The City of Cayce plans to preserve the Battle of Congaree Creek earthworks.

Constructed in January and February of 1865, the earthworks have stood the test of time. They were a major part of the confederate defenses against Gen. W.T. Sherman’s troops as they were heading to destroy Columbia.

Amazingly, they are some of the best earthworks in the country even though the landscape has changed in 153 years.

The city has received a $23,000 grant from the American Battlefield Protection Program for that, according to City Manager Brian Watkins and Grant Administrator Rachel Moody.

John Jameison, retired from the National Park Service and a consultant for the City of Cayce and The River Alliance, will lead the project.

During the Battle of Congaree Creek, the area was predominantly rich bottom-land used for farming. There were few trees there back then. Unfortunately, there are many trees, shrubs and other vegetation growing on them today. At this time no one can say with certainty how the earthworks would be affected if the trees and vegetation is removed or what damage would occur if it is left in place.

Moody and Jameison agree that the grant will allow them to measure every inch of the earthworks and record where the most vulnerable areas are.

Data collected will be used to develop a preservation plan.

Grants like this take a lot of work and certain requirements must be met.

Moody submitted the application for the grant, which John wrote in January. It took 8 months for the grant to be approved.

Federal grants of this type are reimbursement grants. That means Cayce pays for the work first and they are reimbursed for the costs.

Cayce will open bidding for those with the required expertise to do a job which should take about a year.

You can see the earthworks for yourself by taking one of the free tours of the battle site by River Alliance volunteers.

I am one of them, so you may have me as your guide. Visit the 12,000 year History Park on Congaree on Facebook or visit www.RiverAlliance.com for dates and times.