black mingo creek

For this special paddle, I teamed up with the Georgetown Library for a program called “A Glorious Cause: South Carolina and the American Revolution,” which was made possible by an LSTA grant (Library Services and Technology Act) from the Institute of Museum and Library Services administered by the South Carolina State Library. Eleven folks signed up and met us at the landing for a tour of the Black Mingo creek and the site where Francis Marion and his Whig militia won a decisive skirmish against the Tories in September of 1780, a turning point in the war. 
 
The day had threatened rain but turned into a gorgeous spring morning. I got everyone outfitted and launched, and I divvied up the tour into distinct sections and stops: 1. At the landing, to discuss the backdrop of the war and the battle, and a disclaimer that I am no historian, only a kayak guide interested in history. 2. Just past the Dollard’s Tavern site, where the skirmish took place, to discuss the importance of ferries and the intimate nature of this “civil war.” 3. At the place where the Willtown Bridge once crossed the creek and where Francis Marion and his men crossed at midnight on their way to engage. 4. Into the swamps, where we discussed the natural history of the creek, including its unique geological history. Since this was an out-and-back paddle, we revisited these sites, and my friend and fellow naturalist Mathilde clued us in on the difference between cypress and tupelo species, and we saw many turtles sunning on logs beside blooming swamp roses and river lilies. It was a fine paddle with fine people on a fine day, and I hope I was able to make history a little less abstract for them out on the creek than it would be in a timeline or textbook. 
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