The Battle
From ten o'clock on the night of April 13, 1780, a swift silent march was undertaken
along the road to Monck's Corner by Lt.
Colonel Banastre Tarleton and his men. They encountered no American
scouts or patrols. When they reached Monck's Corner, they caught the Americans
completely by surprise. Not only had there been no patrols, but General Huger
had placed his cavalry in front of his infantry.
Lt. Colonel Tarleton led a charge right at the Americans since swamps on either
side precluded a flank attack. The British easily dispersed the militia defending
Biggins Bridge. Most of the Americans were able to escape, including General
Isaac Huger and Lt.
Colonel William Washington, who had suffered yet another defeat by Tarleton.
Tarleton was also able to capture wagons of supplies and a great many excellent
cavalry horses.
Aftermath
The Continental defeat at Monck's Corner left Maj.
General Benjamin Lincoln without any lines of communication from Charleston.
The defeat only hastened the surrender of Charleston.
