photography by Joshua Curry
71
Battlefield Creek Bridge
by Candlelightby Hunter Houtzer
As the advance party moved toward the earthworks, Patriots
opened fire. The army of Loyalists consisted of predominantly
Scottish Highlanders who carried broadswords, no match for the
Patriots’ muskets, two-pound cannon, and half-pound swivel gun
named Mother Covington and Mother Covington’s daughter.
The battle was over within minutes, leaving more than 30
Loyalists killed and 40 wounded. Overwhelmed by the firepower,
the remaining Loyalist force retreated. North Carolina had effectively
blocked the advance of British troops. Only one Patriot died.
The Moores Creek Battle was a major turning point in the
American Revolution that started a wave toward independence. This
victory gave North Carolina the moral boost to vote, in Philadelphia,
for independence from the Crown. It was the first colony to do so.
During the annual candlelight tour, guides lead groups from the
visitors center to the reconstructed bridge and battleground —
a three-quarter mile walk — stopping for colonial North Carolinian
and Scottish Highlander enactors to depict scenes explaining the
significance of each spot. Tours begin at 6 p.m., leaving every 15
minutes. The last tour leaves at 8:15 p.m. Reservations are required.
Call 910-283-5591.
www.wrightsvillebeachmagazine.com WBM