Daniel Morgan, Revolutionary Rifleman 

Review by George Thurmond (Georgia Society SAR)

This is story about the hero of Saratoga and Cowpens. Daniel Morgan got an early start learning to fight the Indians prior to the American Revolution. The tactics that worked well there contributed to the success that he would later enjoy during the Revolution. Daniel Morgan was born near Winchester in the Valley of Virginia. He was a rugged outdoorsman who was well known for his courage. His reputation led him to be one of the principal leaders in the abortive attempt to make Quebec the 14th state early in the war. Not to be discouraged, Morgan later was one of the reasons for the Patriot success at the Battles of Saratoga. Morgan was an excellent shot and was called upon to develop America's first sharpshooters. This played havoc with the British at Saratoga, gaining Morgan a reputation that would long be remembered. Following a disastrous defeat of the Patriots at Camden in August 1780, followed by the stunning victory at Kings Mountain, it was clear that the Patriots should now take on the strength of Lord Cornwallis and newly appointed Daniel Morgan was assigned this task to accomplish. The battle would be fought at Cowpens with Morgan destroying the pride of the British, led by the hated Lt Col Tarleton. The victory was so remarkable that Congress authorized a gold medal for Morgan in appreciation of his leadership. Author Higginbotham completes the story of Morgan by following him home to the Winchester area and traces his activities until his death on July 6, 1802. Editors note: Each year at 11:00 a.m. on the morning of the celebration of the Battle of Cowpens, the Daniel Morgan Chapter, South Carolina Society, Sons of the American Revolution conducts a program to honor Brigadier General Morgan at Morgan Square in Downtown Spartanburg, South Carolina

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