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Letters to the Editor
The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045
News From KC Council
By: Councilman Derek Shoemake
As we welcome 2026, I want to begin by wishing every family in Kershaw County a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year. A new year always brings a sense of optimism, but this one is especially meaningful. The year ahead will be a defining period of progress, planning, and opportunity for our county.
Kershaw County continues to grow, and with that growth comes responsibility. Growth can either happen to us—or we can shape it thoughtfully and intentionally. That belief guides much of the work your County Council is undertaking in 2026.
One of the most important initiatives underway is the complete redrafting of our zoning and land development regulations. Through the Smart Growth Committee, which I am honored to chair, we are rewriting the entire zoning code from the ground up. This effort is not about stopping growth; it is about managing it wisely. Our goal is a modern, clear, and fair zoning framework that protects neighborhoods, supports agriculture, attracts responsible development, and ensures that growth pays for itself rather than burdening existing taxpayers. This work will continue throughout 2026, with public input remaining a critical part of the process.
At the same time, the Council remains committed to keeping taxes low while maintaining a high quality of life. Fiscal responsibility is not just a slogan—it is a promise. We will continue to scrutinize spending, prioritize essential services, and seek creative funding solutions so that families can afford to live here while enjoying safe communities, strong public safety, and well-maintained infrastructure.
Economic development will also be a major focus this year. Kershaw County’s future depends on attracting positive, high-quality industry that brings good jobs and long-term stability. We are working to recruit businesses that align with our community values—employers that invest locally, pay competitive wages, and contribute to sustainable growth. Smart economic development strengthens our tax base, supports our schools and services, and helps ensure opportunity for the next generation.
One of the most exciting developments in 2026 will be the completion of the largest recreation upgrades in Kershaw County history. These improvements include a new parking lot and an entirely new entrance into KC West, dramatically improving access and usability for families across the county. What makes this achievement especially noteworthy is that we have leveraged state, federal, and outside funding to accomplish these upgrades while using almost no local tax dollars. This is exactly the kind of smart investment that benefits residents without increasing their tax burden.
Finally, 2026 will be an important election year at both the state and local levels. These elections will shape the direction of our community for years to come. I encourage every citizen to stay informed, stay engaged, and exercise their right to vote. Local leadership matters, and informed participation strengthens our democracy.
The year ahead holds tremendous promise. With thoughtful planning, fiscal discipline, and a shared commitment to the future, 2026 will be a year of real forward progress for Kershaw County. I look forward to working together to make it one of our best years yet.
As always, if you have questions or concerns, please text or call me at 803-427-4929, email me at derek.shoemake@kershaw.sc.gov, or follow my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/councilmanshoemake for updates on County business.
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Elgin Police Department Incident Reports
Shoplifting: On 01-03-2026 at approximately 0215, Officer responded to 2507 Main Street (Circle K) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County S.C., in reference to a shoplifting. Prior to my arrival, the suspect left in a dark in color Dodge Charger. Officer made contact with the Cashier who explained a black male entered the store and attempted to purchase one pack of banana flavored "Backwoods" cigars. Cashier stated the unknown male's payment was declined. That was when he grabbed the pack of cigars and left the store, even after Cashier attempted to call him back to the counter to pay for his item. Cashier stated the male continued out of the store and left the property without paying. At this time, Officer was not able to review the stores security footage due to Cashier not having access to the camera system. The manager for the store will be working in a few hours and will attempt to download the video of the incident for me to pick up when Officer return to my next shift. Officer provided Cashier with the case reference number and left the scene.
Multiple Charges: On 01-02-2026, Lieutenant was on routine patrol at start of shift and observed a black Chevrolet Impala northbound on US #1 entering the Town of Elgin, Kershaw County, displaying an expired registration decal (green in color, which is 2025). After calling in the tag to dispatch to validate the expiration date, the vehicle pulled into the Circle K at 2507 Main Street, Elgin, SC and stopped abruptly. Subject then pulled up to the gas pump, and Lieutenant activated his blue lights. Contact was made with the driver (Subject #1) who presented his SCDL to identify himself and a registration document displaying a December 2025 decal expiration date. Subject #1 was unable to locate proof of insurance but stated that he had "Progressive". While preparing a warning ticket, officer asked dispatch to check the status of driver's SCDL and verify registration. Dispatch advised that the subject's driver's license and the vehicle license plate were both suspended for lack of insurance. Contact was made at the driver's open door to talk to him about the violations and Lieutenant was able to readily detect a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Upon being asked about the marijuana, Subject initially said that there was "less than one gram" and, therefore, "I know that I can't get in trouble for less than a gram" and continued on with some other such nonsense. By this
time, Officer was en route to provide backup and assist with a subsequent search. Subject #1 was informed that both his driver's license and his vehicle license plate were suspended and that the car would be towed. Subject #1 immediately put the car into drive and fled from the scene with his door still open, almost striking Lieutenant with the door jam of the vehicle. Lieutenant announced a pursuit and returned to his vehicle. Officer had arrived on scene moments before and was still in a position to pursue the vehicle and took the lead pursuit position. Subject fled northbound at a high rate of speed ignoring activated blue lights and sirens. Subject clearly knew that he was being pursued as he had fled from a traffic stop after providing his SCDL and vehicle registration. Pursuit continued northbound weaving in and out of traffic, driving off the right side of the road, narrowly missed multiple vehicles, and drove off road and struck the street signage at Main Street and Rose Road but continued driving. However, because officers had physical position of subject's driver's license, the pursuit was terminated by command staff at approximately US#1 just past Chestnut Road for safety of public. Officers returned to town and were advised that a hit and run had occurred at the Circle K, but were unable to locate any complainant. At that time, dispatch advised that the passenger had jumped from the vehicle on Eskie Dixon Drive and had been injured - KC EMS was en route. Dispatch further advised that the driver had gone behind the building at Eskie Dixon Drive address. In light of the emergency situation concerning the fleeing suspect and an injured woman, Elgin Officers proceed to respond to that location to assist. Elgin officers arrived simultaneously with several KCSD deputies and were advised that subject was still in his car to the rear of an apparently abandoned trailer at that location. Officers began advancing on the rear of the trailer when the Subject #1 came racing out in his vehicle and turned left (towards US#1) on Eskie Dixon Drive. KCSD deputies began a pursuit, with Elgin Officers assisting. Pursuit came to an end on Smyrna Road, when a KCSD deputy performed a Precision Immobilization Technique. Subject #1 was taken into custody. While comparing the registration provided by the Subject #1 to the VIN located on the actual vehicle, it was determined that the registration was for a different, albeit same model (Chev Impala) vehicle. Lieutenant met up with KC EMS and Witness #1 (passenger) at Smyrna Market. Witness #1 had refused medical treatment and was awaiting a parent to pick her up.
She stated that she was well acquainted with the driver and considered them friends. She related that she had no idea he would react in the way that he did, had no explanation to offer for his reaction (other than he had just gotten his car out of impoundment), and stated that he had refused to let her out of the vehicle, threatened her with physical force if she tried, and that she ultimately had to jump from vehicle. After jumping from vehicle, she stated Subject #1 started to chase her trying to get her back in the car. Upon hearing this, Lieutenant asked her if she wanted to report the incident as kidnapping to the KCSD and she stated "yes". Dispatch was advised. Lieutenant returned to Circle K to begin further investigation surrounding any the previously reported hit and run, but nothing was found related to a hit and run at Circle K, but the debris from the hit and run at Main Street and Rose was located and had been removed from the roadway. Subject was transported to KCDC with a hold placed for Elgin Police. Charges as follows:
• Driving under Suspension - 1st
• Operating Uninsured Vehicle
• Failure to Surrender Suspended Driver's License
• Failure to Surrender Vehicle License following suspension for insurance
• Improper Vehicle License
• Reckless Driving
• Warrants will be obtained for Failure to Stop for Blue Lights and for Hit and Run Property Damage.
Loitering: On 01-09-2026, Officer responded to 2521 Main St (Berger Dental) in the Town of Elgin within the boundaries of Kershaw County SC, in reference to placing unknown individuals on Notice of Trespass and Littering. The unknown subjects (Two females and a male) were seen on security camera footage charging their phones, eating, and sleeping in the walk way at the front of the entrance to Berger Dental. An employee of Berger Dental stated the dates for the incidents started on January 5, 2026 at night. The two females did ask if they could charge their phones inside the walk way leading to the front door of Berger Dental but they were told no and they did not need to be on the property. When employees of Berger Dental returned to work after 0105-2026, there have been items left behind on the walk way from the unknown subjects. Body Warn Camera was activated while information was gathered for the completion of paperwork.
Reflections On Another New Year
By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer
New Year's Eve has never been one of my favorite holidays; upon reflection, I cannot recall a time when I truly enjoyed its celebrations. My sentiments remain rather indifferent this year, with no major events marking the occasion. I am content not to have ever joined the crowds in Times Square or around the world celebrating the countdown.
I enjoyed being at home in my PJ’s and pondering this article that is due in 12 days. I try to set an example for my former editor Cate lynch Goff by always making the deadline early. It challenges me and pushes me to be accountable. I have a purpose to connect with readers in the community and raise awareness to subject matters we all can identify.
As you consider the New Year 2026, ask yourself: Did this past year bring happiness, apprehension, or inspiration? Why? Are you anticipating a New Year's Day meal, making resolutions, or attending an event?
This holiday is often viewed as a time to reflect on the past year. That is what I did. I looked back at my three scrapbooks documenting articles from autumn 2019 to the present, revisiting headlines, interviews, and themes such as perseverance.
This year 2026 marks the United States' 250th anniversary, commemorated nationwide. Hopefully the events that are being planned to celebrate our country’s history will bring positive thoughts to all of us because of the men and women who gave their lives for our freedoms.
As I was reliving some of my eventful moments on NYE, I remembered my freshman year of college, when I served as understudy in Thornton Wilder's play "Our Town. " As part of my Tues./Thurs./ Sat. 8am Drama Appreciation (Yes, we had Sat. classes my first year at Winthrop.) Reading the play and being a small part of the production backstage, I thought
each night of the week-long performance and the message of the play. That message really hit home when I thought back and asked myself why am I remembering this too late?
During my NYE retrospect, I remembered those moments in time and the themes about life that I had forgotten or as I like to say bookshelf them away. I began to try and remember names and faces of the many people who had passed in and out of my everyday life. Coworkers and students, family doctors and nurses, check out clerks and bag boys, the list is endless.
The play “Our Town” unfolds between 1901 to 1913 in three acts: Daily Life, Love and Marriage, and Death and Eternity. It tells the story of Emily and George, childhood friends who fall in love, marry, experience happiness, and face loss when Emily dies giving birth to their second child. The play is set in a small town and illustrates the value of life, and our connections with others, highlighting beauty and tragedy.
The character of Emily, at the end of the play reflects: “Oh earth, you are too wonderful for anyone to realize you. We don’t take time to look at one another. It goes by so fast.”
The play encourages us to appreciate the everyday moments and relationships that often go unnoticed in the rush of life. We tend not to fully recognize the significance of our experiences or relationships until they have passed. It prompts us to consider: do we truly value life as we live it?
I can honestly admit that I wish we had cell phones to capture the little moments of life as we grew up. The black ‘n’ white film in the family Brownie camera was always saved for posed pictures not the cute candids, selfies, and videos we see posted on social media.
As we begin 2026, I must remind myself we cannot turn back the clock or stop the moments. What we can do is freeze frame our faces and journal our thoughts and feelings. Do not let them slip away with time. Really look at those friends and loved ones and express your thanks or apologies. I encourage you to share your story to support others.
It is so true that time has slipped away from all of us, and we must not put off tomorrow what we need to do today. Happy 2026!
American Legion Post 195 Updates
Post 195 member David Little drives his former U.S. Army M-151 jeep in the Elgin Catfish Stomp parade December 6, 2025. In the right seat is the post's 1st Vice Commander Kate Brock.
LEHS Names Football Coach, Activities Director
During the January 13, 2026 school board meeting, the Kershaw County School Board named Jarvis Littlejohn as the Lugoff-Elgin High School Head Football Coach and Kathryn Ham as the Lugoff-Elgin High School Student Activities Director. Littlejohn and Ham have served in these positions since May on an interim basis.
“During this school term, LEHS has experienced one of the most memorable fall athletic seasons that we have had in quite some time. Under the guidance of Katie Ham and our coaches, every athletic team qualified for the postseason in their respective sport. Coach Ham has already established herself as one of the premier volleyball coaches across the state and she wants to inject that level of excellence across all of our athletic programs. Her model of success has already impacted our winter programs as well, as basketball and wrestling have begun the season with very good starts.
Coach Littlejohn led the football program to its first home playoff game and the first postseason victory in nearly a decade. In his previous experience as a head coach, he proved that he could help students experience success within the football program. We know that he will do all he can to provide the same experience here. He has done a phenomenal job of connecting with his student athletes and their families. His passion for helping young adults succeed permeates in every aspect of the program. His experience on the collegiate level helps students prepare both academically and athletically to participate in intercollegiate athletics.
We believe that both Coach Ham and Coach Littlejohn's dedication to seeing our student athletes succeed both in the classroom and in the athletic arena speaks volumes about who they are as people. It is our belief that they will both continue to flourish in their individual roles and further exemplify the Lugoff-Elgin 'Legacy of Excellence,' " says LugoffElgin High School Principal Corey Wright.
Coach Littlejohn enters his 15th year in education and 19th year in coaching, bringing a strong track record of leadership, player development, and program growth at the high school and collegiate levels. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from Tusculum University in Greeneville, Tennessee and currently teaches Physical Education at Lugoff-Elgin High School.
During the last two seasons at Lugoff-Elgin High School, Littlejohn has helped guide the football program through significant progress. As Interim Head Football Coach, he led the team to a 6–6 record, including a home playoff appearance and victory. During his tenure, six players earned All-State honors, six were named All-Area, three received AllRegion recognition, and two were selected to compete in the Touchstone Energy Bowl (North vs. South).
Previously, Littlejohn served four seasons as Head Football Coach and Athletic Director at Denmark-Olar High School, where he rebuilt the Vikings into a consistent contender. Denmark-Olar posted a 22–17 overall record during his tenure, and Littlejohn was honored as Region Coach of the Year (2021) and Region Athletic Director of the Year (2023).
At the collegiate level, Littlejohn coached at Newberry College from 2016–2020 as defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator. His first season with the Wolves resulted in a South Atlantic Conference (SAC) Championship and a No. 2 seed in the NCAA Division II Playoffs—one of the most successful seasons in program history. He previously coached
at his alma mater, Tusculum University, after beginning his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Delta State University.
A former standout linebacker at Tusculum (2005–08), Littlejohn earned two All-SAC selections and consensus All-Region honors as a senior. He served as team captain of the 2008 SAC Championship team that advanced to the NCAA Division II Playoffs for the first time in school history and finished the season ranked No. 16 nationally.
A native of Gaffney, South Carolina, Littlejohn was a highly decorated high school player, earning multiple All-Region, All-Area, and All-State honors. He was named South Carolina 4A State Defensive Player of the Year in 2003 and made the game-winning tackle in Gaffney’s state championship victory.
Coach Littlejohn and his wife, Latoya, are the parents of two sons, Isaiah and Micah.
Kathryn Ham is a native of the Kershaw County School District and a graduate of North Central High School, Class of 2006. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education from the University of South Carolina in 2011 and later completed a Master of Arts in Coaching from Columbia College in 2022.
Ham began her teaching career in the Kershaw County School District at the Continuous Learning Center, where she served as a Physical Education teacher from 2011-2015. In 2013, she was recognized as Teacher of the Year at the Continuous Learning Center for her dedication to student achievement. Since August 2015, she has served as a Physical Education teacher at Lugoff-Elgin High School, where she has also held the role of Physical Education Department Head for three years.
Ham brings 18 years of coaching experience at the club and scholastic levels. She spent 11 years as a club volleyball coach with Kershaw County Juniors Club and SC Midlands Club. Her high school coaching career began as the Junior Varsity Volleyball Coach at Lugoff-Elgin High School from 2007 to 2010, followed by service as the Junior Varsity Head Volleyball Coach and Junior Varsity Head Softball Coach at Camden High School from 2011 to 2015.
Since August 2015, Ham has served as the Head Varsity Volleyball Coach at Lugoff-Elgin High School. Her leadership has earned her Volleyball Region Coach of the Year honors five times (2016, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2025). In 2021, she was selected as the 5A/4A North/South All-Star Volleyball Coach by the South Carolina Coaches Association for Women’s Sports.
In addition to volleyball, she has supported several athletic programs at Lugoff-Elgin High School, serving as Head Junior Varsity Girls Basketball Coach from August 2016 to May 2017, Assistant Varsity Girls Basketball Coach from August 2017 to May 2020, and Assistant Varsity Softball Coach from August 2019 to May 2022. During her tenure with the softball program, she helped guide the team to its first-ever State Championship in 2021.
In 2021, Ham was appointed Assistant Athletic Director at LugoffElgin High School. She served in that role until May 2025, when she was named Interim Athletic Director, further reflecting her leadership, administrative expertise, and commitment to the overall success of the school’s athletic programs.
SC VFW Names Adams 2026 Teacher of the Year
Lugoff-Elgin Middle School is proud to announce that Kristine Adams has been selected as the South Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Teacher of the Year for Grades 6–8, an honor awarded to only one middle-level educator across the entire state.
The selection was made from nominees submitted by VFW Posts and Districts throughout South Carolina, recog nizing educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to education, citizenship, and service to students and the community.
“This is an incredible and well-deserved honor,” said Principal Shackleford of Lugoff-Elgin Middle School. “To be recognized at the state level speaks volumes about Kristine Adams’s dedication to our students, our school, and the profession of teaching. We are extremely proud to have such outstanding educators serving the Lugoff-Elgin community.”
As part of this recognition, Kristine Adams has been invited to attend the VFW Mid-Winter Conference Awards Banquet on January 24, 2026, at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Resort. During the banquet, Kristine Adams will formally receive the award and deliver a brief acceptance speech.
The VFW Teacher of the Year program honors educators who inspire students, promote civic responsibility, and foster an appreciation for American values and veterans’ contributions.
Lugoff-Elgin Middle School congratulates Kristine Adams on this remarkable achievement and thanks the VFW for its continued support of
cation and educators across South Carolina.
edu-
fice) and her dog, Max, visited DME students ahead of Christmas break
Arts Center Names New Director
The Arts Center of Kershaw County has hired Chad Henderson as the new Executive Director. Henderson, the former Trustus Theatre Artistic Director and SC Philharmonic Marketing Director, will begin on January 12th, 2026. The Executive Director provides overall artistic and administrative leadership to the Arts Center, achieving the Arts Center’s goals for artistic excellence, audience development, fundraising, sponsorship and business relations development, financial sustainability and community engagement. Henderson succeeds Dolly Patton.
The Arts Center of Kershaw County serves as the cultural hub for the region, offering visual arts exhibitions, performing arts events, and educational programming that enriches the community and attracts visitors from across South Carolina.
Chad Henderson, a Spartanburg native and current resident of Columbia, SC, has spent more than 18 years in the non-profit arts sector. At Trustus Theatre, Columbia’s professional theatre, Henderson served as the Marketing Director from 2007 to 2015, and the Artistic Director from 2015 to 2021. He has served as the Marketing Director for the SC Philharmonic from 2021 to 2026.
Known in the SC arts community as a visionary theatre director, Henderson has been awarded the 2018 Founders award from the SC Theatre Association for his work as an arts leader, and the 2012 Artist of the Year in Theatre from the Jasper Project. As a filmmaker, his work took top honors at the 2nd Act Film Festival in 2017 and 2024. Henderson is also an accomplished playwright—his play Let It Grow won the 2024 Jasper Project Play Right Series and is available for purchase on Amazon. He has completed three residencies with the Studios of Key West in Key West, Florida. Visit his website to learn more about previous projects: https://www.chadhendersondirects.com/ “We are excited to welcome Chad Henderson as the new Executive
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Director,” said Board President Lee Inabinet. “Chad brings tremendous enthusiasm along with extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, marketing, and the arts. We are confident his vision and energy will strengthen the Center’s impact and support its continued growth in our community.”
The appointment also represents an important milestone in the ongoing partnership between the City of Camden and the Arts Center of KC.
“Chad brings a wealth of experience from his work with the Columbia Philharmonic, and we are confident his leadership and vision will strengthen the arts within our community and build and even stronger partnership between the City and the Arts Center” said City Manager Matt DeWitt.
Henderson shares the board’s enthusiasm. “The Arts Center of Kershaw County is a truly special organization in this state, and I couldn’t be more honored to become its next leader.” said Henderson. “I look forward to working with the artists and stakeholders of Kershaw County and beyond to deepen the organization’s impact and to grow the Arts Center’s unique capability to serve the community’s cultural appetite.”
Chad Henderson Arts Center of KC Executive Director
MLK Unity Day Celebration
Once again, Kershaw County elementary and high school students will congregate on the steps of Camden City Hall at 12:00 p.m. on January 17 to participate in the 5th annual MLK Unity Celebration. Six students will present their insightful, often stirring, essays interpreting this year’s Martin Luther King theme, “His Dream is Ours.” Other highlights include music by various school choirs, student recognition awards, and refreshments courtesy of Unity in the Community. Everyone is welcome to join the “MLK Unity March” to City Hall, which begins at 10:45 a.m. at the African American Cultural Center, 517 York Street. This free celebration, featuring Antjuan Seawright of Blueprint Strategy as Master of Ceremonies, is hosted by the Concerned Citizens of Kershaw County, City of Camden, African American Cultural Center, and Unity in the Community. For information, please email, concernedcitizenskc@gmail.com.
St. Matthew Baptist Supports Food for the Soul
Guided by its vision to promote health and wellness for both its members and the broader community, the St. Matthew Baptist Church Health Ministry recently organized a donation drive in support of the “Food for the Soul” homeless shelter.
Health Ministry committee members collected essential items throughout November and December, responding to identified needs at the shelter. The donations were formally presented at the shelter on December 21, helping support individuals and families experiencing homelessness, while reinforcing the church’s mission of compassion, care, and wellness for all, on the ministry’s commitment to service and community outreach. Through this initiative, the Health Ministry demonstrated how faith-based efforts can positively impact the well-being of those facing hardship. The donated items will assist the shelter in continuing its mission to provide care, nourishment, and support to those in need.
This effort highlights the impact local churches can have when they work collaboratively to address community challenges and improve overall health and well-being.
St. Matthew Baptist Church is located at 749 Longtown Road, Lugoff, SC 29078, where Rev. James O. Williams is Pastor.
Pictured from left to right: Vanessa Murphy, Deacon Clifford Gripper Sr., Ferra Brown, Jaida Porter, Mable Roseborough, First Lady Sharon Williams, Timothy Shepard, Pastor James O. Williams, Dr. Rachelle Shepard- Health Ministry President, and Delois Murphy..
City of Camden Names Smith Director of Finance
The City of Camden announced the appointment of Tori Smith as its new director of finance, bringing more than two decades of governmental and public-school finance experience to the city’s leadership team.
Smith has extensive experience overseeing governmental financial operations in public education. She holds a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of South Carolina, with a major in accounting and a minor in human resources.
Most recently, Smith served as finance director for South Carolina Virtual Charter School, where she led the transition of accounting functions from an external management organization to in-house staff. Her work included implementing financial systems, developing policies and procedures, preparing budgets, and coordinating audits to ensure transparency and compliance.
Smith previously spent more than 20 years with Kershaw County School District, serving as finance director, accounting supervisor and payroll bookkeeper. Her experience included supervising staff, managing audits and financial systems, supporting bond and investment management, and maintaining accurate financial records during significant district challenges.
“We are extremely excited to welcome Tori Smith to the City of Camden,” said City Manager Matt DeWitt. “She brings a wealth of govern-
mental finance experience and a strong understanding of publicsector finance, budgeting and accountability. We are confident her leadership will strengthen our financial operations and support the city’s long-term goals.”
“I am thrilled to join the City of Camden team as the new finance director, bringing with me 25 years of experience in governmental accounting,” Smith said. “I am excited to be home, supporting the collective mission and showcasing our GREAT city and all that we have to offer.”
Smith will oversee Camden’s accounting and financial operations and staff; this includes budgeting, reporting, payroll, procurement, debt management, compliance, internal auditing and recordkeeping.
SC Historian Releases Revolutionary War Animated Series
As South Carolina marks the 250th anniversary of the American Revolutionary War, South Carolina native, author, and historian Eric Barnes, known to many as the host of the Historyman Podcast, is bringing one of the state’s most important Patriot stories to life through animation.
Barnes recently completed The Rise of Thomas Sumter animated series, presented by Historyman Comics in partnership with the South Carolina 250th Anniversary Commission. Designed as an engaging educational resource, the animated series uses vivid visuals, storytelling, and historical accuracy to introduce students and lifelong learners to the Revolutionary War as it unfolded in South Carolina.
Available online as a learning tool for classrooms and home education, The Rise of Thomas Sumter animated series follows the real-life journey of Thomas Sumter during the pivotal year of 1780, highlighting battles, skirmishes, and resistance efforts that took place across the South Carolina backcountry. The series reflects Barnes’ mission to make history accessible, exciting, and rooted in the places South Carolinians know.
The animated series builds upon Barnes’ extensive work through Historyman Comics, a growing collection of graphic novel comic book series created specifically to help students of all ages better understand the American Revolution in South Carolina.
Barnes currently offers two six-volume graphic novel series, as well as additional comic books, each spotlighting a key South Carolina Revolutionary War figure:
The Rise of Thomas Sumter (Graphic Novel Series)
Geared toward grade-level students, this six-volume comic book series retells the true story of Thomas Sumter’s fight for freedom in 1780. The series follows Sumter as he travels across South Carolina, with each volume focusing on real battles, skirmishes, and engagements that occurred during the Revolutionary War.
The Rise of Francis Marion (Graphic Novel Series)
Also consisting of six books for grade-level readers, the Francis Marion series follows the legendary “Swamp Fox” as he leads unconventional forces through the swamps of South Carolina against British troops.
Each Historyman comic book is designed as a complete educational resource and includes:
• Curated materials for deeper exploration of Revolutionary War history
• A map and timeline of Revolutionary War events in South Carolina
• Profiles of main characters on both Patriot and British sides
• A Footsteps of Heroes section highlighting historical figures connected to each story, along with educational resources
Looking ahead, Barnes and Historyman Comics are preparing to launch a new six-volume series focused on South Carolina General Andrew Pickens, known as the “Wizard Owl” by the Cherokee and the “Fighting Elder” by his Patriot peers. The first volume, The Elder’s Fiery Ring, chronicles Pickens’ early leadership and is expected to be released soon.
Through animation, comics, and podcast storytelling, Eric Barnes continues to give South Carolinians new ways to connect with the people and places that shaped the American Revolution—at a time when the state is reflecting on its role 250 years later.
For access to The Rise of Thomas Sumter animated series and more information about Historyman Comics, visit https://historymanpodcast. com/.
Tori Smith
City of Camden Finance Director
Eric Barnes SC Historian and Author
Kershaw County narrowly missed being included on the official Walk for Peace route, falling just outside the group’s travel range. Despite this, the Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office was able to coordinate with Fairfield County Sheriff Will Montgomery to arrange a brief meeting with the Walk for Peace participants in Fairfield County on Monday, January 12, 2026 (Day 79).
During the meeting, representatives from your KCSO shared our specially designed Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office badge lapel pin with the group. The pin, bearing the message “Blessed Are the Peacemakers,” was presented as a symbol of unity and a reminder of the shared commitment to peace.
“No matter what religion we are, we should all be willing to promote peace everywhere we go,” said Sheriff Lee Boan.
The Walk for Peace started in Texas and will end in Washington DC. To see more, follow them on their official ‘Walk for Peace’ Facebook page. They now have over one million followers.
Teacher Career Fair
Walk For Peace Misses KC Small Biz Workshops
City of Camden Community Development Coordinator Katharine Spadacenta continues the winter small business workshop series again in 2026, in partnership with the Kershaw County Library. These four workshops throughout January and February are meant for small business owners, entrepreneurs, self-employed workers, and any member of the public wishing to attend. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. All workshops are free to attend in person at the Camden Library Branch, 1304 Broad Street.
January 29 - Increasing Cash Flow, Managing Debt - For self-employed and sole proprietors, your money is often your business money. Learn strategies to make your money work harder for you and build lasting wealth. Health and Wealth Educator Kryshonda Torres leads this workshop.
February 10 - Proper Protection - For sole proprietors and self-employed, this workshop will equip you with knowledge to confidently safeguard your income, family, and legacy. Health and Wealth Educator Kryshonda Torres will guide you through essential life, disability, and long-term care coverage options in this workshop.
February 26 - Marketing on a Budget - Making sure people know where to find you and keep your business top of mind by using social media tools that give your business the most bang for your buck. Bring a laptop or tablet to this workshop, led by Community Development Coordinator Kat Spadacenta.
The Kershaw County School District (KCSD) is hosting a Teacher Career Fair on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 9-11 a.m. at Lugoff-Elgin Middle School. Current and future educators are encouraged to attend and learn about exciting opportunities within the district.
"We are putting out the call for ‘All-Star Educators’ who are passionate about sparking student potential," says Walter Jones, KCSD Coordinator of Educator Services. "This career fair is a wonderful chance to connect with our team, explore the rewarding career paths available, and find out how you can contribute to our winning educational line-up and truly make a difference in our community."
Prospective educators can register online at www.kcsdschools.net/fair or contact Lucinda Howell at (803) 432-8416 ext. 1217 or lucinda. howell@kcsdschools.net for more information.
