Please Join the Granby Chapter, NSDAR for a Commemoration of the Revolutionary War Skirmish on May 15, 1781.

History

Friday’s Ferry was a crucial 18th-century crossing on the Congaree River in South Carolina, established around 1754 by German settler Martin Fridig (later Friday). Located near modern-day Cayce and West Columbia, it linked Richland and Lexington counties and was famously used by George Washington in 1791. It was a key site during the American Revolution, associated with the nearby British post, Fort Granby.

Key historical and location details regarding Friday’s Ferry:

• Location: The ferry operated on the Congaree River near Cayce, SC, connecting to the Old State Road.
• Founder: Martin Fridig (later Friday) received permission from the Colonial assembly in Charleston to operate the ferry in 1754.
• Significance: It was a vital link for travelers, traders, and military, allowing passage between the upcountry and lowcountry.
• Revolutionary War: The site was near Fort Granby, a strategic British-held post. A Revolutionary skirmish occurred here on May 1, 1781, involving Lt. Col. Henry Hampton.
• George Washington’s Visit: On his 1791 Southern Tour, President Washington crossed the Congaree River at this location.
• Transition to Bridges: The ferry was superseded in the 1790s by toll bridges built by Wade Hampton.
• Modern Day: The site, located near the Thomas Newman Boatlanding in Cayce, SC, is recognized for its historical importance.

Parking & Shuttle Instructions:

• No on site parking. Parking is nearby at Thomas Newman Boat Landing.
• Two shuttle vans will carry participants to and from the park starting at about noon until 2:00 PM and then after the event and reception.
• Members of the Godfrey Dreher Chapter, SCSSAR are the drivers.
• Go past the park, south on Old State Road for 1.7 miles and turn left on Granby Landing Rd.
• Park at Thomas Newman Boat Landing.
• Overflow parking is nearby.