McDowell's Station was located at Quaker Meadows along the upper Catawba River in western Rowan County [near present-day Morganton]. During the Cherokee incursions of 1776, the Indians attacked and laid siege to the fort after killing 37 settlers along the Catawba River.

Others in the surrounding area quickly moved into the fort for protection. Lt. Col. Charles McDowell had ten men to protect 120 women and children at the time of the siege.

Brigadier General Griffith Rutherford mounted an expedition to relieve the fort, but he fully expected everyone to be massacred prior to his arrival. However to his surprise, the settlers were able to hold out against the Cherokees, and as Rutherford approached the siege was broken.

The Cherokees continued to harass Brigadier General Rutherford's militia until the full strength of his army arrived - over 2,400 men. This large group then invaded the Cherokee nation and destroyed 32 Middle Settlement towns and villages. Cherokee power was temporarily destroyed within North Carolina.

Lt. Col. Charles McDowell with 10 men of the 2nd Rowan County Regiment of Militia

Reinforcements:

Brigadier General Griffith Rutherford, with 2,400 men

Unknown number of Cherokee, led by Unknown

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