After the Battle of Camden and the subsequent defeat, and departure of the Continental Army from South Carolina, Francis Marion already a lieutenant colonel commanding the Williamsburg Militia in the Pee Dee area used his militia force of 20 to 70 men to harass enemy forces and disrupt supply lines.

Marion's Militia was made of citizen's farmers and slaves from the surrounding countryside, due to the lack of war materials available these men provided their own armaments, mounts and food.

In early fall Marion received correspondence from General Horatio Gates who encouraged him to continue his offensive.

[2] to lead and train a loyalist militia in the High Hills area between Salem, SC and Nelsons Ford.

Upon hearing of the enemy movement Marion expressed that this was an excellent opportunity "to break up the party, before its newly made converts should become confirmed in the principles they had unwillingly adopted".

[4] After taking positions, Marion signaled the attack with the discharge of his pistol, and the groups charged in on horses yelling and firing their weapons.

With the success of the attack the Patriots were able to capture supplies totaling over 80 muskets, a number of bridled and saddled horses as well foodstuffs.

Marion would later assign Captain William Clay Snipes to hunt down the loyalist leader which led to the eventual capture of Tynes.