The song, King's Mountain was written in 1780 shortly after the battle of King's Mountain, South Carolina. The local Patriot militia were victorious over the Loyalist forces led by Major Patrick Ferguson on 07 October, 1780.
'Twas on a pleasant mountain The Tory heathens lay;
With a doughty major at their head, One Ferguson they say.
Cornwallis had detach'd him, A thieving for to go,
And catch the Carolina men, Or bring the rebels low.
The scamp had rang'd the country In search of royal aid,
And with his owls, perched on high, He taught them all his trade.
But ah! That fatal morning, When Shelby brave drew near!
'Tis certainly a warning That ministers should hear.
And Campbell, and Cleveland, And Colonel Sevier,
Each with a band of gallant men, To Ferguson appear.
Just as the sun was setting Behind the western hills,
Just then our trusty rifles sent A dose of leaden pills.
I would not tell the number Of Tories slain that day,
But surely it is certain That none did run away.
For all that were a living, Were happy to give up;
So let us make thanksgiving, And pass the bright tin-cup.
To all the brave regiments, Let's toast 'em for their health,
And may our good country Have quietude and wealth.
