Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
What began in 1780 at the Battle of Kings Mountain as a triumph of freedom became a test of conscience. Neighbors hanged neighbors, and families were torn apart. Patriots sentenced 32 loyalist prisoners to death, hanging nine, some just miles from home. Through loyalist journals, colonial records and descendant voices, we trace the brutal aftermath of those who lost in the fight for independence.
Homegrown History
Homegrown History is a multiyear public history initiative exploring North Carolina's rich past. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the inaugural year will focus on North Carolina’s history as it relates to the American Revolution. It is presented in conjunction with PBS America at 250 and America 250 NC, a statewide effort led by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Learn more at pbsnc.org/HomegrownHistory
The Homegrown History Initiative is sponsored by SECU Foundation, funded by the members of State Employees’ Credit Union. Additional support provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, American Battlefield Trust and Duke Energy Foundation.
Subscribe to the PBS North Carolina channel so you never miss a story! @MyPBSNC
This program is made possible by viewers like you! Support PBS North Carolina today: pbsnc.org/donate
FOLLOW US
Instagram: instagram.com/MyPBSNC
Facebook: facebook.com/MyPBSNC
Email Newsletter: pbsnc.org/signup
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What began in 1780 at the Battle of Kings Mountain as a triumph of freedom became a test of conscience. Neighbors hanged neighbors, and families were torn apart. Patriots sentenced 32 loyalist prisoners to death, hanging nine, some just miles from home. Through loyalist journals, colonial records and descendant voices, we trace the brutal aftermath of those who lost in the fight for independence.
Homegrown History
Homegrown History is a multiyear public history initiative exploring North Carolina's rich past. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, the inaugural year will focus on North Carolina’s history as it relates to the American Revolution. It is presented in conjunction with PBS America at 250 and America 250 NC, a statewide effort led by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.
Learn more at pbsnc.org/HomegrownHistory
The Homegrown History Initiative is sponsored by SECU Foundation, funded by the members of State Employees’ Credit Union. Additional support provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, American Battlefield Trust and Duke Energy Foundation.
Subscribe to the PBS North Carolina channel so you never miss a story! @MyPBSNC
This program is made possible by viewers like you! Support PBS North Carolina today: pbsnc.org/donate
FOLLOW US
Instagram: instagram.com/MyPBSNC
Facebook: facebook.com/MyPBSNC
Email Newsletter: pbsnc.org/signup
Enjoy full episodes of your favorite PBS shows anytime, anywhere with the free PBS App: pbsnc.org/app
