Attraction Guide: Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, Greensboro, United States

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park Guide

Step Back in Time: Witness the Turning Point of the American Revolution Guide

Welcome to Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, a site that commemorates a pivotal battle in the American Revolutionary War. This park offers a unique opportunity to walk the grounds where American and British forces clashed in a hard-fought engagement that significantly weakened the British army and ultimately contributed to American independence. Explore the battlefield, learn about the strategies employed, and honor the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom. The Battle of Guilford Courthouse took place on March 15, 1781. General Nathanael Greene, leading the Continental Army, strategically chose the ground to engage the British forces under General Charles Cornwallis. Greene deployed his troops in three lines, aiming to inflict maximum casualties on the advancing British. While the British technically won the battle, they suffered heavy losses, a pyrrhic victory that severely hampered their ability to continue their campaign in the South. The battle is considered a turning point in the war, leading Cornwallis to abandon the Carolinas and march north to Virginia, where he eventually surrendered at Yorktown. Visitors can explore the battlefield on foot via several walking trails, ranging in length and difficulty. The park's visitor center offers exhibits, a film, and ranger-led programs that provide context and insights into the battle. You can also see monuments and memorials dedicated to the soldiers who fought here. Special events, such as living history demonstrations and reenactments, are held throughout the year, bringing the past to life. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly tied to the battlefield, nearby Greensboro offers a variety of dining options reflecting Southern cuisine.