2018 Thoroughbred Country Guide

Thoroughbred Country South Carolina Aiken

Allendale

Bamberg

Barnwell Counties

Way More than Horses!

Attractions Lodging Dining Shopping Recreation & more

www.TbredCountry.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS About Thoroughbred Country

Photography in this publication courtesy of: • City of Aiken • Larry Price Photography • Silver Bluff Audubon Center • South Carolina State Parks • Christopher Hall • Larry Gleason • SCDNR

Thoroughbred Country has taken every precaution to ensure the accuracy of information contained within this publication.

Thoroughbred Country cannot accept responsibility for changes that occur after publication and will not be responsible for omissions or errors. We want your journey to be a pleasant one and urge you to call ahead before traveling.

Photographs and art in this publication are copyrighted and cannot be reproduced without the written permission of the photographer or artist and/or Thoroughbred Country.

2

Aiken County

3

Points of Interest Lodging Camping & RV Parks Dining Shopping City of Aiken Map City of North Augusta Map

3 6 9 9 13 16 17

Allendale County

18

Points of Interest Lodging Dining Shopping Town of Allendale Map

18 20 20 20 21

Bamberg County

22

Points of Interest Lodging Camping & RV Parks Dining Shopping City of Bamberg Map City of Denmark Map

22 23 23 24 24 26 27

Barnwell County

28

Points of Interest Lodging Camping & RV Parks Dining Shopping Town of Blackville Map City of Barnwell Map

28 30 30 31 32 34 35

Region Map Touring Ideas

36 38

What’s Close By

39

Locator Map

40

Historic Churches, Cemeteries & Markers

41

Recreation

47

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Fishing-Rivers Fishing-Ponds & Other Areas Hunting & Sporting Clubs Fox Hunts & Polo Equine Facilities Golf Miniature Golf Canoe & Kayak Rentals Other Heritage Preserves State Parks & Nature Trails City & County Parks

47 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 53 53 55 56 58

Meeting & Rental Facilities Festivals & Special Events Plan Your Visit Guided Tours Transportation

59 62 65 66 67

General Living

68

Colleges & Hospitals Local Newspapers Tax Information Climate & Seasonal Highlights

68 68 68 68

1 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

WE’RE WAY MORE THAN HORSES Our History …

Experience four beautiful counties in western South Carolina where yesterday is preserved for today. History from every American era is evident throughout this region known as Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina. Learn about Colonial Times through demonstrations in pottery, frontier trading and blacksmithing.

Come explore Civil War battle sites and historic plantation homes. Visit our small, quaint towns where you will find museums rich with history and festivals that display local culture. Churches of the past and stories of the Charleston to Hamburg rail line can also be found.

Our Nature …

While history abounds, Thoroughbred Country is also a place of natural beauty.

Notice the Spanish moss gracing enormous live oak trees. Take in the local flora and fauna at a sanctuary. Ponder over the unusual elliptical phenomenon known as a Carolina Bay. Hike through an urban forest or let the elegance of a local garden carry you to another time. If you desire more active recreation, then paddle the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing, blackwater river in the world. Cool off with a drink from Blackville’s Healing Springs, whose waters are believed to have curative powers.

Our Shopping …

“Shopper’s Paradise” would also be an accurate description of this diverse region.

Here you can shop for antiques and local crafts, such as locally-thrown pottery or Mennonite quilts. Unique gifts and art galleries including that of Jim Harrison, a nationally-known artist, can also be found.

Our Food …

Take a break from your adventures and enjoy our cuisine. Roadside stands, cozy cafes, freshly-baked Mennonite goods and full-scale dining as well as everything in between can be found here. Of course, we still have your southern favorites such as grits, barbeque, collards and fried chicken.

And Rest …

After a full day of experiencing our history, our nature, our shopping and our food, rest your head at a quaint bed and breakfast or a historic hotel. Awaken the next day refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 2

AIKEN COUNTY Aiken County is known throughout the world as an equestrian training center claiming National Champions. Champions include: Palace Malice, 2013 Belmont Stakes winner; Pleasant Colony, 1981 Kentucky Derby winner; Summer Squall, 1990 Preakness winner; Sea Hero, 1993 Kentucky Derby winner; and Kelso, Horse of the Year for 5 consecutive years in the 1960’s.

History in towns such as Aiken, North Augusta, Beech Island, Wagener and Salley all represent time periods in South Carolina history. Plantation homes, churches, country stores, the Charleston-Hamburg Railway and more tell stories of the people who built the region through the introduction of new cultures, religions and their ingenuity.

Aiken County is also a place of history and natural beauty. Hitchcock Woods, one of the largest urban forests in the United States, and Hopelands Gardens, are two places to visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of preserved land. Hunting, fishing, golfing and shopping are also available.

Whatever brings you here, enjoy!

Points of Interest Living History Park, 299 W Spring Grove

Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-7560. Plays host to special events including Colonial Times which exhibits examples of everyday life in the 18th century. A meeting house, backwoods cabin, smoke house, blacksmith forge, cabinet shop, mercantile, grist mill, apothecary, slave cabin, post & print shop, Colonial barn and tavern round out the park. Located at the entrance to the park is the Sensory Garden, one of only a few accessible sensory gardens for the sight impaired. The total access garden is of the 21st century in a Colonial setting. The park is open dawn to dusk, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. www.colonialtimes.us

Historic North Augusta, Brochure available

at the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce, 406 West Ave, 803-279-2323. The Star of Edgefield on Butler Avenue was built in 1860 and sports elaborate ironwork by a foundry in New Orleans. The matching fence was in route from New Orleans by a “blockade runner” during the Civil War when it was sunk by a Union gunboat. Several properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

SRP Park, 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta.

803-349-9467. Entertainment venue. Home of the Augusta GreenJackets, a minor league baseball team. Concerts and other events scheduled throughout the year. http://www.greenjacketsbaseball.com

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site,

181 Redcliffe Rd, Beech Island. 803-827-1473.

1859 Greek Revival antebellum mansion of James Henry Hammond and four generations of his family. The house is complete with furniture, decorative arts and artwork from the various periods of occupation. The site also features two slave quarters and a stable with exhibits. Special programs are offered throughout the year. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Grounds are open daily 9am to 6pm year-round. House tours Th-Mon at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Admission charged for house tours. www.southcarolinaparks.com/redcliffe

3 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Beech Island Historical Society Visitors Center and Barn, 144 Old Jackson Hwy,

Vaucluse and Graniteville Historic Districts, The cornerstone of the old mill

University of South Carolina Aiken Convocation Center, 2049 Champion

Beech Island. 803-867-3600. The visitors center tells the story of Beech Island, one of the oldest settlements in South Carolina, dating back to 1685 as Savannah Town. The history room includes Native American, Colonial, agricultural and river transportation displays.

When displays are completed, the Barn will become the Beech Island Agricultural Museum. Open Wed, Th 11am-2pm, and by appointment. www.beechislandhistory.org

dated 1832, is one of the first in the area. The Graniteville Mill, built in 1846, was the first cotton mill in the South. The mill, having survived Sherman’s March during the Civil War, was built by William Gregg. The mill and town initially included 90 homes, two churches, a school, several boarding houses and six stores. Most buildings were constructed of blue granite which gave the town its name.

Several examples of the Blue Row Homes can still be seen. Both are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Way, Aiken. 803-643-6901. A state-of-theart facility with capacity ranging from 3,500 to 4,100 patrons. Located on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus. Features include a first class VIP room with a capacity up to 200 patrons, multiple electronic scoreboards with backlighting, advertisement opportunities, meeting space rentals for any function and two additional practice courts. https://convotix.usca.edu

Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary, 4542 Silver Bluff Rd, Jackson. 803-471-0291.

Silver Bluff is a 3,250-acre wildlife sanctuary owned by the National Audubon Society.

Habitat and wildlife diversity make Silver Bluff a favorite destination for birding, wildflowers, photography or a simply quiet walk. A 3/4-mile and a 2-mile walking trail are available. Education at the center focuses on forest and land management and is targeted toward school groups and the general public.

Please call ahead for current hours. No fee, donations accepted. No pets.

Horse Creek Valley Veterans Park, US 421, Bath. Veterans from the Midland Valley area are honored at this park. The main focus of the park is the circle of honor that contains approximately 900 names of veterans from World War I until present.

Langley Pond Park, 113 Langley Dam Rd, Burnettown. Aiken County Parks, Recreation, & Tourism (PRT). 803-642-7559. Langley Pond Park is home to several events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the loop trail on horseback or foot and championship level disc golf course. Amenities include picnic shelter, grills, playground. Pond currently closed for dam maintenance.

Wade Hampton Veterans Park, 300 block of Georgia Ave, North Augusta. North Augusta Parks, Recreation, & Tourism.

803-441-4300. Dedicated to the memory of Civil War General Wade Hampton, the park has monuments dedicated to the veterans of every war our country has participated in since the Revolution, and is laid out to mimic the stars and stripes of the American flag.

Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta, 100 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.

803-441-4380. The Center is dedicated to the exhibition of regional arts and history with a 2,300 sq ft permanent interactive history exhibit and two galleries of exhibits which rotate every two months. The Center’s gift shop showcases local crafts from pottery and paintings to coffee and chocolate. Mon-Fri 10am-4pm. First Sunday of each month 1pm3pm. Also open during special events. www.artsandheritagecenter.com

Aiken County Farmers Market, 115 Williamsburg St, Aiken. 803-293-2214. Open year-round. Fresh produce, conversation and recipes are shared with friends old and new.

Peak season is April to December. www.aikencountyfarmersmarket.com DuPont Planetarium, 471 University Pkwy,

DuPont Planetarium Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 4

Aiken. 803-641-3654. Located on the campus of University of South Carolina Aiken. The 45seat planetarium is equipped with state-of-theart special effects systems, and is augmented by sundials and telescopes. Various shows are available throughout the year. Reservations are recommended. http://rpsec.usca.edu/planetarium

The Etherredge Center, 471 University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3305. Located on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus.

Houses an art gallery, the O’Connell Theater and a larger Main stage theater. A variety of events are presented throughout the year. https://etherredge.usca.edu

Rose Hill Estate, 221 Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181. Rose Hill is a garden estate encompassing a downtown city block.

Built as a winter colony residence in 1898 by one of America’s first families - Phelps. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Tours by appointment. Admission charged.

See listings under lodging and dining. www.rosehillestate.com

SRS Museum, 224 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-648-1437. Located in the historic Dibble Memorial Library. Contains exhibits related to the Cold War and the Savannah River Site.

Open for special events and by appointment.

Hopelands Gardens,

135 Dupree Pl, Aiken. 803-642-7650. This 14-acre park is the former estate of Mr. and Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin. Features a wetlands area, an arboretum trail with cell phone tour, a labyrinth and a performing arts stage. Events include Story Time in the Gardens, the Summer Concert Series and Christmas in Hopelands.

Hopelands Gardens is open year round, 10am to sunset. Admission is free.

Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame & Museum, Hopelands Gardens. 135 Dupree Pl, Aiken. 803-642-7631. Aiken trained horses who have gone on to become national champions are enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

Trophies and photographs from America’s best known equestrian riders, polo players, and steeplechase riders on display. Tues-Fri 2pm-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm & Sun 2pm-5pm, weather permitting. Admission is free. www.aikenracinghalloffame.com

Aiken Center for the Arts, 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-641-9094. The Center features regular gallery exhibits by local, state, regional and national artists. A variety of artists display works for sale year-round in the Gallery Store.

The Center also hosts programs and events throughout the year, offers art education classes for all ages in a variety of mediums in the seven classrooms, and has a 180-seat performance pavilion. Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm. www.aikencenterforthearts.org

AECOM Center for the Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St SW, Aiken. 803-648-1438.

This state-of-the-art theater is home to the Aiken Community Playhouse (ACP) and the Aiken Performing Arts Group (APAG). The theater seats approximately 300. ACP presents national and international professional shows through the season. Office hours are MonFri 9am-4pm (closed 12pm-1pm lunch). See listing under meeting and rental facilities. www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com www.apagonline.org

Aiken County Historical Museum

Aiken

County

Historical

Museum,

433 Newberry St SW, Aiken. 803-642-2015.

The museum is housed in a 1931 Winter Colony mansion - one of only two open to the public. Three floors of exhibits tell the history of Aiken County from past to present.

A one-room school from the 1890’s, the William Gregg Buttery and an 1808 log cabin are also on the museum grounds. Admission is free, donations accepted. Tues-Sat 10am-5pm.

Sun 2pm-5pm. Closed Mondays and national holidays. www.aikenmuseum.us 5 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Aiken Visitors Center & Train Museum,

Greg Humphries Rare Book Library, Park

406 Park Ave SE, Aiken. 803-293-7846 or 1-888-AikenSC. The Visitors Center is located on the first floor of the rebuilt Aiken Railroad Depot. The Train Museum, located on the second floor, depicts the towns along the original South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company right of way. Open Tues-Fri 10am5pm and Sat 9am-2pm. www.visitaikensc.com

St, Wagener. 803-564-5902. Located at Christ Central. This library contains 3,000 books and artifacts from the Reformation period, mostly religious in nature. By appointment only.

Must be able to climb stairs.

Aiken County Veterans Park, 1435 Richland Ave E, Aiken. Aiken County Parks, Recreation, & Tourism, 803-642-7559. The park features a large, black granite monument which is engraved with the names of Aiken County veterans who perished in the line of duty. The monument is flanked by seven flag poles.

Hitchcock Woods, Surrounded by greater Aiken. 803-642-0528. Hitchcock Woods is 2,100 acres of natural forest. Annually, thousands of equestrians, hikers, and nature enthusiasts visit the Woods to enjoy 70 miles of trails. Hitchcock Woods is open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. Motorized vehicles and bicycles are not permitted. There are seven entrances on the perimeter of the Woods.

Admission is free. www.hitchcockwoods.org

Salley Historic District, bounded by Pine Ferguson, Popular and Aldrich Streets. Salley Town Hall, 803-258-3485. The district consists of 60 properties in the downtown area. The homes in the district are Victorian and Art Deco. The town began in 1887 as a result of the railroad and flourished until the 1930’s.

After the 1930’s, Salley experienced a period of decline. However, the homes in this district have remained unchanged since the 1930’s. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Sleep Inn & Suites, I-20 Exit 5, 921

Fairfield Inn & Suites, 185 Colony Pkwy, Aiken. 803-648-7808. Continental breakfast, indoor pool, whirlpool, business library, interior corridors. www.marriott.com/agsfs

Hampton Inn, 100 Tamil Dr at Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-648-2525. Continental breakfast, pool, microwave, refrigerator, interior corridors. www.aiken.hamptoninn.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 2897

Monetta Drive-In

Monetta Drive-In, 5822 Columbia Hwy N, Monetta. Movie Line, 803-685-7949. One of only two operating drive-in movie theaters in South Carolina. Originally opened in 1951, and later closed, this theater was revived in 1999.

Three screens, all with double features. New movies, as well as old favorites. Seasonal. Open Weekends. Cash only. www.thebigmo.com

Lodging

Aiken. 803-648-0999. Continental breakfast, pool, business center, exercise facility, meeting room, pet friendly. www.choicehotels.com

Econo Lodge, 3560 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-649-3968. Continental breakfast, microwave, refrigerator. www.choicehotels.com

Dr, Aiken. 803-641-4220. Swimming pool, fitness center, meeting room, on-site dining. www.hiltongardeninn.com

Wagener Town Hall, 803-564-3412. Located behind the Wagener Municipal building.

Features items related to the political, social, economic and military history of Wagener and the Aiken County area. Thu-Fri 8am-5pm or by appointment.

Clarion Inn & Suites, 155 Colony Pkwy,

Sleep Inn, 1002 Monterey Dr, Aiken.

803-644-9900. Continental breakfast, gym access, pool, microwave, refrigerator, interior corridors.

Country Inn & Suites, 3270 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-649-4024. All rooms non-smoking. Continental breakfast included, pool, fitness room, mini-fridge, microwave, guest laundry. www.countryinns.com/aikensc Days Inn, I-20 Exit 22, 2654 Columbia Hwy, Aiken. 803-642-5692. Continental breakfast, microwave, pool. www.daysinn.com

Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-508-7700. Full breakfast, pool and fitness center. Microwave and refrigerator in rooms. https://www.ihg.com

Holiday Inn Express, 138 Stephens Farm Lane, North Augusta. 803-341-9505. Full breakfast, pool and fitness center. Microwave and refrigerator in rooms. https://www.ihg.com Howard Johnson Inn, 1936 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-649-5000. Continental breakfast, pool, pet friendly.

The Inn at Houndslake, 897 Houndslake Dr, Aiken. 803-648-9535. 30-room lodge located on the grounds of a private country club. Continental breakfast. Hotel guests may use any of the Club’s facilities. Pet friendly. www.theinnathoundslake.com Quality Inn, 3608 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-641-1100.

Continental breakfast, lounge, indoor hot spa, pool, pet friendly, guest laundry. www.choicehotels.com Quality Inn, I-20 Exit 22, 110 E Frontage

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 6

Edgefield Rd, North Augusta. 803-202-0209.

Deluxe continental breakfast, exercise room, pool, microwave, refrigerator, meeting room, interior corridors. www.choicehotels.com

TownePlace Suites by Marriott, 1008 Monterey Dr, Aiken. 803-641-7373.

Continental breakfast, fitness center and laundry. Microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator, stove and dishwasher in the room. Pet friendly. www.towneplacesuites.com/agsts

Bed and Breakfasts, Historic Inns

Hilton Garden Inn Aiken, 350 Eastgate

Wagener Museum, 12 Short St, Wagener.

America’s Best Value Inn, 2577 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-641-8800. Continental breakfast, pool, microwave, refrigerator. www.americasbestvalueinn.com

Days Inn Downtown, 1204 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-649-5524. Continental breakfast, refrigerator, microwave. www.daysinn.com

Rd, Aiken. 803-502-0900. Continental breakfast, refrigerator, microwave. www.choicehotels.com

208 Abbeville, 208 Abbeville Ave NW, Aiken. 803-649-3109. Located in historic downtown Aiken within walking distance of restaurants and shopping. Three rooms available with single and double occupancy.

In addition to a rocking chair front porch and screened-in back porch, there is a 2 ½acre garden on site, suitable for wandering or weddings. Full breakfast provided.

Annie’s Inn, 3083 Charleston Hwy, Montmorenci. 803-649-6836. Pre-Civil War, Greek Revival plantation home surrounded by cotton fields. Guest rooms each have private baths and include a full country breakfast.

Guest cottages are beautifully designed to blend in with the old architecture while having all the amenities. 10 rooms. No smoking, children welcome (with notice), business/ corporate friendly, weddings, gift certificates accepted, pool. www.anniesinnbnb.com Arbor House, Located in the heart of historic downtown. First unit: 206 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-292-6971. Private and gated, this upstairs apartment with one bedroom, one bath, living room with queen sleeper. Sleeps four. Dine al fresco on side balcony with view of downtown Aiken. Flat screen TV, washer/ dryer. Second Unit: 152 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-292-6971. Fully furnished loft, c.

1885, sleeps five. Cable TV, washer/dryer.

7 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Carolina Oaks Bed & Breakfast Inn, 819 Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-257-2719.

Real southern comfort located in downtown North Augusta. The Innkeepers will host one room or the whole house for any occasion to celebrate family, friends and traditions. Four guest rooms, one with shared bath. Rooms have queen beds. Amenities include home cooked breakfast, hospitality center, office services, event and meeting facility. Catering available. No pets. Vacation packages available. www.carolinaoaksbedandbreakfast.com

Carriage House Inn c.1872, 139 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-644-5888. Boutique hotel on the main street in historic downtown Aiken. Amidst the charm and abundance of fine dining, cultural and shopping opportunities. 37 guest rooms and suites, full complimentary breakfast and variety of amenities for all guests. www.aikencarriagehouse.com

General Elliott Inn, 939 New Bridge Rd, Aiken. 803-642-8108. This contemporary Queen Anne style home overlooks pastures of playful thoroughbreds providing a peaceful, romantic respite. The Inn has three guest rooms and a two bedroom cottage with emphasis on important amenities of a homelike atmosphere. Full gourmet breakfast, snacks and wine served in late afternoon.

Dinner on weekends by reservation. www.generalelliottinn.com

Lookaway Inn, 103 W Forest Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-1030. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Completed in 1898 it was the home of Walter Jackson, brother of James U. Jackson, founder of North Augusta. This graciously restored home has five bedrooms in the main house and 10 in the courtyard. Venue for indoor, courtyard and garden weddings and events.

Intimate dining and meeting rooms available.

Cable TV available. www.lookawayinn.com Magnolia Shadows, 595 Engineer Rd, Ridge Spring. 803-522-1226. Where European hospitality meets Southern charm.

Offering horse boarding and bed & breakfast services with the traveling horseman in mind. Rooms sit in this historical plantation home (1895), completely restored and now surrounded by manicured pastures, magnolia trees and gardens. Horse and pet friendly. The convenient location near Aiken, Columbia, Lexington, SC and Augusta, GA allows guests to visit the local, world-famous equestrian venues of polo, fox hunting, eventing, racing and The Masters. www.magnoliashadows.com

Rose Hill Estate, 221 Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181. Historic downtown Winter Colony garden estate encompassing an entire city block. Continental breakfast.

Dinner service at The Stables Restaurant and Bar. Overnight and long term stay. Rooms with private baths or group accommodations for up to 21. www.rosehillestate.com

803-648-1898. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Voted one of the best hotels in the world. Old fashioned southern hotel offering suites and rooms elegantly appointed with period antiques, cloud soft beds and soaking tubs. A small, intimate spa and a landscaped pool also accompany the property.

Full southern breakfast buffet served in the grand lobby. 15 guest rooms, seven suites.

Packages available. Dine at The Restaurant at the Willcox. www.thewillcox.com

Camping & RV Parks Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor. 803-649-2857. 25 campsites.

Packed sand, water and electrical hookups, fire ring, picnic table, heated restroom facility.

Can accommodate RVs up to 35ft. Primitive camping area with picnic tables, fire rings and outhouse available for organized groups.

Nature and canoe trails, paddle boats, seasonal swimming, birding, hiking, fishing, boating, picnic shelters. Canoe and kayak rentals. Park hours are 9am to dark. www.southcarolinaparks.com/aiken

Palmetto Lake RV Park, 2620 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken. 803-371-7485. Large pull through sites with 30 and 50-amp service with full hookups. Pets allowed.

Pine Acres Campground, 205 Duke Drive, Aiken. 803-648-4056. Full hookups with 30 and 50-amp service. Open year round. Daily, weekly and monthly rates. Campers available for weekly rentals. Coin laundry, showers, dump station, propane and internet on site.

Pets allowed.

Aiken State Park

Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast

Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast, 804 Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-1546.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Erected in 1902, Rosemary was the home of James U. Jackson, founder of North Augusta. Restored Beaux Arts mansion has six elegant guest rooms, all with large private baths, full breakfast, hospitality center, bicycle rentals, weddings and events. www.rosemaryinnbb.com

Dining Acropolis Pizza, 1647 Richland Ave W,

Antonio’s Italian Eatery, 336 Georgia Ave

Aiken. 803-649-7601. Greek and Italian cuisine. Northern style pizza. Lunch and dinner. www.acropolisofaiken.com

Ste 103, North Augusta. 803-341-9720.

Italian, pizza, subs, salads. Lunch and dinner.

Aiken Brewing Company, 140 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-502-0707. Hand-crafted beers. Sandwiches to fine dining. Lunch and dinner. www.aikenbrewingcompany.com

Anshu Asian Cafe, 122 Coach Light Way, Aiken. 803-226-0556. Asian fusion family restaurant. www.anshuasiancafe.com Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 8

The Willcox

Aiken RV Campground, LLC, 2424 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken. 803-226-0850.

Full service RV park. Daily, weekly and monthly rates. Full hookups with 30 and 50-amp service, level concrete runners, washerette, hot ceramic showers and cable TV. Open year round.

Claridge House, 162 Lee St N, Wagener.

803-564-8777. Circa 1897 Victorian style home. Four rooms, three share hall bath. Full breakfast. Reservation dinners available. www.claridgehousebb.com

The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken.

Auten’s, 969 Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

803-502-1307. Country cooking. Breakfast and lunch. www.autensofaiken.com Back Porch, 808 Belvedere Clearwater Rd, North Augusta. 803-380-1578. Locallyowned restaurant. Great burgers, Louisiana style dishes, pulled pork, shrimp, fish and chicken baskets. Nightly specials. Freshly prepared. Open Wed-Sat. Lunch and dinner.

9 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

BBQ Barn, 10298 Atomic Rd, North Augusta. 803-278-7202. Authentic smoked barbeque. Catering services are available. www.bbqbarnna.com

Cracker Barrel, 2364 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-648-0007. Home-style cooking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.crackerbarrel.com Crossroads Café, 1738 Sand Bar Ferry Rd, Beech Island. 803-827-1429. Home cooking.

Breakfast and lunch.

DeShawn’s Seafood & Chicken, 630 Atomic Rd, North Augusta. 803-442-4444.

American soul food. Lunch and dinner.

Ferrando’s Italian Pizzeria, Two locations: 152 S Aiken Ln. 803-644-8881. 3555 Richland Ave, Aiken. 803-642-8484. Italian. Lunch and dinner.

Betsy’s

Little Howie’s, 103 Williamsburg St SE, Aiken. 803-648-0402. Lunch and dinner. Family owned and operated.

Burgers and chicken. Closed on Sundays.

New Moon Café, 116 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-643-7088. Sandwiches, pastries, specialty coffee. Breakfast and lunch. www.newmoondowntown.com

Magnolia Natural Market & Café, 126 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-649-3339.

Natural foods. Soups, salads, wraps and sandwiches. Daily lunch specials. Dinner also served Thurs-Sat. www.magnoliadowntown.com

Pardon My French Cafe, 337 Hayne Ave SW, Aiken. (803) 645-6025. French inspired, casual Cafe serving a myriad of espresso libations, fresh juice drinks, homemade pastries, quiche and croissant creations.

Locally owned and operated.

Malia’s, 120 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-643-3086. Gourmet blackboard menu.

Lunch and dinner. www.maliasrestaurant.com

Pat’s Sub Shop, 728 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

Freeman’s BBQ, 1060 Sand Bar Ferry Rd, Betsy’s, 159 Laurens St NW, Aiken.

803-226-0078. Breakfast (Saturdays only), lunch and dinner. American. Soda fountain and grill. Daily homemade blue plate specials, soups and salads. http://www.betsysonthecorner.com Moving soon to 224 Park Ave SW, Aiken.

Blue Top Grill, 212 Aiken Rd, Graniteville.

803-663-3971. Short order. Lunch and dinner.

Bobby’s BBQ Buffet, 1897 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Warrenville. 803-593-5900. Barbeque.

Lunch and dinner. www.bobbysbbq.com

Bush’s Fish & Chips, 409 Main St, Graniteville. 803-663-1073. Country cooking, seafood. Lunch and dinner.

Carolina Bar-B-Q, 109 Main St S, New Ellenton. 803-652-2919. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

Pink Dipper Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlour, 501 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.

Beech Island. 803-827-1623. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

803-279-4100. Closed holidays. www.pinkdipper.com

Garden Grille & Bar, 350 East Gate Dr, Aiken. 803-641-4220. Casual dining inside Hilton Garden Inn. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.aiken.hgi.com

Pizza Joint, 125 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

(803) 648-9074. Local restaurant & bar chain serving brick-oven pizzas, calzones & sandwiches in a casual space. www.thepizzajoint.net

Gary’s, (The Original) 410 Georgia Ave, North Augusta. 803-278-1314. Old-fashioned hamburgers. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

General Elliot Inn, 939 New Bridge Rd,

Manuel’s Bread Cafe

Aiken. 803-642-8108. Fine dining in a home atmosphere. Reservations required. www.generalelliottinn.com

Manuel’s Bread Cafe, 505 Railroad Ave Ste

JC’s Seafood, 3189 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-648-6303. Fresh seafood. Lunch and dinner. www.jcseafood.net

Just Julie’s, 951 Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

100, North Augusta. 803-380-1323. French cafe, alfresco eating. www.manuelsbreadcafe.com

Casa Di Pizza & Italian, 103 Edgewood Dr,

L&M Cafe, 2171 Augusta Rd, Gloverville.

Mellow Mushroom, 151 Bee Ln, Aiken.

North Augusta. 803-279-4418. Pizza, pasta, subs, salads. Lunch and dinner.

803-593-2890. Country cooking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

803-474-8454. Pizzas, subs and salads. Lunch and dinner. www.mellowmushroom.com

Chick-N-Snack, 208 Ascauga Lake Rd,

LaDolcé Bakery . Cafe . Tea Room, 967

Graniteville. 803-663-9395. Country cooking.

Lunch and dinner.

Dougherty Rd, Aiken. 803-335-1440.

Gourmet bakery, loose tea and coffee. Breakfast and lunch. www.ladolce-aiken.com

Midway Grill, 2060 Augusta Rd, Gloverville.

803-593-4744. Short order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Italian

Restaurant,

City Billiards, 208 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-649-7362. Short order, pool tables. Lunch and dinner. www.citybilliardsaikensc.com Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 10

Linda’s Bistro, 135 York St SE, Aiken.

803-648-4853. Steaks, chops, grilled food.

Dinner. www.lindasbistro-aiken.com

Aiken. 803-642-4488. Aged steaks, whole lobster and fresh seafood. Lunch and dinner. www.primesteakhouseaiken.com

B Laurens St SW, Aiken. (803) 226-0573.

Mexican restaurant and cantina. Open for lunch and dinner. Locally owned and operated.

803-649-2721. Locally-owned and operated sandwich shop featuring subs, salads and desserts. Meats and cheeses are freshly sliced.

Open for lunch and dinner. Closed on Sundays. http://justjuliesrestaurant.com

Bella

Prime Steakhouse, 316 Richland Ave NW,

Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant, 150-

120 Chesterfield St S, Aiken. 803-641-3107.

Italian cuisine. Lunch and dinner. www.casabellaitalianrestaurant.com

Casa

(803) 649-1523. Locally-owned and operated sub shop. Sandwiches, soups and dessert.

Lunch and dinner. Closed on Sundays.

Maria’s Mexican Restaurant, 716 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken. 803-648-8840. Locally-owned and operated Mexican restaurant. Lunch and dinner.

Monterrey Restaurante Mexicano, 436 E Martintown Rd, North Augusta. 803-441-0000.

Mexican. Lunch and dinner.

Red Shed Diner

Red Shed Diner, 212 Ascauga Lake Rd, Graniteville. 803-663-0584. Old-fashioned store and market. https://redsheddiner.wordpress.com

Roma Italian Restaurant, 116 Coach Light Way, Aiken. 803-643-7828. Dinner.

Ruben’s Argentinian Steakhouse, 510 Silver Bluff Rd, Aiken. 803-643-8777. Beef, chicken, pasta and seafood. Lunch and dinner.

11 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Russell’s Pizza, 136 Lee St N, Wagener.

The Red Pepper, 752 Silver Bluff Rd,

803-564-5012. Pizza, subs and salads. Lunch and dinner.

Aiken. (803) 649-9915. Lunch and dinner.

Fine casual dining featuring American dishes, happy hours, live music and patio seating.

Locally owned and operated. http://redpepperaiken.com

3 Monkeys, 141 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

Arts and Heritage Center Gift Shop, 100

803-648-7592. The perfect place to find just the right gift or something spectacular for your home. http://www.3monkeysaiken.com

Georgia Ave, North Augusta. 803-441-4380.

Local artisan crafts. www.artsandheritagecenter.com

The Restaurant at the Willcox, 100

Affordales Apparel, 113 Laurens St SW

Art & Soul of Aiken, 208 The Alley, Aiken.

Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. 803-648-1898.

Gastro Pub. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.thewillcox.com

#104, Aiken. 803-335-3760. Apparel and accessories. www.affordablesapparel.com

803-645-9186. Local artisan gallery. www.artandsoulofaiken.com

Aiken Antique Mall, 112 Laurens St SW,

Artisan Market & Decor, 119 Laurens St

Aiken. 803-648-6700. Antiques. Over 50 dealers.

NW, Aiken. 803-643-7580. Handmade custom home decor.

The Stables Restaurant at Rose Hill, 245 Seeds Cafe, Farm and Market

Seeds Cafe, Farm and Market, 245 White Pond Rd, Williston. 803-621-0121. Farm-totable cafe. Breakfast and lunch. www.seedson78.com

Sno-Cap Drive-In, 618 West Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-4004. 1950’s style drive-in.

Lunch and dinner. www.snocapdrivein.com

Sunrise Grill, 404 E Martintown Rd Ste 4, North Augusta. 803-202-9898. Breakfast and lunch. www.thesunrisegrill.com

Takosushi, 210 The Alley, Aiken.

803-642-8899. A blend of the southwest and far east. Lunch and dinner. www.tako-sushi.com

Thai Jasmine Rice, 1552 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-226-0601. Authentic Thai Food. Lunch and dinner. https://www.thaijasminericeofsc.com/ The Alley Downtown Taproom, 214 The Alley, Aiken. 803-226-0344. Home to 48 taps with a variety of beer, ciders, wine, kombuchas, sodas and coffee. Pay by the ounce, or by the pint.

Staff is available to walk you through the process. https://www.thealleydowntowntaproom.com

The Hammond’s Ferry Larder, 89 Crystal Lake Dr, North Augusta. 803-341-9273.

Delightful goods and eats. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. http://hflarder.com/

The Highland Park Grille, 555 Highland Park Dr SW, Aiken. 803-641-2094. American, casual dining. Lunch and drinks.

The Little Bake Shoppe, 135 Main St N, Wagener. 803-564-3849. Bakery/Deli.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 12

Shopping

Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181.

Dinner. www.rosehillestate.com

The Village Cafe, 110 Coach Light Way SW, Aiken. 803-640-0247. Delicious & quality food, drink and gelato. Breakfast and lunch. http://www.thevillagecafeaiken.com

TRIO Bar & Kitchen, 222 The Alley, Aiken.

803-226-0386. Gourmet burgers, wraps and steaks. Lunch and dinner. www.trioaiken.com Una Mas Taqueria, 148 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-226-0911. Tex-Mex Restaurant delivers fresh food, served in a casual atmosphere, in the heart of Downtown Aiken.

Lunch and dinner.

What’s Cookin’ Downtown, 123 B Laurens

Aiken County Historical Museum Store, 433 Newberry St SW Aiken, 803-644-1010.

Fashion jewelry, Aiken gifts, book room. http://aikenmuseum.us

Aiken County Visitors Center, 133 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-642-7557. Visitor information, souvenirs, local artisans, fine crafts, books. www.discoveraikencounty.com

Aiken Drug Co, 101 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-649-6286. Collegiate and SC gifts, collectibles.

Aiken Dry Goods, 124 Laurens St NW, Aiken.

803-226-0100. Equestrian gifts, tack, clothing and local artwork. www.aikendrygoods.com

St NW, Aiken. 803-649-1068. Gourmet cooking to go and dine in. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. https://www.whatscookindowntown.com

Aiken Embroidery and Design, 107 Laurens

Whiskey Alley, 227 The Alley SW, Aiken.

Aiken Office Supply, 2560 Whiskey Rd,

803-226-0579. Whiskey and tapas bar in downtown Aiken. Dinner. http://whiskey-alley.business.site

Aiken Saddlery, 1044 E. Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

WingPlace, 732 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

St NW, Aiken. 803-215-5878. Choose from items we have in stock or personalize your own.

Aiken. 803-648-8339. Collectibles and office supplies.

803-649-6583. A destination store and farm delivery service offering health care products, feed, hay, and handcrafted items by local artisans. www.aikensaddlery.com

(803) 644-7777. Locally-owned and operated sports bar. Wings, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, spirits and craft beers. Lunch and dinner. Live music on scheduled days. http://www.wing-place.com

Antique Emporium, 321 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-643-9922. Antiques.

Vinny’s Pizzeria Bar & Grill, 1367 W

Antiques & More, 640 E Pine Log Rd,

Martintown Rd, North Augusta. 803-278-7228.

Lunch and dinner. www.vinnyspizzeria.net

Aiken. 803-644-1060. Antiques, furniture, vintage items, glassware and handcrafted items. http://antiquesandmoremall.net

Antiques on Pendleton, 116-C Pendleton St SW, Aiken. 803-335-7809. Antique mall with a variety of dealers.

Barbara Sue Brodie NeedleWorks, 345 Hayne Ave SW, Aiken. 803-644-0090. www.barbarasuebrodie.com

Beyond Bijoux, 106 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-226-0803. Beyond bijoux is a fashion jewelry and accessories boutique.

Caroline’s Boutique, 131 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-644-5606. Located in Downtown Aiken. A great place to find today’s styles.

CommuniGraphics, 1400 Georgia Ave, North Augusta. 803-278-7217. Gift items, embroidery, screen print, signs. www.communigraphics.com

Connie’s Framing, 145 Pendleton St NW, Aiken. 803-643-3696. Custom Framing.

Featuring artwork from local artists.

Cyndi’s Sweet Shoppe, 146 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-226-0191. Vast assortment of candies. www.cyndissweetshoppe.com Downtown Dog, 150 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-226-0347. Toys, collars, leashes, natural foods and more. http://aikendowntowndog.com Elliott Office and Home Consignments, 115 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-649-4151.

Various antique and vintage items. http://elliottsc.com

Epona, 137 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-262-5102. Equine-inspired boutique with collections from wearable art to decorations for the home. www.eponaonlaurens.com

Equine Divine, 126 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-642-9772. Art gallery, boutique and gifts with a focus on equine pursuits. www.equinedivineonline.com 13 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Folly, 116 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

Southern Moon Pottery, 46 Enterprise Ave,

803-226-0550. Unique accessories for self and home. http://www.follyfinds.com

Building B, Aiken. 803-616-2196. Stoneware clay art and pottery classes in wheel throwing and handbuilding for adults and children.

Studio rental and private parties.

Fox and Lady, 110 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-291-0389. Quaint little boutique.

Gallery Store, 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-641-9094. Located inside Aiken Center for the Arts. Works of local and regional artists. http://aikencenterforthearts.org

High Country Olive Oil, 125 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-649-9907. High quality, flavorful products to enhance the healthy diet. www.highcountryoliveoil.com Impressions of the South, 508 West Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-8298. Gifts, coffees, candies, teas and wreaths.

Kit & Caboodles, 508 Edgefield Rd, North Augusta. 803-279-7157. Candy, candles, soaps, baskets and banners.

Lionel Smith, 132 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-648-2100. Custom clothing, made-tomeasure shirts, formal sales/rentals and more. www.lionelsmithltd.com

Nandina Home & Design, 158 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-649-0616. Home furnishings and gifts. www.nandinahome.com

Pitter Patter Children’s Boutique, 131 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-643-8000. Aiken’s choice for fine children’s fashions since 1991.

Clothing, toys, gifts and monogramming.

Plum Pudding, 101 Laurens St NW, Aiken.

888-940-7586. Gourmet kitchenware. www.plumpuddingkitchen.com

Return Engagement, 113 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-642-3337. Upscale consignment boutique. http://returnengagementaiken.com

Riverfront Antique Mall, 5979 Jefferson Davis Hwy, North Augusta. 803-279-0900.

Antiques, collectibles, crafts. Cafe is available.

Singing Hills Antiques, 415 West Ave, North Augusta. 803-441-8805. Antiques, live ivy topiaries, baskets, woven rugs, books.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 14

The Bone-i-Fide Bakery & Grooming, 127 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-646-3152.

Fresh-baked, natural treats for dogs, unique dog-themed items. www.theboneifidebakery.com

The Ivy Cottage Inc, 206 Park Ave SE, Aiken. 803-643-0535. Flowers and gifts. www.theivycottageflowersandgifts.com

The Lucky Pecan, 15758 Atomic Rd, Beech Island. 803-265-5764. Offers gifts, antiques, jams, jellies, sauces, dressings and pecan candies. We can also crack and shell your pecans. www.theluckypecanstore.com

The Paisley Peacock, 109 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-215-8452. Customized gifts just for you. Monogramming, embroidery, jewelry, metalworks and boutique apparel.

Threads, 108 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-335-1452. Women’s contemporary clothing, jewelry, accessories and assorted gifts. http://www.ilovethreads.com The Screenprint Factory, 157 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-649-7552. Souvenirs, t-shirts, sweats, caps, coffee mugs, pins, wine glasses.

True Value Hardware, 121 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-648-8542. Household tools, supplies and more. ww3.truevalue.com/tvhdaiken/Home.aspx Unique Expressions, 1521 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-641-7908. Gifts, home decor, jewelry, collegiate and palmetto products.

White Rose Eclectics, 116-A Pendleton St, Aiken. 803-724-7285. Unique boutique apparel, jewelry and accessories.

Woods Market & Garden, 951 Dougherty Road, Aiken. 803-770-9437. Local farmers and artisan market.

York Cottage Antiques, 409 Hayne Ave SW, Aiken. 803-642-9524. Fine china, crystal, silver, antiques.

15 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

VisitorsGuide Guide 16 Thor oroughbred Country Visitor Thor Th oroughbred oughb ough hbred b d Cou C Country ountry t Vis V Visit Visitor i itor Gui G Guid Guide ide de 16

Thoroughbred oroughbredCountry CountryVisitor VisitorsGuide Guide 1717Th 177 Thor Thorough ough ghbred b d Cou C ountry ntry t y Vis Visitor Vi itor Guide it G ide Gui oroughbred Country

ALLENDALE COUNTY From the moss-laden oaks along the Savannah River to the fields of white cotton and ripe peaches, Allendale County is proud of a rich culture filled with history and Southern tradition. Formed from parts of Barnwell and Hampton counties in 1919, Allendale is the youngest county in South Carolina.

Historic churches and cemeteries are plentiful in this corner of the region. Take in the beauty as you ride miles of equestrian trails with your horse. Notice the low lying cypress swamp areas where alligators, turtles and other species choose to dwell. After a day spent outdoors, reflect on your experiences around a campfire.

Allendale County has a strong tradition in agriculture and produces cotton, watermelons, peaches, peanuts, corn, okra and other crops. Make a stop at a roadside stand to enjoy some of the fresh local produce.

Farmer Drug Store, 192 Burtons Ferry Hwy, Allendale. 803-584-2191. Peek in the storefront window at a re-creation of an old ice cream parlor and barber shop. The drug store occupied this spot from 1915 to 1995.

Tours by appointment only.

The Carolina Theatre, 420 US 301, Allendale. 803-584-3446. This newly renovated, 1920’s Art Deco theatre is a hidden gem in Allendale County. Step back into the past when you walk through custom etched glass doors and take in all the attention to detail.

From Art Deco sconces and fixtures to the “Carolina” carpet made special for the theatre and themed artwork by USC students, this is a memorable venue worthy of any performance.

Events held year round.

Virginia Durant House, 503 AllendaleFairfax Hwy, Fairfax. 803-632-1533. Virginia Durant Young was an author and journalist.

This house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is home to the Fairfax Library. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

Lower Savannah River Alliance Greenway & Trail, A 4-mile-long walking trail that terminates at a 1938 Turnstile Metal Bridge over the Savannah River. Half of the trail is elevated giving you a unique view of the swamplands below. There is also a FIT trail with obstacles and a primitive campsite at the Lower Savannah River Alliance Nature Education Center. www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org

Don’t forget to sample our southern BBQ and good old-fashioned home cooking while you’re in town. Visit USC Salkehatchie and view the “Searching for our Beginnings” exhibit, the only permanent collection of Clovis and pre-Clovis artifacts.

Take your trip through Allendale County slowly to enjoy the easy pace of the South.

Points of Interest Savannah River, Western border of Allendale County. Originally named the Westobou River for the Westo Indians (a warlike tribe who lived in a village on the Westobou), the river was later renamed for the Savannah Native Americans.

Allendale County Courthouse, Courthouse Sq, Allendale. One of the most attractive courthouses in South Carolina. The building was gutted by fire in 1998. Renovation in 2004 preserved the original shell of the building while providing the county with a modern facility.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 18

Topper Site & Exhibit at University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, On the Salkehatchie Campus, US 301, Allendale.

803-584-3446. USC Salkehatchie’s library houses “Searching for our Beginnings,” the only permanent collection of Clovis and pre-Clovis artifacts from the Topper site. The exhibit also includes photographs from the dig sites and informational panels.

Allendale Farmers Market, 5789 Allendale Fairfax Hwy (US 278), Allendale.

803-584-4556. Fresh produce, plants, dairy and more. Picnic tables and a playground are available. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. Open seasonally.

Thursday-Friday 10am-4pm and Saturday 10am-3pm.

Twitty’s Mud Bog, 4396 Bufords Bridge Hwy, Ulmer. 803-259-9252. Twitty’s Mud Bog hosts multiple family-friendly mud racing events throughout the year. Admission is $15.

Children 12 and under are free. Cash only. No glass containers or pets allowed.

19 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Lodging

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New Direction Christian Bookstore, 192 Main St N, Allendale. 803-584-4910. Clothing, books, church supplies, gifts and CDs. www.newdirectionchristianbookstore.com

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803-632-3038. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

Hendrix Handmade Knives, 9636 Burtons Ferry Hwy, Allendale. 803-686-0136. All knives

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Clara’s Fried Chicken & More, 399

Main St, Allendale. 803-584-3203. Mexican.

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Augusta Hwy, Allendale. 803-584-7744. Country cooking.

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803-584-0910. Sandwiches, salads. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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803-584-4200. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

El Jardin Mexican Restaurant, 2024 N

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St, Fairfax. 803-632-6006. Dinner ThursdaySaturday. Lunch and dinner Sunday. Live music Friday and Saturday.

Subway, 337 Main St (US 301 N), Allendale.

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Allendale-Fairfax Highway, Fairfax.

803-632-6010. Buffet and sit down. Lunch and dinner.

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China Buffet, 399 Main St (US 301 S), Allendale. 803-584-5718. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

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803-632-1016. Breakfast and lunch.

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Executive Inn, 1921 Main St N (US 301 N),

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78 US Hwy 2

Knoll Rd, Fairfax. 844-868-5348. Deer, wild boar and bobwhite quail hunting.

Lodge sleeps 30 and features 70 campsites with electricity, water, sewer hookups, light and corral horse stalls; and an additional 70 sites with electricity, water, sewer, a light and permanent tie lines. Showers, restrooms and coin laundry located near campsites. 3 dump stations. www.cedarknoll.com

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Cedar Knoll Hunting Lodge, 757 Cedar

Red Bluff Lodge, 130 Boone Trl, Allendale.

803-584-7363. A full service lodge providing year-round opportunities for outdoorsmen and women to enjoy the wonderful natural resources available in Allendale County.

Hunting available for whitetail deer, feral hogs, alligator and wild turkey. Fishing and quail hunting trips are available a la carte. Full service gunsmith shop and shooting range onsite. Other outdoor activities available are kayaking, mountain biking, camping and naturalist tours. Lodge can accommodate groups of 1 to 22 people. Reservations required. Full meal service available. www.redblufflodge.com

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(US 301 N), Allendale. 803-584-4202.

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On Time Fashion, 147 Augusta Hwy, Allendale. 803-584-2775. Men’s formal wear. Shoes, suits, ties, handkerchiefs, cuff links and more. www.ontimefashion.us Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 20

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 21

21 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 21 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

BAMBERG COUNTY The cool, black waters of the Edisto River provide the backdrop for Bamberg County’s history and charm. Join local residents for hunting, fishing or canoeing excursions.

Visitors to the Jim Harrison Gallery in the rural crossroads town of Denmark, SC, are in for a special experience. In Harrison’s art, place matters, whether that is the sun-drenched coast or a lonely barn in a rural landscape. The Gallery is the southeastern distributor for original paintings

by Jim Harrison also, featuring bronzes, etchings and a variety of limited and unlimited edition reproductions from Harrison’s more than 50-year career as an artist.

Bamberg County has been visited by some notables, including General Sherman. On his march to Columbia, Sherman’s Army was met at Rivers Bridge by a small band of Confederate Soldiers who tried to stall his progress. Rivers Bridge State Historic Site shows the scars from that battle in the form of battle breastworks.

Bamberg County features many cultural festivals. Be sure to plan your visit during one of these highlighted weekends.

Bamberg Historic District, Railroad Ave and side streets, Bamberg. 803-245-1000.

According to the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, most of the properties are vernacular residences with prominent porches and profuse carpenter’s ornamentation. The architectural style of some of the larger buildings includes: Georgian Revival, Second Empire, Neoclassical and Gothic Revival. The 1830’s South Carolina Canal and Railroad bed that carried the first steam engine, the Best Friend, runs through the middle of this National Historic District.

Today the railroad bed is a 1.5-mile walking trail. Journey through time and rediscover the beauty and romance of the Old South with a walking or driving tour of the district. A brochure that guides you through the district is available for purchase.

Rivers Bridge State Historic Site Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 22

Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton Bridge Rd (Hwy 601), 6 miles south of Ehrhardt. 803-437-4868. A second Civil War battle site. Breastworks here have been preserved. Tours by appointment. Trail riding, fishing and sporting clays also available.

Admission charged. See listings under recreation and lodging. www.broxtonbridge.com

Edisto River Trips, Bamberg Chamber of Commerce. 803-245-4427. Float down the South Fork of the blackwater Edisto River from any of three launches found in Bamberg County. Choose from Claude’s Landing, Bobcat Landing or Brabham’s Landing.

Organized trips held throughout the year by the Bamberg Chamber of Commerce. Call for dates and locations.

“Cotton the World Over,” 11955 Heritage Hwy (US 78), Bamberg. The Mural is located in the lobby of the Bamberg Post Office. One of sixteen in South Carolina, the 6’ x 12’ oil on canvas mural was painted by Dorothea Mierisch in 1939 as a New Deal Art Program.

The Bamberg Post Office is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Denmark Depot, US 78, Denmark.

803-793-3734. This old train depot houses a visitors information center and an Amtrak station. Contact City Hall for hours or more information.

Downtown Denmark, 803-793-3734. This small town has several stores for your shopping pleasure. You can choose from an old time five and dime store, an antique store in a building with a history of its own, an art gallery or a hardware store that sells everything from lumber to fine china. As you stroll through the town, notice the hand painted wall bulletins and outdoor advertising signage. These are part of the Denmark Sign Project, an indooroutdoor community display of 20th century advertising.

Points of Interest Rivers Bridge Historic Site, 325 State Park Rd. Off of SC 641, 7 miles SW of Ehrhardt.

803-267-3675. The site is 390 acres and includes the battlefield, an award-winning battlefield interpretive trail, the memorial grounds, a community building and a picnic shelter. The significance of the site centers on the Civil War battlefield, where on February 2 and 3, 1865, a small force of Confederate soldiers in field fortifications opposed the advance of Sherman’s army. The well-preserved earthen fortifications are the centerpiece of this important battlefield landscape. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Th-Mon 9 am-6 pm. Admission for Saturday tours. www.southcarolinaparks.com/rivers-bridge

Dogwood Flower

Hooten-Black House

Lodging Carolina Inn, 17688 Heritage Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-6300. Cable TV, phones & data ports, fridges/microwaves in all rooms, big truck parking, student & hunter discounts.

Bed & Breakfasts, Camping & RV Parks Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton

Ehrhardt Hall Bed & Breakfast Inn,

Bridge Rd, (Hwy 601), six miles south of Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868. Southern nostalgia and a genuine bit of Civil War history. The plantation home, built in the 1850’s, has five rooms with private baths. Step through the front door and go back 140 years to a simpler time and enjoy walking trails around a 10acre lake, hunting, fishing, sporting clays and nearby golf. 125 RV campsites, most with water, electricity and sewage hookups. www.broxtonbridge.com

13764 Broxton Bridge Rd (Hwy 601), Ehrhardt. 803-267-2020. Restored plantation mansion with six guest rooms, all with private baths, fireplaces, TV’s, central heat/air. Close to Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, hunting and fishing. Pool, full breakfast. Dinner available. Special business rates available. www.ehrhardthall.com

23 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Dining Bee Box Restaurant, 2302 Low Country

Rusty & Paula’s Restaurant, 3308 Main

Hwy, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2502. Home cooking, short order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-3351. Country cooking. Breakfast and lunch.

Betty’s Quick Stop, 3475 Main Hwy,

Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-4664. Mennonite bakery featuring doughnuts, pies, cakes and other baked goods. Breakfast and lunch.

Bamberg. 803-245-4991.

Breakfast and lunch.

Short

order.

Nelson’s Wee Bake Bakery, 4767 Carolina

Cliff’s Seafood & Grill, 12743 Heritage Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-0701. Seafood, quail, steaks and chops. Lunch and dinner.

Pizza Hut, 2779 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

Duke’s BBQ of Bamberg, 1178 Main Hwy,

New China, 2307 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

Bamberg. 803-245-3313. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

803-245-3831. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

The Caroline Collection, 4659 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-4739. Located in Denmark in the historic AT&T building, the Caroline Collection is one of the largest privately owned antique stores in the Southeast. This unique antique store came into being over several decades of a couple’s passion for all things old. The main location offers three floors of eclectic, ever-changing inventory in artfully arranged vignette settings. Three other locations on the same street ensure that if you want it, they probably have it somewhere. www.thecarolinecollection.net

803-245-5113. Pizza, wings. Take-out. Lunch and dinner. www.pizzahut.com

Your Momma’s, 128 Paw Paw Road, Bamberg. 803-956-0144. Located at the Bamberg Golf & Sports Club. Burgers/ sandwiches. Cash. Lunch and dinner.

Shopping Black Shadow’s Ornamental Iron Work,

Main Street Gift & Garden Shop,

6145 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-4278. A copyrighted line of ornamental iron work and deer stands.

3386 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-0050.

Handcrafted pottery, mosaics, paintings by local artist Angie Sandifer. Seasonal fresh flowers.

Brooker True Value and Gifts, 4823 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-3342.

A family owned and operated business since 1903. Not just a hardware store, this location sells everything from clothes, jewelry & boots to old-fashioned rice steamers and rock candy.

Ehrhardt Pharmacy & Gift Shoppe, 12930 Broxton Bridge Rd, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2121.

John Deere toys, Yeti, Simply Southern, Southern Belles and Shot Gun Shells jewelry, Evergreen flags, purses, sunglasses, baby things and more. www.ehrhardtpharmacy.com

Jim Harrison Gallery, 4716 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-5796. Gallery displays include Harrison’s bronzes, etchings, originals, limited & unlimited edition reproductions from Harrison’s more than 35-year career as an artist. Jim Harrison was awarded the Order of the Palmetto by the State of South Carolina in 2008. www.jimharrison.com

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 24

Pansy Clayton Heritage Art Gallery, 7689 Ehrhardt Rd, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2204.

Original oil and acrylics of old southern scenes. Southern artifacts on display.

Poole’s 5 & 10, 4822 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-3487. Old-fashioned five and dime store.

Tagadu’s Gift Shop, 2165 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-7155. Operating since 2003, this special gift shop offers a wide range of items from Vera Bradley, Pandora and UNOde50 jewelry, Vietri China, Reed and Barton and Beatriz Ball. They also offer in-store monogramming. www.tagadus.com

25 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

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BARNWELL COUNTY Southerners have long been known to cherish tradition and local history, as well as times of having fun. Folks in Barnwell are no exception.

Barnwell Farmers Market, 9987 Dunbarton

Blvd, Barnwell. Located at Fuller Park. Open seasonally Tuesdays and Thursdays 8am-2pm.

Fruits, vegetables, baked goods, artisans & crafters, family fun and scheduled events.

Legends surround several of the attractions here. The Healing Springs story dates back to the 1700’s when Native Americans believed in the secret healing powers of the springs. Many natives of the area still claim the waters are a cure-all for “what ails ya.” The unique vertical sundial in Barnwell was a legendary monument for its donor who, ironically since he loved monuments, was laid to rest without anything marking his grave.

The wonderful climate and natural beauty of the area brought Mennonite settlers from western states. They now share with visitors their crafts and great cooking ability, along with insight into their religious practices.

Diverse cultures, legendary sites and history weave the fabric of this county.

Points of Interest Williston Museum, 5121 Springfield Rd, Williston. Town Hall, 803-266-7015.

Museum contains memorabilia from Williston including an old dental chair, the last electric cash register in Williston, a gas refrigerator and an asparagus exhibit. Williston was once the Asparagus Capital of the World. Open by appointment.

Town of Elko Farmers Market, Located near the intersection of US Hwy 78 and SC Hwy 37 in Elko. Look for sign and white tents.

803-266-2463. Fresh local produce, plants, flowers, dairy, fine crafts and more. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Open seasonally. Saturdays from 8am-2pm.

The Depot Library, 19420 Solomon Blatt

Ave, Blackville. 803-284-2295. The Depot is located in the former courthouse square.

Hours are available online. www.abbe-lib.org

Lill’s Herb Garden, Blackville.

803-284-2422. Open by appointment for groups only. Admission charged. Join Lill for a guided stroll through her beautiful garden.

Come see herbs, flowers, birds & butterflies.

Picnic lunches and tea parties available upon request.

Mennonite Community, Contact Blackville

Historical Tours listed in Guided Tours.

803-284-3267. A group of Mennonite families settled here from other parts of the country.

Their religion, similar to the Amish, makes them a close community. Their school, church and many of their farms are located close to Healing Springs.

Blackville Heritage Museum, 655 Main St,

Blackville. 803-284-2525. Exhibits include artifacts and information about the early days of the town and general area. Tuesdays 2pm4pm. Other times are by appointment.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 28

Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial

Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial,

141 Main St, Barnwell. The original courthouse built in Boiling Springs in 1789, was succeeded by several buildings on the present site. The present courthouse was built in 1878-79. The unique vertical sundial in front of the courthouse was given to the town in 1858 by Joseph D. Allen, who at that time was a state Senator from Barnwell. Legend has it that this is the only vertical sundial in the United States and though erected two years prior to standard time, it keeps within two minutes of that.

Agricultural Heritage Museum, 127 Heritage Rd (US 78), two miles west of Blackville, at the Clemson University Edisto Research & Education Center. 803-260-2534 or 803-300-1578. The museum interprets the historical and cultural influences of agriculture on the area. Guided tours are available upon request.

Circle Theatre, 325 Academy St, Barnwell.

803-259-7046. Completed in 1848, the building was originally home to the Barnwell Presbyterian Church. The building was used as a courthouse after Federal troops set fire to the county courthouse in 1865. A lightning storm damaged the steeple in 1891 and it was never rebuilt, hence the present appearance of the building. The building is currently home to the Circle Theatre. The theatre presents several performances during the year.

Veterans Memorial Park, 11015 Ellenton St (US 278), Barnwell. Planned and developed by the Vietnam Veterans of America Salkehatchie Chapter 828. Brick memorial pavers in honor of veterans line the perimeter of the park and the walkway from the Huey UH-1H helicopter to the monument and flagpole area. The walking and running track on the perimeter of the park is used by locals and visitors. Host to annual events throughout the year, including the Barnwell Independence Day celebration.

Barnwell Historic District, City of Barnwell

Tourism & Community Development.

803-541-6555. Within easy walking distance from Barnwell’s town circle, view the Church of the Holy Apostles where Union soldiers stabled their horses, and the churchyard where many famous South Carolinians are buried.

Other historic buildings include St. Andrew’s Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic Church in SC, and the former Presbyterian Church, now home to the Circle Theatre.

Barnwell County Museum, 617 Hagood God’s Acre Healing Springs

God’s Acre Healing Springs, Off of SC 3 N,

look for signs three miles north of Blackville.

Native Americans believed in the springs’ natural healing powers and brought wounded Revolutionary War soldiers here to drink.

Locals still believe in the springs’ powers and drink its waters. In 1944, the acre of land it is on was legally deeded to GOD by L.P. “Lute” Bolyston. Open during daylight hours.

Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-1916. Discover Barnwell and the South’s heritage through exhibits, guided tours and special programs.

Vocal and instrumental performances are also offered at varied times. Features a focus gallery that changes every quarter. Tues-Thurs 3-5:30pm. Admission is free. The museum is also available for birthdays, conference meetings, reunions, receptions, etc. Call the museum for further information. www.bcvm.org

Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles

29 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Lodging

Dining Anthony’s, 476 Reynolds Rd, Barnwell.

Little Howie’s, 8988 Marlboro Ave, Barnwell.

Days Inn, 10747 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

Berley’s Pharmacy Ice Cream Parlor, 16 Burr St, Barnwell. 803-259-3541. Ice cream and drinks.

Long Branch Deli, 12144 US Hwy 278,

Winton Inn & Suites, 8273 Marlboro

New China, 10201 Dunbarton Rd, Barnwell.

803-259-0219. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

Meeting on Main, 12906 Main St, Williston.

Carolina Lodge, 10645 Dunbarton Blvd,

Barnwell. 803-259-2014. Continental breakfast, microwave, refrigerator and satellite TV.

Bed & Breakfasts

803-541-5000. Continental breakfast, microwave and refrigerator. Pet friendly. www.daysinn.com Ave, Barnwell. 803-621-2017. Courtyard, refrigerator and microwave. Pet friendly.

Camping & RV Parks Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd,

Blackville. 803-284-2212. 5 cabins. Each cabin includes bath and bed linens, cooking and eating utensils, satellite TV, coffee maker, central heating/air, outside grill, fire ring and picnic table. No pets allowed in cabins or cabin area. 25 campsites. Packed gravel, individual water and electrical hookups, picnic table, heated restroom facility. 4 sites can accommodate RV’s up to 36 ft, others up to 28 ft. 8 of the sites are also full service, providing 20-, 30- and 50-amp service, water and sewer hookups. Primitive camping area with picnic tables, fire ring and water available for organized groups. Nature trail, fishing, boating, picnic shelters, seasonal swim-atown-risk swimming area and meeting facilities. www.southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell

China Express, 10690 Dunbarton Blvd,

Barnwell. 803-259-9428. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

Wisteria Cottage Bed & Breakfast

Wisteria Cottage Bed & Breakfast, 2136

Jones Bridge Rd, Blackville. 803-284-2422.

A rustic two-bedroom and one bath 1940’s cottage ideal for a “quiet get away from it all” in the country. Also on the property is Lill’s Herb Garden. See points of interest listing. http://blackvillewisteriacottage.com

Miss Alda’s Inn, 825 Moore Dr, Snelling

vicinity. 803-300-7370. Come, relax and enjoy the charm of this wonderful family home passed down through five generations located just five miles from Barnwell, SC in the small town of Snelling. The house was built in 1925, recently remodeled and opened as an Inn in 2016. Choose from four rooms: three with queen beds and private bath, one room with a full bed, or reserve the entire house. Savor the porches and the comfortable interior rooms with a full breakfast served daily in the dining room. The Inn is full of memories and stories.

It’s the perfect place to relax and embrace the peace and quiet of the country. Guests can also tour the many nearby historical sites and take advantage of a golf package at Sweetwater Country Club located just three miles away.

Hunting packages are also available. Pet friendly with a refundable deposit.

Villa Motor Inn, 13850 Church St,

Williston. 803-266-7001. Microwave and refrigerator. Pet friendly.

Cabin at Barnwell State Park Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 30

803-259-9139. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Common Grounds Coffee House, 1458

Jackson St, Barnwell. 803-259-1488. Coffee, pastries, sandwiches and wraps. Meeting space is available for up to 40 people.

Country Cupboard, 9724 Marlboro Ave,

Barnwell. 803-541-7000. Deli, bulk and natural foods. Sandwiches, salad and potato bar.

Duke’s BBQ, 19355 Solomon Blatt Ave, Blackville. 803-284-3546. Barbeque. Weekends.

Lunch and dinner.

803-259-1833. Lunch and dinner. Burgers and chicken.

Barnwell. 803-591-8565. Family-owned deli.

Sandwiches and salads. Lunch.

803-266-4900. Soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees. Lunch and dinner. www.meetingonmain.com

Miller’s Bread Basket, 483 Main St, Blackville. 803-284-3117. Amish-Mennonite cooking, salads, homemade bread. Lunch and dinner. www.millersbreadbasket.com Mi Rancho, 11553 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-259-5050. Mexican. Lunch and dinner.

Morgan’s Drugs, 12935 Main St, Williston.

803-266-3356. Local pharmacy and ice cream parlor. Featuring hand-dipped ice cream, shakes and floats.

Hansel and Gretel’s, 66 Main St, Barnwell.

Mr. B’s Food & Spirits, 10132 Ellenton St, Barnwell. 803-259-5071. American and seafood. Lunch and dinner.

Healing Springs Country Store, 2563

Pizza Hut, 1017 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-259-2811. Pizza and wings. Lunch and dinner.

803-450-5074. Restaurant, bakery and dessert shop.

Healing Springs Rd, Blackville. 803-284-3377.

Sandwiches, hot dogs, seasonal soups and ice cream. Lunch.

Hogg Heaven, 1070 Barwick Ln, Barnwell.

803-259-2494. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

Thurs-Saturday only.

Hong Kong Buffet, 12945 Main St. Williston.

803-266-4199. Chinese. Dine-in or take out.

Lunch and dinner.

Lakeside Grille, 188 Gilmore St, Barnwell.

803-541-0700. Farm-to-table and seafood.

Lunch and dinner.

Lee’s Soulfood & Catering, 539 Allen St,

Barnwell. 803-571-6261. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Russell’s Pizza, 12677 Main St, Blackville.

803-284-3001. Pizza and sandwiches. Italian.

Lunch and dinner.

Russell’s Pizza, 13031 Main St, Williston.

803-266-7722. Pizza and sandwiches. Italian.

Lunch and dinner.

Smokin Joe’s BBQ, 3120 SC Hwy 70,

Barnwell. 803-400-3040. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Sombrero’s Mexican Restaurant, 8273 Marlboro Ave, Barnwell. 803-541-1264.

Mexican. Lunch and dinner.

Whitney’s, 212A Main St, Barnwell.

803-443-2878. Lunch Monday-Friday. Dinner Thursday-Friday.

31 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Shopping Carol’s Florist, 210 Main St, Barnwell.

803-259-0212. European baskets, gourmet foods, unique designs and open design room.

Cute Cottons, 272 Main St, Barnwell.

803-621-2426. Women’s clothing, jewelry, gifts and more. Monogramming available.

Evelyn’s Jewelry & Gifts, 22 Burr St,

Barnwell. 803-259-5130. Fine china, jewelry, crystal, silver and decorative gifts. www.shopevelynsgifts.com

Exclusively Gadson, 260 Main St, Barnwell.

803-259-0088. Fashionable clothing.

My Repurposed Life Custom Woodwork & Refinishing, 4671 West St, Williston.

803-468-7103. Refinish, repurpose and repair furniture. Offers custom built furniture and creates custom welded art.

Palmetto Styles Salon & Day Spa, 243 Main

St, Barnwell. 803-259-7961. Full service salon & day spa. Merle Norman Cosmetics, jewelry and purses.

Pick of the Litter Shoppe, 28 McDonough St, Barnwell. 803-541-7387. New and gently used clothing, books, bedding, antiques and many novelties.

Quilt Shop, 15070 SC Hwy 3, Blackville.

803-284-2929. Handmade quilts, unique gifts and quilting supplies. Open by appointment.

Ruby’s, 120 Main St, Barnwell.

803-541-4743. Women’s clothing.

Southern Couture, 214 Main St, Barnwell.

803-709-5437. clothing.

Children’s

and

women’s

The Blossom Shop, 12983 Main St, Healing Springs Country Store

Healing Springs Country Store, 2563

Healing Springs Rd, Blackville. 803-284-3377.

Gifts, discount books, candles, meats and cheeses, sandwiches, candies and bakery items.

Williston. 803-266-7433. Flowers and gifts.

Williston Charm Boutique, 12941 Main St, Williston. 803-226-0003. Clothing, jewelry and gifts.

Hunter & Oates - General Merchandise, 218 Main St, Barnwell. 803-391-8564. Casual and outdoor apparel, bags, totes, towels, pillows and home accessories.

Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery, 12080 US Hwy 278, Near junction of US 278 & SC 37 west of Barnwell. 803-541-7900.

Handcrafted stoneware pottery, SC face jugs, local artisans, handcrafted & repurposed furniture and collectibles.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 32

Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery

33 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

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TOURING IDEAS

WHAT’S CLOSE BY

Use these touring ideas to help you plan your time in Thoroughbred Country. Follow them in their entirety, or mix and match for your own customized experience.

Columbia, SC: 60-75 miles from most points in Thoroughbred Country. Visit Riverbanks Zoo, the South Carolina State House and the South Carolina State Museum. Shopping and Trolley Tours are also popular options.

Historic Thoroughbred Country Day 1: Climb aboard the Aiken Trolley to experience Aiken and its grace, charm and elegance during this guided tour. Tours are scheduled every Saturday and reservations are required. Tours depart from the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum. Spend time at the Aiken County Historical Museum or enjoy shopping in the thriving downtown district.

Pack a picnic lunch and travel to North Augusta’s Living History Park or enjoy birding at Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary. Tour the mansion at Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site or canoe the Edisto River Trail at Aiken State Park.

Treat yourself to dinner and sample our local flavor. Spend the remainder of your evening star-gazing at the planetarium, enjoying a live performance event or catching a baseball game at SRP Park. A night’s rest can be found at one of the many historic inns.

Lakes Murray & Thurmond: no more than 1.5 hours from any part of Thoroughbred Country to a major lake. Lake Murray sits due west of Columbia. Lake Thurmond is due north of Thoroughbred Country.

The Coast: 2.5 hours or less from any part of Thoroughbred Country. Plantations, the South Carolina Aquarium, the Charleston IMAX Theater, the Carolina Opry, the Alabama Theatre, thrilling amusement parks, sandy beaches and an abundance of golf courses, shopping and dining opportunities can be found in the many beautiful communities along the coast.

The Mountains: 2.5 hours or slightly more to the mountainous regions of South Carolina and North Carolina. Take a hike on waterfall speckled trails, take a boat tour on Lake Jocassee or sightsee during the fall foliage season. From the BMW Zentrum Visitors Center and the Bob Campbell Geology Museum to the Greenville hockey team, there is much to see and do.

Day 2: After breakfast, visit Williston, once the Asparagus Capital of the World and stop at the museum for displays of the town’s local history. Continue on to Blackville for a guided tour.

Tour offerings include Lill’s Herb Garden and the Agricultural Heritage Museum.

Augusta, GA: 15 miles west of Aiken. Home of the Masters Golf Tournament. History comes

Experience the Mennonite culture at Miller’s Bread Basket or Healing Springs Country Store.

Don’t leave Blackville without a cup of cool water from the Healing Springs. Follow the history of the Charleston-Hamburg Railway to Denmark and enjoy shopping for antiques or original artwork at the Jim Harrison Gallery.

Atlanta, GA: 3 hours from most parts of Thoroughbred Country. Visit SunTrust Park, home to the Atlanta Braves or Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons. Both are professional sports teams. Experience the CNN Center, Six Flags over Georgia, White Water and American Adventures Parks and the World of Coca-Cola.

A variety of local restaurants can be found in Bamberg for a hearty meal. Travel south to Ehrhardt for an overnight at a local bed and breakfast where you will hear stories of the community’s German heritage.

For more information on tourism opportunities in South Carolina visit www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com

alive at the Augusta Canal Interpretive Center. Float past more than 200 years of history and watch for wonderful wildlife as your guide shares canal lore and legend on the Petersburg Boat Tour.

Day 3: Begin your day with a visit to Rivers Bridge State Historic Site outside of Ehrhardt.

The site of the Battle of Rivers Bridge contains an award-winning Battlefield Interpretive Trail.

Don’t miss the Topper site exhibit at the University of South Carolina Salkehatchie campus to learn about the Clovis and pre-Clovis cultures in the area and the annual Paleoamerican Expedition field archaeology program.

Enjoy a sandwich or BBQ plate before traveling to Barnwell for history and shopping on the Circle. Be sure to check the time at the unique vertical sundial. Legend has it this is the only vertical sundial in the United States and it keeps within two minutes of standard time. Visit the Barnwell County Museum or The Little Red Barn Pottery and Art Gallery to shop for pottery and nature photography before enjoying dinner. Check out the schedule for the Circle Theatre for evening performances. Spend the night in one of the cabins at Barnwell State Park.

Golf, trail rides, fishing, hunting and biking are also available.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 38

39 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

HISTORIC CHURCHES, CEMETERIES & MARKERS Many people find exploring an old burial ground can be likened to walking through a threedimensional history book. While some churchyards are the final resting home of famous heroes, many tell the past of ordinary townsfolk who were important to the area’s rich history.

Enjoy your time in Thoroughbred Country, exploring the wealth of historic sites, charming small towns and beautifully preserved churches.

The information in this section may not include all of the historic churches, cemeteries and markers in the region. For more information, visit the South Carolina Department of Archives and History at http://scdah.sc.gov.

Aiken County

Adath Yeshurun Synagogue, 154 Greenville

St NW, Aiken. Aiken’s permanent Jewish community dates to 1890, when immigrants from Eastern Europe, began settling here. This Classical Revival synagogue was built in 1925, and has been in continuous use since as both a place of worship and a Jewish community center.

Aiken, corner of Laurens St and The Alley,

Aiken. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The county seat, Aiken was chartered in 1835.

Aiken Colored Cemetery/Pine Lawn Memorial Gardens, Florence St and

N

Hampton Ave, Aiken. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007. This cemetery, established in 1852 as a city cemetery, became Pine Lawn Memorial Gardens in 1988. This was the only burial ground for African Americans in Aiken until the mid-20th century.

E

W

S

Aiken County, Aiken County Courthouse,

corner of Park Ave and Chesterfield St, Aiken.

SC Hwy Historical Marker. The county was created in 1871 and was named for William Aiken, the first president of the SC Canal & Railroad Company.

SOUTH CAROLINA

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 40

Aiken First Baptist Church, York St NE, near its intersection with Richland Ave, Aiken. The church, founded in 1805, predates the city of Aiken and was first called Levels Baptist Church. The present Classical Revival sanctuary was built and dedicated in 1958.

The cemetery, dating from 1838, includes the graves of both Union and Confederate soldiers.

Aiken Hospital/Aiken County Hospital, 828

Richland Ave W, Aiken. Aiken Hospital– The first public hospital in Aiken was built in 1917 for the Aiken Hospital and Relief Society, with donations from members of the “Aiken Winter Colony”. It closed in 1924 and reopened in 1927 with additional funding. Aiken County Hospital– Funded by the Public Works Administration and the Duke Foundation, the hospital opened in 1936. A four-story brick Colonial Revival building was called “the last word in a modern hospital”.

Aiken Institute, 314 Chesterfield St SW, Aiken.

SC Hwy Historical Marker. Chartered in 1888, the main building, designed in 1891, included a wing that was added in 1913. It was the second oldest school in use in the state when it closed in 1986. The 1913 wing became the Aiken County Public Library in 1990.

Battle of Aiken Marker, Richland Ave

and Chesterfield St, Aiken. This marker commemorates the 1865 Battle of Aiken.

Battle of John’s Town Memorial, intersection

of Voyager Rd and Salley Rd. This marker commemorates the Battle of John’s Town, fought May 2, 1782, by Patriots defending the two bullpens where British and Tories were imprisoned during the Revolutionary War.

Carrsville, Barton Rd and Boylan St, North

Augusta. This African-American community was established in 1930 after two floods on the Savannah River washed away most of the town of Hamburg. This building, long called “the Society Building,” was built in 1930 for the Young Men’s Union Society, which later bought the lot from William Carpenter. The building hosted many events for organizations such as Simmons Lodge No. 571, which acquired it in 1988.

41 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Coker Springs, Whiskey Rd and Coker Springs Rd SW, Aiken. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The freshwater spring less than ¼ mile southwest was used by prehistoric Native Americans. It was deeded to the town of Aiken in 1844 by William Perroneau Finley (1803-1876) and furnished Aiken’s drinking water throughout the 19th century.

The brick springhouse, covered in stucco, dates from the early 19th century and features Greek Revival architectural elements. The springhouse and retaining walls were restored in 1972 after archaeological excavations.

Downer Institute & School, intersection of Hammond Rd and US 278, Beech Island.

SC Hwy Historical Marker. Downer Institute was founded in 1843 and operated until 1865.

Downer Elementary School, the Institute’s successor, stood here 1924-1950 and 19521986.

Graniteville

Cemetery,

Gregg Hwy, Graniteville. The cemetery, established about 1850, is closely associated with the Graniteville Mill. William Gregg (1800-1867), founder of the mill, laid out the mill village and also helped plan this cemetery. Notable persons buried here include 83 Confederate soldiers and veterans, as well as many employees of the Graniteville Mill.

Graniteville Academy, Canal St and Gregg Hwy, Graniteville. This Carpenter Gothic school was built in 1848 by the Graniteville Mill. The academy, with five classrooms and a bell tower, opened with local ministers as teachers for students in grades 1-6. The original 1848 academy here was a residence from 19221969.

Graniteville Mill, corner of Canal St and Marshall St, Graniteville. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This mill, the largest textile mill in antebellum SC, was chartered in 1845 and opened in 1847. This company provided housing, a school, a store and land for churches, creating a model mill village.

Hampton Terrace Hotel, 1000 block of Carolina Ave, North Augusta. SC Hwy Historical Marker. An exclusive winter resort, the hotel stood atop this hill from 1903 to 1916. The hotel burned down on New Year’s Eve 1916.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 42

Historic Church, US 278, at the entrance to Redcliffe Plantation State Park. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This church was built in 1836 by Beech Island Presbyterian Church and organized in 1827. Woodrow Wilson’s wife was baptized here. In 1950, the building was consecrated as All Saints Episcopal Church.

Jacksonville School/Jacksonville Lodge, 351 Huber Clay Rd, Langley. Jacksonville School– Built by the Jacksonville Lodge in 1895, taught the African-American children of this community until 1935. The Jacksonville Community Commission acquired and renovated the building in 1991-92. Jacksonville Lodge– This building was constructed in 1895

by Jacksonville Lodge, Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, an African-American fraternal organization. The Odd Fellows met here on the second floor for many years.

James U. Jackson Memorial Bridge, US 25 Business, near the Savannah River, North Augusta. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The first North Augusta bridge was built in 1891.

James U. Jackson. The present bridge was built in 1939. James U. Jackson earned the title “Founder of North Augusta.”

North Augusta, John C. Calhoun Park, intersection of Carolina Ave and Georgia Ave, North Augusta. Chartered in 1906, includes the site of two early towns. Campbell Town was a trading post on the Savannah River before the American Revolution. Hamburg, founded in 1821 as a port on the river, was an early western terminus of the S.C. Railroad.

Pickens-Salley House, University of South Carolina Aiken campus, Aiken. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This plantation house is an excellent example of Federal-era architecture.

Samuel Hammond, 101 Riverview Park Dr, North Augusta. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Samuel Hammond was a Native American fighter born in Virginia in 1757. Hammond died in 1842 and was buried nearby.

Schofield School, 224 Kershaw St NE, Aiken.

Schofield Middle School, 803-642-2770. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The Schofield Normal and Industrial School was founded in 1868 by Martha Schofield who dedicated her life to the education of African Americans. In 1953, the school was deeded to the state and the county and became Schofield Middle School. The original bell tower of the Schofield Normal and Industrial School still stands on the grounds.

Contact the school before visiting.

Silver Bluff Baptist Church, 360 Old Jackson Hwy, Beech Island. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This church, one of the first AfricanAmerican Baptist churches in America, grew out of regular worship services held as early as the 1750s at “Silver Bluff,” a plantation of Native American trader George Galphin. At first non-denominational congregation with both Caucasian and African-American members, it was formally organized as Silver Bluff Baptist Church in 1773. A large frame sanctuary built in 1873 was covered in brick veneer in 1920; it was demolished and the present brick church was built in 1948.

Storm Branch Baptist Church, 153 Storm Branch Rd, Clearwater vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The church began as a plantation chapel in 1772 and became a wholly African-American church in 1866. The first permanent sanctuary was built around the same time.

St. Thaddeus Church, 125 Pendleton St, Aiken. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This Episcopal church is the city’s oldest church structure, having retained its Greek Revival style through subsequent remodeling.

The Hamburg Massacre, US 1/78/25, under the 5th St Bridge on the North Augusta side, North Augusta. Occurred nearby on July 8, 1876, was one of the most notable incidents of racial and political violence in SC during Reconstruction.

The Martintown Rd, SC 230, two blocks south of its intersection with Georgia Ave, North Augusta. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The road was originally used by Native American traders going to the Cherokee Nation in the 1730’s.

The SC Railroad, intersection of Laurens St and Park Ave, Aiken. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

The tracks of the SC Railroad, operated by the SC Canal and Railroad Company, ran here from 1833 to the 1850s. The original tracks through Aiken, one of the first “railroad towns” in the United States, ran along this street.

Wagener, Gunter St and Park St, Wagener.

Established after the Blackville, Alston, & Newberry PR built its line from Blackville to Seivern in 1887-88, was originally known as Guntersville or Gunter’s Crossroads. When incorporated in 1888 it was renamed for George A. Wagener (1846-1908).

Western Terminus, US 1 and US 25 at the Savannah River. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

The western terminus of the SC Canal and Railroad Company railway stood near here.

Zubly Cemetery, Old Jackson Hwy, Beech Island. Jackie Bartley, 803-827-0184. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This cemetery, which is over 200 years old, is the resting place of 18th century Swiss settlers and their descendants. Open by appointment only. bihs@comcast.net

Allendale County Antioch Christian Church, SC 3, two miles south of US 301. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Organized by Dr. and Mrs. W. R. Erwin and Mrs. U.M. Robert, this was the second Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) founded in South Carolina.

Barker’s Mill/Skirmish at Barker’s Mill, SC 321, Sycamore vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Marks the site of Barker’s Mill and a nearby skirmish during the last months of the Civil War.

Beech Branch Baptist Church, S-3-104, Barton vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Constituted in 1759 as Coosawhatchie Church, this church became Beech Branch Baptist Church in 1822.

Bethel Baptist Church, 6486 Confederate Hwy, Fairfax. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The church has worshipped on this site since it was organized in 1851.

43 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Bethlehem Church, Boundary St at the entrance to Fairfax Town Cemetery. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The church was organized by 1854. In 1944, the name was changed to First Baptist Church.

Fairfax, Gazebo Park, 7th and Sumter Ave S, Fairfax. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Chartered in 1893, the town grew out of an early community centered around Owens’ Crossroads.

Happy Home Baptist Church, Memorial Ave, near Railroad Ave W, Allendale. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Founded after the Civil War in a brush arbor. The first permanent church was built in the Zion Branch community near Old Allendale. The church bought this site in 1875. In 1911, the church received a state charter and built the present church, a brick Gothic Revival building.

Harmony Baptist Church, Harmony Church Rd, Sycamore vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This church had its origin in a brush arbor as early as 1830 but was formally organized in 1878.

Old Allendale, southwest of Allendale at the intersection of Ashe Rd and Revolutionary Trl. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This was the original site of Allendale. Sherman’s troops under Gen. Kilpatrick camped here. The town was moved to its present site in 1873.

Old St Nicholas Cemetery, south side of SC 641, 1/4 mile east of Ulmer Rd. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The original cemetery associated with St. Nicholas Lutheran Church.

Smyrna Baptist Church, SC 22, southwest of Allendale. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Organized in 1827 as Kirkland Church, the name was changed in 1836 to Smyrna Baptist Church. Title to the site was conveyed in 1849

by William I. Mixon.

Speedwell Methodist Church, Speedwell Church Rd, Millett. Founded in 1885, this church was named Speedwell for a stagecoach stop and the first post office in the vicinity, now Millett. Regular services ended by 1970, but homecomings are still occasionally held here.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 44

St Nicholas Church, intersection of SC 641

Holman’s Bridge, Holman’s Bridge Rd, Denmark vicinity. In 1801, John Holman constructed a bridge spanning the South Fork of the Edisto River. Rebuilt after the Civil War, the crossing remained in use into the 20th century.

St

and S-3-40, 0.7 miles west of the Salkehatchie River. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This Lutheran church was organized by 1804 and has occupied several sites. Today’s structure was built in 1910.

Town of Allendale, in front of Allendale

Mizpah Church, US 301 about one mile

County Administration Building, US 301, Allendale. SC Hwy Historical Marker. A 1000acre land grant was conveyed to Benjamin and G. Washington Allen in 1810.

Bamberg County

north of the Salkehatchie River. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The present building was erected in 1856 and was the only building left when Sherman completed his march through the area.

803-793-3351. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Listed on the National Register List of Historic Places. The school was founded in 1897 in an effort to emphasize vocational curriculum for rural African-American students. Today, Voorhees is a senior liberal arts college. www.voorhees.edu

AT&T Building, 124 N Palmetto Ave,

Mountain Home Plantation, George’s

Woodlands, Hwy 78, about three miles south

Creek Rd and Ehrhardt Rd, Govan vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Established before the Civil War and named for the hill on which it is located. Built by Samuel J. Hartzog in 1859.

Cotton was grown and processed here and hauled by wagon to the railroad at Graham’s Turn Out (now Denmark). Birth place of Henry Simms Hartzog, third President of Clemson College (now Clemson University).

of Bamberg. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Home of William Gilmore Simms, South Carolina’s most notable author. Private Home.

Denmark. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register List of Historic Places.

This Georgian Revival building was described as “the most modern telephone plant in the south” when it opened.

Battle of Rivers Bridge/Memorials at Rivers Bridge, entrance of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, Ehrhardt vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Battle of Rivers Bridge- On February 3, 1865, here Confederate soldiers defended the Salkehatchie River for almost two days. Memorials at Rivers Bridge- In 1876, local men reburied the Confederate dead in a mass grave and formed the Rivers Bridge Confederate Memorial Association. They preserved the battlefield, deeding it in 1945 as Rivers Bridge State Park (now Rivers Bridge State Historic Site).

Buford’s Bridge, US 301/321 at the Salkehatchie River, Ulmer. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The earliest settlement in what is now Bamberg County.

Carlisle Military School, S Carlisle St between Elm St and Green St, Bamberg.

SC Hwy Historical Marker. The institution educated young men from the US and other countries until it closed in 1977.

Denmark High School, 4599 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was used as a school until 1987. www.denmarkhighschool.com

Mt. Pleasant Lutheran Church, Mt. Pleasant Rd, one mile west of Ehrhardt. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1835, St. Bartholomew Lutheran Church moved here and changed its name to Mt. Pleasant. John George Bamberg preached there shortly after 1798.

Pinewood Plantation, 3141 Capernaum Rd, Bamberg. This plantation was the home of Maj. William Seaborn Bamberg (1820-1858), planter, merchant, and the founder of Bamberg.

Salem Methodist Church, Old Salem Rd, about three miles northwest of Govan. Boyhood church of Holland Nimmons McTyeire, Methodist bishop and founder of Vanderbilt University.

South Carolina Canal & Rail Road Company, intersection of US 301 and US 78. Original track location of Charleston to Hamburg railroad. The tracks were removed in 1996.

John’s Baptist Church, southwest of Ehrhardt. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

Established in 1829-30, the church was first named Three Mile Creek Church. Civil War Federal troops stabled their horses in the church.

Voorhees College, E. Voorhees Rd, Denmark.

Barnwell County Ashley-Willis House, Corner of W Main St and David St, Williston. Listed on the National Register List of Historic Places. A Greek Revival house built between 1833 and 1850, features a wide gable-front form unusual for the period.

General Judson Kilpatrick used this house as his headquarters before burning most of the town and proceeding to Aiken and Columbia.

Bank of Barnwell/Edgar A. Brown Law Office, Corner of Main St and Jefferson St, Barnwell. This building, constructed in 1887 as the Bank of Barnwell, was home to a succession of banks for 116 years. The bank occupied the first floor, and the law offices occupied the second floor, with additions in 1950 and 1961.

The City of Barnwell renovated this building in 2008, with city hall on the first floor.

Barnwell, Collins Park, Barnwell. SC Hwy Historic Marker. Originally called Red Hill and later the Village. Barnwell was founded in 1800.

Barnwell County Courthouse, east side of SC 3, between Pascallas St and Reynolds St, Blackville. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The county courthouse was on this site from 1871 to 1874.

45 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Barnwell County Courthouse, intersection

of Main St and Wall St, Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The first courthouse on this site was built in 1800. This courthouse, the fourth on this site, was built in 1878-79 and enlarged in 1901 and 1921. The nearby sundial, donated by state senator J.D. Allen (1812-1880), was erected in 1858.

Bethlehem Baptist Church, 177 Wall St,

Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register List of Historic Places.

A pre-Civil War church organized by and for African-Americans. The present building was constructed in 1889 using some of the original materials.

Blackville: Town of the Phoenix/Battle of Blackville, SC 3 and Main St, Blackville. SC

Hwy Historical Marker. Blackville, founded in 1833, was the first overnight stop on the new railroad operated by the SC Canal & Railroad Company railroad. Battle of Blackville- Early on February 7, 1865, General Kilpatrick destroyed the railroad at Blackville.

Boiling Springs Academy, Boiling Springs

Rd, Boiling Springs. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The academy building, along with its records, was burned by Federal troops in February 1865. In 1908, a one-room school building was constructed which now serves as a community center.

Boiling Springs Presbyterian Church,

Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling Springs Community. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This church was organized in 1842. The present sanctuary was built in 1897; the Sunday School building was built in 1955.

Ellenton Agricultural Club/Town of Ellenton, SC 64, Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical

Marker. The club was organized to promote the welfare and interest of the Ellenton farmers and to improve conditions generally. Town of Ellenton- By 1873, a post office named Ellentown was located on the Port Royal Railroad. In 1880 the town of Ellenton was incorporated. Ellenton was abandoned in the early 1950s to make way for the Savannah River Plant.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 46

RECREATION

Fuller Park, Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This park, built and opened in 1933, was named for Cornell G. Fuller (1895-1972), mayor of Barnwell and chair of this and other New Deal-era public projects in Barnwell.

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Hilda, E. Main St, Hidla. SC Hwy Historical

Fishing & Hunting Licenses by Phone,

Davis Bridge Landing, located off of SC

4 on Veterans Rd between Salley and White Pond. Aiken County. Small craft access, parking and fishing areas.

Marker. Hilda was chartered in 1910 and grew up around a depot built here in 1903.

1-866-714-3611

Lower Three Runs Baptist Church,

www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html

County. Ramp, gravel parking.

For rules and regulations pertaining to hunting and fishing in South Carolina, contact SCDNR.

Keadle’s Bridge Landing, located off SC 4 and Windsor Rd. Aiken County. Hard surface ramp, limited parking.

SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR),

Edisto Boat Landing, off of New Holland

Patterson Mill Rd, Snelling vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Lower Three Runs was a mother church to at least five congregations organized in present day Barnwell or Allendale counties between 1802 and 1849.

Macedonia Baptist Church, 3572 Dexter

St, Blackville. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

This church, the first African-American Baptist church in Barnwell County, was founded in 1866 when Rev. James T. Tolbert preached in Blackville under a brush arbor, the first sanctuary was built in 1868. The present sanctuary was built here in 1976. This is the mother church of eight churches founded during 1867-1922.

Morris Ford Earthworks, Old Allendale Hwy. North of the Salkehatchie River Bridge.

SC Hwy Historical Marker. Nearby earthworks at Morris Ford, on the Salkehatchie River, were built in the spring of 1780 by Loyalists. Soon after Charleston fell to the British, Captain John Mumford of the SC militia was killed in action.

He is buried at this site.

Red Hill at Turkey Creek, intersection of Dunbarton Blvd and Jackson St, Barnwell. This high bluff was called Red Hill in the colonial era. It overlooks Turkey Creek, which flows in the Great Salkehatchie River.

Tarleton Brown, Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling

Springs. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The grave of Tarleton Brown, militia officer, state representative and state senator, is located here.

He enlisted as a private in the SC militia in 1776, was commissioned a Lieutenant in 1778 and promoted to Captain in 1780.

Winton County Courthouse Site, SC 3 about 5 miles south of Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Winton County became Barnwell District in 1798 and Barnwell County in 1868.

Fishing & Hunting Licenses Online,

PO Box 167, Columbia, 29202 General Information 803-734-3886 To Report Violations 800-922-5431

Fishing - Rivers Edisto River, a natural cathedral of swamp, hardwoods and cypress, follows this blackwater river. Pinfish, catfish, largemouth bass, eels and bream fishing.

Wood ducks, alligators and birds are abundant. The following areas offer access to the Edisto River: Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor. 803-649-2857. Aiken County.

Enjoy fishing in three lakes or the Edisto River for bream, bass and catfish. Boat rentals available. Hard surface boat ramp. Nature trail, canoe trail, seasonal swimming, picnic shelters, campsites. www.southcarolinaparks.com/aiken

Highway 21 Boat Landing, SC 21. Aiken

Rd, between Couchton and New Holland.

Aiken County. Facilities include boat ramp for small craft, small parking area and area for bank fishing.

Zig-Zag Landing, 15 miles east of Bamberg on SC 61. Bamberg County. Boat ramp, paved parking.

Salkehatchie River, bream in the spring and fall. Largemouth bass and chain pickerel. The following areas have access to the Salkehatchie River: Bufords Bridge, US 301/321 northeast

of Ulmer. Bamberg County. Ramp, gravel parking.

Ray’s Crossing Landing, Ray’s Crossing Rd,

off SC 300. Barnwell County. Hard surface ramp, dirt parking.

Bobcat Landing, Bobcat Rd off of Bamberg

Rd, north of Bamberg. Bamberg County.

Hard surface ramp, paved parking.

Brabham’s Landing, Cannon Bridge Rd off of US 78, north of Bamberg. Bamberg County. Hard surface ramp, paved parking.

Claudes Landing, Claudes Landing Rd, off US 78 in Denmark. Bamberg County. Hard surface ramp, paved parking.

Edisto River 47 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Savannah River - Upper, tree-covered floodplain and hillside provide pleasant scenery. Largemouth bass, hybrid bass, striped bass, crappie, catfish, redbreast, bream and perch are found in the river. Its abundant oxbows of ‘dead lakes’ provide excellent fishing. The following areas have access to the Upper Savannah River: Jackson Landing, take Jackson Rd to Fisher Rd, then to Landing Rd. Aiken County. Hard surface ramp, handicapped accessible dock, fishing area, gravel parking.

Riverview Park Boat Ramp, Hammonds Ferry Rd, North Augusta. Parks, Recreation, & Tourism. 803-441-4300. Aiken County.

Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

Primitive campsites nearby.

Silver Bluff Landing, Silver Bluff Rd to Bluff Landing Rd. Aiken County. Small craft access.

Savannah River - Lower, the natural impoundments of the Savannah River provide a natural setting for panfish, redbreast, bream, catfish, warmouth and yellow perch are found in abundance as well as largemouth bass, hybrid bass and crappie. Some striped bass run up the river in spring. The following areas have access to the Lower Savannah River:

Fishing - Ponds & Other Areas Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd (Off SC 3), Blackville. Barnwell County.

803-284-2212. Choices include a one-acre pond, as well as eight and sixteen-acre lakes.

Find largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. Boat rentals and seasonal swimming available. Nature trail, picnic shelters, meeting facility, cabins and campsites. www.southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell

Crackerneck WMA, Jackson. Contact SC Department of Natural Resources for more information including complete rules and regulations and dates open to the public.

803-725-3663. 10,600 acres. Fishing and hunting for deer, turkey, waterfowl and small game. All individuals utilizing Crackerneck are required to sign in prior to entering the area and sign out upon leaving. Anyone not following this procedure will be considered trespassing.

Lake Edgar Brown, US 278, Barnwell. A 100-acre lake providing largemouth bass, bluegill, shell-cracker and catfish. Also used for boating and water skiing. Boat ramp, fishing pier and tackle shop.

Whetstone’s Crossroads, 15 miles east of Bamberg at SC 61 & US 21. Bamberg County. Fee charged. Public welcome. Hard surface ramp and tackle shop.

Cohen’s Bluff Landing, Cohen’s Bluff Rd off SC 3. Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

Public Boat Ramps, 1-800-ASK-FISH.

Johnsons Landing, Johnson Landing Rd off SC 3. Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

Little Hell Landing, US 301 to US 125, turn left at Furse Mill Rd and travel 15.5 miles. Little Hell Rd, one mile from Millett.

Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, gravel parking.

Steel Creek Landing, Off US 125 near Martin. Allendale County. Ramp, gravel parking.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 48

Hunting & Sporting Clubs Aiken Driving Club, PO Box 271, Aiken, SC 29802. Horse-drawn carriages and carts meet each month. www.aikendrivingclub.com Blackwater Hunting Services, 7585 Hwy 300, Ulmer. 803-541-4868. Liberal game limits and lengthy hunting season. No overbooking, 4 bedroom, 5 bath lodge. Deer, turkey and fishing. www.blackwaterhunting.com Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton Bridge Rd, Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868.

A hunting preserve offering hunting, fishing, sporting clays, pistol, rifle range and continental tower shoots. The southern part of the plantation is a Civil War battleground with breastworks intact. Guided tours available with prior notice. www.broxtonbridge.com

Carolina Star Gun & Hunt Club, 371 Cedar Branch Rd, Windsor. 803-649-0878.

Situated on 234 acres, this facility hosts a variety of shooting sport activities and can accommodate a variety of functions. Hunting, sporting clays, trap shooting. For membership information. www.carolinastar.com

Cowden Plantation, 383 Brown Rd, Jackson. 803-471-3616. Over 10,000 acres of deer, hog, turkey, duck, dove, quail, bass, bluegill and farm catfish. Appointment required. Accommodations available. www.jarrettrifles.com/cowden-plantation.html

Cedar Knoll Hunting Lodge, 757 Cedar Knoll Hunting Lodge, Fairfax. 877-927-4241.

Deer, wild boar and bob white quail hunting.

Lodge sleeps 30 and features banquet hall, big screen TV and central heat/air. RV Park features 70 campsites with electricity, water, sewer hookups, light and corral horse stalls; and an additional 70 sites with electricity, water, sewer, a light and permanent tie lines.

Showers, restrooms and coin laundry located near campsites. 3 dump stations. www.cedarknoll.com

Tinker Creek Hunting Plantation, 97 Weathersbee Rd, Williston. 803-266-4840.

Hunting quail, dove, deer and turkey on 2,800 acres in Barnwell County.

Red Bluff Lodge, 130 Boone Trl, Allendale.

803-584-7363. A full service lodge providing year-round opportunities for outdoorsmen and women to enjoy the wonderful natural resources available in Allendale County.

Hunting available for whitetail deer, feral hogs, alligator and wild turkey. Fishing and quail hunting trips are available a la carte. Full service gunsmith shop and shooting range onsite. Other outdoor activities available are kayaking, mountain biking, camping and naturalist tours. Lodge can accommodate groups of 1 to 22 people. Reservations required. Full meal service available.

Crackerneck WMA, Jackson. Contact SC Department of Natural Resources for dates open to the public and complete rules and regulations. 803-725-3663. 10,600 acres. Fishing and hunting for deer, turkey, waterfowl and small game. Sign-in required prior to entering and sign-out upon leaving.

Anyone not following this procedure will be considered trespassing.

Red Bluff Lodge

Kilkenny Park on Lake Edgar Brown 49 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Fox Hunts Aiken Hounds, A historic drag hunt that has hunted in Hitchcock Woods from the time of the Hitchcocks. From October through March, the Aiken Hounds hunt every Tuesday and Saturday.

Visitors may not bring dogs into the Woods during these times. www.hitchcockwoods.org/enjoy/aiken_hounds

Whiskey Road Foxhounds, 520 Hitchcock Rd, Aiken. 803-649-0638. Fox hunting (mounted) in Aiken, Blackville and Allendale (Oct through March). Hunts on Thursday and Sunday mornings. www.whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com

Polo Aiken Polo Club, Polo information line,

New Bridge Polo & Country Club, 862

803-643-3611. Polo seasons are September through November and March through mid-June. Matches are at Whitney Field off Whiskey Rd. Call for match times. https://aikenpolo.org

New Bridge Rd, Aiken. 803-648-3699. www.newbridgepolo.com

FireStar Polo Club, 3289 Camp Rawls Rd, Wagener. 631-457-9630. Arena Polo Facility. Learn to play polo from a U.S. Polo Association Certified Instructor. Lessons and clinics available for individuals, couples and groups. No experience needed. www.flatoutfarm.com

Wagener Polo Club, 5720 Wagener Rd, Wagener. Polo Hotline, 803-566-8610.

Wagener Polo offers organized practices, spectator-friendly polo, well-managed tournaments and a fun, fair and friendly environment. Club Polo is played September through June. www.wagenerpolo.com

Equine Facilities Aiken Horse Park, 931 Powderhouse Rd, Aiken. Home of Bruce’s Field. Equestrian event facility. www.aikenhorsepark.org

Aiken Training Track, 538 Two Notch Rd, Aiken. 803-648-4631. Historic Thoroughbred training facility. Home for annual events including Aiken Trials and Breakfast at the Gallops. Also home to seasonal events including the Backstretch and Historic Barn Tours. www.aikentrainingtrack.com

Aiken Horse Park

Almost Heaven Stables, 220 Golf Course

Stable View, 117 Stable View Dr, Aiken.

Rd, Warrenville. 803-663-3001. Focusing on total horse care. Lessons, boarding, horse camps and birthday parties. Facilities include trails, covered picnic shelters and game area.

Call for reservations. www.almostheavenstables.com

484-356-3173. Stable View is a top-notch equestrian training facility available for lease in its entirety. The main barn provides the “Stable View” of our 35 paddocks, 3 other barns, and the rolling country side from the loft. There are six stalls for horse boarding with a unique design that allows riders to walk out the back door of their bedroom into a hallway that leads to the stall. There is also a covered arena that hosts many events. www.stableviewfarm.com

Deerwood Stables, 4627 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-522-8453. Boarding facility for long/short-term and overnight stays.

Highfields, 198 Gaston Rd, Aiken.

803-649-3505. Home of the PSJ Progressive Jumps and Progressive Stabling. A 60-acre facility featuring three all-weather rings, grass jumper field, three permanent barns, polo field, turn out paddocks and RV hook-ups.

Available for equestrian and non-equestrian events, clinics, stick and ball, schooling and more. www.psjshows.com

Magnolia Shadows, 595 Engineer Rd, Ridge Spring. 803-522-1226 Where European hospitality meets Southern charm. Offering horse boarding and bed & breakfast services with the traveling horseman in mind, we proudly cater to travelers and the equestrian clientele. Our rooms sit in this historical plantation home (1895), completely restored and now surrounded by manicured pastures, magnolia trees and gardens. We are horse and pet friendly. Our convenient location near Aiken, Columbia, Lexington, SC and Augusta, GA allows you to visit the local, world-famous equestrian venues of polo, fox hunting, eventing, racing and The Masters. www.magnoliashadows.com

The Hippodrome, 5540 Jefferson Davis Hwy, US 1, five miles from I-20, Exit 1, North Augusta. 803-278-4785. Facilities include open-air equestrian arena and stables situated on 32 acres. More than 30 equine events are scheduled throughout the year. Events include barrel horse racing, team penning, cutting horse competitions and open benefit horse shows. The facility also hosts other events throughout the year.

Aiken Training Track Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 50

51 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Golf

Miniature Golf

Aiken County

Hole-N-One Family Fun Center, 3197 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-643-1715. 18 holes of

The Aiken Golf Club, 555 Highland Park

New Ellenton Golf Course, 301 Fairway

Dr, Aiken. 803-649-6029. 18 holes. Par 70. Designed by Donald Ross. Walk/cart.

Reservations required. Originally built in 1912 and extensively restored in recent years, the course makes judicious use of pines, sand and waste areas to evoke a Pinehurst feeling. www.aikengolfclub.net

Dr, New Ellenton. 803-652-7867. 9 holes.

Par 36. Designed by Haines Waters. Bermuda greens. Walk/cart.

The Golf Club at Cedar Creek, 2475 Club Dr, Aiken. 803-648-4206. 18 holes. Par 72.

Designed by Arthur Hills. Bermuda greens.

Walk/cart. Cedar Creek has been garnering awards, almost since its opening in 1991. The course features long, par-4 holes and sloping fairways that can send shots into the rough and elevated, undulating greens. www.cedarcreekgolfclub.net

Houndslake

Country

Mount Vintage Golf Club, 375 Mount Vintage Plantation Dr, North Augusta.

803-279-5422. 27 holes. Par 72. Designed by Tom Jackson. www.mountvintagegolf.com

The River Golf Club, 307 Riverside Blvd, North Augusta. 803-202-0110. 18 holes. Par 71. Designed by Jim Fazio. Bent grass greens.

Cart. Built as a Hilton Head-style links course with mostly flat fairways and water on 11 holes. www.rivergolfclub.com

Midland Valley Country Club, 151 Midland Dr, Graniteville. 803-663-7332.

18 holes. Par 72. Designed by Ellis Maples.

Bermuda greens. Walk/cart. Large undulated greens are the main feature of this design.

Reservations may be made one day in advance. www.playmidlandvalley.com

Aiken Family Golf Range 1685 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken. 803-508-5635. Tues-Sun 10am-dark. Lessons available upon request.

Canoe & Kayak Rentals Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor. 803-649-2857. Office Hours: 11 am to noon. Canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals available seasonally. Enjoy paddling your own canoe, kayak or rental boat on the 1.7-mile canoe trail on the South Fork of the Edisto River. www.southcarolinaparks.com/aiken

Bamberg Golf & Sports Club, 128 Paw Paw Rd, Bamberg. 803-245-4171. 18 holes. Par 72.

Designed by Russell Breeden. Bermuda greens.

Walk/cart. This design uses tight fairways and 84 bunkers, plus water on 7 holes on the back nine to demand accuracy off the tee.

Aiken State Park

Other Recreation

Club,

901 Houndslake Dr, Aiken. 803-648-6805. Three 9-hole courses. Par 36, Bermuda greens.

Designed by Joe Lee. Walk/cart. No walk-in traffic. Play on course limited to members, guests of members and lodge guests. See listing under lodging. www.houndslakecc.com

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 52

Bamberg County

miniature golf, baseball and softball batting cages, interactive video and redemption prize arcade and snack bar. Miniature golf and batting cages are lit for night play. Birthday parties and group rates. Open year-round. Call for hours.

Fairdale Country Club

Allendale County Fairdale Country Club, 3312 Barton Rd, Fairfax. 803-584-7117. 9 holes. Par 72.

Established in 1954. Designed by Walker Smith. Bermuda greens. Walk/cart.

Barnwell County Sweetwater Country Club, 571 Clubhouse Ln, Barnwell. 803-259-5004. 18 holes. Par 71. Designed by Russell Breeden. Bermuda greens. This design is relatively benign in terms of elevation and length, but more than makes up for that with its water, sand and elevated greens. Walk/cart.

Williston Country Club, 15 Fairway Dr, Williston. 803-266-7616. 9 holes. Par 36.

Bermuda Greens. Walk/cart.

Regal Cinemas Aiken Mall, 300 E Gate Dr,

Lake Edgar Brown, US 278, Barnwell. A

Aiken. 844-462-7342. Theater complex with multiple screens featuring new release films, plush seating and concession stand.

100-acre lake providing largemouth bass, bluegill, shell-cracker and catfish fishing. Also used for boating and water skiing. Boat ramp, fishing pier, and handicapped accessible.

Carolina Dragway, 302 Dragstrip Rd, Jackson. 803-471-2285. 1/4-mile drag racing track. Regular schedule of races and events. www.carolinadragway.com Climbing Wall, Price Avenue, Aiken.

803-642-7631. Ages 3 and up. Designed for beginner and experienced climbers. www.cityofaikensc.gov

Gravatt Adventure & Discovery Center, 1006 Camp Gravatt Rd, Aiken. 803-648-1817.

Challenge course designed to develop leadership skills and increase self-esteem and confidence. www.bishopgravatt.org

Northside Lanes, 1745 Georgia Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-1948. A 32-lane bowling center. Arcade and snack bar inside. www.northsidelanes.com/home Richardson’s Lake, 919 Richardsons Lake Rd, Warrenville. 803-663-3600. Natural swimming area. Open May through September.

GAIT Foundation, The Greater Aiken Integrated Trails (GAIT), committed to the development and operation of a county-wide, integrated recreation trail system to serve the interest of equine, hiking, biking, jogging and walking enthusiasts. www.gaitfoundation.org Langley Pond Disc Golf Park, 113 Langley Dam Rd, Burnettown. 803-642-7559.

Aiken County’s only championship level disc golf course can be found at Langley Pond Park. Spectacular water holes, varying terrain, challenging pin location and towering hardwoods are on this unique course.

SRP Park, 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta.

706-736-7889. Baseball Park. Home of the Augusta Green Jackets, a minor league baseball team. Concerts and other events scheduled throughout the year. www.greenjacketsbaseball.com

53 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Heritage Preserves Visitation and use of Heritage Preserves are governed by regulations set forth by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) to promote public enjoyment of the land while preserving the features of the land. For full information and regulations on Heritage Preserves throughout South Carolina, visit SCDNR website at www.dnr.sc.gov or contact SCDNR directly at 803-734-3886.

Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve, US 78, Windsor. Turn left on Spring Branch Rd. Drive five miles, turn right on Oak Ridge Club Rd. The preserve is one mile down, located on both sides of the road. Hiking and limited horseback riding. No motorized vehicles. This 1,500-acre preserve is home to the rare and state-listed endangered gopher tortoise. The preserve is the northern most known location of the large terrestrial tortoises.

Ditch Pond Heritage Preserve, from Williston, drive west on US 78 for three miles, parking is on the right. Foot traffic only. No camping. An observation area provides a place to view Ditch Pond, approximately 25 acres, one of very few Carolina bays that have retained its natural state. Throughout the preserve you may see one or more of eight rare plant species grown here.

Janet Harrison High Pond Heritage Preserve, bounded by SC 39, Carolina Bay Trl and Trojan Rd, near Monetta. This 30-acre preserve was established to protect a Carolina Bay, the high pond vegetative community occurring within the bay and populations of several rare plant species. A windmill located near the tract is a local landmark, and has led to the preserve being colloquially-known as “Windmill High Pond�.

Henderson Heritage Preserve, from Aiken, travel north on SC 19 for two miles. Turn left beside Aiken Memorial Cemetery, Mayfield Rd. Located on both sides of the road. This 417-acre preserve was acquired and dedicated to protect a longleaf pine/scrub oak sandhill ecosystem.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 54

Cathedral Bay Heritage Preserve

Cathedral Bay Heritage Preserve, SC 64, 1.6 miles south of Olar. Also known as Chitty Bay or Chitty Pond. The 58-acre Cathedral Bay is an excellent example of the Carolina Bay phenomenon found throughout the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The long axes of all Carolina Bays parallel to one another acting as basins that collect rainwater runoff holding it above the normal water table. Carolina Bays are wetlands that vary in size, ranging from less than an acre to several hundred acres and often support abundant wildlife. Cathedral Bay is a striking example of a cypress pond. Access to Cathedral Bay is by wading or canoes. No motorboats allowed.

Savannah River Bluffs Heritage Preserve, from exit 1 on I-20 drive south on SC 230.

Turn right on Old Plantation Rd at the Wildlife Viewing Area sign. Turn right at fork to parking lot. Hiking-only loop to a bluff that overlooks the Savannah River. In season view rare Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies. Also along the river see deer, foxes and raccoons. This preserve includes some very rare plants such as Relict Trillium, which is on the federal endangered species list. Other rare or special-status plants also grow here.

55 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

State Parks The state of South Carolina set aside some of the best examples of its natural, cultural and recreational resources, and presents them to you as state parks. These properties protect and preserve the rich heritage of the Palmetto State. Reservations may be made online at www.southcarolinaparks.com or by calling toll free 1-866-345-7275.

Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd, Windsor. 803-649-2857. US 78, 16 miles east of Aiken. Built in 1934, this park, located along the free-flowing Edisto River, is a combination of a river swamp and dry sandhills. Facilities include standard campsites with water and electricity and a centralized dump station.

Nature trail, canoe trail and picnic shelters are available. Activities include birding, hiking, fishing, paddling, seasonal swimming and boating. Canoe and kayak rentals are available.

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site, 181 Redcliffe Rd, Beech Island. 803-827-1473.

US 78, three miles southeast of Beech Island.

This park was originally the home of Governor James Henry Hammond in the 1800’s.

Throughout the year special programs are offered on topics such as the African-American history of the site, heirloom gardening, genealogy/research and cemetery preservation.

Facilities include a visitor’s center, mansion, slave quarters and stables. Activities include picnicking, hiking and home tours.

Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd, Blackville. 803-284-2212. SC 3, seven miles east of Barnwell. Built in the 1930’s, this park, located on the coastal plain, includes three lakes for your enjoyment. Facilities include five cabins, fully equipped for four people, campsites with standard and full hook-ups, nature trail, picnic shelters, seasonal swimming area and meeting facility. Primitive camping area with picnic tables, fire ring and water available for organized groups. Activities include fishing and boating. Boat rentals are available.

Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, 325 State Park Rd, Ehrhardt. 803-267-3675. SC 641, seven miles SW of Ehrhardt, 13 miles from Allendale. At this site, Union troops clashed with Confederate soldiers defending the Salkehatchie River. Rivers Bridge features an award winning interpretive battlefield trail, memorial grounds, a community building, and picnic shelter. Activities include selfguided tours and picnicking. Special tours and seminars throughout the year.

Nature Trails Carolina Bay Nature Reserve, Price Ave, Aiken. City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, & Tourism, 803-642-7631. Walk the trail, watch the wildlife or just enjoy the pleasure of woods and water.

An observation deck overlooks the bay which can be reserved for rental.

North Augusta Greeneway, North Augusta. 803-441-4300. A redeveloped railroad right-ofway, this paved walking and bicycling path is currently 9.2 miles. The Greeneway runs along the Savannah River. Designated a National Recreation Trail. Part of the Transcontinental Bluebird Trail. www.northaugusta.net Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary, 4542 Silver Bluff Rd, Jackson. 803-471-0291. A 3,250-acre wildlife sanctuary owned by the National Audubon Society. Walking trails available.

Please call ahead for current hours. http://sc.audubon.org Hitchcock Woods, Aiken. 803-642-0528. Hitchcock woods is among the largest urban forests in the nation, with about 2,100 acres of forestland resources. Equestrian, hikers and dog walkers enjoy the 70 miles of sandy trails. Kiosks with maps are available at all seven entrances. www.hitchcockwoods.org Lower Savannah River Alliance Greenway & Trail, a 4-mile long walking trail that terminates at a 1938 Turnstile Metal Bridge over the Savannah River. Half the trail is elevated giving you a unique view of the swamplands below. www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 56

57 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

City & County Parks Aiken County Recreation Center, 917 Jefferson Davis Hwy (US 1/78), Graniteville. 803-663-6142. Seasonal pool, activities, rentable space for parties and meetings, picnic area, basketball court, playground, bluebird trail, walking track.

Hartzog Park, Olar. Depression era park

Allendale Green, US 278, Fountain, gazebo and benches.

Allendale.

Denmark. Award-winning downtown park includes gazebo and fountain.

Boyd Pond Park, 340 Boyd Pond Rd, Aiken. 803-642-0314. Ballfields, soccer and multipurpose field, basketball court, observatory, walking track, pond with boat dock and fishing allowed, 18-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, multiple picnic shelters, bluebird trail, geocaching and beautiful natural habitat.

Kilkenny Park, Corner of Jackson &

Brick Pond Park, 88 Georgia Ave, North Augusta. Wetlands, walking trail and birding.

Main Street Park, Railroad Bed, Blackville.

Walking trail, benches and gazebo.

Citizens Park, 1060 Banks Mill Rd, Aiken.

803-642-7761. 15 multi-purpose fields, batting cages, covered eating areas, walking track, soccer fields, sprayground and playgrounds.

Ness Sports Complex, 133 Ness Dr,

with picnic tables.

Jack Phillips Park, 17 Galilee Rd, Barnwell.

Picnic tables and benches.

Jim Harrison Park, Palmetto Ave (US 321),

Wellington, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Fishing access, non-motorized boat access, picnic area with grills and walking path.

Lemon Park Sports Complex, 123 Park St, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Playgrounds, multi-purpose field, baseball field with press box, T-ball field and walking path.

Bamberg. T-ball, soccer, baseball, slow pitch.

Full summer sports program for all ages.

Riverview Park & Activities Center, 100

Collins Park, 486 Main St and Marlboro Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Open play area, garden, historical markers, lighted gazebo with electricity, four park swings and partially covered picnic areas.

Riverview Park Dr, North Augusta.

803-441-4311. Baseball and soccer fields, tennis courts, racquetball courts, disc golf, picnic shelters, playground, horseshoe pits, four gyms, weight room, indoor walking/ jogging track, walking trail.

Darnell Park, 192 Hagood Ave, Barnwell.

Gazebo, open play area and picnic tables.

Robert E Foster Park, Main St and 3rd St,

Fuller Park, 9987 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-259-3317. Two outdoor basketball courts, nine-hole disc golf course, picnic tables, grills, walking/multi-use trail, wetlands and large open play area.

H. Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-642-7631. Gymnasiums, classrooms, racquetball court, aerobics room, handicapped accessible playground, disc golf, outdoor basketball courts, tennis center, walking trail and picnic shelters.

Harrison-Caver Park, 4181 Augusta Rd (SC 421), Clearwater. 803-593-4698. Tennis courts, playground, walking track, softball fields, picnic area, rentable community center and multipurpose field.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 58

Bamberg. Tennis and volleyball courts, picnic tables and playground.

Roy Warner Park, 4287 Festival Trail Rd

(SC 39), Wagener. 803-564-6149. Ballfields, basketball courts, football field, playground.

Community Center available for rent.

MEETING & RENTAL FACILITES Aiken County Aiken Chamber of Commerce, 121

Richland Ave E, Aiken. 803-641-1111.

Accommodates 40. www.aikenchamber.net

University of South Carolina Aiken, 471 University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3587.

Several rooms and facilities available with a variety of seating capacities. Accommodates 25-500 theater, 25-400 classroom, 20-400 banquet. www.usca.edu

University of South Carolina Aiken Convocation Center, 2049 Champion Way,

Graniteville. 803-643-6900. Located on the University of South Carolina Aiken Campus.

A state-of-the-art facility with capacity ranging from 3,500 to 4,100. Features include a VIP room with a capacity up to 200, multiple electronic scoreboards, advertising, meeting space rentals for any function and two practice courts. https://convotix.usca.edu

Rye Patch Reception Center & Guest Cottage, 100 Berrie Rd, Aiken.

803-642-7650. This 10-acre estate was the

winter home of Edmund and Dorothy Knox Goodyear Rogers. A favorite location for weddings, receptions, meetings and parties.

Also available is the Guest Cottage with capacity of 30 for smaller meetings. www.cityofaikensc.gov

Aiken County Parks, Recreation & Tourism, 1930 University Pkwy, Aiken.

803-642-7559. Several facilities available. www.aikencountyprt.com

General Elliott Inn, 939 New Bridge Rd,

Smith-Hazel Park, Pool & Recreation Center, 400 Kershaw St, Aiken. 803-642-7635.

Aiken. 803-642-8108. Accommodates 42 for dining, 150 for parties. Fine dining with in-home atmosphere. By reservation. www.generalelliottinn.com

Williston Town Park, US 78 next to

215 The Alley, Aiken. 803-642-7654.

Accommodates 150 banquet, 300 reception.

Basketball court, tennis courts, picnic tables, walking track, seasonal pool, gym, playground and rental facilities.

Williston-Elko High School, Williston.

Playground, picnic tables, basketball and tennis court.

Municipal Auditorium, City of Aiken,

AECOM Center for Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St, Aiken. 803-648-1438. State-ofthe-art theater seats 300.

Gravatt Camp and Conference Center,

1006 Camp Gravatt Rd, Aiken. 803-648-1817.

Facilities are able to meet the needs of 10-100+ and have indoor and outdoor space available for meetings, lodging, worship, recreation, relaxation and dining. www.campgravatt.org

Holiday Inn Express, 138 Stephens Farm Lane, North Augusta. 803-341-9505.

Accomodates 79 theater and 49 classroom. https://www.ihg.com The Inn at Houndslake, 897 Houndslake

Dr, Aiken. 803-648-9535. Unique inn with golf course views. Meeting space for 40 theater, 25-30 classroom and 40 reception. On-site catering available by Houndslake Country Club. www.theinnathoundslake.com

The Hippodrome, 5540 Jefferson Davis

Hwy, North Augusta. 803-278-4785. 45,000 sq ft outdoor arenas, both with announcer’s booths. Bleachers, concession stand, RV hook-ups. Equipped for equestrian events.

Living History Park, 299 W Spring Grove

Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-7560. Natural amphitheater, Colonial barn accommodates 294, educational cabin, prep kitchen and stage. Weddings, birthdays, parties, etc. www.colonialtimes.us

Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St SW, Aiken.

803-641-7087. Accommodates 200 reception, 100 classroom, 150 theater, 120 banquet.

Outdoor patio which accommodates a tent, is also available. www.newberryhall.com Lookaway Inn, 103 W Forest Ave,

North Augusta. 803-426-1030. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Accommodates groups up to 150. Available for indoor, courtyard and garden weddings and events. Catering available. www.lookawayinn.com

North Augusta Community Center, 495 Brookside Dr, North Augusta. 803-441-4290.

Accommodates 500 theater, 300 classroom, 500 reception, 500 banquet.

59 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Rose Hill Estate, 221 Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181. A 1900 Winter Colony estate secluded behind walls that enclose an entire downtown city block. Bar, club room and restaurant. Chapel, gazebo, tent area and indoor locations available for conferences, weddings, receptions, holiday parties and retreats. www.rosehillestate.com

Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast, 804 Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-1546.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Accommodates groups up to 125.

Available for indoor and outdoor events and weddings. www.rosemaryinnbb.com

Allendale County

Barnwell County

Brandt Building, Allendale County offices.

Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield Regional Library System, 40 Burr St.

398 Barnwell Hwy, 803-584-3438. Auditorium accommodates 75.

Lower Savannah River Alliance Education Center, 12049 Burton’s Ferry Hwy, Allendale. 706-826-8991. Large conference area, indoor/outdoor restrooms and picnic area.

Accommodates 50.

University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, 465 James Brandt Blvd, Allendale. 803-584-3446. A variety of meeting rooms available. uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu

Citizens Park Conference Center, 640 Old Airport Rd, Aiken. 803-226-0504.

Several options are available. The Magnolia Room seats 18-20. The Camellia Room seats 40. The Lilly Event Tent is available for those requiring outdoor seating, is equipped with heating and air conditioning, and includes the use of the building’s facilities. www.citizensparkocc.com/

The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. 803-648-1898. The Willcox can accommodate groups from 10 to 200. From a private boardroom setting to a large poolside reception, events will be customized to your exact needs. thewillcox.com

City of Aiken Department of Parks and Recreation, 1072 Banks Mill Rd, Aiken.

Bamberg County

Barnwell Museum, 9426 Marlboro Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-1916. Available to rent for birthdays, conference meetings, reunions, receptions, etc. www.bcvm.org/barnwell/museum/

Bridge Rd, Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868. Banquet hall seats 120. Meeting room accommodates 300 theater. www.broxtonbridge.com

Dane Cultural Center, 4794 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-3734. This building was the largest movie theater in the area in the 1950’s. Theater accommodates 455.

Ehrhardt Hall, 13764 Broxton Bridge Rd,

Rivers

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 60

Millers Bread Basket, 483 Main St, Blackville. 803-284-3117. Seats 70 people.

Motorcycle groups are welcome. Reservations requested for large groups.

Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton

Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield Regional Library System, 314 Chesterfield

Augusta. 803-441-4350. Accommodates 450 reception or 250 seated with an open dance floor. Rental fees include: ballroom, terraces, fourth floor atrium, tables and chairs as well as access to the commercial kitchen.

Blackville. 803-284-2212. SC 3, seven miles east of Barnwell. Solomon Blatt community building is a 3,600-sq ft facility with large meeting room, small side room, kitchen and restroom facilities. Central heat/air.

Accommodates 225 people, banquet-style. www.southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell

Ave. 803-642-7575. Several facilities available in Aiken, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. www.abbe-lib.org

Ehrhardt. 803-267-2020. Banquet hall seats 200. On-premises catering available. www.ehrhardthall.com

Palmetto Terrace, 100 Georgia Ave, North

Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd,

Solomon Blatt Ave, Blackville. 803-284-2444.

The facility has an unseated capacity of 875, plus 125 in the bleachers totaling a capacity of 1,000. Use of the center is from 8 am - 11 pm. Requests for reservations of the center are made up to twelve months in advance.

Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield Regional Library System, 3156 Railroad

803-643-4779. Several facilities available www.cityofaikensc.gov/recreation/rentalfacilities

St SW. 803-642-7575. Several facilities available in Aiken, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. www.abbe-lib.org

803-642-7575. Several facilities available in Aiken, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. www.abbe-lib.org

The Blackville Community Center, 19464

Bridge

State

Historic

Site,

325 State Park Rd, Ehrhardt. 803-267-3675.

Community building accommodates up to 100. Kitchenette, restrooms, fireplaces. www.southcarolinaparks.com/rivers-bridge

Voorhees College Leadership Conference Center, 86 Porter Rd, Denmark. 803-793-3351.

Accommodates 125. Other rooms and facilities available. www.voorhees.edu

61 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

ANNUAL EVENTS Event details in this guide are subject to change.

Aiken Antique Show, the first weekend

in February at Aiken Center for the Arts.

803-641-9094. This show offers a unique opportunity to view and purchase fine antique furnishings represented by more than 20 specialized dealers from across the nation. www.aikencenterforthearts.org

Battle of Aiken, the weekend in February after President’s Day at Confederate Park near Aiken. 803-642-2500. History comes alive with 20 cannons, 100 cavalry horses and 1,000 living history experts. This reenactment brings to life the Battle of Aiken which occurred February 11 and 12, 1865 and was the last victory for the Confederacy. Also featured are concessions and settlers selling goods comparable to the time in history of the Battle. www.battleofaiken.org

Polo Matches, spring season is April to June;

fall season is September to mid-November.

Aiken Polo Club. 803-643-3611. https://aikenpolo.org

Dogwood Festival, in April on Main St, City of Denmark. 803-793-3734. Family-oriented festival featuring food, rides, entertainment, games and contests. www.bambergcountychamber.org festival focuses on the arrival of spring with cooter (turtle) races, a parade, food, crafts, a street dance, carnival rides, petting zoo and an art show. www.cooterfest.com

Colonial Times: Under the Crown and Trades Fair, held in April at the Living

Sweetwater Country Club in Barnwell.

803-259-5004. Held in April. Sponsored by the Barnwell County Chamber of Commerce.

Hole-in-One, Longest Drive, Closest-to-Pin competitions. www.barnwellcountychamber.org

Annual Spring Herb Fest, held in late March

Wagons to Wagener, held in the Town of

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 62

in May on the Friday closest to Confederate Memorial Day (May 10) at Rivers Bridge State Historic Site. 803-267-3675. www.southcarolinaparks.com/rivers-bridge

Park Activities Center in North Augusta.

803-441-4311. This Championship event is the culmination of national tournaments with the top qualifiers vying for the Peach Jam title.

The very best 16 and 17 year old basketball players participate with most of the Division 1 basketball coaches in attendance. Admission fees apply, the public is invited to attend.

Schuetzenfest, in Ehrhardt during the last

weekend in August. Ehrhardt Town Hall, 803-267-5335. A time for fun and fellowship as the town celebrates its German heritage and promotes its hospitality. Parade on Saturday. www.ehrhardtsc.com

early May. 803-584-7363. This annual fishing tournament is held on the banks of the Savannah River in Allendale. Founded in 2009, the tournament was created to celebrate diversity in the Savannah River. All proceeds are used to fund river based projects. www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org

Bamberg Citywide July 4th Celebration,

at Ness Sports Complex, Bamberg. Bamberg Town Hall.

803-245-5128.

Festival atmosphere with food booths, clowns, games of chance and entertainment followed by a spectacular fireworks display. www.bambergsc.com

Aiken’s Makin’, in the parkways of downtown

Aiken during the second full weekend in September. Aiken Chamber of Commerce, 803-641-1111. An annual display of juried arts and crafts from Aiken County and the southeastern states. The festival includes arts and crafts, food vendors, baked goods and entertainment. www.aikensmakin.net

Cattyshack Cats, held in September at the

Riverview Park Activities Center in North Augusta. 803-441-4311. Judges look for a variety of traits in cats, searching for the ideal breed based on standards written for them.

Annual Chamber Golf Tournament,

Wagener. 803-564-3412. A two-day festival that includes carnival rides, bounce houses, carnival food vendors, a petting zoo, a car show, live music and fireworks. www.wagenersc.com

Nike Peach Jam, held in July at the Riverview

Savannah River Classic, takes place in

History Park in North Augusta. Olde Towne Preservation Association. 803-279-7560.

Annual show featuring high-quality art, music and food all weekend. www.colonialtimes.us

weekends in March/April. Aiken Chamber of Commerce. 803-641-1111. The first race is the Trials where Thoroughbreds compete in flat racing events at Aiken Training Track.

The Steeplechase comes next with a big tent party and horses jumping hurdles at Aiken Horse Park. The last weekend features a polo match. All three events are open to the public. Proceeds aid the community and local charities. at the Little Red Barn Gallery, Barnwell.

803-541-7900. Sponsored by the gallery and the Barnwell County Herb Club.

an outdoor concert series, April through June, held at Hopelands Gardens. City of Aiken Parks, Recreation, & Tourism, 803-642-7631.

Performances each Monday at 7pm. Featuring ballet, jazz, big band, military, cloggers and classical music with local and regional artists on the Roland H. Windham Performing Arts stage. Picnic suppers welcome. Admission is free. www.visitaikensc.com

Confederate Memorial Day Ceremony,

Cooter Fest, Allendale during the spring. This

Aiken Triple Crown, three successive

Hopelands Gardens Summer Concerts,

Barnwell Family Fun Fest - Independence Day Celebration, held in July at the Veterans

Memorial Park in Barnwell, and sponsored by the City of Barnwell and the Barnwell County Arts Council. 803-259-3266. Activities, food, music and fireworks. www.cityofbarnwell.com

Western Carolina State Fair, held in October at the Aiken Fairgrounds 1566 Columbia Hwy N, Aiken. 803-648-8955.

Rides, entertainment and special daily shows. www.westerncarolinastatefair.com Hook & Cook Festival, held on the last weekend in October on Main St in Jackson.

803-471-9778. A two-day event which includes a fishing tournament, BBQ cook-off, car show, arts, food vendors, trunk-or-treat and more.

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LET US HELP PLAN YOUR VISIT

A Taste of Wine & Art, the 3rd Thursday in October at the Aiken Center for the Arts.

803-641-9094. This spectacular evening event has become a perennial favorite and features a vast array of wines from around the world and the signature dishes from the CSRA’S finest restaurants and caterers plus a high-end silent auction. www.aikencenterforthearts.org

For assistance, please call Thoroughbred Country at 888-834-1654 (toll free), visit us online at www.tbredcountry.org or check with the local information bureaus listed below.

Thoroughbred Country

Model T’s to Olar, held in October in Olar.

Model T and Model A car show and antique tractor show. Festivities include food vendors, parade, crafters, inflatables, music, art and history exhibits, electric and gas golf cart drag racing and more.

Annual Quilt Show, in November at the

Aiken County Historical Museum.

803-642-2015. Textile artists from Aiken County compete in this annual juried show.

Lectures, demonstrations and classes are also part of the event. www.aikenmuseum.us

Chitlin’ Strut, held the Saturday after

Colonial Times: A Day to Remember,

the 3rd weekend in October at the Living History Park. Olde Towne Preservation Association, 803-279-7560. Colonial life is recreated through demonstrations, exhibits and enlistment in the voluntary militia.

Attractions include blacksmithing, working smokehouse, beehive bake oven, open fire cooking, goldsmithing, spinning, musket firing and more. www.colonialtimes.us

Jack-o-Lantern Jubilee, the last weekend

in October. 803-441-4311. National music acts, 150 craft vendors and a wide variety of foods are available at this two-day festival on Georgia Ave in downtown North Augusta. www.jackolanternjubilee.com

Blessing of the Hounds, on Thanksgiving Day at the Memorial Gate in Hitchcock Woods. 803-643-3724. The public is most welcome to attend, but please do not bring your own dogs to the Blessing. Please allow a good 30 minutes walk from the Laurens Street entrance to Memorial Gate. www.aikenhounds.com

Thanksgiving at the Salley Civic Center and Fairgrounds. 803-258-3485. Visitors are drawn to this small community to celebrate this unusual food item that has been a southern tradition for over 100 years. Activities also include a parade, hog-calling contests, food and craft vendors, beauty pageant, carnival rides and a car show. www.chitlinstrut.com

Christmas

in

Hopelands

Gardens,

PO Box 850 Aiken, SC 29802 (Toll Free) 1-888-834-1654 tourism@tbredcountry.org www.tbredcountry.org

Aiken County Aiken Chamber of Commerce 121 Richland Ave E Aiken, SC 29802 803-641-1111 www.aikenchamber.net

Aiken County Visitors Center 133 Laurens St NW Aiken, SC 29801 803-642-7557 www.discoveraikencounty.com

annually in December. City of Aiken, Parks, Recreation, & Tourism. 803-642-7631.

Walking tours along lighted pathways through Hopelands Gardens with holiday displays.

Christmas concerts performed by local choirs provide entertainment from the garden’s performing arts stage. Historic buildings in the gardens are decorated and open for touring each night. Hot chocolate, apple cider and holiday cookies are served nightly.

Admission is free.

Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum

Annual Christmas Parades and Tree Lighting Events, held in December in

North Augusta Chamber of Commerce

several communities. For a complete list of parades and events visit our website.

406 Park Ave SE Aiken, SC 29801 803-293-7846 www.visitaikensc.com

Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce PO Box 310 Langley, SC 29834 803-593-3030

Allendale County Allendale County Business & Industry Association in partnership with Southern

Carolina Alliance.

PO Box 1107 Allendale, SC 29810 803-584-9200 www.southerncarolina.org

Bamberg County Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce 604 Airport Rd Bamberg, SC 29003 803-245-4427 www.bambergcountychamber.org

Barnwell County Barnwell County Chamber of Commerce 367 Fuller Pond Rd Barnwell, SC 29812 803-259-7446 www.barnwellcountychamber.org

City of Barnwell Tourism and Community Development 130 Main St Barnwell, SC 29812 803-259-3266 www.cityofbarnwell.com

406 West Ave North Augusta, SC 29841 803-279-2323 www.northaugustachamber.org

For a complete list of area events throughout the year, visit www.tbredcountry.org Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide 64

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GUIDED TOURS

TRANSPORTATION Airports

Tailored Tours of Aiken Private driving tour experiences of historic Aiken. Custom tours tailored to suit your available time and interests.

803-295-3870 tailoredtoursofaiken@yahoo.com www.tailoredtoursofaiken.com

Beech Island Historical Society

Aiken Trolley Tours City of Aiken Tourism.

Public tours on Saturday mornings, reservations and pre-payment required Group tours available by appointment.

406 Park Ave SE Aiken, SC 29801 803-644-1907 www.visitaikensc.com Please note - Motor coach restrictions may apply in the City of Aiken. All motor coaches must contact the Tourism Supervisor for the City of Aiken prior to bringing a motor coach.

(803-642-7631)

Aiken Ghost Tours 90-minute guided haunted history walking tour of downtown Aiken. Tour is approximately 1 mile long. Tours begin at sundown. Seasonal and by appointment.

Group tours available. 803-270-0773 kentcubbage@yahoo.com

Rebel Ranch Horse Tours, LLC Guided trail rides through Hitchcock Woods and surrounding woodlands. Reserve and schedule your tour.

803-640-2765 ahbrider1@yahoo.com

Tours of historic Beech Island and Zubly Cemetery available by appointment.

144 Old Jackson Hwy Beech Island, SC 29842 803-867-3600 or 803-827-0184 bihs@comcast.net www.beechislandhistory.org

Carolina Aviation of Aiken Flight school, aircraft maintenance, discovery flights, sightseeing tours available by appointment.

125 Aviation Blvd Aiken, SC 29805 803-502-1007 www.carolinaaviation.net

Blackville Historical Tours Tours available by appointment.

105 Pascallas St Blackville, SC 29817 Joan McDonald 803-284-3267 joanemcd60@bellsouth.net

Patriot Tour Boat On the Savannah River.

One-hour narrated tour Mar-Nov. Two-hour sunset tour Mar-Nov. Private Charters.

803-730-9739 cvbradshaw@windstream.net http://patriottourboat.net

Car Rentals

Aiken Airport, 129 Aviation Blvd, Aiken.

803-648-7803. Located seven miles north of Aiken on US 1, Exit #22 off I-20. 700acre modern facility with old-fashioned Southern hospitality. Resurfaced 5,500’ by 100’ paved and lighted runway with 65,000 lb capacity. NDB, VOR, and GPS approach.

Fuel available. Rental cars, catering, rooms, limousines available. www.aikenaviation.com

Allendale Airport, 467 Airport Loop, Fairfax. 803-584-3801 or 803-684-3438.

Located one mile off US 278. 5,005’ by 75’ paved and lighted runway. VOR and GPS approach. Hangars and fuel available. Open 7 days a week. 9 am-6 pm during Daylight Savings time. 8 am-5 pm during EST.

Augusta Regional Airport, 1501 Aviation Way, Augusta, GA. 706-798-3236. Delta and American Airlines. Car rentals available. www.flyags.com Bamberg Airport, 709 Airport Rd, Bamberg.

803-245-5191. Located off US 78. 3,600’ paved and lighted runway. No instrument approach. No fuel available. Open 7 days a week.

Barnwell Regional Airport, 155 Airport Rd, Barnwell. 803-259-1090. Located one mile from the city of Barnwell on US 278.

Two runways: 5,000’ by 70’ and 5,000’ by 100’. Both lighted and paved. NDB approach. Hangars and fuel available. Open 7 days a week.

Columbia

Metropolitan

Airport,

3250 Aviation Way, West Columbia.

803-822-5000 or 888-562-5002. Most major airlines served. Car rentals available. www.columbiaairport.com

B & B Ford Inc, 10476 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-259-5524. www.bbfordsales.com

Enterprise Rent A Car, 3915 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-641-0135. www.enterprise.com

Hertz, 866 York St NE, Aiken.

803-648-3630. www.hertz.com

SC Express Chauffeured Transportation, 2818 Columbia Hwy N, Suite 100, Aiken.

803-648-9977. www.scsedan.com

Public Transportation Aiken Taxi Transport, 803-642-9910 or 803-507-TAXI. Serves major airports and all of Aiken County. Meter rates charged within city limits. Flat rate charged outside the city.

24 hours a day. 7 days a week.

Best Friend Express, 803-508-7033. ADA accessible public transportation serving Aiken, North Augusta, and offers a connection to the Augusta Public Transportation system located in Augusta, GA. Call for schedules and detailed transportation information.

Bus Terminal of Augusta, 1128 Green St, Augusta, GA. 706-722-6411. Served by Southeastern Stages and Greyhound.

Bus Station of Aiken, 153 Pendleton St NW, Aiken. 803-648-6894. Daily routes to most major SE cities.

Carolina Transportation, Serves Aiken County and airports. 803-648-4545. MonSat 8 am-6 pm. Call in advance for additional services.

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GENERAL LIVING Colleges Aiken Technical College

2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy Graniteville, SC 29829 803-593-9231 www.atc.edu

Denmark Technical College

500 Solomon Blatt Blvd Denmark, SC 29042 803-793-5176 www.denmarktech.edu

University of South Carolina Aiken 471 University Pkwy Aiken, SC 29801 803-648-6851 www.usca.edu

University of South Carolina Salkehatchie 1102 James Brandt Blvd Allendale, SC 29810 803-584-3446 www.uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu

Voorhees College

103 Academic Circle Denmark, SC 29042 803-780-1234 www.voorhees.edu

Hospitals Aiken Regional Medical Center

302 University Pkwy Aiken, SC 29801 803-641-5000 www.aikenregional.com

Allendale County Hospital

1787 Allendale Fairfax Hwy Fairfax, SC 29827 803-632-3311 www.achospital.org

Local Newspapers The Aiken Standard

326 Rutland Dr NW Aiken, SC 29802 803-648-2311 Daily www.aikenstandard.com

Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 68

The Advertizer-Herald

369 McGee St Bamberg, SC 29003 803-245-5204 Wednesdays

The People Sentinel

10481 Dunbarton Blvd Barnwell, SC 29812 803-259-3501 Wednesdays www.thepeoplesentinel.com

The Star

404 E Martintown Rd Suite 2 North Augusta, SC 29841 803-279-2793 Thursdays www.northaugustastar.com

Tax Information

South Carolina has simplified income tax structure which follows the federal income tax laws. South Carolina accepts the adjustments, exemptions and deductions allowed on your federal tax return with few modifications. Your federal taxable income is the starting point in determining your state income tax liability. https://dor.sc.gov

Climate & Seasonal Highlights

Thoroughbred Country’s climate is generally mild and humid. Spring starts in March.

Summer begins in June with pleasant balmy days that become quite hot before the season’s end. Autumn brings a relief from extreme temperatures with lots of sunshine while mild winter temperatures bring out the best in colorful pansies and hardy camellias. Winter temperatures can reach 20-30 degrees, and on rare occasions, we are treated with a light dusting of snow. South Carolina’s annual hurricane season runs from June through early November.

Azaleas, dogwoods, wisteria and more show their beautiful blossoms in spring. Beautiful fall foliage usually peaks between late October and early November. Roadside stands offer a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in season.

3 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide

y Countr d e r b h g Thorou O Box 850 P 02 SC 298 Aiken,

The Thoroughbred Country visitor guide does not necessarily contain a full listing of all hospitality businesses or points of interest in the region. Contact Thoroughbred Country for more information.

Thoroughbred Country is a program of the Lower Savannah Council of Governments.

Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/thoroughbredcountrysc Toll Free 1-888-834-1654 www.tbredcountry.org PRINTED IN USA

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