Celebrating Independence

Event Details

On Independence weekend and Independence Day, special programming at Middleton Place will invite guests to explore why people chose to fight for whichever side, specifically in South Carolina colony. While the signing of the Declaration of Independence points to mutual high-minded ideals of Liberty and self-governance, the War for American Independence in the southern colonies was very much a civil war. Many people remained loyal to the crown, and many more did not wish to be involved at all.

On Independence weekend (June 30 and July 1) guests can interact with interpreters of the 2nd South Carolina regiment, a group of trained soldiers of the Continental Army, as well as with interpreters portraying militia (Sunday Only, 11 am - 2 pm), loyalist, and a self-emancipated former slave who joined the British cause.

Throughout the weekend and on on July 4 guests will have the opportunity to hear presentations from Arthur Middleton on the signing of the Declaration, and from a colonial lady about her experience of the era as well. Colonial games will be available for play all day, as well as crafts to engage visitors young and old, celebrating diversity as Americans. Refreshments of watermelon, lemonade, and ice cream will be available to help beat the heat.

All activities are included in regular admission to Middleton Place and free for Foundation members.

Activities available all day:
Colonial Games, Family Fun Crafts, visiting encampment, interacting with living historians, laundry and cooking demos, material culture display, Sunday only - visit with cannon crew

Schedule of Events, both days:
10:00 - Event opens
10:30 - Living History Presentation: A Woman's Perspective of Declaring Independence and War
11:00 - Musket Firing Demo; 2nd SC
11:30 - Living History Presentation: Arthur Middleton and the Signing of the Declaration
12:00 - Camp Tour (also available throughout the day)
12:30 - Living History Presentation: Charles Middleton, an Enslaved Perspective on "Independence"
1:30 - Living History Presentation: A Woman's Pespective on Declaring Independence and War
2:00 - Musket Firing Demo; 2nd SC
2:30 - Living History Presentation: Arthur Middleton and the Signing of the Declaration
3:00 - Living History Presentation: Charles Middleton, an Enslaved Perspective on "Independence"
3:30 - Camp Tour