Somewhere between Mountville, Cross Hill, and Newberry County, near a small creek, was located Fort Williams.
The fort changed hands six times making it the most contested site in America during the American Revolution. It was right here in Laurens County. Historian and battlefield preservationist Durant Ashmore will talk about this important site on Tuesday, September 10, at 7 pm, at the Laurens County Museum, 116 South Public Square, Laurens.
The public is invited. Museum members and those 18 years old and under are free. A suggested donation of $5 for others helps support the museum.
According to Ashmore, not much is known about the specific location of Fort Williams. But, General James William’s biography, “Backcountry Revolutionary” by Will Graves documents the events of war at Fort Williams. James Williams was an important figure in the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. From being a pioneer in the Ninety Six District, a miller, and a member of the Provisional Assembly in the state before the war, Williams fought and led with esteem, and eventually lost his life at the Battle of Kings Mountain.
The Laurens County Museum exhibit hall is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm. For more information about becoming a member or volunteer, or about upcoming programs, call (864) 681-3678 or visit LaurensCountyMuseum.org or facebook.
