Exciting news for history enthusiasts and Pickens County residents—the long-awaited dream of rebuilding Fort Prince George is closer to reality! On March 3, 2025, Pickens County Council unanimously approved a lease from Duke Energy for War Path Landing, the planned site for the fort’s reconstruction.

A Long-Awaited Project

The project has been in discussion for decades, with key figures like Pickens County Administrator Ken Roper and the Pickens County Historical Society advocating for the fort’s revival. The site at War Path Landing offers both historical significance and a practical solution for managing recreation in the area.

Duke Energy, required by federal regulations to maintain public recreation spaces, has agreed to improvements such as parking upgrades and restroom facilities, aligning with the fort’s development plans. The Historical Society will spearhead private fundraising efforts to support the fort’s construction.

A Landmark for Cultural & Heritage Tourism

Historians and local advocates believe the fort will become a major cultural and educational attraction. Wayne Kelley of the Historical Society predicts it will draw thousands of visitors, including international tourists interested in Cherokee and colonial history. The fort is expected to complement the Hagood Mill Historic Site, which already attracts over 44,000 visitors annually.

Historian Dennis Chastain emphasized the fort’s historical significance as a British outpost during the French and Indian War, playing a key role in British-Cherokee relations. The reconstructed fort will be designed for historical accuracy, providing an immersive experience for visitors.

Moving Forward: Fundraising & Timeline

With the lease secured, the next phase involves fundraising and securing grants. The goal is to break ground in 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of American independence, and complete the fort by 2027.

Pickens County leaders and historical advocates are enthusiastic about the project’s potential to preserve history, enhance tourism, and educate future generations. As Roper put it, “This is a part of our history that can slip away if we’re not careful, and rebuilding it allows us to tell our unique place in American history.”

Stay tuned as Pickens County takes a major step toward reviving a lost piece of South Carolina’s history!