It’s very likely that British forces passed through or near the area now known as NoDa (North Davidson area) in Charlotte, NC during the Charlotte Campaign of the Revolutionary War, particularly during Lord Cornwallis’s occupation of Charlotte in late September through mid-October 1780.
Here’s why:
đź“Ť Strategic Location
- NoDa is located northeast of Uptown Charlotte, near where many of the old wagon roads converged, including the Great Wagon Road, a major north-south route used by settlers and armies alike.
- British forces used these roads to move troops, forage supplies, and conduct reconnaissance, especially while facing stiff resistance from the local militia, famously called the “Hornets’ Nest” by Cornwallis due to their guerrilla tactics.
🧠Historical Military Movements
- After the Battle of Camden (August 1780), Cornwallis moved north into North Carolina to secure the region and break rebel resistance.
- The British occupied Charlotte from Sept 26 to Oct 14, 1780, but found the area hostile and difficult to control due to harassment from Patriot militia under leaders like William R. Davie and Joseph Graham.
- The British sent out patrols and foraging parties in all directions from Charlotte — including toward Sugar Creek, Craighead, Phifer, and Reedy Creek areas — which would include modern NoDa and its surrounding neighborhoods.
🛡️ Skirmishes and Resistance
- It’s recorded that local militia frequently engaged British patrols outside the main town center, including around Sugar Creek Church and other outlying settlements.
- Families like the Alexanders, who lived near today’s Northlake and NoDa area, were active in the resistance and likely helped block northern and eastern access routes — right where NoDa lies.
🧱 Physical and Archaeological Clues
- You’ve mentioned earthworks near Gar Creek and Northlake Mall. Similar terrain and elevated ridgelines exist near NoDa, and those would’ve been known pathways or picket-line zones.
- The area’s proximity to old plantation roads, mills, and rail crossings makes it a strong candidate for military passage or observation.
Conclusion:
While there’s no known direct battle in today’s NoDa, the British likely passed through or scouted the area, and it was almost certainly within the operational perimeter of the Charlotte Campaign. The area’s history of rebel sympathizers, elevated terrain, and strategic roads makes it a probable part of the British military footprint during their brief and troubled occupation.