I’m so excited to share the story of a true heroine of the Revolutionary War that I stumbled upon during a trip to the backcountry of South Carolina.
Her name is Kate Moore Barry, and though she never wore a uniform, her courage and quick thinking helped tip the scales of freedom.
With America’s 250th birthday just around the corner in 2026, there’s no better time to shine a light on hidden gems and unsung heroes who played a part in our nation’s founding.
If you’ve never heard this remarkable story, you’re in for a treat–keep reading!
Who Was Kate Moore Barry?
Because she was born into the untamed land of western South Carolina, Catharine “Kate” Moore Barry grew up riding the trails and learning every hidden path through the woods.
At just 15, she married Andrew Barry and soon found herself a young mother, holding down the homefront while her husband fought the British.
But Kate didn’t stay behind the scenes.
Note: Not quite shown in the photo above is a White Oak tree stump from a 430-year-old tree that fell in June 2001. It is estimated that the tree began growing about 1570, nearly 100 years before the founding of South Carolina! I wish I could have seen this old tree!
A Heroine Of The Revolutionary War
When British General Cornwallis dispatched the infamous Banastre Tarleton to crush the Patriot resistance, Kate sprang into action.
Legend has it she tied her toddler to a bedpost for safety, then galloped off alone through the backcountry—racing across the land she knew like the back of her hand to warn the militia.
Kate’s mission ended up being successful. In addition to warning General Daniel Morgan of the approaching British troops, she also rounded up a large number of local Patriots to help in the attack.
The victory at the Battle of Cowpens marked a turning point in the Southern Campaign and pushed Cornwallis into retreat… straight into the hands of George Washington in Yorktown.
Without Kate Barry’s bravery, who knows how the war might have ended?
The History Of Walnut Grove
In 1763, Charles and Mary Moore received a royal land grant from King George III—an expanse that would eventually grow to more than 3,600 acres.
They built their home here and raised ten children. The Moores relied on both their large family and the labor of a dozen enslaved African Americans to maintain the farm’s vast operations.
Walking the Grounds of Walnut Grove
The best part of this story? You can still walk in Kate’s footsteps and explore the very home where she was raised. I learned so much about colonial life at Walnut Grove (which I went on to use in my Revolutionary War novel Liberty and Destiny).
Tours at Walnut Grove include the kitchen, which is separated from the house as is typical of kitchens in that time period in case of fire.
When I visited, the dining room and a downstairs bedroom were also available for viewing, as was the entire second floor.
Original Colonial Keepsakes
Many of the items seen throughout the house were owned by the Moore family. One of the most interesting items was a box used to carry the family Bible.
This large ornate box was kept in the “keeping room” with other valuables that could be easily grabbed in case of fire.
Visitors to Walnut Grove also get to see Rocky Spring Academy, one of the first schools in the county.
Other outbuildings include the blacksmith forge, smoke house, wheat house, well house, dry cellar, barn, and reconstructed doctor’s office that represents the working space of one of the Moore’s sons who became a physician.
Tragic History Inside Walnut Grove
And the upstairs of the house is probably the most intriguing. Loyalist William “Bloody Bill” Cunningham killed three Patriot soldiers sheltered at the plantation in 1781, one of whom was recovering from a battle injury upstairs.
These deaths are symbolic of the brutal partisan warfare that took place in the South Carolina backcountry during the American Revolution.
Not only was there a war between the British and Americans, but also a civil war between Patriots and Loyalists.
The Bloody Legacy of ‘Bloody Bill’
Cunningham’s story is one of bitter betrayal and ruthless revenge.
He enlisted in 1775 to serve South Carolina on the side of independence and did so with some distinction. But his service for the Patriots ended when he was court-martialed and whipped for an infraction while in service.
This left him quite bitter, and he moved to Florida.
When news reached Cunningham that his father had been forcibly removed from his house by Patriots, he traveled to the home of the man responsible and killed him in front of his family.
This act of vengeance led to additional atrocities, including killing his former commander whom he held responsible for his beating. William Cunningham ultimately became an infamous villain in South Carolina.
His fury burned for years, erupting into a personal war of vengeance when he returned from Florida and began a campaign of violent retribution across the South Carolina backcountry.
His name instilled fear and dread to anyone who heard it—and Walnut Grove bears witness to his cruelty.
Don’t miss a visit to Washington’s Mount Vernon as you re-discover America!
What You’ll See In A Visit To Walnut Grove
Like I said before, a visit to Walnut Grove doesn’t end at the main house. I learned as much in the other buildings as I did main living quarters. The grounds are dotted with preserved and reconstructed outbuildings, each one opening a window into colonial life.
You can look inside Rocky Spring Academy—one of the first schools in the area, and also explore the blacksmith forge, the well house, the dry cellar, and a recreated doctor’s office honoring one of the Moore sons who became a physician.
The Cemetery At Walnut Grove
Perhaps the best part of the property is the walk to the family cemetery, just a short stroll down a wooded path.
There, under weathered stones and unmarked field rocks, lie nearly 150 souls—among them, the Patriot victims of Bloody Bill and the legendary Kate Barry herself, buried beside her beloved Andrew.
Even though Kate Moore Barry’s gravestone has faded by time, her legacy speaks volumes.
Plan Your Visit to Walnut Grove
Location: 1200 Otts Shoals Rd, Roebuck, SC
Whether you’re a Revolutionary War buff, a lover of old houses, or someone who simply appreciates stories of courage and grit, Walnut Grove offers an unforgettable journey back in time.
It’s always amazing when you can walk the same land where legends were born.
In this case, you can even stand in the rooms where history was made.
This isn’t just a visit—it’s an experience.
There’s lots of history in South Carolina! Check it out.
Walnut Grove Tickets and Tours
Summer hours at Walnut Grove run May to August.
Tickets prices for guided tours are: Adults • $10; Children ages 5-16 • $6; Seniors • $8;Active Duty Military • FREE; Ages 0 – 4 • FREE; SCHA Members • FREE.
Self-guided access to the grounds is available for $5 per person (Active Military, Children under 3 and SCHA Members are free). Picnics and leashed pets welcome. Does not include access to the manor house, kitchen cabin, or academy.
Discounts on Guided Tours for scheduled groups.
Hours are:
Tuesday • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wednesday • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Friday • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday • 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday • 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday • CLOSED, except for private tours & field trips.
Guided Tours begin on the hour. Last tour departs at 4 p.m.
Closed on holidays.
If you want to immerse yourself in history, stay in a historic hotel. Here are some of my recommendations.
Legacy That Lives On
Kate Barry’s story is more than a footnote in history. She was a daughter of the frontier, a mother, a spy, and a fearless patriot who helped turn the tide of war.
Her bravery has been commemorated in coinage and honored by descendants—among them, the late actress Amanda Blake, best known as Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke.
A cameo-sized portrait of Kate, passed down through the family, is proudly displayed at the local museum.
Other Historic Sites Near Spartanburg, S.C.
- Cowpens National Battlefield (~18 miles / ~25 minutes)
Where Daniel Morgan’s tactical brilliance delivered a pivotal Patriot victory on January 17, 1781. Today, you can explore walking and biking trails across the battlefield, visit the museum and visitor center, and view the Robert Scruggs House.
- Kings Mountain National Military Park (~35 miles / ~45 minutes)
Commemorates the dramatic October 7, 1780, Patriot-led triumph that turned the tide in the Southern campaign. The park spans 4,000 acres, featuring trails, monuments, an amphitheater, gravesites, and a museum film. - Musgrove Mill State Historic Site (~25 miles / ~35 minutes)
Scene of a fierce but brief battle on August 19, 1780. Stroll its nature trails (including a waterfall and riverside views), visit the interpretive center, and enjoy birdwatching or a peaceful picnic. - Jammie Seay House (~3 miles / ~10 minutes)
Built circa 1770–1800, this log home belonged to a Revolutionary War soldier and stands as the oldest house within Spartanburg’s city limits. Tours are available seasonally under the Spartanburg County Historical Association. - Anderson’s Mill (~8 miles / ~15 minutes)
A historic water-powered gristmill on a Revolutionary-era foundation. It’s notable for being the oldest mill in South Carolina still standing on its original foundation.
Planning A Trip? These Are Some Of My Favorite Resources
Find the perfect accommodations with Booking.com. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, they have a room for every preference, including pets and pools.
Discover the best tours and activities with Viator or Get Your Guide. Explore iconic landmarks, take guided tours and immerse yourself in history.
Rent a car with Discover Cars and enjoy the freedom to explore the town at your own pace. Discover hidden gems, explore the countryside and make the most of your trip.
Need a flight? Check FareDrop for the best deals.
Don’t forget travel insurance with SafetyWing.
