New Interactive Exhibits Bring Revolutionary War Stories to Life at Musgrove Mill State Historic Site

Visitors to the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site can now experience the Revolutionary War in a new way through interactive digital characters featured in the redesigned Visitor Center.

Following extensive exhibit upgrades, the Visitor Center has reopened with four digital characters who share first-person perspectives on the Battle of Musgrove Mill and life during the Revolutionary War era. Visitors can interact with a Patriot civilian, Patriot militiaman, Loyalist militiaman, and an enslaved African American seeking freedom, asking questions and hearing stories that explore the challenges, motivations, and experiences of people connected to this pivotal period in South Carolina history.

The characters’ responses are based on extensive historical research and source materials carefully curated by South Carolina State Parks historians and Revolutionary War experts. This research-driven approach helps provide an engaging experience while maintaining historical accuracy and authenticity.

“This project gives visitors a new way to connect with the people and stories behind the Battle of Musgrove Mill,” said Duane Parrish, director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “The redesigned Visitor Center creates a more interactive experience that can help visitors better understand the significance of this place and the many perspectives that shaped our state’s Revolutionary War history.”

The exhibit redesign was facilitated by TimeLooper, an interpretive experience design firm with a project portfolio that includes the Carolina Rising Museum in Gaffney, South Carolina, and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii. The project was developed in partnership with South Carolina State Parks staff.

Funding and support for the project came from the Duke Energy Foundation, the National Park Service, the Bailey Foundation, Accommodations Tax grants from the City of Clinton and Laurens County, state-appropriated dollars, and individual donations.

“We are proud to support bringing these stories to life in a way that helps invite people to learn, reflect and connect,” said Tim Pearson, president of Duke Energy South Carolina. “This exhibit is a wonderful example of the many programs we supported this year as part of our company’s celebration of America 250 and will be a resource for telling South Carolina’s history for years to come.”

Musgrove Mill State Historic Site commemorates the Battle of Musgrove Mill, fought on August 19, 1780. Approximately 200 Patriot militia faced a larger force of 200 Loyalists and 300 Provincial soldiers in a brief but significant battle that resulted in a Patriot victory.

The unexpected victory boosted Patriot morale and challenged British assumptions that organized Patriot resistance in the region had been defeated. Today, visitors can explore the battlefield, experience the redesigned Visitor Center, and learn more about the people and events that shaped the Revolutionary War in South Carolina.

The Visitor Center is included with regular park admission: $3 for adults, $1.50 for South Carolina seniors, $1 for children ages 6–15, and free for children 5 and younger.

Musgrove Mill State Historic Site is located at 398 State Park Road in Clinton. The park also offers special events, Ranger Guided Hikes, and Living History programs throughout the year.

For current park hours, programs, events, and advisories, visit southcarolinaparks.com/Musgrove-Mill.