Meet The Swamp fox
Santee Cooper Country boasts a plethora of ways to get to know the sly Swamp Fox, but we would like to take a moment to formally introduce General Francis Marion, one of our most well-remembered figures of the American Revolutionary War. Marion has gone down in history for his resourcefulness, guerilla-style warfare tactics and valiant efforts in the American Revolutionary War. Throughout our area in the midlands of South Carolina, visitors can experience firsthand some of the battles that occurred and their sites, see noteworthy landmarks and learn more about Marion’s many adventures in South Carolina.
Who Was
Francis Marion ?
Francis Marion was born in Berkley County, South Carolina in 1732 on his family’s plantation. As the youngest son, Marion was the smallest and had malformed legs, yet it was clear he was spirited and eager for action from an early age. At around age 15, he joined a ship’s crew and sailed to the West Indies. On his first voyage, the ship reportedly sank after being struck by a whale. Luckily, the crew escaped in a lifeboat, drifting at sea for a week before finally reaching land.
After this harrowing experience, Marion chose to lay his sea legs to rest and instead oversee his family’s plantation back home. He later joined the South Carolina militia at age 25 to fight in the French and Indian War.
During this time, Marion fought rigorous battles against the Cherokee Indians. Through these feats, he learned from the Native Americans how to use the lowcountry land to his advantage and became skilled in navigating the backwoods of South Carolina. This talent would prove to be extremely successful throughout his military career and would aid him in victories over the European forces and their line-style attacks that his troops faced in the American Revolution.
HOW DID HE EARN THE TITLE OF
“The Swamp Fox?”
Speaking of his military career, you may be wondering how Marion became known as the cunning “Swamp Fox.” British Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton was on a mission to demobilize Marion that proved to be much more challenging than he had anticipated. After a long 26 mile chase through the Carolina Swamp, Tarleton stated, “as for this old fox, the devil himself could not catch him!” Marion employed his knowledge of the land to evade capture by British soldiers –thus, the daring Swamp Fox earned his name.
Where Can You Learn
more about Marion?
If you’re interested in learning more about Marion and his excursions through Santee Cooper Country, we’ve got a few must-see stops you’ll need to visit.
Begin your journey at Lake Marion. Named after our famous friend, Lake Marion is the largest lake in South Carolina. It offers an abundance of water-filled fun to guests and locals alike each summer and is full of rich history. In fact, one of the most intriguing things about the lake is not what occurs above it, but what lies beneath it.
Before Lake Marion became the beloved attraction that it is today, the lake served as the location of Pond Bluff, the Swamp Fox’s home. What was once a town known as Ferguson, is now submerged deep under the waters. If you’re a boating enthusiast, perhaps you’ve sailed over Marion’s home before–without even knowing it!
Next, you’ll want to visit the Swamp Fox Murals in Clarendon County. Here, visitors can view depictions of the General’s most famous battles. The 18 murals are dedicated to the Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War and the artwork even showcases the moment Tarleton deemed Marion as the Swamp Fox–talk about a landmark occasion!
Before you leave, check out Francis Marion’s burial site, located in Pineville just off Highway 45. The General took his final breath on February 27, 1795 at Pond Bluff Plantation and has been laid to rest at Belle Isle Plantation cemetery. All history buffs who would like to view his resting place and pay their respects are welcome to visit.
To learn more about the crafty Swamp Fox from the comfort of your home, perhaps check out the blockbuster hit film, The Patriot. Shot entirely in South Carolina, the movie follows Benjamin Martin, a farmer headed to battle after atrocities that occurred near his home. While his character is fictional, his story is based on the background of General Francis Marion. It is a great way to prepare for your next historical adventure in Santee Cooper County and a must-watch addition to your next movie night!
No matter where you are in Santee Cooper Country, you are never far from famous battle sites, local legends and opportunities to learn about the historic charm of all five counties. Plan your trip today and come meet one of South Carolina’s bravest generals.
The Swamp Fox can’t wait to greet you!