvd. Saturday, Church service, 10 a.m.; parade 11:30 a.m. Free. www.palmettosociety.org
SC250 Charleston Legacy
Reception & Gala
This black-tie celebration with live performances, period-inspired hospitality, and interpretive programming honors Charleston’s Revolutionary War history, culminating with a premier viewing of the harbor drone show. The Cooper, 176 Concord St. Saturday, reception 6:30 p.m.; gala 8 p.m. $1,250–$3,776. www.sc250charleston.org
Revolutionary Skies Drone Show
Hundreds of illuminated drones light up Charleston Harbor, depicting the city’s Revolutionary story in a spectacular Carolina Day tribute. Cooper River waterfront. Saturday, 9 p.m. Free. www.sc250charleston.org
Carolina Day Concert
Commemorate the American victory at the Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28, 1776, during this patriotic outdoor concert hosted near The Battery. The program features marches, patriotic selections, and arrangements by the Charleston Concert Band in honor of South Carolina’s Revolutionary War history. White Point Garden, 2 Murray Blvd. Sunday, noon-1:30pm. Free.www.charlestonconcertband.org
Carolina Day RiverDogs Game & Drone Show
Cheer on the home team as they take on the Augusta GreenJackets and stay for a postgame drone show celebrating the 1776 victory at Sullivan’s Island. Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park, 360 Fishburne St. Sunday, 5:35 p.m. $29-$11. www.milb.com/charleston
The Revolutionary City
Anchored by a daily public expo at Marion Square from July 1-3, this citywide living-history initiative transforms Charleston into an immersive Revolutionary-era landscape through coordinated programming at historic sites and cultural institutions. Various locations. Days & times vary. Free–ticketed events. www.sc250charleston.org
Sestercentennial Tour
A guided tour of the Heyward-Washington House explores signer Thomas Heyward Jr.’s Revolutionary War experiences and the broader roles of South Carolinians during the conflict. 87 Church St. Thursday, 3:30 p.m. Free with admission. www.charlestonmuseum.org
Independence Celebration Family Fun Day
Colonial games and hands-on activities bring Revolutionary-era history to life for families at the Heyward-Washington House. 87 Church St. Friday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free with admission. www.charlestonmuseum.org
Reading of the Declaration of Independence
Historical reenactors and area leaders read the Declaration on the steps of the Old Exchange, echoing the moment South Carolinians first heard the document in 1776. 122 East Bay St. Saturday, 9 a.m. Free. www.oldexchange.org
Waterfront Independence Day Celebration
Live music, family-friendly activities, and one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks displays highlight this patriotic evening at The Cooper and Waterfront Park on Charleston Harbor. The Cooper, 176 Concord St., & Waterfront Park, Vendue Range. Saturday, 4 p.m. Free. www.charleston-sc.gov
Sabbath 1776
This special worship service reflects on how Charlestonians might have gathered for church during the summer of 1776. First (Scots) Presbyterian Church, 53 Meeting St. Sunday, 10 a.m. Free. www.first-scots.org
America’s Potluck
Communities across the Lowcountry and beyond gather for a shared meal celebrating American traditions and civic connection. Locations vary. Sunday, noon. Details TBA. www.sc250charleston.org
