Official Visitor Guide

OFFICIAL OFFICIAL VISITOR VISITOR GUIDE GUIDE

Thoroughbred Country South Carolina WAY MORE THAN HORSES

Aiken Allendale Bamberg & Barnwell Counties

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

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEATURES About the Region .................. 2-5 Points of Interest ................ 6-12 Annual Festivals & Events .. 13-15 Dining Options .................. 16-20 Shopping ........................... 21-24 Accommodations .............. 24-29 Recreation ......................... 30-39 Guided Tours .......................... 40 Historical Places ................ 41-47 Meeting & Rental Facilities 48-50 General Living ......................... 51 Local Information ................... 52 Transportation ....................... 53 Discover South Carolina ......... 54 What’s Close By ...................... 55 Maps ................................. 56-65

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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. Discover churches of the past and stories of the Charleston to Hamburg rail line.

OUR NATURE ...

While history is abound, 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 throughout the region. 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, paddle the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing, blackwater river in the world. Cool off with a drink from God’s Acre Healing Spring in Blackville, whose waters are believed to have curative powers.

OUR SHOPPING ...

“Shopper’s Paradise” would 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. Find unique gifts and art galleries including that of Jim Harrison, a nationally-known artist.

OUR FOOD ...

Take a break from your adventures and enjoy our cuisine. Encounter roadside stands, cozy cafés, freshly-baked Mennonite goods, full-scale dining and everything in-between. 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 historic hotel. Awaken the next day refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

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AIKEN COUNTY

Aiken County, known throughout the world for its equestrian training facilities, is home to the Aiken Training Track. Since 1942, this facility has produced forty National Champions, six Kentucky Derby winners, three Preakness Stakes winners and nine Belmont Stakes winners.

Palace Malice, 2013 Belmont Stakes winner; Demonstrative, 2014 Eclipse Award Champion Steeplechase Horse; Pleasant Colony, 1981 Eclipse Award Champion 3 Year Old Male; and Concrete Rose, 2019 Aiken Trained Horse of the Year are just few of the famous horses that have called Aiken County home.

Among the esteemed horses and live oaks, Aiken County thrives on its rich history. The historic towns such as Aiken, Beech Island, North Augusta and Wagener represent every time in history. From plantation homes and historic churches to iconic drive-ins and trendy diners, Aiken County remembers it all.

Enjoy nature through unique experiences and activities like hiking one of the largest urban forests in the United States. Hitchcock Woods and the Silver Bluff Audubon Center are two places to visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of preserved land. Other activities include hunting, fishing and golfing, along with a variety of family-friendly adventures.

Discover Aiken County, your visit is sure to be a memorable one.

ALLENDALE COUNTY

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 or experience a variety of unique hunting options available.

Travelers to this part of the region in July have the special opportunity to see a Swallowtailed Kite. Being one of the most elegant birds of the Americas, you won’t want to miss the chance to see them. Allendale 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. Don’t forget to sample southern BBQ and good oldfashioned home cooking while you’re in town.

Visit USC Salkehatchie and view the “Searching for our Beginnings” Topper Site exhibit, the only permanent collection of Clovis and pre-Clovis artifacts. Enjoy your trip through Allendale County as you discover the southernmost part of our region.

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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.

Venture off the beaten path to Denmark, the city of antiques and uniques. Visitors to the Jim Harrison Gallery will find that place matters, whether that is the sun-drenched coast or a lonely barn in a rural landscape. Brooker’s True Value and Gifts is the local stop to make if you are looking for fine china and hardware. Or wonder through three floors of eclectic antiques at The Caroline Collection. Catch the Amtrak at the Denmark train station.

This county has been visited by 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. Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site shows the scars from that battle in the form of battle breastworks.

With river trips, battlefield tours and original artwork, there are many ways to experience the unique atmosphere of Bamberg County.

BARNWELL COUNTY

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

Legends surround several of the attractions here. The God’s Acre Healing Springs story dates back to the 1700’s when Native Americans brought wounded Revolutionary War soldiers here to drink. Many natives of the area still claim the waters are a cure-all. Legend has it that the unique vertical sundial in front of the Barnwell County Courthouse, is the only vertical sundial in the United States.

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.

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TOUR SOUTH CAROLINA

UNDISCOVERED

While traveling through Thoroughbred Country you may find a love for the arts, a sense of adventure, peace with nature and a new appreciation for all things equine. Our region has so much to offer, it’s impossible to do only one trip. Here is a taste of the Undiscovered South Carolina.

Day 1 - A great place to start would be at the Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta.

Located not far from I-20 and a jump across the Savannah River, the Arts & Heritage Center offers an overview of the region’s history along with work from local artists. Stop by the gift shop for tax-free shopping on local wares. If you’d rather stretch your legs, not far from the Arts & Heritage Center is an entrance to the Greeneway Trail. Once an abandoned railroad right-of-way, this paved trail entices walkers and bikers alike to travel along the river, by a butterfly garden or under a canopy of trees. Whether you’re looking for fine or casual dining, complete your day with dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants in North Augusta.

When it comes to a place to rest your head for the night, Thoroughbred Country offers a variety of accommodations. Choose from historic hotels, comfortable bed and breakfasts, your favorite hotel brand, cabins, campgrounds and hunting lodges.

Day 2 - After breakfast, drive to Barnwell to learn about South Carolina Face Jugs and

purchase a unique souvenir at the Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery. Don’t forget to stop on the way to check the time at the Vertical Sundial on the Circle, it is said to be the only free-standing vertical sundial in the United States. Enjoy a BBQ plate or hearty sandwich for lunch before observing 15,000-year-old American artifacts from the Topper Site exhibit at the library of USC Salkehatchie in Allendale. Next, head to Ehrhardt to walk along history on The Battlefield Interpretive Trail at Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site. Here, you can watch a variety of birds, visit memorial grounds of soldiers from several wars and see breastworks that are more than 150-years-old. Stop by Bamberg’s Historic Post Office to view one of thirteen murals in South Carolina commissioned by the Section of Fine Arts of the United States Treasury, ‘Cotton the World Over’. Painted in 1939, this world-wide map depicts regions of cotton production along with ancient and modern trade routes. Then, visit Denmark, our city of uniques, for a glimpse at America through the eyes of Jim Harrison or explore captivating antiques and more.

Spend the rest of your day discovering Thoroughbred Country’s nightlife. Enjoy live music with dinner, have a cocktail in The Alley or treat yourself to something sweet.

Catch a performing arts show, traverse the galaxy at the DuPont Planetarium or brave a haunted tour. There is always something going on, so check the calendar for events.

Day 3 - Grab breakfast to go and start Aiken’s Citywide Arboretum

Trail beginning at Colleton Avenue. Or hop on a charming Saturday morning trolley tour at the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum to learn about and view historic homes and churches, beautiful live oaks and have a guided tour of Hopelands Gardens (weather permitting). Then, visit the Savannah River Site Museum to understand the importance of SRS and why it was built. A replica of a Cold War fallout shelter and an exhibit on how SRS helped the U.S. race to the moon are some of the permanent displays featured at the museum.

Before heading home, memorialize your trip by sharing a photo with us #ThoroughbredCountrySC.

For more on the following points of interest, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

POINTS OF INTEREST AIKEN COUNTY

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, the pottery, guardhouse, 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

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Historic North Augusta, Brochure available at

the North Augusta Chamber of Commerce, 406 West Ave, 803-279-2323. Chartered in 1906, North Augusta includes the site of two early towns; Campbell Town, a trading post before the American Revolution and Hamburg, an early terminus of the S.C. Rail Road. James U. Jackson founded North Augusta Land Co. in 1890. Later, in 1891 he built a bridge over the river and a trolley line in 1897. By 1902, the trolley ran from Augusta, GA to North Augusta and then to Aiken.

Several properties within North Augusta 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

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. MonFri 10am-4pm. First Sunday of each month 1pm-3pm. Also open during special events. www.artsandheritagecenter.com

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.

Points of Interest

Wade Hampton Veterans Park, 226 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.

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,

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site, & Tourism (PRT). 803-642-7559. Langley Pond 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

Beech Island Historical Society History and Visitors Center & Agricultural Museum, 144 Old Jackson Hwy, 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.

The Beech Island Agricultural Museum is housed in a restored barn. Open Wed and Thurs 11am-2pm, and by appointment. www.beechislandhistory.org

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.

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

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.

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 October. www.aikencountyfarmersmarket.com

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Points of Interest

DuPont Planetarium, 471 University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3654. Located on the campus of University of South Carolina Aiken. The 45-seat planetarium is equipped with stateof-the-art special effects systems, and is augmented by sundials and telescopes.

Various shows are available throughout the year. Reservations are recommended. www.usca.edu/rpsec/departments/planetarium The Etherredge Center, 471 University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3305. Located on the University of South Carolina Aiken campus. Presents international and national performances on their main stage theatre, with a regularly updated art gallery and experimental theatre available. www.usca.edu/etherredge-center 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 Amentum 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 Theatre (ACT) and the Aiken Performing Arts (APA). The theater seats approximately 300. APA presents national and international professional shows through the season. Office hours are Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (closed 12pm-1pm lunch). See listing under meeting and rental facilities. https://aikencommunitytheatre.org www.apagonline.org Savannah River Site Museum, 224 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-648-1437. After seven decades, the Savannah River Site remains one of the most influential entities in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), and is one of the CSRA’s largest employers. Come discover its impact on our community from its mid 20th century origins through today. Hours are Tues-Sat 10am to 2pm. Admission is free. www.srsheritagemuseum.org

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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.

Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and 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 and Sun 2pm-5pm, weather permitting. Admission is free. www.aikenracinghalloffame.com 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

Aiken Visitors Center & Train Museum,

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

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

ALLENDALE COUNTY

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

Points of Interest

Aiken County Veterans Memorial Park, 1435

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.

Topper Site & Exhibit at University of South Carolina Salkehatchie, On the

Wagener Museum, 12 Short St, Wagener. Salkehatchie Campus, US 301, Allendale.

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.

Greg Humphries Rare Book Library, 110 Railroad Ave E, 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.

Salley Historic District, bounded by Pine, Ferguson, Poplar and Aldrich Streets, Salley.

The town of Salley went through three major growth periods. First, with the development of downtown following the town’s creation as an early railroad community in 1887 until 1900. Next, a period of increased railroad development let to an increase in residential and commercial buildings from 1901 until 1925. The third period of growth was due to an increase in population from 1926 to 1949. Other than a few alterations due to the introduction of the automobile, most of the Historic District of Salley has remained unchanged. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

803-584-3446. USC Salkehatchie’s library houses “Searching for our Beginnings,” the only permanent collection of Clovis and preClovis 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

Monetta Drive-In, 5822 Columbia Hwy N, hosts multiple family-friendly mud racing Monetta. Movie Line, 803-685-7949. One of only three 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

events throughout the year. Admission is $15. Children 12 and under are free. Cash only. No glass containers or pets allowed. www.twittysmudbog.com

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Points of Interest

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

Young

BAMBERG COUNTY

Battle of 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

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 House, 503 Commerce. 803-245-4427. Float down the

Allendale-Fairfax 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.

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.

Veterans Memorial Trail, runs parallel to

US 78 on the berm, Bamberg. A block long trail signifying Bamberg County’s strong ties to all branches of the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Memorial Park is located at the intersection of US 78 and 301.

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and side streets, Bamberg. 803-245-4427. A significant collection of buildings built during 1875-1930 which presents an accurate depiction of Bamberg’s history. Lying along both sides of what was once the Southern Railway, this residential neighborhood was home to several locally important citizens such as General Francis Marion Bamberg and Jesse F. Carter, former S.C. Senator. Another prominent building was the Bamberg County Courthouse which, with its construction, secured Bamberg as the county seat.

Speckled amongst the vernacular residences with prominent porches and carpenter ornamentation are larger buildings of various architecture style including Georgian Revival, Second Empire, Neoclassical and Gothic Revival. A walking tour brochure is available for purchase from Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce, 604 Airport Rd. Contact for hours of operation.

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.

Denmark Depot, US 78, Denmark.

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

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

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 indoor-outdoor community display of 20th century advertising.

Mennonite Community, Contact Blackville

Points of Interest

Bamberg Historic District, E Railroad Ave Town of Elko Farmers’ Market, Located

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 2pm-4pm. Other times are by appointment.

The Depot Library, 19420 Solomon Blatt

Lill’s Herb Garden, 2136 Jones Rd, 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.

BARNWELL COUNTY

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.

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Points of Interest

God’s Acre Healing Springs, Off of SC Circle Theatre, 325 Academy St, Barnwell.

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.

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.

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 Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial, memorial pavers in honor of veterans line 141 Main St, Barnwell. The original the perimeter of the park and the walkway courthouse built in Boiling Springs in 1789, from the Huey UH-1H helicopter to the was succeeded by several buildings on the monument and flagpole area. The walking present site. The present courthouse was and running track on the perimeter of the built in 1878-79. The unique vertical sundial park is used by locals and visitors. Host to in front of the courthouse was given to the annual events throughout the year, including town in 1858 by Joseph D. Allen, who at that the Barnwell Independence Day celebration. time was a state Senator from Barnwell.

Legend has it that this is the only vertical Church of the Holy Apostles, Episcopal, sundial in the United States and though 1706 Hagood Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-3477. erected two years prior to standard time, it Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built of cypress wood, with virgin keeps within two minutes of that. heart pine pews, this beautiful building was Agricultural Heritage Museum, 127 used to stable Union horses when Kilpatrick’s Heritage Rd (US 78), two miles west of Cavalry marched through Barnwell.

Blackville, at the Clemson University Edisto Research & Education Center. 803-584-7315.

The museum interprets the historical and cultural influences of agriculture on the area.

Guided tours are available through Blackville Historical Tours.

Barnwell County Museum, 617 Hagood

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

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 12

For more on the following annual festivals & events, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

Annual Festivals & Events February

March

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

held in Aiken with numerous free or low-cost performances around town that are open to the public. For over ten years, this festival has brought world-class actors, dancers and musicians into our neighborhoods to bring the excitement of learning and the pleasure of artistic discovery to our students. www.joyeinaiken.com

Aiken Antique Show, the first weekend Joye in Aiken, a special week long festival

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

AgamaCon, held in March in Aiken. The

CSRA’s homegrown convention featuring art, gaming, anime, cosplay, sci fi, fantasy and more. Multi-genre pop culture convention for all ages with a lot of vendors and panels all weekend long. https://agamacon.com

Spring Herb Fest at Little Red Barn, held

the third Saturday in March. 803-541-7900.

Sponsored by the gallery and the Barnwell County Herb Club.

13 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Annual Festivals & Events

Aiken Horse Show, held in Hitchcock Woods the last weekend in March. Hitchcock Woods Foundation. 803-642-0528.

Aiken

Triple

July

Swallow-Tailed Kite Outing, held in July

in Allendale. Birders as well as non-birders,

Crown, three successive photographers and naturalists of all ages

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.

Proceeds aid the community and local charities.

will have the opportunity to witness this amazing aerial display, as dozens of Swallowtailed Kites, one of the most elegant birds of the Americas, and Mississippi Kites forage on insects in a long-standing kite hotspot in rural Allendale County. www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org

April

Nike Peach Jam, held in July at the Riverview

Denmark. 803-793-3734. Family-oriented festival featuring food, rides, entertainment, games and contests. www.bambergcountychamber.org Historic Beech Island Tour, Beech Island Historical Society. 803-827-3600. Visit historic homes, barns and cemeteries around Beech Island. www.beechislandhistory.org

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.

Park Activities Center in North Augusta.

Dogwood Festival, in April on Main St, City of 803-441-4311. This Championship event is

May

August

Schuetzenfest, in Ehrhardt during the last

Aiken Charity Horse Show, held in May at the weekend in August. Ehrhardt Town Hall, Aiken Horse Park. 803-270-6190. The shows will provide old-fashioned venues with character and integrity, held on an intimate field in the corner of the celebrated Horse District, where riders from the youngest lead line toddlers to the strongest Grand Prix competitors can compete on the best quality surfaces.

Cooterfest, Allendale during the spring. This 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

803-267-5335. A time for fun and fellowship as the town celebrates its German heritage and promotes its hospitality. Parade on Saturdays. www.ehrhardtsc.com

Storks & Corks, in August at the Silver Bluff Audubon Center. 843-462-2150. Enjoy a sampling of wine and hors d’oeuvres following the viewing of the endangered Wood Storks in the center’s Kathwood Ponds. www.sc.audubon.org/visit/silver-bluff

September

Colonial Times: Under the Crown and Aiken’s Makin’, in the parkways of downtown Trades Fair, held at Living History Park in Aiken during the second full weekend in North Augusta. Olde Towne Preservation Association. 803-279-7560. Annual show featuring high-quality art, music and food all weekend. www.colonialtimes.us

June

Savannah River Classic,

takes place in 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 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 14

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

Festival of the Woods, in Hitchcock Woods.

803-642-0528. This event is to celebrate the wide range of pedestrian uses and stewardship of the Hitchcock Woods. Also, features a ticketed dinner with a guest speaker. www.hitchcockwoods.org

December

in October, Burnettown. 803-593-2676. A festival full of family-fun, theere is a parade and pageant.

December. Come downtown to experience luminaries lining the streets of downtown Aiken, as shops stay open late and offer holiday treats, drinks, and music for a festive evening out. This is a free event.

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

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

November

Christmas in Hopelands, 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.

Annual Festivals & Events

October

Sassafrass Festival, held the first Saturday Night of 1,000 Lights, held annually in

Year-round & Seasonal Events Aiken Choral Society, 803-649-6570. aikenchoralsociety@gmail.com www.aikenchoralsociety.org

Aiken Civic Ballet, 803-648-5771. info@aikenballet.org http://aikenballet.org

Aiken Community Theatre, 803-648-1438. info@aikencommunitytheatre.org

Shoutfest, held in November. The largest https://aikencommunitytheatre.org outdoor Gospel Event in the CSRA featuring national and local gospal artists. Good food, kid fun zone, vendors, and great entertainment.

This event is free and open to the public at Perry Memorial Park.

Aiken Symphony Orchestra, 803-295-0313. executivedirector@aikensymphonyorchestra.com http://aikensymphonyorchestra.com Augusta GreenJackets Baseball, 803-349-9467.

Blessing of the Hounds, on Thanksgiving Day info@greenjacketsbaseball.com 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 Laurens Street entrance to Memorial Gate. www.aikenhounds.com

https://www.milb.com/augusta

Circle Theatre of Barnwell, 803-259-7046. barnwellct@gmail.com https://barnwellct.weebly.com

DuPont Planetarium, 803-641-3313. planetarium@usca.edu

Salley Chitlin Strut, held the Saturday www.usca.edu/rpsec/departments/planetarium after Thanksgiving at the Salley Civic Center Monetta Drive-In Theatre, 803-685-7949. and Fairgrounds. 803-258-3485. Visitors are drawn to this small community to celebrate this unusal 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

https://thebigmo.com

The Etherredge Center, 803-641-3305. boxoffice@usca.edu www.usca.edu/etherredge-center

Note, this is a sampling of our events.

For a full list of regional events, visit www.TBredCountry.org/Calendar 15 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

For more on the following dining options, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

DINING OPTIONS AIKEN COUNTY

Back Porch, 808 Belvedere Clearwater

Aiken. 803-649-7601. Greek and Italian cuisine. Northern style pizza. Lunch and dinner. www.acropolisofaiken.com Aiken Brewing Company, 140 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-502-0707. Hand-crafted beers. Sandwiches to fine dining. Lunch and dinner. www.aikenbrewingcompany.com Aiken Fish House & Oyster Bar, 1376 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-226-0260. Seafood restaurant and oyster bar. www.aikenfishhouse.com Anshu Asian Cafe, 122 Coach Light Way, Aiken. 803-226-0556. Asian fusion family restaurant. www.anshuasiancafe.com Antonio’s Italian Eatery, 336 Georgia Ave Ste 103, North Augusta. 803-341-9720.

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

style dishes, pulled pork, shrimp, fish and chicken baskets. Nightly specials. Freshly prepared. Open Wed-Sat. Lunch and dinner.

BBQ Barn, 10298 Atomic Rd, North Augusta.

803-278-7202. Authentic smoked barbeque.

Catering services are available. www.bbqbarnna.com Betsy’s Round the Corner, 224 Park Ave SW, Aiken. 803-226-0078. Breakfast (Saturdays only), lunch and dinner. American. Soda fountain and grill. Daily homemade blue plate specials, soups and salads. https://betsysroundthecorner.com Blue Collard Catering, 113 Waterloo St, Aiken. 803-679-0115. Take out market with a variety of options. Catering services available.

Rd, North Augusta. 803-380-1578. Locally-

Acropolis Pizza, 1647 Richland Ave W, owned restaurant. Great burgers, Louisiana

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 16

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

803-262-5500. Family friendly ice cream parlor.

Lunch and dinner. www.bobbysbbq.com Buckhead Cafe, 19073 Atomic Rd, Jackson.

803-393-1150. Home cooked meals. Breakfast, lunch or dinner. http://buckheadsc.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.

Casa Bella Italian Restaurant, 120 Chesterfield St S, Aiken. 803-641-3107.

Italian cuisine. Dinner. www.casabellaitalianrestaurant.com Casa Di Pizza & Italian, 103 Edgewood Dr, North Augusta. 803-279-4418. Pizza, pasta, subs, salads. Lunch and dinner.

Chick-N-Snack, 208 Ascauga Lake Rd, Graniteville. 803-663-9395. Country cooking.

Lunch and dinner.

City Billiards, 208 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-649-7362. Short order, pool tables. Lunch and dinner. www.citybilliardsaikensc.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.

DiVino Ristorante Italiano, 465 Railroad Ave Ste 100, North Augusta. 803-426-8675.

Authentic homemade Italian cuisine. www.divinonorthaugusta.com Doughboy’s N.Y. Style Pizzeria, 1367 W Martintown Rd, North Augusta. 803-278-7228.

American and Italian. Dinner and spirits. Tues-Sat. https://doughboyssc.com Dukes Bar-B-Que, 4248 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-649-7675. Barbeque. http://www.dukesbarbque.com Ferrando’s Italian Pizzeria, Two locations: 152 S Aiken Ln. 803-644-8881. 3555 Richland Ave, Aiken. 803-642-8484. Italian. Lunch and dinner.

803-443-7229. Local cafe serving daily specials, sandwiches, soups, salads, fresh coffee and desserts. Dine-in or take-out. Lunch and dinner. https://flowerscafesc.webs.com Freeman’s BBQ, 1060 Sand Bar Ferry Rd, Beech Island. 803-827-1623. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

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

General Elliot Inn, 929 New Bridge Rd, Aiken. 803-642-8108. Fine dining in a home atmosphere. Reservations required. www.generalelliottinn.com 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.

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

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

Dinner. www.lindasbistro-aiken.com Little Howie’s, 103 Williamsburg St SE, Aiken.

803-648-0402. Lunch and dinner. Family owned and operated. Burgers and chicken.

Closed on Sundays. www.littlehowies.com Malia’s, 120 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-643-3086. Gourmet blackboard menu.

Lunch and dinner. www.maliasrestaurant.com Manuel’s Bread Cafe, 505 Railroad Ave Ste 100, North Augusta. 803-380-1323. French cafe, alfresco eating. www.manuelsbreadcafe.com Mellow Mushroom, 151 Bee Ln, Aiken.

803-474-8454. Pizzas, subs and salads. Lunch and dinner. www.mellowmushroom.com Metro Diner, 1944 Whiskey Rd Ste 101, Aiken. 803-792-7808. American breakfast, lunch and dinner. https://metrodiner.com

Bobby’s Bar-B-Q Buffet, 1897 Jefferson Indoor and outdoor seating. Open year-round.

Davis Hwy, Warrenville. 803-593-5900. Barbeque. Flowers’ Cafe, 218 Main St S, New Ellenton.

Dining Options

Blue Top Grill, 212 Aiken Rd, Graniteville. Flanigan’s Ice Cream, 221 Barnwell Ave, Aiken.

17 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Dining Options

Midway Grill, 2060 Augusta Rd, Gloverville. Sno-Cap Drive-In, 618 West Ave, North 803-593-4744. Short order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

New Moon Café, 116 Laurens St NW,

Aiken. 803-643-7088. Sandwiches, pastries, specialty coffee. Breakfast and lunch. www.newmoondowntown.com Papa’s Kitchen, 447 Steed St, Aiken.

803-393-1211. Home cooking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

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

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

Lunch and dinner. Closed on Sundays.

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

803-279-4100. Closed holidays. www.pinkdipper.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 Prime Steakhouse, 316 Richland Ave NW, Aiken. 803-642-4488. Aged steaks, whole lobster and fresh seafood. Lunch and dinner. www.primesteakhouseaiken.com Red Shed Diner, 212 Ascauga Lake Rd, Graniteville. 803-663-0584. Old-fashioned store and market. https://redsheddiner.wordpress.com Rio Cantina, 1049 Center St, North Augusta.

803-349-8376. Taqueria. Located beside SRP Park.

Roma’s Italian Restaurant, 116 Coach Light Way SW, Aiken. 803-643-7828. Italian cuisine. Dinner.

Rose Hill Restaurant, 245 Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181. Full menu. Catering services available. https://rosehillinaiken.com Russell’s Pizza, 136 Lee St N, Wagener.

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

Salt & Marrow Kitchen, 1060 Center St, North Augusta. 803-349-8401. Dining inside the Crown Plaza. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. https://saltandmarrow.com Southbound Smokehouse, 1009 Center St, North Augusta. 803-349-9306. Southern barbecue. Located in SRP Park. https://southboundsmokehouse.com

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 18

Augusta. 803-279-4004. 1950’s style drive-in.

Lunch and dinner. www.snocapdrivein.com Sue’s Grill, 4112 Festival Trail Rd, Salley.

803-564-6695. Burgers, fries, fish and more.

Sunrise Grill, 404 E Martintown Rd Ste 4,

North Augusta. 803-202-9898. Breakfast and lunch. www.thesunrisegrill.com Tailgate Tavern, 231 The Alley, Aiken.

803-226-0909. Sports bar and grill. Lunch and dinner.

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. 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. www.thealleydowntowntaproom.com The Confection Cottage, 967 Dougherty Rd, Aiken. 803-335-1440. Fresh and distinctive bakery products and unique tea services. www.theconfectioncottage.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.

The Restaurant at the Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. 803-648-1898. Gastro Pub. Breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.thewillcox.com The Village Cafe, 110 Coach Light Way SW, Aiken. 803-640-0247. Delicious & quality food, drink and gelato. Breakfast and lunch. www.thevillagecafeaiken.com The Whitney Restaurant and Bar, 148 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-226-0911. Fine dining. Lunch and dinner. www.thewhitneyaiken.com Variety Restaurant, 921 York St NE, Aiken.

803-648-6987. Fresh seafood, steak and more. Lunch and dinner. Wed-Sat.

St NW, Aiken. 803-649-1068. Gourmet cooking to-go and dine in. Breakfast and lunch. Special events. www.whatscookindowntown.com Whiskey Alley, 227 The Alley SW, Aiken.

803-226-0579. Whiskey and tapas bar in downtown Aiken. Dinner. http://whiskey-alley.business.site WingPlace, 732 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken.

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. www.wing-place.com Your Pie, 434 Georgia Ave Ste 101, North Augusta. Pizzas, paninis, salads, gelatos, craft beers. Lunch and dinner. https://yourpie.com

ALLENDALE COUNTY

AJ’s Deli, 382 Hampton Ave, Fairfax.

803-632-1016. Breakfast and lunch.

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

Choice Cut Meats, 1445 Augusta Hwy, Allendale. 803-584-7744. Country cooking. Lunch.

Clara’s Fried Chicken & More, 399 AllendaleFairfax Highway, Fairfax. 803-632-6010. Buffet and sit down. Lunch and dinner.

El Jardin Mexican Restaurant, 2024 N Main St, Allendale. 803-584-3203. Mexican.

Lunch and dinner.

Golden Town, 256 Hampton Ave, Fairfax.

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

Govan’s Sports, Blues & Soul Food, 158 7th St, Fairfax. 803-632-6006. Dinner ThursdaySaturday. Lunch and dinner Sunday. Live music Friday and Saturday.

Hardee’s, 200 Railroad Ave, Allendale.

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

Allendale. 803-573-7153. Locally owned sandwich cafe offering made to order sandwiches and other weekly specials. Lunch and dinner.

Subway, 337 Main St N, Allendale.

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

BAMBERG COUNTY

B & B Meats and Fish & Family Kitchen,

3142 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-4920. Meat and fish market. Family kitchen serves country cooking. Dine-in or carry out. Daily specials.

Bamberg House of Pizza, 11995 Heritage Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-4800. Greek specialties, pizza. Lunch and dinner.

Bee Box Restaurant, 2302 Low Country Hwy, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2502. Home cooking, short order. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Betty’s Quick Stop, 3475 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

803-245-4991. Short order. Breakfast and lunch.

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

Duke’s BBQ of Bamberg, 1178 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-3313. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.

Little Howie’s, 2234 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

803-245-4573. Burgers and chicken. Lunch and dinner. www.littlehowies.com

Lucy Cheng, 3380 Railroad Ave, Bamberg.

803-245-7388. Chinese. Lunch and dinner. www.luckychengbamberg.com

Nelson’s Wee Bake Bakery, 4767 Carolina

Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-4664. Mennonite bakery. Breakfast and lunch.

New China, 2307 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

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

Pizza Hut, 2779 Main Hwy, Bamberg.

Krispy Krunchy Chicken, 1206 Main St (US

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

Mama Pearl’s Kitchen, 1620 Main St (US

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

301 S), Allendale. 803-573-7133. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

301 N), Allendale. 803-573-7121. Family style. Southern cuisine and home style soul food. Tues-Sat. Lunch and dinner.

Dining Options

What’s Cookin’ Downtown, 123 B Laurens Salk Sandwich Cafe, 1720 Main St N,

Rusty & Paula’s Restaurant, 3308 Main Southern Soul, 910 W Hagood St, Denmark.

803-780-9007. Soul food, BBQ, seafood and more. Dine in or carry out. Catering and special events available. Thurs - Sun. 19 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Dining Options

BARNWELL COUNTY

Lucy Lu’s Cafe, 245 Main St, Barnwell.

Anthony’s, 476 Reynolds Rd, Barnwell.

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

803-671-0008. Daily specials. Dine in or take out. Includes a bakery section.

Meeting on Main, 12906 W Main St, Barnwell Caribbean, 12879 Hwy 278 W, Williston. 803-266-4900. Soups, salads, Barnwell. 803-300-8204. Caribbean cuisine.

Dine in or take out.

sandwiches, entrees. Lunch and dinner. www.meetingonmain.com

China Express, 10690 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell. Miller’s Bread Basket, 483 Main St, 803-259-9428. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.

Common Grounds Coffee House and Cafe, 1458 Jackson St, Barnwell. 803-259-1488.

Coffee, pastries, sandwiches and wraps.

Meeting space is available for up to 40 people.

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.

Country Cupboard, 9724 Marlboro Ave, Morgan’s Drugs, 12935 Main St, Williston.

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

Delia’s, 320 Reynolds Rd, Barnwell.

803-541-0700. Salads, burgers, seafood and sandwiches. Lunch and dinner.

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

Lunch and dinner.

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

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

New China, 10201 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

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

Hansel and Gretel’s, 66 Main St, Barnwell. Pizza Hut, 1017 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-450-5074. dessert shop.

Restaurant,

bakery

and

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

Russell’s Pizza, 12677 Main St, Blackville.

Healing Springs Country Store, 2563 803-284-3001. Pizza and sandwiches. Italian.

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

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

Lunch and dinner.

Russell’s Pizza, 13031 Main St, Williston.

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

Hogg Heaven, 1070 Barwick Ln, Barnwell. Lunch and dinner.

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.

Smokin Joe’s BBQ, 3120 SC Hwy 70, Barnwell. 803-400-3040. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner, Tuesday-Saturday.

Sombrero’s Mexican Restaurant, 8273 King Mackerel, 12138 US Hwy 278, Barnwell. Marlboro Ave, Barnwell. 803-541-1264.

803-259-4037. Seafood market and grille.

Mexican. Lunch and dinner.

Lee’s Soul Food & Catering, 539 Allen St, Tacos Don Ramon, 1503 Jackson St, Barnwell.

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

803-450-5078. Authentic Mexican tacos.

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

wraps. Dine in or take out. www.yannispizza.net

Yannis Pizza, 10456 Ellenton St, Barnwell.

Little Howie’s, 8988 Marlboro Ave, Barnwell. 803-621-2220. Pizza, calzones, pastas, subs and

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 20

For more on the following shopping opportunities, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

SHOPPING

AIKEN COUNTY

3 Monkeys, 141 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

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

Aiken Center for the Arts Gallery Shop, 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-641-9094.

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

Aiken County Historical Museum Store, Affordables Apparel, 113 Laurens St SW 433 Newberry St SW Aiken, 803-644-1010. #104, Aiken. 803-335-3760. Apparel and accessories. www.affordablesapparel.com

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

Aiken Antique Mall, 112 Laurens St SW, Aiken. Aiken 803-648-6700. Antiques. Over 50 dealers.

Aiken Antique & Uniques, 782 Silver Bluff

Rd, Aiken. 803-226-9144. Antiques, home furnishings, holiday decor and a full section of Dixie Belle products. https://aikenaandu.com

County Visitors Center, 133 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-642-7557. Visitor information, souvenirs, local artisans, fine crafts, books. www.discoveraikencounty.com Aiken Dry Goods, 124 Laurens St NW, Aiken.

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

Aiken Embroidery and Design, 107 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-215-5878. Choose from items we have in stock or personalize your own.

21 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Shopping

Aiken Office Supply, 2560 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. Epona, 137 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-648-8339. Collectibles and office supplies.

803-262-5102. Equine-inspired boutique with

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

for the home. www.eponaonlaurens.com

Aiken Saddlery, 1044 E. Pine Log Rd, Aiken. collections from wearable art to decorations

Antique Emporium, 321 Richland Ave W,

Equine Divine, 126 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

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

FITS Riding Outlet Store, 111 Warehouse Antiques & More, 640 E Pine Log Rd, Aiken. Rd, Aiken. 803-226-0195. Premier technical Aiken. 803-643-9922. Antiques.

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

equestrian apparel manufacturers. https://fitsriding.com

100 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.

803-441-4380.

Local artisan crafts. www.artsandheritagecenter.com

http://www.follyfinds.com

Folly, 116 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-226-0550.

Arts and Heritage Center Gift Shop, Unique accessories for self and home.

Fox and Lady, 101 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

803-291-0389. Quaint little boutique.

Art & Soul of Aiken, 208 The Alley, Aiken. High Cotton Downtown, 336 Georgia Ave 803-645-9186. Local artisan gallery. www.artandsoulofaiken.com

Ste 101, North Augusta. 803-599-7236.

Women’s clothing store.

Artisan Market & Decor, 119 Laurens St High Country Olive Oil, 125 Laurens St SW, NW, Aiken. 803-643-7580. Handmade custom home decor.

Beyond Bijoux, 106 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

Aiken. 803-649-9907. High quality, flavorful products to enhance the healthy diet. Free tasting bar. www.highcountryoliveoil.com

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

Impressions of the South, 508 West Ave,

Aiken. A great place to find today’s styles.

Augusta. 803-279-7157. Candy, candles,

screen print, signs. www.communigraphics.com

SW, Aiken. 803-642-6779. Antiques.

North Augusta. 803-426-8298. Gifts, coffees,

Caroline’s Boutique, 131 Laurens St SW, candies, teas and wreaths.

Aiken. 803-644-5606. Located in Downtown Kit & Caboodles, 508 Edgefield Rd, North CommuniGraphics, 1400 Georgia Ave, North soaps, baskets and banners.

Augusta. 803-278-7217. Gift items, embroidery, Laurens Street Antiques, 117 Laurens St

Connie’s Framing, 145 Pendleton St NW, Little Red Fox Shop, 109 Laurens St NW, Aiken. 803-643-3696. Custom Framing.

Featuring artwork from local artists.

Cote Designs, 128 Laurens St, Aiken.

803-270-0034. Fine Art Organic Florals and Event Styling. www.cotedesignsevents.com

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 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 22

Aiken. 803-226-0039. 15+ local artists. Home decor, gifts, women and girls’ apparel and more. www.shopinspiredinside.com

Lionel Smith, 132 Laurens St SW, Aiken.

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

Material Things, 616 Park Ave SE, Aiken.

803-643-3701. Local retail fabric store and design studio since 1992. http:// materialthingsofaiken.com

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

803-226-0030. Women’s clothing boutique. https://nikkilynnboutique.com

Aiken. 803-648-8542. Household tools, supplies and more.

Oak Manor Saddlery, 2677 Wagener ww3.truevalue.com/tvhdaiken/Home.aspx Rd, Aiken. 803-641-7070. Clothing and Unique Expressions, 1521 Whiskey Rd, equipment needs for foxhunt, eventing, Aiken. 803-641-7908. Gifts, home decor, horseshow or ride just for fun. jewelry, collegiate and palmetto products.

Shopping

Nikkilynn Boutique, 218 East Gate Dr, Aiken. True Value Hardware, 121 Laurens St SW,

www.oakmanorsaddlery.com

Vikki’s A Unique Boutique, 1501 Whiskey Pitter Patter Children’s Boutique, 131 Rd, Aiken. 507A Georgia Ave, North Augusta.

Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803-643-8000. Aiken’s 803-226-0240. Women’s clothing boutique. choice for fine children’s fashions since 1991. Gifts, jewelry, shoes and more.

Clothing, toys, gifts and monogramming. www.vikkisauniqueboutiqueaiken.com Plum Pudding, 101 Laurens St NW, Aiken. White Rose Eclectics, 142 Laurens St SW, 888-940-7586. Gourmet kitchenware.

Aiken. 803-724-7285. Unique boutique www.plumpuddingkitchen.com apparel, jewelry and accessories.

Return Engagement, 151 Laurens St SW, Woods Market & Garden, 6400 Woodside Aiken. 803-642-3337. Upscale consignment Executive Ct, Aiken. 803-443-9676. Local boutique. http://returnengagementaiken.com farmers and artisan market.

Riverfront Antique Mall, 5979 Jefferson York Cottage Antiques, 409 Hayne Ave SW, Davis Hwy, North Augusta. 803-279-0900. Aiken. 803-642-9524. Fine china, crystal, Antiques, collectibles, crafts. Cafe is available. silver, antiques.

Southern Moon Pottery, Aiken. 803-616-2196.

Stoneware clay art and pottery classes in wheel throwing and handbuilding for adults Hendrix Handmade Knives, Allendale. and children. Studio rental and private parties. 803-686-0136. All knives made by stock Southside Gallery of Aiken, 2258 Whiskey Rd, removal method. All guards made of stainless Aiken. 803-226-0554. Gallery that offers over steel. www.hendrixknives.com

ALLENDALE COUNTY

150,000 art images. Large format printing and New Direction Christian Bookstore, 192 design. www.southsidegallery.com Main St N, Allendale. 803-584-4910. Clothing, Singing Hills Antiques, 415 West Ave, North books, church supplies, gifts and CDs. Augusta. 803-441-8805. Antiques, live ivy www.newdirectionchristianbookstore.com topiaries, baskets, woven rugs, books.

On Time Fashion, 147 Augusta Hwy, The Ivy Cottage Inc, 206 Park Ave SE, Aiken. Allendale. 803-584-2775. Men’s formal wear.

803-643-0535. Flowers and gifts.

Shoes, suits, ties, handkerchiefs, cuff links www.theivycottageflowersandgifts.com and more. www.ontimefashion.us The Lucky Pecan Store, 15758 Atomic Rd, Beech Island. 803-522-4642. Offers gifts, antiques, jams, jellies, sauces, dressings, Black Shadow - Iron Work Gift Shoppe, pecan candies and crack and shell pecans.

6145 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-308-7080. www.theluckypecanstore.com A copyrighted line of ornamental iron work The Paisley Peacock, 115 Laurens St NW, and deer stands.

BAMBERG COUNTY

Aiken. 803-215-8452. Customized gifts Brooker True Value and Gifts, 4823 Carolina just for you. Monogramming, embroidery, Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-3342. A family owned jewelry, metalworks and boutique apparel. and operated business since 1903. Not just a The Screenprint Factory, 157 Laurens St hardware store, this location sells everything NW, Aiken. 803-649-7552. Souvenirs, t-shirts, from clothes, jewelry & boots to old-fashioned sweats, caps, coffee mugs, pins, wine glasses. rice steamers and rock candy. http://screenprintfactorysc.com

23 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Shopping

Ehrhardt Pharmacy & Gift Shop, 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 40-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

BARNWELL COUNTY

Adam’s Nursery and Landscaping Gift Shop, 10066 Ellenton St, Barnwell. 803-259-5631.

A variety of gift items. https://adamsnursery.net

Carol’s Florist, 210 Main St, Barnwell.

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

Exclusively Gadson, 260 Main St, Barnwell.

803-259-0088. Fashionable clothing.

Healing Springs Country Store, 2563 Healing Springs Rd, Blackville. 803-284-3377. Gifts, discount books, candles, meats and cheeses, sandwiches, candies and bakery items.

Main Street Gift & Garden Shop, 3386 Main Hunter & Oates - General Merchandise, 218 Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-0050. Handcrafted pottery, mosaics, paintings by local artist Angie Sandifer. Seasonal fresh flowers.

Main St, Barnwell. 803-391-8564. Casual and outdoor apparel, bags, totes, towels, pillows and home accessories.

Pansy Clayton Heritage Art Gallery, 7689 Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery, 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.

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.

Lucy Lu’s Boutique and Gifts, 245 Main St, Tagadu’s Gift Shop, 2165 Main Hwy, Bamberg. Barnwell.803-671-0008. Family owned clothing 803-245-7155. This special gift shop offers a wide range of items from Ronaldo Designer Jewelry, Nora Fleming, HOBO Bags, Tyler Candles and Beatriz Ball. They also offer in-store monogramming. www.tagadus.com

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

store. Offers monogramming and shipping.

My Repurposed Life Custom Woodwork & Refinishing, 4761 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. Children’s and women’s clothing.

The Blossom Shop, 12983 Main St, Williston.

803-266-7433. Flowers and gifts.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 24

For more on the following accommodation options, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

ACCOMMODATIONS AIKEN COUNTY Americas Best Value Inn, 2577 Whiskey Rd,

Aiken. 803-641-8800. Continental breakfast, pool, microwave, refrigerator. www.americasbestvalueinn.com

Clarion Inn & Suites, 155 Colony Pkwy, Aiken.

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

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

Crowne Plaza, 1060 Center St, North Augusta. 803-349-8400. Fitness Center, outdoor pool, Jackson’s Bluff rooftop bar and various dining options. https://www.ihg.com

Days Inn, I-20 Exit 22, 2654 Columbia Hwy,

Aiken. 803-642-5692. Continental breakfast, microwave, pool. www.daysinn.com

Days Inn Downtown, 1204 Richland Ave W,

Aiken. 803-649-5524. Continental breakfast, refrigerator, microwave. www.daysinn.com

Econo Lodge, 3560 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-649-3968. Continental breakfast, microwave, refrigerator. www.choicehotels.com

25 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Accommodations

Fairfield by Marriott, 185 Colony Pkwy,

Aiken. 803-648-7808. Continental breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, 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

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

ALLENDALE COUNTY

Allendale Motor Court, 1645 Main St N (US

Hilton Garden Inn Aiken, 350 Eastgate 301 N), Allendale. 803-584-4202.

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

Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 2897 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 Ln, North Augusta. 803-341-9505. Full breakfast, pool and fitness center. Microwave and refrigerator in rooms. https://www.ihg.com

Executive Inn, 1921 Main St N (US 301 N), Allendale. 803-584-2184.

BAMBERG COUNTY

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.

BARNWELL COUNTY

Carolina Lodge, 10645 Dunbarton Blvd,

Barnwell. 803-259-2014. Continental breakfast,

Howard Johnson, 1936 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. microwave, refrigerator and satellite TV. 803-649-5000. Continental breakfast, pool, pet friendly.

www.carolinalodgebarnwell.com

803-641-1100.

Continental breakfast, lounge, indoor hot spa, pool, pet friendly, guest laundry. www.choicehotels.com

microwave and refrigerator. Pet friendly. www.daysinn.com

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

refrigerator and microwave. Pet friendly. http://wintoninnsuites.com

Sleep Inn, 1002 Monterey Dr, Aiken.

Villa Motor Inn, 13850 Church St, Williston.

Days Inn, 10747 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

Quality Inn, 3608 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-541-5000.

Continental breakfast,

Winton Inn & Suites, 8273 Marlboro Quality Inn, I-20 Exit 22, 110 E Frontage Rd, Ave, Barnwell. 803-621-2017. Courtyard,

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

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

803-266-7001. Microwave and refrigerator.

Pet friendly.

Bed & Breakfasts

Rd, North Augusta. 803-202-0209. Deluxe continental breakfast, exercise room, pool, microwave, refrigerator, meeting room, 208 Abbeville, 208 Abbeville Ave NW, Aiken. interior corridors. www.choicehotels.com 843-300-2388. Located in historic downtown The Inn at Houndslake, 897 Houndslake Dr, Aiken within walking distance of restaurants Aiken. 803-648-9535. 30-room lodge located and shopping. Three rooms available with on the grounds of a private country club. single and double occupancy. In addition to Continental breakfast. Hotel guests may use a rocking chair front porch and screenedany of the Club’s facilities. Pet friendly. in back porch, there is a 2 1/2-acre garden on www.theinnathoundslake.com site, suitable for wandering or weddings. Full breakfast provided.

AIKEN COUNTY

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 26

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

General Elliott Inn, 929 New Bridge Rd,

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. 803-292-6968. First unit: 203 Arbor Ter NW, Aiken. “The Nest” is a private and gated upstairs apartment with one bedroom, one bath, living room with queen sleeper, and a fully equipped kitchen. Second Unit: 152 Laurens St SW, Aiken. “The Loft” is fully furnished loft apartment, c. 1885, has a living room with queen sleeper, a king bedroom and separate queen bedroom. Fully custom kitchen and new bath.

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

Accommodations

Claridge House, 162 Lee St N, Wagener.

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

Carolina Oaks Bed & Breakfast, 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

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 27 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Accommodations

BARNWELL COUNTY

Miss Alda’s Inn, 825 Moore Dr, Snelling

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

The Willcox, 100 Colleton Ave SW, Aiken.

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

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.

BAMBERG COUNTY

Wisteria Cottage Bed & Breakfast, 2136

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

cottage ideal for a “quiet get away from it all” in the country. Mennonite proprietor is happy to provide fresh Mennonite breakfast upon request. Also on the property is Lill’s Herb Garden. See points of interest listing. http://blackvillewisteriacottage.com

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

Ehrhardt Hall Bed & Breakfast Inn, 13764 A rustic two-bedroom and one bath 1940’s

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 28

ALLENDALE COUNTY

AIKEN COUNTY

Lakeview Plantation, 757 Cedar Knoll Rd,

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.

with only water and electric. 85 tent sites.

8 cottages/lodge rooms. Laundry, showers, restrooms and dump stations available.

Facilities and well-maintained trails available on the property for horsemen and hunters. http://lakeviewplantation.com

Fairfax. 803-584-0689. Full hookup sites

Aiken RV Campground, LLC, 2424 Columbia at 65 campsites; and an additional 95 sites

Accommodations

Camping & RV Parks

BAMBERG COUNTY

Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton

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.

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

BARNWELL COUNTY

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, WiFi, coffee maker, central heating/air, outside grill, fire ring and picnic table. Only one cabin is pet friendly, cabin 2. The pet fee is $55. 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. Group primitive camping area with picnic tables, fire ring and water available for organized groups. Nature trails, fishing, boating, picnic shelters, seasonal swim-atown-risk swimming area, playground and meeting facilities. www.southcarolinaparks.com/barnwell

29 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

For more on the following recreational activities, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

RECREATION

South Carolina Department of Natural Resources

Fishing - Rivers

Edisto River, a natural cathedral of swamp, hardwoods and cypress, follows Fishing & Hunting Licenses by Phone, this blackwater river. Pinfish, catfish, 1-866-714-3611 largemouth bass, eels and bream fishing.

Fishing & Hunting Licenses Online, Wood ducks, alligators and birds are www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html abundant. The following areas offer For rules and regulations pertaining to access to the Edisto River: hunting and fishing in South Carolina, Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd, contact SCDNR.

SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR),

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

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 30

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

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.

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.

Highway 21 Boat Landing, SC 21. Aiken County. Ramp, gravel parking.

Ferry Rd, North Augusta. Parks, Recreation, & Tourism. 803-441-4300. Aiken County.

Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

Primitive campsites nearby.

Recreation

Bobcat Landing, Bobcat Rd off of Bamberg Riverview Park Boat Ramp, Hammonds

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:

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

SC 3. Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

Edisto Boat Landing, off of New Holland Rd, Johnsons Landing, Johnson Landing Rd off between Couchton and New Holland. Aiken County. Facilities include boat ramp for small craft, small parking area and area for bank fishing.

SC 3. Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, dock, paved parking.

61. Bamberg County. Boat ramp, paved parking.

miles. Little Hell Rd, one mile from Millett.

Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, gravel parking.

Little Hell Landing, US 301 to US 125, Zig-Zag Landing, 15 miles east of Bamberg on SC turn left at Furse Mill Rd and travel 15.5 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.

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:

Steel Creek Landing, Off US 125 near Martin.

Allendale County. Ramp, gravel parking.

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

Jackson Landing, take Jackson Rd to Fisher Rd, then to Landing Rd. Aiken County. Hard surface ramp, handicapped accessible dock, fishing area, gravel parking.

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Recreation

Crackerneck WMA, Jackson. Contact SC Cowden Plantation, 383 Brown Rd, Jackson.

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.

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

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

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 Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 32

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

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

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

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,

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 Polo & Country Club, 862 New Bridge Rd, Aiken. 803-648-3699. Offers competitive, fast-paced action in medium goal polo. Five state-of-the-art polo fields. www.newbridgepolo.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

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 hookups. Available for equestrian and nonequestrian events, clinics, stick and ball, schooling and more. www.psjshows.com

Recreation

Fox Hunts

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

Stable View, 117 Stable Dr, Aiken.

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

Aiken Horse Park, 931 Powderhouse Rd, The Hippodrome, 5540 Jefferson Davis 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

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.

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Recreation

Golf

ALLENDALE COUNTY

AIKEN COUNTY

Fairdale Country Club, 3312 Barton Rd,

Hwy N, Aiken. 803-508-5635. Tues-Sun 10am-dark. Lessons available upon request.

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

Aiken Family Golf Range 1685 Columbia Fairfax. 803-584-7117. 9 holes. Par 72.

Cedar Creek Golf Club, 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 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

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

BAMBERG COUNTY

Bamberg Golf & Sports Club, 128 Paw Paw Rd, Bamberg. 803-956-0144. 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.

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.

Miniature Golf

South On Whiskey, 3197 Whiskey Rd, Mount Vintage Golf Club, 375 Mount Aiken. 803-643-1715. 18 holes of miniature Vintage Plantation Dr, North Augusta.

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

golf and 9 machine batting cages. Wed-Sun. Call for hours and to book special events.

Open to the public year round.

The Aiken Golf Club, 555 Highland Park

Other Recreation

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

Aiken 2 Escape, 2557 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-500-1508. Offers 3 escape room games designed to accomodate groups of 2 to 8 people per game. Open Thursday through Sunday. https://aiken2escape.com

Carolina Dragway, 302 Dragstrip Rd, Jackson.

The River Golf Club, 307 Riverside Blvd, 803-471-2285. 1/4-mile drag racing track.

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

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 34

Regular schedule of races and events. www.carolinadragway.com

Climbing Wall, Price Avenue, Aiken.

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

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

Augusta. 803-279-1948. A 32-lane bowling center. Arcade and snack bar inside. www.northsidelanes.com/home

Regal Cinemas Aiken Mall, 300 East Gate Dr,

Recreation

GAIT Foundation, The Greater Aiken Integrated Northside Lanes, 1745 Georgia Ave, North

Aiken. 844-462-7342. Theater complex with

Gravatt Adventure & Discovery Center, multiple screens featuring new release films,

1006 Camp Gravatt Rd, Aiken. 803-648-1817. plush seating and concession stand.

Challenge course designed to develop leadership Richardson’s Lake Water Park & Outdoor skills and increase self-esteem and confidence. Recreation Area, 919 Richardsons Lake Rd, www.bishopgravatt.org Warrenville. 803-663-3600. Natural swimming Lake Edgar Brown, US 278, Barnwell. A 100- area. Open May through September. acre lake providing largemouth bass, bluegill, SRP Park, 187 Railroad Ave, North Augusta. shell-cracker and catfish fishing. Also used for 706-736-7889. Baseball Park. Home of the boating and water skiing. Boat ramp, fishing pier Augusta Green Jackets, a minor league and is handicapped accessible. baseball team. Concerts and other events Langley Pond Disc Golf Park, 113 Langley scheduled throughout the year.

Dam Rd, Burnettown. 803-642-7559. Aiken www.greenjacketsbaseball.com 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.

Red Bluff Lodge

Aiken Training Track

Climbing Wall

Sweetwater Country Club

South On Whiskey

Edisto River

35 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

SRP Park

Recreation

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, Henderson Heritage Preserve, from Aiken, 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.

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.

Janet Harrison High Pond Heritage Preserve, bounded by SC 39, Carolina Bay Trl and Trojan Rd, near Monetta. This 30-

Cathedral Bay Heritage Preserve, SC 64, acre preserve was established to protect 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.

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.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 36

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�.

Savannah River Bluffs Heritage Preserve, just outside the city limits of North Augusta in Aiken County. 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 specialstatus plants also grow here.

Recreation

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, Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, 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.

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 self-guided tours and picnicking. Special tours and seminars throughout the year.

Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd, Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site, 181 Blackville. 803-284-2212. SC 3, seven miles north of Barnwell. Built in the 1930’s, this park includes three lakes for your enjoyment.

Facilities include five cabins, fully equipped for four people, campsites with standard and full hook-ups, nature trails, picnic shelters, seasonal swimming area, playground and meeting facility. Group primitive camping area with picnic tables, fire ring and water available for organized groups. Activities include fishing and boating. Boat rentals are available.

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

US 278, 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.

Nature Trails Aiken Citywide Arboretum Trail, beginning at Colleton Ave. City of Aiken. 803-295-5008. The trail includes exploration through the use of your mobile device. Simply dial the number listed on the label identifying the plant to learn about that specimen.

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.

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

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 3,250acre wildlife sanctuary owned by the National Audubon Society. Walking trails available. Please call ahead for current hours. http://sc.audubon.org

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Recreation

City & County Parks

AIKEN COUNTY

Aiken County Recreation Center, 917 Jefferson Davis Hwy (US 1/78), Graniteville. 803-663-6142.

Seasonal pool, patry/meeting space, picnic area, basketball court, playground, bluebird trail and walking track.

Boyd Pond Park, 340 Boyd Pond Rd, Aiken.

803-642-0314. Ballfields, observatory, walking track, pond with boat dock and fishing allowed, 18-hole disc golf course, hiking trails, picnic shelters, bluebird trail, geocaching and beautiful natural habitat.

Brick Pond Park, 88 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.

Wetlands, walking trail and birding.

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.

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.

Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior & Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Ave NW, Aiken. 803-643-2181. Banquet hall with small stage, microphone, projector and A/V connections, kitchen, computer lab, walking track, tennis, pickleball, basketball courts, picnic shelters and outdoor patio with rocking chairs.

Maude Edenfield Park, 400 E Buena Vista Ave, North Augusta. 803-441-4300. Basketball and tennis courts, BBQ grill, pavilion, picnic tables, rental space and water station. Hosts “Music in the Park� series through the late spring and summer months.

Riverview Park & Activities Center, 100 Riverview Park Dr, North Augusta. 803-441-4311.

Ballfields, tennis and racquetball courts, disc golf, picnic shelters, playground, horseshoe pits, four gyms, weight room, indoor walking/jogging track and walking trail.

Roy Warner Memorial Park, 4287 Festival Trail Rd (SC 39), Wagener. 803-564-6149. Ball fields. basketball court, playground area and concession stand. Community Center available for rent.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 38

Smith-Hazel Center, 400 Kershaw St, Aiken.

803-642-7635. Basketball court, tennis courts, picnic tables, walking track, seasonal pool, gym, playground and rental facilities.

ALLENDALE COUNTY

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

BAMBERG COUNTY

Hartzog Park, 315-301 NW Dana St, Olar.

Depression era park with picnic tables.

Jim Harrison Square, Palmetto Ave (US 321), Denmark. Award-winning downtown park includes gazebo and fountain.

Ness Sports Complex, 133 Ness Dr, Bamberg.

T-ball, soccer, baseball, slow pitch. Full summer sports program for all ages.

Robert E Foster Park, Main St and 3rd St, Bamberg. Tennis and volleyball courts, picnic tables and playground.

BARNWELL COUNTY

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.

Darnell Park, 192 Hagood Ave, Barnwell.

Gazebo, open play area and picnic tables.

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.

Jack Phillips Park, 17 Galilee Rd, Barnwell.

Picnic tables and benches.

Kilkenny Park, Corner of Jackson & Wellington, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Fishing access, nonmotorized 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.

Main Street Park, Railroad Bed, Blackville.

Walking trail, benches and gazebo.

Williston Town Park, US 78 next to WillistonElko High School, Williston. Playground, picnic tables, basketball, tennis court and 9-hole disc golf course.

Battle of Rivers Bridge State Historic Site

Barnwell State Park

North Augusta Greeneway

Aiken State Park

Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site

Brick Pond Park

Cathedral Bay Heritage Preserve

39 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Lake Edgar Brown

GUIDED TOURS 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 803-293-7846

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) Rebel Ranch Horse Tours, LLC.

Pedego Aiken

Electric bike rentals and tours available.

Tours every Wednesday and Saturday.

4019 Pavilion Pass Ste 100 Aiken, SC 29803 803-226-9007 coker@pedegoaiken.com

www.pedegoelectricbikes.com Beech Island Historical Society

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

Guided trail rides. Reserve and schedule your tour. Further details will be provided upon reservation confirmation.

803-640-2765 annettehbeeler@rebelranchhorsetours.com

Carolina Aviation of Aiken

Tailored Tours of Aiken

www.carolinaaviation.net

www.rebelranchhorsetours.com

Private driving tour experiences of historic Aiken. Custom tours tailored to suit your available time and interests. Ghost tours available year-round.

803-295-3870

www.tailoredtoursofaiken.com Aiken Bites and Sites Tour

Walking group tours in downtown Aiken to seven of Aiken’s finest dining establishments.

Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Private and corporate tours are availbale.

833-901-3663

www.aikenbitesandsites.com

Flight school, aircraft maintenance, discovery flights, sightseeing tours available by appointment.

125 Aviation Blvd Aiken, SC 29805 803-502-1007

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 Year Round.

803-730-9739 cvbradshaw@icloud.com

http://patriottourboat.net Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 40

For more on the following historical places in our region, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

HISTORICAL PLACES

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 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.

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Historical Places

Coker Springs, Whiskey Rd and Coker Springs

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.

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 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.

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 1952-1986.

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

Battle of Aiken, Richland Ave and Chesterfield school was built in 1848 by the Graniteville 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.

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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 1922-1969.

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.

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 1936. 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.

Hwy, Beech Island. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This church, one of the first African-American 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 AfricanAmerican 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.

Historical Places

Historic Church, US 278, at the entrance Silver Bluff Baptist Church, 360 Old Jackson

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.

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. 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.

St. Thaddeus Church, 125 Pendleton St SW, 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.

Samuel Hammond, 101 Riverview Park Dr, The Hamburg Massacre, US 1/78/25, 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.

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.

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Historical Places

“The Middle Road”/Indian Head, 151 John Barker’s Mill/Skirmish at Barker’s Mill, Nunn Hwy, Salley. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

“The Middle Road”: Originally a Native American trading path that ran from the Savannah River to Charleston. In 1770 it was established as a public road. It ran between the forks of the Edisto from Orangeburg Bridge to the Indian Head, before continuing to the Ridge. Indian Head: A series of springs at the head of Goodland Swamp that served as a landmark and watering place for travelers along the Middle Road. In 1781 Loyalists under the command of Lt. Col. John H. Cruger passed near here after their withdrawal from Ninety Six. They were pursued by Whigs, including militia commanded by Col. Andrew Pickens.

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.

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).

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

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.

Western Terminus, US 1 and US 25 at the Fairfax, Gazebo Park, 7th St W and Sumter 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

Ave, Fairfax. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

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

Gillette Methodist Church, intersection

of Alleluia Rd and State Rd, Martin. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Gillette Methodist Church dates to the early 19th century. Early meetings were held under a brush arbor. The meeting house erected by the Gilletts and later remodeled in 1910.

Antioch Christian Church, SC 3, two miles Happy Home Baptist Church, 336 S-3-10, 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.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 44

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.

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.

BAMBERG COUNTY

AT&T

Building, 4659 Carolina Hwy, Denmark. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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

Historical Places

Harmony Baptist Church, Harmony Church

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.

St Nicholas Church, intersection of SC

641 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.

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 Battle of 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.

Swallow Savannah Cemetery, east side of Carlisle Military School, S Carlisle St Bluff Rd, just south of the Coosawhatchie River, Allendale. The Swallow Savannah Methodist Church had its beginnings here in a log house in 1815. The church was moved into town in 1875. The church members use the grounds as a burying ground today.

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

Town of Allendale, in front of Allendale Historic Places. The building was used as a school County Administration Building, 1296 S Main St, Allendale. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

A 1000-acre land grant was conveyed to Benjamin and G. Washington Allen in 1810.

until 1987. www.denmarkhighschool.com

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Historical Places

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.

Mizpah Church, US 301 about one mile 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.

Voorhees College, Voorhees Rd, Denmark.

Mountain Home Plantation, Ehrhardt Rd, 803-780-1234. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed 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).

Mt. Pleasant 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.

on the National Register 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

BARNWELL COUNTY

Ashley-Willis House, 13233 State Rd S-6108, Williston. Listed on the National Register 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,

Pinewood Plantation, 3141 Capernaum Barnwell. This building, constructed in 1887 as 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.

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.

South Carolina Canal & Rail Road Company, Barnwell County Courthouse, east side of intersection of US 301 and US 78. Original track location of Charleston to Hamburg railroad.

The tracks were removed in 1996.

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

St John’s Baptist Church, 2468 State Rd S-5-93, Bethlehem Baptist Church, 177 Wall St, 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.

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Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A preCivil War church organized by and for AfricanAmericans. The present building was constructed in 1898 using some of the original materials.

Hwy Historical Marker. Blackville, founded in 1833, was the first overnight stop on the new railroad operated by the SC Canal & Railroad Company. 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.

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 in 1976. This is the mother church of eight churches founded during 1867-1922.

Historical Places

Blackville: Town of the Phoenix/Battle of Macedonia Baptist Church, 3572 Dexter Blackville, SC 3 and Main St, Blackville. SC St, Blackville. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This

Boiling Springs Presbyterian Church, Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling Springs. 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.

Morris Ford Earthworks, Old Allendale Ellenton Agricultural Club/Town of Hwy. North of the Salkehatchie River, Ellenton, SC 64, Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Blackville vicinity. SC Hwy Historical Marker.

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.

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 Fuller Park, Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell. SC Hwy era. It overlooks Turkey Creek, which flows in Historical Marker. This park, built and opened the Great Salkehatchie River. in 1933, was named for Cornell G. Fuller (18951972), mayor of Barnwell and chair of this and Tarleton Brown, Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling other New Deal-era public projects in Barnwell. Springs. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The grave of Tarleton Brown, militia officer, state Hilda, E Main St, Hilda. SC Hwy Historical representative and state senator, is located Marker. Hilda was chartered in 1910 and grew here. He enlisted as a private in the SC militia in up around a depot built here in 1903.

1776, was commissioned a Lieutenant in 1778 Lower Three Runs Baptist Church, and promoted to Captain in 1780.

Patterson Mill Rd, Snelling vicinity. SC Hwy Winton County Courthouse Site, SC 3 about Historical Marker. Lower Three Runs was a 5 miles south of Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical mother church to at least five congregations Marker. Winton County became Barnwell organized in present day Barnwell or Allendale District in 1798 and Barnwell County in 1868. counties between 1802 and 1849.

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For more on the following meeting & rental facilities, visit: www.TBredCountry.org

Meeting & Rental Facilities AIKEN COUNTY

Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield Regional Library System, 314 Chesterfield St SW.

Aiken Center for the Arts, 121 Laurens St SW, 803-642-7575. Several facilities available Aiken. 803-641-9094. Gallery space, theatre and conference room available. Accomodates a variety of seating capacities. www.aikencenterforthearts.org

in Aiken, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. www.abbe-lib.org

Amentum Center for Performing Arts, 126 Newberry St, Aiken. 803-648-1438.

Aiken Chamber of Commerce, 121 Richland State-of-the-art theater seats 300.

Ave E, Aiken. 803-641-1111. Accommodates 40. www.aikenchamber.net

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

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

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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

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

General Elliott Inn, 929 New Bridge Rd, Aiken.

803-642-8108. Accommodates 42 for dining, 150 for parties. Fine dining with in-home atmosphere.

By reservation. www.generalelliottinn.com

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 Ln,

North Augusta. 803-341-9505. Accomodates 79 theater and 49 classroom. https://www.ihg.com

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

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

a dream come true at historic Rose Hill.

The property provides an elegant and unforgettable setting for both ceremonies and receptions. https://rosehillinaiken.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

Meeting & Rental Facilities

City of Aiken Department of Parks and Rose Hill, 221 Greenville St NW, Aiken.

803-648-1181. Make your dream wedding Recreation, 1072 Banks Mill Rd, Aiken.

Rye Patch Reception Center & Guest Cottage,

100 Berrie Rd, Aiken. 803-642-7650. This 10acre 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

South on Whiskey, 3197 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.

803-643-1715. Large 2500 sq. ft. building that can accomodate up to 85. Includes tables and chairs in event venue rental along with other amentities. www.southonwhiskey.com

The Hippodrome, 5540 Jefferson Davis Hwy,

North Augusta. 803-278-4785. 45,000 sq ft and 52,500 sq ft outdoor arenas, both with announcer’s booths. Bleachers, concession stand, RV hook-ups. Equipped for equestrian events.

Municipal Auditorium, City of Aiken, 215 The The Inn at Houndslake, 897 Houndslake Dr, Alley, Aiken. 803-643-2181. Accommodates 150 banquet, 300 reception.

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

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

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

Palmetto Terrace, 100 Georgia Ave, North

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.

Aiken. 803-648-9535. Unique inn with golf course views. Meeting space for 40 theater, 2530 classroom and 40 reception. On-site catering available by Houndslake Country Club. www.theinnathoundslake.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

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 49 | Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide

Meeting & Rental Faciities

USC

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. www.usca.edu/convocation-center

Ehrhardt Hall, 13764 Broxton Bridge Rd,

Brandt

ALLENDALE COUNTY

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

Lower Savannah River Alliance Education Center, 12049 Burton’s Ferry Hwy, Allendale.

Barnwell Museum, 9426 Marlboro Ave,

Building, Allendale County offices. 398 Barnwell Hwy, 803-584-3438.

Auditorium accommodates 75.

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

BAMBERG COUNTY Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield Regional Library System, 3156 Railroad Ave. 803-642-7575. Several facilities available in Aiken, Bamberg and Barnwell counties. www.abbe-lib.org

Battle of Rivers 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

Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton

Bridge Rd, Ehrhardt. 1-800-437-4868.

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.

Thoroughbred Country Visitor Guide | 50

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

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

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

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

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

Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd,

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

Blackville

Community Center, 19464 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.

Millers Bread Basket, 483 Main St, Blackville.

803-284-3117. Seats 70 people. Motorcycle groups are welcome. Reservations requested for large groups.

GENERAL LIVING Colleges

Local Newspapers

Aiken Technical College

The Aiken Standard

www.atc.edu

www.aikenstandard.com

2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy Graniteville, SC 29829 803-593-9231

326 Rutland Dr NW Aiken, SC 29802 803-648-2311 Daily

Denmark Technical College

The Advertizer-Herald

www.denmarktech.edu

The People Sentinel

500 Solomon Blatt Blvd Denmark, SC 29042 803-793-5176

University of South Carolina Aiken 471 University Pkwy Aiken, SC 29801 803-648-6851

369 McGee St Bamberg, SC 29003 803-245-5204 Wednesdays 10481 Dunbarton Blvd Barnwell, SC 29812 803-259-3501 Wednesdays

www.thepeoplesentinel.com

The Star University of South Carolina Salkehatchie 404 E Martintown Rd Suite 2 www.usca.edu

1102 James Brandt Blvd Allendale, SC 29810 803-584-3446

www.uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu Voorhees College

103 Academic Cir Denmark, SC 29042 803-780-1234

www.voorhees.edu

Hospitals Aiken Regional Medical Center

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

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

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LOCAL INFORMATION 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

PO Box 850 Aiken, SC 29802 (Toll Free) 1-888-834-1654 Tourism@LSCOG.org

www.TBredCountry.org

Aiken County

Bamberg County Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce 604 Airport Rd Bamberg, SC 29003 803-245-4427

www.bambergcountychamber.org

Allendale & Barnwell Counties

Aiken Chamber of Commerce

Southern Palmetto Regional Chamber

www.aikenchamber.net

http://southernpalmettoregionalchamber.org

121 Richland Ave E Aiken, SC 29802 803-641-1111

Aiken County Visitors Center 133 Laurens St NW Aiken, SC 29801 803-642-7557

www.discoveraikencounty.com Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum 406 Park Ave SE Aiken, SC 29801 803-293-7846

www.visitaikensc.com Midland Valley Area Chamber of Commerce 103 Canal St Graniteville, SC 29829 803-392-7043

North Augusta Chamber of Commerce 406 West Ave North Augusta, SC 29841 803-279-2323

www.northaugustachamber.org

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319 Washington St Barnwell, SC 29812 803-259-7446

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

www.cityofbarnwell.com

TRANSPORTATION Airports Aiken Airport, 129 Aviation Blvd, Aiken.

Car Rentals

B & B Ford Inc,

803-648-7803. Located seven miles north of Aiken on US 1, Exit #22 off I-20. 700-acre 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

10476 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.

803-259-5524.

Allendale Airport, 467 Airport Loop, Fairfax.

866 York St NE, Aiken.

803-648-3630.

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

www.bbfordsales.com Enterprise Rent A Car,

3915 Richland Ave W, Aiken.

803-641-0135.

www.enterprise.com Hertz,

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, 310 Beaufort St NE,

Aiken. 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, 2170 University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-648-6894. Daily routes to most major SE cities.

Carolina Transportation, Serves Aiken County and airports. 803-648-4545. Mon-Sat 8 am-6 pm. Call in advance for additional services.

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DISCOVER SOUTH CAROLINA Other SC Tourism Regions Capital City Lake Murray Country 2184 North Lake Dr Columbia, SC 29212 803-781-5940

www.lakemurraycountry.com Explore Charleston

375 Meeting St Charleston, SC 29403 843-853-8000

www.CharlestonCVB.com Lake Hartwell Country 125 E Queen St Pendleton, SC 29670 864-646-3782

www.lakehartwellcountry.com Lowcountry and Resort Islands 1 Lowcountry Ln Yemassee, SC 29945 843-717-3090

www.southcarolinalowcountry.com Visit Myrtle Beach

1200 N Oak St Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 843-626-7444

www.visitmyrtlebeach.com Old 96 District

PO Box 448 Laurens, SC 29360 864-984-2233

www.sctravelold96.com Olde English District

3200 Commerce Dr, Ste A Richburg, SC 29729 803-385-6800

www.oldeenglishdistrict.com

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Pee Dee Tourism Commission 2513 W Lucas St Florence, SC 29501 843-669-0950

www.peedeetourism.com Santee Cooper Country

9302 Old Number Six Hwy Santee, SC 29142 803-854-2131

www.santeecoopercountry.org Upcountry

PO Box 3116 Greenville, SC 29602 864-233-2690

www.upcountrysc.com

For more information about the South Carolina Association of Tourism Regions, visit www.SCATR.com.

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.

Augusta, GA:

WHAT’S CLOSE BY

No more than 45 minutes from Aiken. Home of the Masters Golf Tournament. History comes 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.

Columbia, SC: About 1.5 hours from most points in Thoroughbred Country. Visit

Riverbanks Zoo, the South Carolina State House and the South Carolina State Museum.

Shopping and city tours are also popular options.

Lakes Murray & Thurmond: About 1.5 hours from any part of the region to a major lake. Lake Murray sits west of Columbia. Lake Thurmond is just north of the region.

The Coast: 2.5 hours or less from any part of the region. Charleston, Myrtle Beach

and Hilton Head are notable destinations along the coast. With plantations, the South Carolina Aquarium, upscale shopping and dining, the Carolina Opry and Alabama Theatre, thrilling amusements and an abundance of golf courses, the South Carolina coast offers experiences aplenty.

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, a boat tour on Lake Jocassee or sightsee during the fall foliage season. From the BMW Zentrum living museum to neon-glowing rocks at the Bob Campbell Geology Museum, there is much to see and do.

Charlotte, NC: About 2.5 hours from the region. Known as the Queen City and home to the Carolina Panthers. Spend the day at Carowinds, an amusement park on the border of the Carolinas. Or discover the history and heritage of NASCAR at the Hall of Fame.

Atlanta, GA: 3 hours from most parts of the region. Experience the CNN Center,

Six Flags Over Georgia, and the World of Coca-Cola. Enjoy sports? Visit SunTrust Park, home to the Atlanta Braves or Mercedes-Benz Stadium, home to the Atlanta Falcons.

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

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Stop by our State Welcome Centers for more information.

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Williston

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Thoroughbred Country PO Box 850 Aiken, SC 29802 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.

Let’s get social. Connect with us.

Toll Free 1-888-834-1654 www.TBredCountry.org PRINTED IN USA

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