The South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission (SC250) will host a public ceremony on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in Marion Square to commemorate Evacuation Day, the anniversary of Charleston’s liberation from British occupation in 1782.
The program will begin at 1:00 PM with a performance by the Camden Military Academy Fife and Drum Corps, followed by a ceremonial march featuring living historians from the Washington Light Infantry, the South Carolina 2nd Regiment, and British re-enactors.
At 1:15 PM, the ceremony will include remarks from Major General Will Grimsley (U.S. Army, Ret.), Chairman of the SC250 Commission, and Dr. Erick Nason, who will provide historical context on the end of the war in the Carolinas and the significance of Charleston’s liberation.
A symbolic Flag Surrender between patriot and British units will take place at 1:25 PM, representing the peaceful transfer of control that occurred as Continental troops entered the city in 1782. A brief cannon salute will follow. Light refreshments will be served at 1:45 PM, and the event is free and open to the public.
Historical Background
On December 14, 1782, British forces completed their evacuation of Charleston, ending more than two years of occupation. Continental Army troops under Major General Anthony Wayne advanced into the city as the British departed, restoring patriot control. General William Moultrie later wrote that the day “ought never to be forgotten by the Carolinians,” marking it as a true moment of deliverance and independence.
