You’re invited to join our devoted flag bearer, Mr. Greg Kitchens, as he represents CLS during the annual Carolina Day Parade procession from Washington Square to White Point Gardens. As one of the oldest institutions represented in this yearly celebration of the patriots across the state who played a role in helping America gain its independence, we are honored to have a place near the front of the line. Hope to see you there!
Parade participants will gather at Washington Square, located behind City Hall at 80 Broad Street, at 11:00 AM. The parade ends at White Point Gardens.
RSVP is requested—simply fill out the form below—but not required. For the full Carolina Day schedule, check out the Palmetto Society’s website here.
What is Carolina Day?
Carolina Day is the annual commemoration the Battle of Sullivan’s Island on June 28, 1776.
On June 28, 1776, a small band of South Carolina Patriots defeated the British Royal Navy in the Battle of Sullivan’s Island. Troops, led by Colonel William Moultrie, were station at an incomplete palmetto log and sand fort near Breach Inlet. Soldiers defeated a British naval force of nine warships led by Commodore Sir Peter Parker as they attempted to invade Charlestown by way of the Harbor. After a nine-hour battle the ships were forced to abandon their efforts to occupy Charlestown.
The Liberty Flag was designed by Colonel William Moultrie and waved by Sergeant William Jasper to rally the troops during the battle. This scene was famously painted by Johannes Adam Simon Oertel, a German-American artist. The Liberty Flag became the basis for the Flag of South Carolina which bears an image of the same palmetto trees that were used to build Fort Moultrie.
The anniversary of the victory was celebrated locally starting in 1777, when it was then known as Palmetto Day. The anniversary became know as Carolina Day in 1875. Fort Moultrie still holds a celebration each year to commemorate the victory over the British troops.
