In the years leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence resistance to British control was felt in even isolated, rural communities. Settlers in the countryside around the small town of Alamance sent petitions to the royal government detailing their dissatisfaction with the price of land, embezzlement of tax money, and corrupt officials. When nothing changed they rebelled by refusing to pay fees and disrupting court proceedings which lead to the royal governor, William Tryon, raising a militia to quell the rebellion. A battle took place on May 1, 1771 between the militia and the settlers, who were outnumbered, unorganized, and without adequate arms and ammunition. It ended in a crushing of the rebellion. Fifteen prisoners were taken. Seven were hung and many of the settlers moved out of North Carolina to the edges of the frontier. Anyone who stayed had to swear allegiance to the crown.
The site has a small visitor center with a few exhibits and a short film. The back patio of the visitor center overlooks the battlefield where the land slopes gently towards a relocated log house donated by descendants of one of the men present at the battle. A few interpretive signs are located on the battlefield.
The visitor center is accessible. The battlefield is grass covered and lumpy but can be visited with assistance. The rangers will lead a discussion on the battle from the back patio if requested.
The parking lot is small but there's enough room for RVs. Battleground 36.00985, -79.52072
Such beautiful country. So many of our lovely sites have been sullied by battlefields.
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