Battle Description

The Battle of Sullivan’s Island was a critical early victory for the American forces in the Southern theater. On June 28, 1776, British forces under General Henry Clinton and Admiral Sir Peter Parker launched a combined land and naval assault on Fort Sullivan, a Patriot fortification made of palmetto logs and sand on Sullivan’s Island guarding Charleston Harbor.

The British expected a swift victory, but the fort’s spongy palmetto walls absorbed cannon fire, and the defenders, led by Colonel William Moultrie, returned accurate fire. The Royal Navy suffered heavy damage, and the land forces failed to cross the channel to support the attack. After a full day of fighting, the British withdrew in defeat.

Outcome

• Outcome: Decisive American victory; British assault repelled.
• Casualties:
  • American: ~12 killed, ~25 wounded
  • British: ~220 killed or wounded, several ships damaged

Significance on the Revolution

The victory at Sullivan’s Island was a major morale boost for the Patriot cause and helped secure the South for the early years of the war. It delayed British plans to capture Charleston and demonstrated the effectiveness of local militia and fortifications. The battle also elevated Colonel Moultrie to hero status, and the palmetto tree became a lasting symbol of South Carolina’s resilience—featured prominently on the state flag.