Beaufort, South Carolina, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort, South Carolina will celebrate Children’s Day and the Battle of Port Royal Island with a living history reenactment. This immersive event will allow children to engage in historical activities related to the American Revolution. The historic Arsenal building will serve as the backdrop for various educational activities, including cannon firings and military drills. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the region’s rich history while having fun with authentic replicas from the era.
Beaufort, South Carolina will host a living history reenactment on March 22, celebrating Children’s Day and the Battle of Port Royal Island. This educational event invites children to participate in an immersive experience that highlights the region’s rich historical significance during the American Revolution.
The famous Arsenal building, constructed in 1798, is one of the oldest structures in South Carolina and currently serves as the backdrop for this event. Its historical importance predates its construction, with events that have influenced American history taking place on its grounds. For instance, in 1772, an extraordinary political event unfolded when the South Carolina legislature refused to pass a budget for British Royal Governor Lord Charles Greville Montagu at the Arsenal, leading to his removal. This action was unique to South Carolina, distinguishing it from political developments in other colonies such as Boston and Philadelphia.
This refusal to comply with the governor’s demands ultimately became a grievance noted by signers of the Declaration of Independence, specifically addressing King George III’s attempts to control legislative bodies by convening them at unusual locations to wear them down into submission.
Throughout its history, the Arsenal has played various roles, including serving as a military stronghold for the Beaufort Volunteer Artillery, which is among the nation’s oldest military units. The facility was integral during the War of 1812 and the Civil War, housing cannons and gunpowder while providing refuge during conflicts. After Beaufort was chartered in 1803, it also functioned as a police headquarters and jail. In 1861, the first Southern city to be captured by Union forces was Beaufort, which significantly altered its historical trajectory.
Today, the Arsenal serves as a public event space and tourist attraction, known for both its sturdy construction and its ongoing role in educating the community about its cultural heritage. The upcoming reenactment invites children to take part in reimagining the Battle of Port Royal Island from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 22.
Activities will include cannon firings at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m., and children will be divided into two groups: Patriots and Loyalists. At least 50 participants are needed to reenact the battle. Authentic hats from the historical time period and safe musket replicas will be provided to all participating children. Funding for the event is derived from a grant from SC250, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the South Carolina American Revolution.
During the event, participants will engage in drills, period medical practices, and learn about historical ballistics. Interactive sessions will be moderated by retired U.S. Army Infantry Officer Tom Oblak and historian Robert Ryals. Children will have the unique opportunity to handle a real cannon and aim a child-friendly “hand cannon” that uses no live ammunition.
The Beaufort History Museum is dedicated to educating the public about the region’s cultural heritage. Events like this reenactment provide fun yet informative experiences that bridge the gap between past and present, ensuring that the storied history of the region remains alive for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date and time of the Children’s Day reenactment?
The reenactment will take place on March 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How can children participate in the event?
Children can participate by signing up to reenact the Battle of Port Royal Island, where they will be divided into Patriots and Loyalists. At least 50 children are needed to participate.
What will happen during the reenactment?
Activities during the reenactment include cannon firings, drills, and lessons on period medical practices and historical ballistics, along with an opportunity to handle historical replicas.
Is there a cost to participate in the reenactment?
Details regarding costs (if any) for participation have not been specified; it is advisable to contact the Beaufort History Museum for more information.
Event Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date | March 22 |
| Time | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. |
| Location | The Arsenal, Beaufort, SC |
| Activities | Cannon firings, drills, historical education sessions |
| Target Participants | Children aged 7 and above (50 needed for participation) |
| Funding | Grant from SC250 |
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Additional Resources
- Your Island News: BHM Arsenal Hosting Revolutionary War Reenactment
- Wikipedia: Beaufort, South Carolina
- Explore Beaufort SC: Revolutionary War Reenactment at Beaufort Arsenal
- Google Search: Beaufort Arsenal
- Eat Stay Play Beaufort: Visit Beaufort History Museum
- Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
- World Atlas: Most Overlooked South Carolina Towns
- Google News: Beaufort SC
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
