On a recent road trip, I had the opportunity to explore Rivers Bridge State Historic Site. This hidden gem is nestled in the heart of South Carolina near Ehrhardt and is perfect for those looking to enjoy a thoughtful walk through lush forests while uncovering the stories of the past.
Rivers Bridge and nearby Broxton Bridge were the sites of a significant Civil War battle in February of 1865. There, Confederate forces attempted to delay Union troops during Sherman’s infamous march to the sea. Today, the park preserves the battlefield and commemorates those who fought here, offering visitors a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history.
In the coming February, I’ll be attending the Civil War reenactment with a youth group at the Broxton Bridge Plantation. Radar and I stopped here to check the state park as a possible side visit. The state park is just a few miles from the planned reenactment.
We stopped first at the battleground. The Battlefield Trail is supposed to have a short loop trail. It guides visitors to interpretive markers and preserved earthworks. These markers explain the strategies and significance of the battle. At just under a mile, this trail is intended to be accessible for all skill levels. It is a great option for a glimpse of the past. However, at the time of my visit, the battlefield portion of the park was still being cleaned up from the recent hurricane and wasn’t open so we stopped next at the Memorial Grounds.
The Memorial site and casualty exhibit is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices people made in our nation’s history. Here there are four cemeteries including one cemetery which holds the Confederate dead from this battle in 1865. The Memorial site also has a Casualties Exhibit in the old museum. The permanent exhibit in the old relic room at the Memorial Grounds is filled with illustrated interpretive panels to tell about the fate of some of the soldiers and casualties of the Battle of Rivers Bridge.
Favorite Time of year: The Spring should be pleasant. I intend to return in February for the reenactment at Broxton Bridge.
Camping: No camping is available at this park.
Pet friendly: Must be kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet.
Getting There: From I-95, take exit 57 at Walterboro onto Hwy 64 W toward Barnwell. Turn onto Hwy 641 toward Allendale and follow the Rivers Bridge State Historic Site directional signs. It’s about a 2-hour drive from the Charleston area.
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