unable to hold all of them due to their small numbers. Aftermath In addition to the prisoners taken (sources cite either seven or twelve were retained), the British reportedly suffered 40 killed or wounded, although deserters reported that nearly half of Gardner's men had been hit by American fire. The Americans, in contrast, suffered only 8 killed and 22 wounded. Gardner was criticized by Prevost for the mauling his detachment received because he strayed too far from his boats. It was not Gardner's fault, however, that he had no Loyalist support. The victory of a largely militia force over British regulars was a boost to the Americans' morale. However, severe losses incurred in early March at Brier Creek delayed American plans to move against Prevost's forces in Georgia. When Lincoln began moving troops toward Augusta in April, Prevost moved in force toward Charleston, but was able to do little more than briefly blockade the city before retreating back to Savannah. Port Royal Island was again occupied by the British during this campaign. The battle is commemorated by a highway marker on U. S. Route 21 near the battle site. Fort Lyttelton's remains are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Footnotes References Conflicts in 1779 Battles involving the United States Battles involving Great Britain Beaufort Beaufort County, South Carolina Beaufort Battle of Beaufort Beaufort, South Carolina