Way More than Horses! - Thoroughbred Country

Transcription

Way More than Horses! - Thoroughbred Country
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About Thoroughbred Country
Aiken County
Points of Interest
Accommodations Camping & RV Parks
Dining
Antiques, Galleries, & Gifts
City of Aiken Map
City of North Augusta Map
Allendale County
Points of Interest
Accommodations Camping & RV Parks
Dining
Antiques, Galleries, & Gifts
Town of Allendale Map
Bamberg County
Points of Interest
Accommodations Camping & RV Parks
Dining
Antiques, Galleries, & Gifts
City of Bamberg Map
City of Denmark Map
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What’s Close By
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Barnwell County
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Points of Interest
Accommodations Camping & RV Parks
Dining
Antiques, Galleries, & Gifts
Town of Blackville Map
City of Barnwell Map
Region Map
Touring Ideas
Locator Map
Historic Churches, Cemeteries
& Markers
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Recreation43
South Carolina Department
of Natural Resources
Fishing-Rivers
Fishing-Ponds & Other Areas
Hunting & Sporting Clubs
Fox Hunts & Polo
Equine Facilities
Canoe, Kayak Rentals Golf
Miniature Golf & Other
Heritage Preserves
State Parks & Nature Trails
City & County Parks
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Meeting & Rental Facilities
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Festivals & Special Events
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Plan Your Visit
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Guided Tours
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Transportation62
General Living
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Colleges & Hospitals
Local Newspapers
Climate
1 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
We’re Way More than Horses!
Thoroughbred Country, consisting of Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg and Barnwell counties, is
nestled along the Savannah River in Western South Carolina. This primarily rural area is filled
with traditional Southern culture and hospitality.
We invite you to come and experience…
Our History: The whole area, once a portion of the Old Barnwell District, was known for
raising thoroughbred horses after the Revolutionary War and thus has been popular for quite a
while with thoroughbred racing fans.
This region claims both Revolutionary and Civil War battle sites, grave sites, occupied homes
and churches.
Many communities in this area grew along the Charleston-Hamburg Railway, the first
commercial railway in America and the longest commercial railway in the world at that time. It
transported agricultural products, such as cotton, to the port city of Charleston where it was sent
out on ships headed around the world.
Agricultural stories, African-American heritage, wealthy Northern winter residents and local
legends are all part of our past.
Our Attractions: Charming towns with museums that display local history; small main
street businesses with antiques and uniques; lanes lined with live oak trees and decorated with
Spanish moss; nationally-known artists; picturesque rivers; cotton, peach and watermelon crops;
historic plantation homes, churches and cemeteries; unique cultural communities and natural
attractions… all come together to give you a true picture of the South of yesteryear – and of
today.
Our Festivals: Festivals are a reflection of our culture. For example…
The Salley Chitlin’ Strut, where pig intestines are a d elicacy and its own dance, the Chitlin’
Strut, has made it famous;
The Allendale Cooter Fest, where turtles race for sizeable prize money;
The Ehrhardt Schuetzenfest, celebrating the area’s German heritage; and
The Raku Burn in Barnwell, where potters get together to fire pottery in an outdoor kiln.
Our Food: Grits, barbecue, black-eyed peas, collard greens, sweet potatoes, peaches, pecans,
boiled peanuts, okra, sweet tea and lemonade … come and enjoy our great home cookin’!
Our Hospitality: The easy rhythm of the South includes caring, smiling, helpful people
always ready to welcome you with a “Hey Y’all.”
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 2
Filled with div ersity, Aiken County has something to offer everyone. Aiken County is kno wn
throughout the world as an equestrian training center claiming National Champions. Champions
include: Pleasant Colony, 1981 Kentucky Derby winner; Summer Squall, 1990 Preakness winner;
Sea Hero, 1993 Kentucky Derby winner; and Kelso, Horse of the Year for 5 consecutive years in
the 1960’s. Aiken County is also a place of history and natural beauty.
History in towns such as Aiken, N orth Augusta, Beech Island, Wagener and Salley is prevalent.
Plantation homes with the grace of yesteryear, churches of the past and the story of the CharlestonHamburg Railway are attractions here.
Hitchcock Woods, the largest urban for est in the United States and Hopelands Gardens are two
places to visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of preserved land. Hunting, fishing, golfing
and shopping are also available … whatever brings you here, enjoy!
Points of Interest
Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site,
181 Redcliffe Rd, Beech Island. 803-827-1473.
1859 Greek Revival antebellum mansion of
James Henry Hammond and four generations
of his family . The house is complete with
furniture, decorative arts and ar twork from
the various periods of occupation. The site
also features two slav e quarters and a stable
with exhibits. S pecial programs are offered
throughout the y ear (see w ebsite). Listed
on the N ational Register of H istoric Places.
Grounds are open daily 9 am to 6 pm y earround. House tours Th-Mon at 11 am, 1 pm,
and 3 pm. Admission charged for house tours.
www.southcarolinaparks.com/redcliffe
Beech Island Historical Society Visitor’s
Center and Barn, 144 Old Jackson Hwy,
Beech Island. 803-867-3600. The visitor’s
center tells the stor y of B eech Island,
one of the oldest settlements in S
outh
Carolina, dating back to 1685 as S avannah
Town. The history room includes Native
American, Colonial, agricultural and riv er
transportation displays. When displays ar e
completed, the Barn will become the Beech
Island Agricultural M useum. Open Wed,
Th 11 am-2 pm, and b y appointment call
803-827-0184. www.beech-islandhistory.org
Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary,
4542 Silver Bluff Rd, Jackson. 803-471-0291.
Silver Bluff is a 3,154 acr e wildlife sanctuar y
owned by the National Audubon Society.
Habitat and wildlife diversity make Silver Bluff
a favorite destination for bir ding (over 200
species on checklist), wildflowers, photography,
or simply a quiet walk. A 3/4 mile and a 2 mile
walking trail ar e available. Education at the
center focuses on forest and land management
and is targeted to ward school gr oups and the
general public. P lease call ahead for curr ent
hours. No fee, donations accepted.
Horse Creek Valley Veterans Park, US
421, Bath. Veterans from the M idland Valley
area are honored at this par k. The main focus
of the park is the circle of honor that contains
approximately 900 names of v eterans from
World War I until present.
Langley Pond, a r ecreational body of water
accessible from US 1 in Langley. Aiken County
Parks, Recreation & Tourism, 803-642-7559.
The pond is a pr emier rowing venue featuring
national and regional rowing events throughout
the year. Other events held throughout the year.
Fishing allowed. A boat landing, picnic shelter,
playground, concession stand, sandy beach and
swimming area are located on the site.
3 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
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 S outh. The mill having
survived Sherman’s march during the Civil War
was built by William Gregg. The mill and town
initially included ninety homes, two chur ches,
a school, several boarding houses and six stores.
Most buildings w ere constructed of blue
granite that gav e the to wn its name. S everal
examples of the B lue Row Homes can still be
seen. Both are listed on the N ational Register
of Historic Places.
Wade Hampton Veterans Park, 300
block of G eorgia Ave, North Augusta.
Parks, Recreation & Leisur e Services,
803-441-4300. Dedicated to the memor y of
Civil War General Wade Hampton, the par k
has monuments dedicated to the v eterans of
every war our country has participated in since
the Revolution and is laid out to mimic the
stars and stripes of the American flag.
Arts and Heritage Center of North
Augusta, 100 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.
803-441-4380. The Center is dedicated to
the exhibition of r egional arts and histor y
with a 2,300 sq ft permanent interactive
history exhibit and two galleries of exhibits
that rotate every two months.. The Center’s
Gift Shop showcases local crafts from pottery
and paintings to coffee and chocolate. MonFri 10am-4pm. F irst Sat of each month
11am-3pm. Also open during special events.
www.artsandheritagecenter.com
Historic
North
Augusta,
Brochure
available at the N orth Augusta Chamber of
Commerce, 406 West Ave, 803-279-2323.
The Star of E dgefield on Butler Avenue was
built in 1860 and spor ts elaborate ironwork
by a foundry in New Orleans. The matching
fence was en r oute from New Orleans by a
“blockade runner” during the Civil War when
it was sunk b y a U nion gunboat. S everal
properties listed on the N ational Register of
Historic Places.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 4
Aiken County Farmers Market, 115
Williamsburg St, Aiken. 803-642-7761. Open
year round. Fresh produce, conversation &
recipes are shared with friends old and ne w.
Peak season A pril to D ecember. Peak hours
Mon-Sat 7:30 am until vendors are sold out.
Living History Park, 299 W Spring Grove
Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-7560. P lays
host to special ev ents including Colonial
Times which exhibits examples of ev eryday
life in the 18 th century. A meeting house,
backwoods cabin, educational cabin, smoke
house, blacksmith forge, stage, Colonial barn
and tavern round out the park. Located at the
entrance to the par k is the S ensory Garden,
one of only a fe w handicapped accessible
sensory gardens for the sight impair ed. The
total access garden is of the 21st centur y in a
Colonial setting. www.colonialtimes.us
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 state-of-theart special effects systems and is augmented
by sundials and telescopes. Various shows are
available throughout the year. Reservations
recommended.
http://rpsec.usca.edu/planetarium
The Etherredge Center, 471 U niversity
Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3305. Located on
the campus of U niversity of S outh Carolina
Aiken. Houses an ar t gallery, the O’Connell
Theater and a larger M ainstage theater. A
variety of U niversity and community ev ents
are presented throughout the year.
www.usca.edu/ec/
USCA Convocation Center, 375 Robert
Bell Pkwy, Aiken. 803-643-6901. A state of
the art facility with capacity ranging fr om
3,500 to 4,100 patr ons. Located on the
University of S outh Carolina Aiken campus.
Managed by USCA and G lobal Spectrum.
Features include a first class VIP room with a
capacity up to 200 patrons, multiple electronic
scoreboards with backlighting, adv ertisement
opportunities, meeting space r entals for any
function, and two additional practice cour ts.
www.uscatix.com
Rose Hill Estate, 221 G reenville St NW,
Aiken. 803-648-1181. Historic garden estate
located behind walls that enclose an entir e
downtown city block. R ose Hill was built in
1900 as a winter colony home. The 10,000 sq
ft shingle style r esidence exhibits high fashion
architecture that broke from lavish decorative
Victorian designs. By melding the home into
a lush landscape, the style intends to suggest a
relaxed style of living. Listed on the N ational
Register of H istoric Places. Public tours b y
appointment. Admission charged to suppor t
gardens. See listing under lodging.
www.rosehillestate.com
Hopelands Gardens, 135 Dupree Pl, Aiken.
803-642-7650. This 14 acre park was the
former estate of Mr. and Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin.
Features include a Touch and Scent Trail
for the visually impair ed, a w etlands area, a
labyrinth, and a performing arts stage. Events
include a summer concert series and a display
of Christmas lights. H opelands Gardens is
open year round, 10am to sunset. A dmission
is free.
Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame &
Museum, Hopelands Gardens. 135 Dupree
Aiken, Aiken D owntown
Development Association. 803-649-2221.
Surrounded by a one-of-a kind parkway system
and bordered by beautiful beds of flowers,
historic downtown Aiken offers unique dining
and shopping choices including ar t galleries,
antiques, gift shops, a br ew pub and a wide
variety of restaurants.
www.downtownaiken.com
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 fr om America’s
best known equestrian riders, polo play ers,
and steeplechase riders. A large collection
of Englehard trophies are on display . SeptMay, Tues-Fri 2pm-5pm & S un 10am5pm. June-Aug, Sat 10am-5pm & S un 2-5
pm, weather permitting. A dmission is fr ee.
www.aikenracinghalloffame.com
URS Center for the Performing Arts,
Aiken
Downtown
126 Newberry St, Aiken. 803-648-1438. This
state-of-the-art theater is home to the Aiken
Community Playhouse (ACP) and the Aiken
Performing Arts Group (APAG). The theater
seats approximately 300. A CP offers a full
season of comedy , drama and musical plays.
APAG presents national and international
professional shows through the season. Office
hours Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm (closed 12-1 lunch).
See listing under meeting and rental facilities.
www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com
www.apagonline.org
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 pr ograms and ev ents
throughout the year, offers art education classes
for all ages in a v ariety of mediums in the 7
classrooms, and has a 180 seat per formance
pavilion. Open Mon-Sat 10 am-5 pm.
www.aikencenterforthearts.org
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 oneroom school fr om the 1890’ s and an 1808
log cabin ar e also on the museum gr ounds.
Admission is free, donations accepted. Tue-Sat
10 am-5 pm. S un 2-5 pm. Closed M ondays
and national holidays.
www.aikencountyhistoricalmuseum.org
Aiken County Historical Museum
5 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum,
406 Park Ave, SE, Aiken. 803-293-7846
or 1-888-AikenSC. The visitors center is
located on the first floor of the rebuilt Aiken
Railroad Depot. The train museum located
on the second floor depicts the towns along
the original S outh Carolina Canal and
Railroad Company right of way . Open
Wed-Fri 10 am-5 pm and Sat 9 am-2 pm.
www.aikenis.com
Aiken County Veterans Park, Richland
Ave, Aiken. Aiken County P arks, 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. H itchcock Woods
is 2,100 acr es of natural for est. Annually,
thousands of equestrians, hikers, and natur e
enthusiasts visit the Woods to enjoy 70 miles
of trails. H itchcock Woods is open 365 days
a year from dawn to dusk. M otorized vehicles
and bicycles are not permitted. There are seven
entrances on the perimeter of the
Woods.
Admission is free. www.hitchcockwoods.org
Wagener Museum, 12 Short St, Wagener.
Wagener Town Hall. 803-564-3412. Located
behind the Wagener Municipal building.
Features items r elated to the political, social,
economic and military history of Wagener and
the Aiken County ar ea. Thu-Fri 8am-4pm or
by appointment.
Salley Historic District, bounded b y Pine,
Ferguson, Poplar and Aldrich Streets. Salley
Town Hall. 803-258-3485. The district
consists of 60 properties in the downtown area.
The homes in the district are Victorian and Art
Deco. The town began in 1887, as a r esult of
the railroad, and flourished until the 1930’s.
After the 1930’s, Salley experienced a period
of decline. However, the homes in this district
have remained unchanged since the 1930’ s.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places.
Monetta Drive-In, US 1, M onetta. Movie
Line 803-685-7949. One of only two operating
drive-in movie theaters in S outh 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
Accommodations
America’s Best Value Inn, 2577 Whiskey Rd,
Aiken. 803-641-8800. Continental br eakfast,
high-speed Internet access, pool, micr owave,
refrigerator. www.americasbestvalueinn.com 
Days Inn, I-20 exit 22, 2654 Columbia Hwy,
American Hearth Inn, 3935 Richland A ve
Days Inn Downtown, 1204 Richland
Ave W, Aiken. 803-649-5524. Continental
breakfast, high-speed I nternet access,
refrigerator, microwave. www.daysinn.com 
W, Aiken. 803-642-5828.
Clarion Inn & Suites, 155 Colony Pkwy ,
Aiken. 803-648-0999. Continental br eakfast,
pool, whirlpool, high speed I nternet, business
library, guest laundr y, exercise facility, pet
friendly. www.choicehotels.com 
Country Inn & Suites, 3270 Whiskey
Rd, Aiken. 803-649-4024. All r ooms nonsmoking. Continental br eakfast included,
pool, fitness room, free Internet, mini-fridge,
microwave, guest laundry.
www.countryinns.com/aikensc 
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 6
Aiken. 803-642-5692. Continental br eakfast,
high-speed Internet access, r efrigerator,
microwave, pool. www.daysinn.com 
Deluxe Inn, 610 E M artintown Rd, N orth
Augusta. 803-278-0355. 
Donna’s Lodging, 199 U niversity Pkwy,
Aiken. 803-644-5275. 4 efficiencies and a 2
BR apartment. Long term stay with monthly
lease.
Econo Lodge, 3560 Richland Ave W, Aiken.
803-649-3968. Continental br eakfast, highspeed Internet access, microwave, refrigerator,
hair dryer. www.choicehotels.com 
Fairfield Inn & Suites, 185 Colony Pkwy ,
Aiken. 803-648-7808 or 800-M
arriott.
Continental breakfast, indoor pool, whirlpool,
coffee maker, hair dr yer, iron, ironing board,
high speed I nternet, business librar y, interior
corridors. www.marriott.com 
The Guest House at Houndslake, 897
Houndslake Dr, Aiken. 803-735-4587. 30
room lodge located on the grounds of a private
country club. Continental br eakfast, free
wireless Internet. Hotel guests may use any of
the Club’s facilities.
www.houndslakeguesthouse.com 
Hampton Inn, 100 Tamil Dr at Whiskey
Rd, Aiken. 803-648-2525. Continental
breakfast, high-speed Internet access, pool,
microwave, refrigerator, interior corridors.
www.hamptoninn.com 
Hilton Garden Inn Aiken, 350 Eastgate Dr,
Aiken. 803-641-4220. Swimming pool, fitness
center, business center, high speed and wireless
Internet, meeting room, on site dining.
www.hiltongardeninn.com 
Hotel Aiken, 235 Richland A ve W, Aiken.
803-648-4265. Full breakfast. Free highspeed Internet access, r estaurant and lounge.
Downtown historic hotel with modern
amenities. www.hotelaiken.com
Howard Johnson, 1936 Whiskey Rd S,
Aiken. 803-649-5000. Continental br eakfast,
pool, pet friendly. 
Knights Inn, 1850 Richland A ve W, Aiken.
803-648-6821. Continental br eakfast, pool,
pet friendly. 
Quality Inn, 3608 Richland A ve W, Aiken.
803-641-1100. Continental breakfast, lounge,
high-speed Internet access, indoor hot spa,
pool, pet friendly, guest laundry.
www.choicehotels.com 
Quality Inn, I-20 E xit 22. 110 E F rontage
Rd, Aiken. 803-502-0900. Continental
breakfast, refrigerator, high-speed I nternet
access, microwave. www.choicehotels.com 
Sleep Inn, 1002 Monterey Dr, Aiken.
803-644-9900. Continental br eakfast, highspeed Internet access, gym access, pool,
microwave, refrigerator, interior corridors.
www.choicehotels.com 
Sleep Inn & Suites, I-20 E xit 5. 921
Edgefield Rd, North Augusta. 803-202-0209.
Deluxe continental br eakfast, exercise room,
pool, microwave, refrigerator, meeting r oom,
interior corridors. www.choicehotels.com 
TownePlace Suites by Marriott, 1008
Monterey Dr, Aiken. 803-641-7373.
Continental breakfast, health facilities,
microwave, coffee maker, refrigerator,
stove, dishwasher in r oom, pet friendly ,
high
speed I nternet
and laundr y.
www.towneplacesuites.com/agsts 
Bed and Breakfasts, Historic Inns
208 Abbeville, 208 A bbeville Ave NW,
Aiken. 803-649-3109. Located in historic
downtown Aiken within walking distance of
restaurants and shopping. 3 r ooms available
with single and double occupancy
. In
addition to a r ocking chair fr ont porch and
screened-in back por ch, there is a 2 ½ acr e
garden on site, suitable for wandering or
weddings. Full breakfast provided.
Annie’s
Inn, 3083 Charleston Hwy
,
Montmorenci. 803-649-6836. Pre-Civil War,
Greek Revival plantation home surrounded by
cotton fields. Guest rooms each hav e private
baths and include a full countr y breakfast.
Guest cottages ar e beautifully designed to
blend in with the old architecture while having
all the amenities. 11 r ooms. No smoking, all
private baths, children welcome (with notice),
business/corporate friendly, weddings, gift
certificates accepted, pool.
www.anniesinnbnb.com
Arbor House, Located in the heart of historic
downtown− walk everywhere. First unit:
206 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-292-6971.
Private and gated, this upstairs apartment with
1 bedroom, 1 bath, living room with queen
sleeper. Sleeps 4. Dine al fresco on side balcony
with view of do wntown Aiken. Wireless
Internet, flat screen TV, washer, and dr yer.
Second unit: 152 Laurens St SW, Aiken. 803292-6971. Fully furnished loft, c. 1885, sleeps
5. Cable TV, wireless Internet, washer/dryer.
7 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Briar Patch, 544 M agnolia Ln SE, Aiken.
803-649-2010. In typical Aiken style, a
two-story house that star ted as stables. The
two guest rooms, detached from the house,
were once tack r ooms. One has twin canopy
beds, the other a queen siz e bed. Continental
breakfast, all priv ate baths, childr en welcome
(with notice), nature activities, gift certificates
accepted. No smoking or animals. Listed on
the National Register of Historic Places.
Carolina Oaks Bed & Breakfast Inn, 819
Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-278-6360.
Real southern comfor t located in do wntown
North Augusta. The Innkeepers will host one
room or the whole house for any occasion to
celebrate family, friends and traditions. 3 guest
rooms with 2 shar ed baths upstairs. R ooms
have queen beds. Amenities include home
cooked breakfast, hospitality center , wireless
Internet, office services, event and meeting
facility. Catering available. No pets. Children
welcome with adult super vision. Vacation
packages available. www.carolinaoaksbb.com
Carriage House Inn c.1872, 139 Laur ens
St NW, Aiken. 803-644-5888. O n the main
street in historic do wntown Aiken amidst the
charm and abundance of fine dining, cultural
and shopping oppor tunities. Luxuriously
restored historic inn. 16 rooms, full breakfast,
no smoking, wheelchair accessible, whirlpools,
all private baths, childr en welcome (with
notice), business/corporate friendly , nature
activities. Listed as one of 129 Hotels We Love
by the National Geographic Traveler in 2009.
Vacation packages available.
www.aikencarriagehouse.com 
General Elliott Inn, 939 New Bridge Road,
Aiken. 888-642-8108. This contemporary
Queen Anne style home on thr
ee acres
overlooks pastures of playful thor oughbreds
providing a peaceful, r omantic, respite from
daily hustle and bustle. The inn has three
guest rooms and a two bedr oom cottage with
emphasis on important amenities of a homelike atmosphere. Full gourmet br eakfast,
snacks and wine ser ved in late afternoon.
Children and pets welcome in cottage. Lunch
available by reservation. Dinner on weekends
by reservation. www.generalelliottinn.com 
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 8
Claridge House, 162 Lee S t N, Wagener.
803-564-8777. Circa 1897 Victorian style
home. 4 r ooms, 3 shar e hall bath. F ull
breakfast. Reservation dinners available.
www.claridgehousebb.com
Rose Hill Estate, 221 G reenville St NW,
Aiken. 803-648-1181. H istoric Downtown
Winter Colony garden estate encompassing an
entire city block. Continental br eakfast, Rose
Hill Stables Restaurant and Bar. Overnight
and long term stay. Rooms with private baths
or group accommodations for up to 21.
www.rosehillestate.com
Lookaway Inn, 103 W Forest Ave, North
Augusta. 803-426-1030. Listed on the N
ational
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 5 bedrooms
in the main house and 10 cour tyard garden
rooms, all with large priv ate baths. I ndoor,
courtyard and gar den wedding and ev ents.
Intimate dining and meeting r ooms available.
Wireless Internet and cable TV available.
www.LookawayInn.com 
Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast, 804
Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-1546.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. Erected in 1902, R osemary was the
home of James U Jackson, founder of N orth
Augusta. Restored Beaux Arts mansion
has 6 elegant guest rooms, all large private
baths, full breakfast and hospitality center.
Named one of iLo veInns.com’s Top 10 Most
Romantic Hotels of 2012. Wireless Internet
and bicycle rentals. Weddings and ev ents.
www.RosemaryInnBB.com
Town & Country Inn, 5195 Sizemore Cir,
Aiken. 803-642-0270. S outhern hospitality
with an English accent. Rest, relax or enjoy a
swim in the pool. H orse boarding available.
Ideally located to enjoy downtown and all of its
facilities. 5 rooms, full breakfast, No Smoking,
whirlpools, pets w elcome (with notice), all
private baths, children welcome (with notice),
business/corporate friendly, gift cer tificates
accepted. Vacation packages available.
www.towncountrybb.com
The Willcox, 100 Colleton A ve SW, Aiken.
877-648-2200. Listed on the National Register
of Historic Places. Voted one of the best hotels
in the world. An old fashioned southern hotel
offering suites and r ooms elegantly appointed
with period antiques, cloud soft beds and deep
soaking tubs. A small intimate spa as w
ell
as a landscaped pool ar ea also accompanies
the property. Full southern br eakfast buffet
served each morning in the grand lobb y. 15
guest rooms, 7 suites. P ackages available.
Dine at The Restaurant at the Willcox.
www.thewillcox.com
Oakland Bed & Breakfast, 2930 S torm
Branch Rd, B eech Island. 803-827-1135.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. This historic plantation home was built
in 1826 and r emains an excellent example of
the architecture and interior detail of a Manor
House. Its two bedrooms are recently renovated
and appointed with queen beds and priv ate
baths. Accommodations available for boarding
horses with adv ance notice. N o smoking.
www.OaklandBBAikenSC.com
Camping & RV Parks
Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd,
Windsor. 803-649-2857. 25 campsites.
Packed sand, water and electrical hookups,
fire ring, picnic table, heated restroom facility.
Can accommodate RV’s up to 35 ft. Primitive
camping area with picnic tables, fire rings
and outhouse av ailable for organiz ed groups.
Nature and canoe trails, bir ding, hiking,
fishing, boating, picnic shelters. Canoe and
kayak rentals. Call par k for day use hours.
www.southcarolinaparks.com
Aiken RV Campground, LLC, 2424
Columbia Hwy N, Aiken. 803-648-4056. 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.
Crossroads Mobile Home Community,
569 Crossroad s Pa rk Drive, A iken.
803-642-5702. Exclusive RV section with
large lots, landscaping, paved streets, paved
parking, street lights, patios with accent
lights. Pets welcome with some restrictions.
Palmetto Lake RV Park, 2620 Columbia
Hwy N, Aiken. 803-649-6871. Large pull
thru sites with 50 and 30 amp service with
full hook-ups. Restaurant. Pets allowed.
Pine Acres Campground, 205 Duke
Drive, Aiken. 803-648-5715. 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.
For a detailed list of accommodations refer to the telephone Yellow Pages
Dining
Acropolis Pizza, 1647 Richland A ve W,
Aiken. 803-649-7601. Greek and Italian
cuisine. Northern style pizza. L unch and
dinner.
Applebee’s, 1360 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.
803-642-8175. American. Lunch and dinner.
www.applebees.com
Aiken Brewing Company, 140 Laur ens
803-642-3930. Short order, sandwiches.
Breakfast and lunch.
St SW, Aiken. 803-502-0707. H and-crafted
beers, sandwiches to fine dining. Lunch and
dinner. www.aikenbrewingcompany.com
Antonio’s Italian Eatery, 336 Georgia
Ave, North Augusta. 803-341-9720. I talian,
pizza, subs, salads. L unch and dinner .
www.antoniositalianeatery.com.
Arri’s Grill, 1533 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
Atlanta Bread, 1944 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
803-643-8100.
Bakery,
sandwiches,
salads, cafe. B reakfast, lunch and dinner .
www.atlantabread.com
9 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Baynham
Family Restaurant, 2620
Columbia Hwy N, Aiken, near I-20, exit 22.
803-649-7663. Country cooking. B reakfast,
lunch and dinner.
Blue Top Grill, 212 Aiken Rd, G raniteville.
803-663-3971. Short order. Lunch and dinner.
Bobby’s BBQ Buffet, 1897 Jefferson Davis
Hwy, Warrenville. 803-593-5900. B arbeque.
Lunch and dinner. www.bobbysbbq.com
Bush’s Fish & Chips, 409 M ain St,
Graniteville. 803-663-1073. Country cooking,
seafood. Lunch and dinner.
Crossroads Café, 1738 Sand Bar Ferry Rd,
Beech Island. 803-827-1429. Home cooking.
Breakfast and lunch.
Davor’s Café, 227 The Alley, Aiken.
803-641-1909. Outdoor patio, European style
tapas. Dinner. www.davorscafe.com
Desserves Specialty Bakery, 126 Laurens St
NW, Aiken. 803-502-2400. Bakery offering
cakes, cupcakes, cookies. Catering ser vices.
www.desserves.com
Cafe Rio Blanco, 148 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
803-643-7075. Cuban. Lunch and dinner.
Ferrando’s Italian Pizzeria, Two locations:
152 S Aiken Ln, Aiken. 803-644-8881. 3555
Richland Ave, Aiken. 803-642-8484. I talian.
Lunch and dinner. www.ferrandospizza.com
Carolina BBQ, 109 S M ain St, New
Freeman’s BBQ, 1060 S and Bar Ferry Rd,
Ellenton. 803-652-2919. B arbeque. Lunch
and dinner.
Casa
Bella Italian Restaurant, 120
Chesterfield St SW, Aiken. 803-641-3107.
Italian cuisine. Lunch and dinner.
www.casabellaitalianrestaurant.com
Beech Island. 803-827-1623. B arbeque.
Lunch and dinner.
Gary’s, (The Original) 410 G eorgia Ave,
North Augusta. 803-278-1314. Old fashioned
hamburgers. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Casa Di Pizza & Italian, 103 Edgewood
General Elliott Inn, 939 New Bridge Rd,
Square Shopping Center, North Augusta.
803-279-4418. Pizza, pasta, subs, salads.
Lunch and dinner.
Aiken. 803-642-8108. Fine dining in a home
atmosphere. Reservations required.
www.generalelliottinn.com
Chick-N-Snack, 208 Ascauga Lake Rd,
Great American Grill, 350 East G ate Dr,
Aiken. 803-641-4220. Casual dining inside
Hilton Garden Inn. Breakfast, lunch and
dinner. www.aiken.hgi.com
Graniteville. 803-663-9395. Country cooking.
Lunch and dinner.
Chili’s,
2599 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
803-648-8148. American. Lunch and dinner.
www.chilis.com
City Billiards, 208 Richland A ve W, Aiken.
803-649-7362. Short order, pool tables. Lunch
and dinner. www.citybilliardsaikensc.com
Cork & Bean at One Hundred Laurens,
100 Laurens St, Aiken. 803-648-4265. Dinner
and dessert bar. Dinner. www.hotelaiken.com
Cracker Barrel, 2364 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
803-648-0007. Homestyle cooking. Breakfast,
lunch and dinner. www.crackerbarrel.com
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 10
LaDolcé,
123A Laur ens St, Aiken.
803-335-1440. Gourmet bakery, loose
leaf tea, coffee. Breakfast and lunch.
www.ladolce-aiken.com
Legends Grille of the Aiken Golf Club,
555 Highland Park Dr, Aiken. 803-644-2815.
American, casual dining. Lunch.
Linda’s Bistro, 135 York St, Aiken.
803-648-4853. Steaks, chops, grilled food.
Dinner. www.lindasbistro-aiken.com
The Little Bake Shoppe, 135 M ain St
N, Wagener. 803-564-3849. B akery/Deli.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Magnolia Natural Market & Café, 210 York
Prime Steakhouse, 316 Richland Ave NW,
Aiken. 803-642-4488. Aged steaks, whole
lobster and fresh seafood. Lunch and dinner.
www.primesteakhouseaiken.com
St SE, Aiken. 803-649-3339. N atural foods.
Soups, salads, wraps and sandwiches. D aily
lunch specials. D inner also ser ved Thurs-Sat.
www.magnolianaturalmarket.com
Red Shed Diner + Produce, 212 Ascuaga
Malia’s, 120 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
803-643-3086. Gourmet blackboard menu.
Lunch and dinner. www.maliasrestaurant.com
The Restaurant at The Willcox, 100
Mi
Rancho
Restaurante
Mexicano,
Lake Rd, G raniteville. 803-663-0584.
Homemade country cooking and local
produce. Lunch.
Colleton Ave SW, Aiken. 803-648-1898.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Gastro Pub.
www.therestaurantatw.com
4645 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Clearwater.
803-593-3850, 3607 Richland Ave W, Aiken.
803-644-1111 and 124 Dominion Dr , Aiken
803-641-6099. Mexican. Lunch and dinner.
Riley’s Whitby Bull, 801 E P ine Log Rd,
Midway Grill, 2060 Augusta Rd, Gloverville.
Roma Italian Restaurant, 1368 Whiskey
803-593-4744. Short order. Breakfast, lunch
and dinner.
Monterrey
Restaurante
Mexicano,
436 E M artintown Rd, N orth Augusta.
803-441-0000. Mexican. Lunch and dinner.
Newman’s BBQ, 4404 Jefferson Davis Hwy,
Clearwater. 803-593-2952. B arbeque. Lunch
and dinner.
New Moon Café, 116 Laur ens St SW,
Aiken. 803-643-7088. S andwiches, pastries,
specialty coffee. Breakfast and lunch.
www.newmoondowntown.com
O’Charleys, 168 S Aiken Ln, Aiken.
803-644-8874. Lunch and dinner.
www.ocharleys.com
Outback Steakhouse, 160 Aiken M all Dr,
Aiken. 803-644-4031. S teaks, American.
Dinner. www.outback.com
Aiken. 803-641-6227. F ine dining, smoke
free. Dinner. Sun breakfast. Reservations
required. www.rileyswhitbybull.com
Rd, Aiken. 803-643-7828. Lunch and dinner.
Rose Hill Stables Restaurant and Bar,
221 Greenville St NW, Aiken. 803-648-1181.
Dinner. www.rosehillestate.com
Ruby Tuesday, 2285 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
803-642-7266. American. Lunch and dinner.
www.rubytuesday.com
Ruby Tuesday, 1183 Knox Ave, North
Augusta. 803-442-9431 American. Lunch and
dinner. www.rubytuesday.com
Russell’s Pizza Stop, 136 Lee St N, Wagener.
803-564-5012. Pizza, subs and salads. L unch
and dinner.
Ryan’s, 1275 Knox Ave, North Augusta.
803-510-0140. American buffet. Lunch and
dinner. www.ryans.com
Ryan’s
Downtown
Market
&
Deli, 106 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
Pink Dipper Old-Fashioned Ice Cream
Parlour, 501 Georgia Ave, North Augusta,
803-279-4100. Closed Holidays.
803-226-0634. American, deli, r
specials. Breakfast and lunch.
www.ryansmarket.net
Red Lobster, 950 Aiken M all Dr, Aiken.
Sakura Japanese Steak House, 1913
803-648-4320. Seafood. Lunch and dinner .
www.redlobster.com
egional
Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-648-3238.
Japanese. Lunch and dinner.
11 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Salsa’s Mex-Mex Grill, 109 Tamil Dr,
Aiken. 803-643-2722. Mexican. Lunch and
dinner.
Travinia,
Sno-Cap Drive-In, 618 West Ave, North
Vinny’s Pizzeria Bar & Grill, 1367
Augusta. 803-279-4004. 1950’s style drive-in.
Lunch and dinner. www.snocapdrivein.com
W Martintown Rd, North
803-278-7228. Lunch and dinner.
Stoplight Deli, 119 Laurens St NW, Aiken.
West Side Bowery, 151 Bee Ln, Aiken.
803-642-3354. Soups, sandwiches, salads,
catering. Lunch.
803-648-2900. American. Lunch and dinner.
www.westsidebowery.com
Sunrise Grill, 404 E Martintown Rd, North
Augusta. 803-202-9898. Breakfast and lunch.
www.thesunrisegrill.com
What’s Cookin’, 123 B Laur ens St NW,
Aiken. 803-649-1068. G ourmet cooking to
go. 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
Zorbas Pizza & Grill, 510 S ilver Bluff
470 Fabian Dr, Aiken,
803-642-9642. Upscale Italian. Lunch and
dinner. www.TraviniaItalianKitchen.com
Augusta,
Rd, Aiken. 803-643-8777. P izza, Greek and
Italian. Lunch and dinner.
Fast food and chain restaurants are available in most towns.
Due to space limitations, all restaurants cannot be listed here.
For a detailed list refer to the telephone Yellow Pages.
Antiques, Galleries & Gifts
Aiken Antique Mall, 112 Laur ens St SW,
Aiken. 803-648-6700. Antiques. Ov
dealers.
er 50
Aiken County Historical Museum Store,
433 Newberry St SW, Aiken. 803-644-1010.
Fashion jewelry, Aiken gifts, book room.
Aiken County Visitor Center, 113 Laurens
St. SW, Aiken. 803-642-7557.
Visitor
information, souvenirs, local ar tisans, fine
crafts, books.
Aiken Dry Goods, 104 Laurens St, Aiken.
803-226-0100. Equestrian gifts, tack, clothing
and local artwork. www.aikendrygoods.com.
Aiken Mall, 2441 Whiskey Rd, Aiken.
803-649-0897. Several stores including:
Patti’s Hallmark, Dillards, Bath and
Body Works. Hours: Mon-Sat 10 am-9
pm. Sun 1:30-6 pm.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 12
Antique Emporium, 321 Richland A ve W,
Aiken. 803-643-9922. Antiques. 
Aiken Office Supply & Book Shop,
2560 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-648-8339.
Collectibles and office supplies.
Arts and Heritage Center Gift Shop, 100
Georgia Ave, North Augusta. Local ar tisans
crafts. www.artsandheritagecenter.com
Barbara Sue Brodie NeedleWorks, 345
Hayne Ave SW, Aiken. 803-644-0990.
Needlepoint and knitting. Classes.
www.barbarasuebrodie.com
Birds & Butterflies, 117 Laur ens St NW,
Aiken. 803-649-7999. U nique nature and
garden accents, gifts.
Bone-I-Fide Bakery, 127 Laurens St,
Aiken. 803-644-7278. F resh-baked, natural
treats for dogs, unique dog theme items.
www.theboneifidebakery.com
Boots, Bridles & Britches, 1310 E P ine
Log Rd, Aiken. 1-800-658-T ACK. Boots,
tack, riding appar el, protective riding gear
and gloves, pet supply , equestrian gifts.
www.bootsbridlesandbritches.com
Communigraphics, 1400 G eorgia Ave,
North Augusta. 803-278-7217. G ift items,
embroidery, screenprint, signs.
www.communicgraphics.com
Connie’s Framing, 118 Park Ave SE, Aiken.
803-643-3696. Custom framing. Featuring art
work from local artists.
Estate Jewelry Co, 506 Georgia Ave, North
Augusta. 803-279-8362. Jewelry.
Equine Divine, 126 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
803-642-9772. Art gallery and upscale
decorations with a focus on equine pursuits.
Gallery Store, 122 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
Nandina Home & Design, 158 Laurens St
SW, Aiken. 803-649-0616. Home furnishings
and gifts. www.nandinahome.com
The Peach Tree, 744 Silver Bluff Rd, Aiken.
803-642-5184. Yankee Candles, Cat’s Meow,
linens, home accessories, and furniture.
Plum Pudding, 101 Laurens St NW, Aiken.
888-940-7586. Gourmet kitchenware.
www.plumpuddingkitchen.com
Re-Fresh, 137 Laur ens St SW, Aiken.
803-649-9663. Jewelry, southern ar tists, and
artful gifts. 
Red Shed Diner + Produce, 212 Ascauga
Lake Rd, Aiken. 803-663-0584. O
ld
fashioned general store and market. 
Riverfront Antique Mall, 5979 Jefferson
Davis Hwy, North Augusta. 803-279-0900.
Antiques, collectibles, crafts.
Located inside Aiken Center for the
Arts. 803-641-9094. Works of local and
regional artists.
The Sassy Knitter, 942 C D ougherty Rd,
The Ivy Cottage Inc, 206 Park Ave SE,
Aiken. 803-643-0535. Flowers and gifts.
www.theivycottageflowersandgifts.com
The Screenprint Factory, 157 Laurens
Kit & Caboodles, 508 Edgefield Rd, North
Augusta. 803-279-7157. Candy , candles,
soaps, baskets, banners.
La Dee Da, 336 Georgia Ave, North Augusta.
803-426-1655. Unique gift items, seasonal
decor, local crafts and fashion.
www.ladeedagifts.com
Lamps, Shades & Things, 588 Silver Bluff
Rd, Aiken. 803-649-0370. Lamps, shades,
repair, gifts.
MB Jewelry & Beads, 145 Laurens St SW,
Aiken. 803-502-0200. Custom jewelry, beads,
instruction. Sterling silver equestrian charms.
www.mbjewelryandbeads.com
Aiken. 803-643-5648. Yarn. Knitting and
crochet classes. www.thesassyknitter.com 
St NW, Aiken. 803-649-7552. S ouvenirs,
t-shirts, sweats, caps, coffee mugs, pins, wine
glasses.
Singing Hills Antiques, 415 W est Ave,
North Augusta. 803-441-8805. Antiques,
live ivy topiaries, baskets, woven rugs, books.
Tea Garden Gifts, 131 Laurens St SW, Aiken.
803-648-6124. Crabtree & Evelyn, stationery,
custom invitations.
Unique Expressions, 1521 Whiskey Rd,
Aiken, 803-641-7908. G ifts, home decor ,
jewelry, collegiate and palmetto products.
York Cottage Antiques, 409 Hayne Ave
SW, Aiken. 803-642-9524. F ine china,
crystal, silver, antiques.
Due to space limitations, all stores cannot be listed here. For a detailed
list refer to the telephone Yellow Pages.
13 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 14
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 14
15 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
15 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Although the youngest county in South Carolina, having been formed from parts of Barnwell and
Hampton counties in 1919, Allendale County is proud of a rich culture, filled with history and
Southern tradition.
Beautiful historic homes, churches and cemeteries are plentiful in this corner of the region. Take in
the beauty of the Spanish moss gracing the enormous live oak trees as you ride miles of equestrian
trails with your horse. Notice the low lying cypress swamp areas where alligators, turtles and other
species choose to dwell. After a day spent outdoors, reflect on your experiences around a campfire.
Allendale County has a strong tradition in agriculture, producing cotton, grain, watermelons,
peaches, peanuts, corn, okra and other cr ops. Stop at a roadside stand to enjoy some of the fresh
produce.
Shop for one of-a-kind handcrafted items by the area’s many local artisans at the Salkehatchie Arts
Center. Visit USC Salkehatchie and vie w “Searching for our B eginnings”, the only permanent
collection of Clovis and pre-Clovis artifacts. Don’t forget to sample our southern BBQ and good
old fashioned home cooking while you’re in town.
Take your trip through Allendale County slo wly to enjoy the easy pace of the S outh. Here it is
much like it was in yesteryear.
Points of Interest
Savannah River, western border of Allendale
County. Originally named the Westobou River
for the Westo Indians (a warlike tribe who lived
in a village on the Westobou), the riv er was
later renamed for the Savannah Indians.
Allendale County Courthouse, US
278, Allendale. O ne of the most attractiv e
courthouses in S outh 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.
Farmer Drug Store, 116 M ain St (US 301
N), Allendale. 803-584-2191. P eek in the
storefront window at a re-creation of an old ice
cream parlor and barber shop . The drug store
occupied this spot fr om 1915 to 1995. Tours
by appointment only.
The Hut, US 278, Allendale. 803-584-3446.
Built during the Depression era as a New Deal
project. Now used by the University of South
Carolina-Salkehatchie.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 16
Topper Site, South Carolina Institute of
Archaeology & Anthr opology’s seasonal dig,
usually held in M ay. For more information,
contact: Dr Goodyear at 803-777-8170.
Open to any adult 18 y ears or older who
wishes to learn mor e about field archaeology
and particularly the earliest I ndians who lived
along the S avannah River. Participation is b y
registration for one or mor e weeks. Volunteers
learn excavation techniques and ar tifact
identification. Fee includes camping with hot
showers, lunch and evening meals, lectures and
programs as well as many other benefits. Free
tours Sat morning during the season. Group
tours by reservation.
www.allendale-expedition.net
Salkehatchie Arts Center, 939 N Main
St (US 301N), Allendale. 803-584-6084. A
non-profit corporation, the Center pr ovides
the opportunity for local ar tisans to showcase
and market their skills, crafts and pr oducts.
Over 70 local ar tisans in many mediums
are featured at the Center . Visit the histor y
room to learn mor e about the rich heritage
of this region along the Salkehatchie River.
Open Tue-Fri 10 am-4 pm. Sat 10am - 2pm.
www.salkartscenter.com
Salkehatchie Outdoors, rural South
Carolina, rare natural wonders rich in histor y.
Back road recreation will put y our feet on
ancient civilizations, r evolutionary war trails
and incidents of the Civil War. Discover
unspoiled artists, hunt with 5th generation
naturalists, shop for antiques, kayak, enjo y
storytellers and more. www.gosalk.com
Virginia Durant Young House, US 278,
Fairfax. Fairfax Town Hall, 803-632-3111.
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. Wed, Fri 3-5 pm.
Topper Site Exhibit at University of
South Carolina Salkehatchie, The
Salkehatchie Campus, US 301, Allendale.
803-584-3446.
The
library
houses
“Searching for our Beginnings,” the only
permanent collection of Clo vis and pr eClovis artifacts from the Topper expedition.
The exhibit also includes photographs fr om
the dig sites and informational panels.
http://uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu
Salkehatchie Stew, USC Salkehatchie
Leadership Institute. 803-584-3446. A
medley of artistic expression through theatrical
productions, visual ar ts, music, and spoken
word. The Stew works to pr eserve regional
stories to ensur e future generations will
know and treasure local tales fr om the voices
of ancestors. S torytelling and community
productions are offered throughout the year.
www.salkstew.com
Miss Arnold’s School House, 939 N M ain
St (US 301 N), Allendale. Located behind
the Salkehatchie Arts Center. 803-584-6084.
An authentic one r oom school house used in
Allendale circa 1875.
Lower Savannah River Alliance Greenway
& Trail, a 4 mile long walking trail that
terminates at a 1938 Turnstile Metal Bridge
over the S avannah River. Half of the trail
is elevated giving y ou a unique vie w of the
swamplands below. There is also a FIT trail with
obstacles and a primitive campsite at the Lower
Savannah River Alliance N ature Education
Center. www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org
See additional listings under Historic Churches, Cemeteries and Markers.
ance
iver Alli
annah R rail
v
a
S
r
e
Low
y & T
Greenwa
17 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Accommodations
Allendale Motor Court, 1645 N M ain St
(US 301 N), Allendale. 803-584-4202.
Executive Inn, 1921 N Main St (US 301 N),
Allendale. 803-584-2184.
Lodges, Camping & RV Parks
Red Bluff Lodge, 130 Boone Trl, Allendale.
Jim or Terri Boone, 803-584-7363. A full
service lodge offering outdoor activities yearround. Rifle, shotgun and pistol ranges.
Certified gunsmith and spor ts shop on site.
Hunt deer, turkey, hog and alligator . Other
activities include: fishing, kayaking, mountain
biking, camping and naturalist tours. Lodge
can accommodate gr oups of 1 to 22 people.
Full meal service available.
www.redblufflodge.com
Lakeview Plantation, 875 Cedar Knoll
Rd, Fairfax. 803-584-0689. 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 70 campsites with
electricity, water, sewer, a light and permanent
tie lines. Showers, restrooms and coin laundry
located near campsites. 3 dump stations.
www.lakeviewplantation.com
Dining
301 Cupkake Bakery & More, 1720 Main
St N, Allendale. 803-584-2253. C upcakes,
baked goods, ice cream, sandwiches. Lunch.
Big G’s BBQ, 1620 M ain St N, Allendale.
803-584-5899. BBQ buffet, salad bar. Lunch,
dinner and carry out.
China Buffet, 399 M ain St (US 301),
Allendale. 803-584-5718. Chinese. Lunch and
dinner.
Clara’s Fried Chicken & More, 399
Allendale/Fairfax Hwy, Luray. 803-632-6010.
Buffet and sit down. Lunch and dinner.
Golden Town, Highway 321, Fairfax.
803-632-3038. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.
Hardee’s, 200 Railr oad Ave, Allendale.
Latisha’s Cafe, 1206 Main St S, Allendale.
803-584-5159. Breakfast, burgers, sandwiches
& fried chicken. Breakfast, lunch and
dinner.
O’Taste & See, 1346 B arnwell Hwy,
Allendale. 803-584-4300. Countr y cooking.
Breakfast and lunch.
Pizza Inn, 337 Main St N ( US 301 S),
Allendale. Pizza, hot wings, br ead sticks.
Lunch and dinner.
Subway, 337 M ain St N (US 301 S),
Allendale. 803-584-0910. Sandwiches, salads.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Sammy’s Place, 1445 A ugusta Hwy,
Allendale. 803-584-7744. Countr y cooking.
Lunch.
803-584-4200. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Antiques, Galleries & Gifts
Hendrix Handmade Knives, Allendale. 803-584-3825. All kniv es made b y stock r emoval
method. All guards made of stainless steel. www.hendrixknives.com
BOSLER, INC, 3977 Allendale F airfax Hwy, Allendale. 803-584-7315. “I f you can print
it in B&W , we can etch it ” on glass. M anufactures and distributes glass etching pr oducts.
www.BOSLERinc.com
Salkehatchie Arts Center, 939 N Main St (US 301 N), Allendale. 803-584-6084. R etail shop
featuring the works of over 70 local artists, authors and craftspeople. www.salkartscenter.com
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 18
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 19
19 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
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.
Bamberg County lays claim to the hometown of South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley. It is also
the chosen home of many , including nationally kno wn artist Jim Harrison who highlights the
county’s rural landscape in his acrylic paintings.
Bamberg County has also been visited b y some notables, including G eneral Sherman. On his
march to Columbia, S herman’s Army was met at Riv ers Bridge by a small band of Confederate
Soldiers who tried to stall his progress. Rivers Bridge State Historic Site shows the scars from that
battle in the form of battle breastworks.
Bamberg County features many cultural festiv als. Be sure to plan y our visit during one of these
highlighted weekends.
Points of Interest
Rivers Bridge State 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 awardwinning 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 for ce of
Confederate soldiers in field fortifications
opposed the adv ance of S herman’s army.
The well-preserved earthen fortifications are
the centerpiece of this impor tant battlefield
landscape. Listed on the N ational Register
of Historic Places. 9 am-6 pm daily . Ranger
guided tours available. Free admission.
www.southcarolinaparks.com
Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton
Bridge Road (Hwy 601), 6 miles south of
Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868. A second Civil
War battlesite. Breastworks here have been
preserved. Tours by appointment. Trail riding,
fishing and spor ting clays also av ailable.
Admission charged. S ee listings under
recreation and lodging.
www.broxtonbridge.com
Salkehatchie Outdoors, rural South
Carolina, rare natural wonders rich in histor y.
Back road recreation will put y our feet on
ancient civilizations, r evolutionary war trails
and incidents of the Civil War. Discover
unspoiled artists, hunt with 5th generation
naturalists, shop for antiques, kayak, enjo y
storytellers and more. www.gosalk.com
“Cotton the World Over,” 11995 Heritage
Hwy, US 78, Bamberg. The mural is located
in the lobby of the Bamberg Post Office. One
of sixteen in S outh Carolina, the 6’ x 12’ oil
on canvas mural was painted by Dorothea
Mierisch in 1939 as a N ew Deal Art Program.
The Bamberg Post Office is listed on the
National Register of Historic Places.
Rivers Bridge State Historic Site
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 20
Historic District, Railroad
Ave
and
side
streets,
Bamberg.
803-245-1000. According to the S outh
Carolina Department of Archives and History,
most of the properties are vernacular residences
with prominent porches and profuse carpenter’s
ornamentation. The architectural style of some
of the larger buildings includes: G eorgian
Revival, Second Empire, Neoclassical and
Gothic Revival. The 1830’s South Carolina
Canal and Railroad bed that carried the first
steam engine, the B est Friend, runs through
the middle of this National Historic District.
Today the railr oad bed is a 1.5 mile walking
trail. Journey through time and rediscover the
beauty and r omance of the O ld South with
a walking or driving tour of the district. A
brochure that guides y ou through the district
is available for purchase.
Dogwood Flowers
Photo courtesy of South Carolina State Parks
Bamberg
Denmark Depot, US 78, Denmark.
803-793-3734. This old train depot houses
a visitors information center and an Amtrak
station. Contact City Hall for hours or more
information.
Downtown Denmark, This small town
Model T’s to Olar - see page 59
has several stores for your shopping pleasure.
803-793-3734. You can choose fr om an old
time five and dime stor e, an antique stor e in
a building with a histor y all its o wn, an ar t
gallery or a hardware store that sells everything
from lumber to fine china. As you stroll the
town, notice the hand painted wall bulletins
and outdoor advertising signage. These are
part of the Denmark Sign Project, an indooroutdoor community display of 20 th century
advertising.
Accommodations
Carolina Inn, 17688 Heritage Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-6300.
Bed & Breakfasts, Camping & RV Parks
Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton
Bridge Road, (Hwy 601), 6 miles south of
Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868. S outhern nostalgia
and a genuine bit of Civil War history. The
plantation home, built in the 1850’ s, has
5 rooms with priv ate baths. S tep through
the front door and go back 160 y ears to a
simpler time and enjo y walking trails ar ound
a 10 acre lake, hunting, fishing, sporting clays
and nearby golf. 125 R V campsites, most
with water, electricity and se wage hookups.
www.broxtonbridge.com
Ehrhardt Hall Bed & Breakfast Inn,
13764 Broxton Bridge Road (Hwy 601),
Ehrhardt. 803-267-2020. Restored plantation
mansion with 6 guest r ooms, all with priv ate
baths, fireplaces, TV’s, central heat/air. Close
to Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, hunting
and fishing. Pool, full br eakfast. Dinner
available. Special business rates available.
www.ehrhardthall.com
21 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Dining
Bee Box, 2302 Low Country Hwy, Ehrhardt.
803-267-2502. Home cooking, shor t order.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Freezie Breezie, 18688 H eritage Hwy,
Denmark. 803-793-3943. Ice cream, deli
sandwiches. Lunch.
Betty’s Quick Stop, 3475 M ain Hwy,
Bamberg. 803-245-4991. S hort order.
Breakfast and lunch.
Frye’s Drive-In, 1302 Main Hwy, Bamberg.
803-245-4540. Home cooked made to or der
hamburgers, salad bar. Lunch. RV parking.
Cliff’s Seafood & Grill, 12743 Heritage
Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-0701. S eafood,
quail, steaks and chops. Lunch and dinner.
House of Pizza, 11995 H eritage Hwy,
Duke’s BBQ of Bamberg, 1178 Main Hwy,
Bamberg. 803-245-3313. B arbeque. Lunch
and dinner.
Nelson’s Wee Bake Bakery, 4767 Car olina
Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-4664. M ennonite
bakery featuring donuts, pies, cakes and other
baked goods. Breakfast and lunch.
Bamberg. 803-245-4800. G reek specialties,
pizza. Lunch and dinner.
Pizza Hut, 2779 Main Hwy, Bamberg.
803-245-5113. Pizza, wings. Take-out.
Lunch and dinner. www.pizzahut.com
New China, 2307 M ain Hwy, Bamberg.
803-245-3831. Chinese. Lunch and dinner.
Rusty & Paula’s Diner, 3308 M ain Hwy,
Nelson’s Wee Bake Bakery
Bamberg. 803-245-3351. Countr y cooking.
Breakfast and lunch.
Fast food restaurants are available in most towns.
Antiques, Galleries & Gifts
Black Shadow’s Ornamental Iron Work,
6145 Main Hwy, Bamberg. 803-245-4278. A
copyrighted line of ornamental iron work and
deer stands. Smaller items on display at The
Corner Place. www.deerandtreestands.com
www.blackshadowornamentalironwork.com
The Caroline Collection, 4659 Carolina
Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-4739. Quality
antiques displayed in an elegant setting in the
historic AT&T building. The three full floors
of ever changing displays make it one of the
largest venues for antiques in the southeast.
http://www.thecarolinecollection.net/
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 22
The Caroline Collection
Brooker True Value, 4823 Carolina Hwy,
Denmark. 803-793-3342. Everything from
lumber to fine china.
Jim Harrison Gallery, One S Main St,
Denmark. 803-793-5796. Gallery displays
include Harrison’s bronzes, etchings,
originals, limited & u nlimited edition
reproductions. Visitors to the gallery can
often find the artist working on his next
masterpiece. Jim Harrison was awarded the
Order of the Palmetto by the State of South
Carolina in 2008. www.jimharrison.com
e
se in th
lack Hou istrict
B
n
te
o
o
D
H
Historic
Bamberg
Main Street Gift & Garden Shop,
3386 Main Hwy, Bamberg, 803-245-0570.
Handcrafted pottery, mosaics, paintings by
local artist Angie Sandifer. Seasonal fresh
flowers.
The Corner Place, 2225 Main Hwy,
Bamberg. 803-245-1933. Black Shadow
Ironworks, Elegant Collectibles, Jackie’s
Crafts, Just For Me, Palmetto Belles and
Babes, Pineapple Hall Antiques, Recital,
Prom & Bridal, Robin’s Nest Books, Nona’s
Plants and much more.
First Ba
ptist Chu
rch of B
amberg
Mats ‘N Frames, 197 Charles St, Bamberg.
803-378-2942. Open by appointment only.
Custom mats and frames.
Pansy Clayton Heritage Art Gallery,
7689 Ehrhardt Rd, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2204.
Original oil and acrylics of old southern
scenes. Southern artifacts on display.
ison
Jim Harr
Gallery
Poole’s 5 & 10, 4822 Carolina Hwy,
Denmark. 803-793-3487. Old fashioned five
and dime store.
Tagadu’s Gift Shop, 2165 Main Hwy,
Bamberg. 803-245-7155. Vera Bradley,
Pandora jewelry, Yankee Candle, Dept 56, in
store monogramming, Thymes Bath & Body.
www.tagadus.com
Bamberg
History
23 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 24
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 24
25 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
25 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Southerners have long been known to cherish tradition and local history, as well as times of having
fun. Folks in Barnwell are no exception.
Legends surround several of the attractions her e. The Healing Springs story dates back to the
1700’s when Indians believed in the secret healing powers of the springs. Many natives of the area
still claim the waters are a cure-all for “what ails ya.” The unique vertical sundial in Barnwell was
a legendary monument for its donor who, ir onically since he loved monuments, was laid to r est
without anything marking his grave.
The wonderful climate and natural beauty of the ar ea brought Mennonite settlers from western
states. They now share with visitors their crafts and gr eat cooking ability, along with insight into
their religious practices.
Diverse cultures, legendary sites and histor y weave the fabric of this county . During your visit,
notice all the warm smiles!
Points of Interest
Williston
Museum,
5121 S pringfield
Rd, Williston. Town Hall. 803-266-7015.
Museum contains memorabilia fr
om
Williston including an old dental chair
,
the last electric cash r egister in Williston,
a gas refrigerator and an asparagus exhibit.
Williston was once the Asparagus Capital of
the World. Tuesday and Thursday 2 pm-4 pm.
Other hours by appointment.
Farmers Market, located near the
intersection of US Hwy 78 and SC Hwy
37 in E lko. Look for sign and white tents.
803-266-2463. Fresh local pr oduce, plants,
flowers, dairy, fine crafts and more. Special
events are scheduled thr oughout the y ear.
Open seasonally. Saturdays from 8 am-2 pm.
Mennonite Community, Contact Blackville
Historical Tours listed in G uided Tours.
803-284-3267. A group of Mennonite families
settled here from other par ts of the countr y.
Their religion, similar to the Amish, makes
them a close community. Their school, church
and many of their farms ar e located close to
Healing Springs.
The Depot Library, 19420 S olomon Blatt
Ave, Blackville. 803-284-2295. The Depot was
moved here from the railroad bed. Renovations
were made in early 2005. Mon, Tue, Th 10
am-1 pm and 2-6 pm. Wed 2-6 pm.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 26
James H Hammond Museum, Lartigue
St, Blackville. Town Hall, 803-284-2444. B y
appointment, contact B lackville Historical
Tours listed in G uided Tours. Built circa
1859 as a public mar ket place, the museum
is named for B lackville native Senator James
H. Hammond. The upstairs was added at a
later date and the building has ser ved many
purposes over the years.
Agricultural Heritage Museum, 127
Heritage Rd (US 78), two miles w
est of
Blackville, at the Clemson U
niversity
Edisto Research & E ducation Center.
803-584-7315. The museum interprets the
historical and cultural influences of agriculture
on the area. Open by appointment.
www.scagheritage.com
Lill’s Herb Garden, Open by appointment
only for gr oups. Admission charged.
803-284-2422. Join Lill for a guided str oll
through her beautiful gar den. See a variety of
herbs & flowers, birds & butterflies as well as
share tips, tricks and herb uses o ver a cup of
homegrown tea. Picnic lunches and tea par ties
are available upon request or bring y our own
lunch. Wisteria Cottage is also located on the
property, see the listing under accommodations.
Healing Springs, Off of SC 3 N. Look for
signs 3 miles nor th of B lackville. Indians
believed in the springs’ natural healing powers
and brought wounded R evolutionary War
soldiers here to drink. Locals still believe in the
springs’ powers and drink its waters. In 1944,
the acre of land the springs is on was legally
deeded to GOD b y LP “L uke” Boylston.
Open during daylight hours.
Circle Theatre, 325 A cademy St, Barnwell.
803-259-7046. Completed in 1848, the
building was originally home to the B arnwell
Presbyterian Church. The building was used
as a courthouse after Federal troops set fire to
the county cour thouse in 1865. A lightning
storm damaged the steeple in 1891 and it was
never rebuilt, hence the pr esent appearance
of the building. The building is currently
home to the Cir cle Theatre. The theatre
presents several performances during the year.
www.barnwellcircletheatre.com
Veterans Memorial Park, 11015 Ellenton St
(US 278), Barnwell. Planned and developed by
the Vietnam Veterans of America Salkehatchie
Chapter 828. Brick memorial pavers in honor
of veterans line the perimeter of the par k and
the walkway from the Huey UH-1H helicopter
to the monument and flagpole area. The
walking and running track on the perimeter of
the park is used by locals and visitors. Host to
annual events throughout the y ear, including
the Barnwell Independence Day celebration.
Healing Springs
Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial,
Barnwell Historic District, City of B arnwell
Tourism & Community D
evelopment.
803-541-6555. Within easy walking distance
from Barnwell’s town circle, view the Church
of the H oly Apostles where Union soldiers
stabled their horses and the church yard where
many famous S outh Carolinians are buried.
Other historic buildings include St. Andrew’s
Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic chur ch
in SC and the former P resbyterian Church,
now home to the Cir cle Theatre. The present
drawing room of B anksia Hall was used as
an office where Southern white men w ere
required to take an oath of allegiance to the
United States. Most properties are private.
www.cityofbarnwell.com
Barnwell County Museum, 617 H agood
Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-1916. D iscover
Barnwell and the S outh’s heritage thr ough
exhibits, guided tours and special pr ograms.
Vocal and instrumental performances are also
offered at various times. Tue-Th 3-5:30 pm.
Admission is free. www.bcvm.org
141 Main St, Barnwell. The original
courthouse, built in Boiling Springs in 1789,
was succeeded b y several buildings on the
present site. The present courthouse was built
in 1878-79. The unique vertical sundial in
front of the courthouse was given to the town
in 1858 by Joseph D. Allen, at that time a state
Senator from Barnwell. Legend has it that this
is the only vertical sundial in the United States
and though erected two years prior to standard
time, it keeps within two minutes of that.
Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial
27 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Salkehatchie
Outdoors, rural South
Carolina, rare natural wonders rich in histor y.
Back road recreation will put y our feet on
ancient civilizations, R evolutionary War trails
and incidents of the Civil
War. Discover
unspoiled artists, hunt with 5th generation
naturalists, shop for antiques, kayak, enjo y
storytellers and more. www.gosalk.com
Lower Savannah River Alliance, The
mission of this organization is to dev
elop,
coordinate, evaluate, facilitate, mar ket and
implement opportunities for the development
and enhancement of natur e-based businesses
within the Lo wer Savannah River Region.
www.lowersavannahriveralliance.org
Accommodations
Bed & Breakfasts
Carolina Lodge, 10645 D unbarton Blvd,
Barnwell. 803-259-2014. High speed Internet,
continental breakfast.
www.carolinalodgebarnwell.com 
Days Inn, 10747 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.
803-541-5000. Continental br eakfast, highspeed Internet, microwave, refrigerator.
www.daysinn.com 
Villa Motor Inn, 13850 Church St, (US
78) Williston. 803-266-7001. HBO.
Wisteria Cottage Bed & Breakfast
Wisteria Cottage Bed & Breakfast, 2136
Jones Bridge Rd, B lackville. 803-284-2422.
A rustic two bedr oom and one bath 1940’ s
cottage ideal for a “quiet get away from it all”
in the country. Also on the property is Lill’s
Herb Garden, see points of interest listing.
http://blackvillewisteriacottage.com
Camping & RV Parks
Barnwell State Park, 223 S tate Park Rd,
Blackville. 803-284-2212. 5 cabins. Each
cabin includes bath and bed linens, cooking
and eating utensils, Satellite TV, coffee maker,
central heat/air, outside grill and picnic table.
No pets allo wed in cabins or cabin ar ea. 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 ar e also full ser vice, providing 20,
30 and 50 amp ser vice, water and se wer
hookups. Primitive camping ar ea with
picnic tables, fire ring and water av ailable
for organized groups. Nature trail, fishing,
boating, picnic shelters, meeting facilities.
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Dining
Anthony’s, 476 R eynolds Rd, B arnwell.
803-259-9139. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Berley’s Pharmacy Ice Cream Parlor, 16
Burr St, Barnwell. 803-259-3541. I ce cream
and drinks.
Big Boys Barbeque, 3120 Hwy 70, Barnwell.
803-259-7543. Barbeque buffet. Lunch and
dinner.
Brookers Buffet, 539 Allen St, Barnwell.
803-259-0700. Breakfast and lunch.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 28
Common Grounds Coffee House, 1458
Jackson St, Barnwell. 803-259-1488. Coffee,
pastries, sandwiches and wraps.
The Country Cupboard, 9724 Marlboro
Ave, 803-541-7000. D eli, bulk and natural
foods. Sandwiches, salad and potato bar .
Lunch. www.countrycupboardsc.com
China City, 10207 D unbarton Blvd,
Barnwell. 803-259-0219. Chinese. Lunch and
dinner.
Duke’s BBQ, 19355 S olomon Blatt
Ave, Blackville. 803-284-3546. B arbeque.
Weekends. Lunch and dinner.
Mi Rancho, 11553 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.
803-259-5050. Mexican. Lunch and dinner.
House of Pizza, 10456 Ellenton St, Barnwell.
Barnwell. 803-259-5071. American and seafood.
Lunch and dinner.
803-259-3300. Pizza, subs, G reek and I talian.
Lunch and dinner.
Healing Springs Country Store, 2563
Healing Springs Rd, B lackville. 803-284-3377.
Sandwiches, hot dogs, seasonal soups and ice
cream. Lunch.
Hogg Heaven, 1070 B arwick Ln, B arnwell.
803-259-2494. Barbeque. Lunch and dinner.
Lakeside Grille, 188 G ilmore St, Barnwell.
803-541-0700. Lunch and dinner.
Mr. B’s Food & Spirits, 10132 E llenton St,
Pizza Hut, 10550 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.
803-259-2811. Pizza, wings. Lunch and dinner.
www.pizzahut.com
Russell’s Pizza, 571 M ain St, Blackville.
803-284-3001. Pizza, sandwiches. I talian.
Lunch and dinner.
Russell’s Pizza, 13031 M ain St, Williston.
803-266-7722. Pizza, sandwiches. I talian.
Lunch and dinner.
Meeting on Main, 1 W Main St,
Williston. 803-266-4900. S oups, salads,
sandwiches, entrees. Lunch and dinner .
www.meetingonmain.com
White Pond Donuts and Ice Cream, 245
Miller’s Bread Basket, 483 Main St, Blackville.
The Winton Inn Restaurant and Pub,
803-284-3117. Amish-Mennonite cooking,
salads, homemade bread. Lunch and dinner.
White Pond Rd., Williston. 803-266-3933.
Donuts, ice cream, sandwiches. Breakfast and
lunch.
8273
Marlboro
Ave,
Barnwell.
803-621-2007. Family style dining. Countr y
cooking. Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Fast food restaurants are available in most towns.
Antiques, Galleries & Gifts
Carol’s Florist, 210 Main St, Barnwell.
803-259-0212 or 800-377-4096. E uropean
baskets, gourmet foods, unique designs, open
design room.
Evelyn’s Jewelry & Gifts, 22 Burr St, Barnwell.
803-259-5130. Fine china, jewelry, crystal, silver
and decorative gifts. www.evelynsjewelry.com
Faye’s Jewelry, 30 M ain St, Williston.
803-266-3037. Jewelry and gifts.
Healing Springs Country Store, 2563
The Little Red Barn Pottery & Art
Gallery, 12080 US Hwy 278 near junction
of US 278 & SC 37 w
est of B arnwell.
803-541-7900. Handcrafted stoneware pottery,
SC face jugs, local ar
tisans, handcrafted
& repurposed furniture and collectibles.
www.pawprintpottery.biz
Miller’s Mini Mall, 483 M ain St, Blackville.
803-284-5000. Handmade gifts and crafts,
antiques and quilts.
Healing Springs Rd, B lackville. 803-284-3377.
Gifts, discount books, candles, meats and
cheeses, sandwiches, candies and bakery items.
Parrott’s on L’Artigue, 5775 Lar tigue St,
Lee’s Treasures, 216 Main St, Barnwell.
803-259-7455. Gifts, jewelry, candles, handbags
and scarves.
Quilt Shop, 15070 Hwy 3, Blackville,
Lydia’s Unique Fashions, 19314 Solomon
River’s Pharmacy, 12927 West Main St,
Blatt Ave, Blackville. 803-383-1239. Women’s
and men’s apparel and accessories.
Blackville, 803-284-3670. Original country store
with antiques, gifts, collectibles and more.
803-284-2929. Handmade quilts, unique gifts
and quilting supplies. Open by appointment.
Williston. 803-266-7010. Pharmacy, gifts.
29 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 30
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 30
Kilkenney
Park
Fuller Park
Lemon Park
31 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
31 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Wi
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 32
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 32
Williston
33 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
33 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Use these touring ideas to help you plan your time in Thoroughbred Country. Follow them in
their entirety, or mix and match for your own customized experience.
Historic Thoroughbred Country
Day 1: Climb aboard the Aiken Trolley to experience Aiken and its grace, charm and elegance
during this guided tour. Tours are scheduled every Saturday and reservations are required. Tours
depart from the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum. Spend time at the Aiken County
Historical Museum or enjoy shopping in the thriving downtown district.
Pack a picnic lunch and travel to North Augusta’s Living History Park or enjoy birding at Silver
Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary. Tour the mansion at Redcliffe Plantation State Historic
Site or canoe the Edisto River Trail at Aiken State Park.
Treat yourself to dinner and sample our local flavor. Spend the remainder of your evening
star-gazing at the planetarium or enjoying a live performance event. A night’s rest can be found
at one of the many historic inns.
Day 2: After breakfast, visit Williston, once the Asparagus Capital of the World and stop at the
museum for displays of the town’s local history. Continue on to Blackville for a guided tour.
Tour offerings include Lill’s Herb Garden and the Agricultural Heritage Museum.
Experience the Mennonite culture at Miller’s Bread Basket or Healing Springs Country Store.
Don’t leave Blackville without a cup of cool water from the Healing Springs. Follow the history
of the Charleston-Hamburg Railway to Denmark and enjoy shopping for antiques or original
artwork at the Jim Harrison Gallery.
A variety of local restaurants can be found in Bamberg for a h earty meal. Travel south
to Ehrhardt for an overnight at a lo cal bed and breakfast where you will hear stories of the
community’s German heritage.
Day 3: Begin your day with a v isit to Rivers Bridge State Historic Site outside of Ehrhardt.
The site of the Battle of Rivers Bridge contains an award-winning Battlefield Interpretive Trail.
Continue on to Allendale and shop at the Salkehatchie Arts Center. The center exhibits and
sells various types of art created by regional artisans. Don’t miss the Topper Site exhibit at the
USC-Salkehatchie to learn about the Clovis and Pre-Clovis cultures in the area and the annual
Paleoamerican Expedition field archaeology program.
Enjoy a sandwich or BBQ plate before traveling to Barnwell for history and shopping on the
Circle. Be sure to check the time at the unique vertical sundial. Legend has it this is the only
vertical sundial in the United States and it keeps within two minutes of standard time. Visit the
Barnwell County Museum or The Little Red Barn Pottery and Art Gallery to shop for pottery
and nature photography before enjoying dinner. Check out the schedule for the Circle Theatre
for evening performances. Spend the night in one of the cabins at Barnwell State Park.
Golf, trail rides, archaeology digs, fishing, hunting, and biking are also available.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 34
Columbia, SC: 60-75 miles from most points in Thoroughbred Country. Visit Riverbanks Zoo,
the South Carolina State House and the S outh Carolina State Museum. Shopping and Trolley
Tours are also popular options.
Lakes Murray & Thurmond: no more than 1.5 hours from any part of Thoroughbred Country
to a major lake. Lake M urray sits due w est of Columbia. Lake Thurmond is due north of
Thoroughbred Country.
The Coast: 2.5 hours or less fr om any part of Thoroughbred Country. Plantations, the South
Carolina Aquarium, the Charleston IMAX Theater, the Car olina Opry, the Alabama Theatre,
thrilling amusement parks, sandy beaches and an abundance of golf courses, shopping and dining
opportunities can be found in the many beautiful communities along the coast.
The Mountains: 2.5 hours or slightly mor e to the mountainous r egions of S outh Carolina
and North Carolina. Take a hike on water fall speckled trails or sightsee during the fall foliage
season. From the BMW Zentrum Visitors Center and the Bob Campbell Geology Museum to the
Hollywild Animal Park and the Greenville hockey team, there is much to see and do.
Augusta, GA: 15 miles w est of Aiken. Home of the M asters 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 y our guide shares canal lore and legend on the P etersburg Boat Tour.
Atlanta, GA: 3 hours from most parts of Thoroughbred Country. Visit the Georgia Dome, home
of the Atlanta Falcons. Experience the CNN Center , Six Flags over Georgia, White Water and
American Adventures Parks and the World of Coca-Cola.
For more information on tourism opportunities in South Carolina visit
www.DiscoverSouthCarolina.com
35 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
N
N
EE
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SS
UTHH
SO
SOUT
Please visit the South Carolina Welcome Centers for traveler assistance.
NA
ROLILINA
CA
CARO
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 36
Many people find exploring an old burial ground can be likened to walking thr ough a thr eedimensional 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 in quest of the past.
Aiken County
Savannah River Plant, intersection of SC
19 and US 278, south of N ew Ellenton. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. A nuclear pr oduction
plant, that produced tritium and plutonium for
national defense during the Cold War. Creation
of the plant meant relocating all residents from
their homes in Ellenton, Dunbarton, Meyers
Mill, Leigh and other area communities.
Western Terminus, US 1 and US 25 at the
Savannah River. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
The western terminus of the SC Canal &
Railroad Company railway stood near here.
Hamburg, US 1 at the S avannah River. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. Hamburg was once a
thriving port and trading center.
Savannah Town & Fort Moore, SC 28 at the
Savannah River. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. Savannah Town was an Indian town that
was located on sev eral Indian trading r outes.
Fort Moore was built in 1716 to pr otect from
future attacks and to guard vital trading routes.
James U. Jackson Memorial Bridge, US 25
business in North Augusta near the S avannah
River. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The first
bridge was built in 1939. J ames U. J ackson
earned the title “Founder of North Augusta.”
Samuel Hammond, River Park Dr, North
Augusta. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. Samuel
Hammond was an I ndian fighter born in
Virginia in 1757. Hammond died in 1842 and
was buried nearby.
Martintown Rd, SC 230, 2 blocks south of
the intersection of Martintown Rd and Georgia
Ave, North Augusta. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The road was originally used by Indian
traders in the 1730’s.
Hampton Terrace Hotel, 1000 block
of Carolina Ave, North Augusta. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. An ex clusive winter r esort,
the hotel stood atop this hill fr om 1903 to
1916. The hotel burned on New Years Eve
1916.
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 I nstitute’s
successor, stood her e 1924-1950 and 19521986.
Beech Island Agricultural Club, US 278 at
the junction of S pann Hammond Rd, B eech
Island. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The club
was organized in 1865 for the diffusion of
agricultural knowledge and the r egulation of
illegal slave traffic.
Zubly Cemetery, Old Jackson Hwy, Beech
Island. Jackie Bartley, 803-827-0184. Listed on
the National Register of H istoric Places. This
cemetery, which is o ver 200 y ears old, is the
resting place of 18 th century Swiss settlers and
their descendants. Open by appointment only.
bihs@comcast.net
37 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
All Saints Episcopal Church, US 278,
at the entrance to R
edcliffe Plantation
State Historic Site, Beech Island. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Woodrow Wilson’s wife
was baptized here.
Silver Bluff Baptist Church, Old Jackson
Hwy, Beech Island. SC Hwy Historical Marker.
Around 1750, George Galphin began to allow
slaves to gather for worship on his pr operty at
Silver Bluff Landing. This began the first full
Negro Baptist Church in America. Silver Bluff
Church was the beginning of the fertilization of
the black church around the CSRA.
Beech Island Baptist Church, 170 Church
Rd, Beech Island. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
The sanctuary was dedicated in 1832.
Site of Ellenton, SC 125 at the AikenBarnwell County Line. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The town was moved to make way for
the Savannah River Plant.
St John’s Methodist Church, 18 G regg
St, Graniteville. Considered to be the oldest
church in a S outhern mill community . This
Gothic style church was built as an imitation of
Westminster Abbey.
Graniteville Mill, corner of Canal S t and
Marshall St, Graniteville. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. This mill was chartered in 1845 and
provided housing, a school, a store and land for
churches, creating a model mill village.
Storm Branch Baptist Church, Storm
Branch Rd, Clear water vicinity. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. The church began as a
plantation chapel and became a wholly black
church in 1866. A permanent str ucture was
built around the same time.
Marie Cromer Seigler Home, SC 191,
Eureka Community. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. Marie Cromer Seigler was an educator
and national pioneer of agricultural instruction.
Millbrook Baptist Church, East P ine Log
Rd, Aiken. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The
church was formally organized in 1884.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 38
Original Survey of Aiken, corner of Laurens
St and P ark Ave, Aiken. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The town of Aiken was laid out around
a core of 27 city blocks.
Aiken, corner of Laur ens St and The Alley,
Aiken. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The county
seat, Aiken was chartered in 1835.
Original Track Location, intersection of
Laurens St and P ark Ave, Aiken. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. The city of Aiken grew up
around the SC Canal & Company railroad.
First Baptist Church, 120 Chesterfield St,
Aiken. The churchyard contains the grave of an
unknown Confederate soldier who fell in battle
as well as 20 Union markers.
The
Defenders of Aiken, extreme
southeastern corner of the F
irst Baptist
Churchyard, 120 Chesterfield St, Aiken. This
marker commemorates the men who died
defending Aiken. I t originally stood upright,
but is now lying at ground level.
Aiken Institute, 314 Chesterfield St SW,
Aiken. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The old
institute building, which was built in 1891,
stands idle today . Adjacent is the larger
building, home of the Aiken County Librar y,
which was built in 1914 as the DS H enderson
Annex.
Aiken County, Aiken County Cour thouse
Grounds, Aiken. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
The county was cr eated in 1871 and named
for William Aiken, the first president of the SC
Canal & Railroad Company.
St Thaddeus Episcopal Church, Pendleton
St, Aiken. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. Listed
on the N ational Register of H istoric Places.
This church is the city’s oldest church structure,
having retained its Greek Revival style through
subsequent remodeling.
Confederate Cavalrymen, St Thaddeus
Church Cemetery, Pendleton St, Aiken. These
markers commemorate thr ee Confederate
cavalrymen.
General Rains Grave, St Thaddeus Church
Cemetery, Pendleton St, Aiken. General Rains
was in charge of the Confederate P
owder
Works in Augusta.
Battle of Aiken Marker, Richland A ve
and Chesterfield St, Aiken. This marker
commemorates the Battle of Aiken.
Church of St Claire of the Holy Cross,
118 York St, Aiken. The church was considered
a gem of ar chitecture for its symmetr y and
proportion. The church is now used as a chapel
for St. Mary’s Help of Christians Church.
Schofield School, Schofield Middle School.
803-642-2770. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
The Schofield Normal and I ndustrial School
was founded in 1868 by Martha Schofield who
dedicated her life to the education of AfricanAmericans. 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 I ndustrial School still
stands on the gr ounds. Contact the school
before visiting.
Pickens-Salley House, University of S outh
Carolina-Aiken campus, Aiken. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. This plantation house is an
excellent example of Federal style architecture.
Pascalis Plantation, US 78, ½ mile east of
Montmorenci. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The
home was used as U nion General Kilpatrick’s
headquarters during the Battle of Aiken.
Battle of John’s Town Memorial, 2 miles
west of Salley. This marker commemorates the
Battle of J ohn’s Town, fought M ay 2, 1782,
by Patriots defending the two bullpens wher e
British and Tories were imprisoned during the
Revolutionary War.
Allendale County
Bethel Baptist Church, 6486 Confederate
Hwy, Fairfax. SC Hwy Historical Marker. The
church has worshipped on this site since it was
organized in 1851.
Fairfax, Gazebo Park, 7th and S umter
St, Fairfax. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
Chartered in 1893, the to wn grew out of an
early community center ed around Owen’s
Crossroads.
Old St Nicholas Cemetery, south side of
SC 641, ¼ mile east of Ulmer Rd. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. The church, originally
located nearby, was founded about 1804.
Antioch Christian Church & Cemetery,
SC 3, about 2 miles south of US 301. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National
Register of H istoric Places. Dr W R E rwin
founded this ‘Second Oldest Christian Church’
built in South Carolina.
Smyrna Baptist Church & Cemetery, Bluff
Rd, southwest of Allendale. SC Hwy Historical
Marker. Listed on the N ational Register of
Historic Places. The church was organiz ed by
a group of well-to-do planter aristocrats. Many
of the headstones and epitaphs reveal the types
of citizens that lived in the area.
Beech Branch Baptist Church, travel 11.5
miles on B arton Rd to Cohen ’s Bluff Rd.
Turn left and follow signs. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The oldest Baptist Church in Allendale
County.
Swallow Savannah Cemetery, 1 mile w est
of the intersection of US 301 and B luff Rd,
Allendale. The Swallow Savannah Methodist
Church had its beginnings her e in a log house
in 1815. When the to wn of Allendale was
founded, around 1875, the chur ch moved to
town. The church members hated to leav e the
old spot and thus began using it as a bur ying
ground. The cemetery is still in use today.
Bethlehem Baptist Church, Boundary St
at the entrance to the F airfax Town Cemetery.
SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The church was
organized in 1854. I n 1944, the name was
changed to First Baptist Church.
Harmony
Baptist Church, Harmony
Church Rd, S ycamore. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. This church had its origins in a br ush
arbor as early as 1830.
39 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Happy Home Baptist Church, Memorial
Ave, near Railroad Ave W, Allendale. Founded
after the Civil War in a br ush arbor. The
first permanent church was built in the Zion
Branch community near O ld Allendale. The
church bought this site in 1875. I n 1911, the
church received a state char ter and built the
present church. SC Hwy Historical Marker.
Barker’s Mill/Skirmish at Barker’s Mill,
SC 321, Sycamore vicinity. SC Hwy Historical
Marker. Marks the site of Barker’s Mill and a
nearby skirmish during the last months of the
Civil War.
St Nicholas Lutheran Church, intersection
of SC 641 and Jenny’s Rd, 0.7 miles west of the
Salkehatchie River. SC Hwy Historical Marker.
Several of the grav es in the chur chyard are of
WWI, WWII and Vietnam veterans.
Old Allendale, southwest of Allendale at the
intersection of Ashe Rd and R evolutionary
Trl. SC Hwy Historical Marker. This was the
original site of Allendale. The town was moved
to its present site in 1873.
Town of Allendale, County A dministration
building, US 301, Allendale. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. A 1000 acr e land grant
was conveyed to Benjamin and G Washington
Allen in 1810.
Bamberg County
Mizpah Methodist Church, US 301 about
1 mile nor th of the S alkehatchie River. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on the National
Register of H istoric Places. The present
building was erected in 1856 and was the only
building left when Sherman completed his
march through the area.
St John’s Baptist Church, St John’s Church
Rd, southwest of E hrhardt. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Established in 1829-30,
the church was first named Three Mile Creek
Church. Services were originally held under
a brush arbor.
Battle of Rivers Bridge, Rivers Bridge
State Historic Site, near E hrhardt. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Listed on the N ational
Register of H istoric Places. Here Confederate
soldiers defended the Salkehatchie River for
two days befor e being for ced out of their
breastworks. This battle was the only major
resistance encountered by Sherman’s army.
Mt Pleasant Lutheran Church, Mt Pleasant
Rd, 1 mile west of Ehrhardt. SC Hwy Historical
Marker. Listed on the N ational Register of
Historic Places. One of the monuments in the
churchyard is of J ohn George Bamberg, who
was the pr ogenitor of the B amberg family in
the area.
Old Simmons Family Burying Ground,
Concord Baptist Church & Cemetery,
Hwy 3 N. The church suffered heavily fr om
destruction wrought by Sherman’s Army. After
many years of decline the chur ch became
extinct in 1948. A stone marker now sits on the
site of the church.
Cave Methodist Church Site, US 278 just
outside of Kline, SC. H istorical Marker. The
church was founded in 1847 on land donated
by William and M arion Cave. The original
church burned befor e the Civil War, and the
replacement structure stood until a tornado
in 2009. The church cemetary contains 243
graves dating from 1870.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 40
Park St and E Railr oad Ave, Bamberg. This
cemetery is the only symbol of the old Simmons
Plantation upon which the to wn of B amberg
has grown. The area is now maintained by the
city of Bamberg as a park.
Carlisle Military School, S Carlisle S t
between Elm St and G reen St, Bamberg.
SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The institution
educated young men from the US and other
countries until it closed in 1977.
Springtown Baptist Church, take US 301
5 miles south of B amberg to Hadwin Rd. The
church was founded in 1803. The cemetery
contains about 300 grav es, some dating back
to the 1700’s.
Buford’s Bridge, US 301/321 at the
Salkehatchie River, Olar. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The earliest settlement in what is now
Bamberg County.
Denmark City Cemetery, City of Denmark.
The grave of SG M ayfield (1861-1942), who
became the first senator of the newly formed
Bamberg County in 1897, can be found here.
Mountain Home Plantation, Ehrhardt Rd,
2 miles west of Govan. SC Hwy Historical
marker. Established befor e the Civil War and
named for the hill on which it is located.
Built by Samuel J. H artzog in 1859. Cotton
was grown and pr ocessed here and hauled b y
wagon to the railr oad at G raham’s Turn Out
(now Denmark). Birth place of H enry Simms
Hartzog, third president of Clemson College
(now Clemson University).
AT&T Building, 124 N P almetto Ave,
Denmark, SC Hwy H istorical Marker. Listed
on the N ational Register of H istoric Places.
This office significantly participated in the first
historic transcontinental telephone call, made
January 15, 1915. The building was described
as “the most modern telephone plant in the
South” when it opened. The building now
houses an antique shop.
Denmark High School, North Palmetto
Ave, Denmark. Listed on the N
ational
Register of H istoric Places. The building
was used as a school until 1987. C
urrent
plans for the building intend to merge the
historical significance and commercial use
of the building in a theme built ar ound an
old school house atmospher e and character .
www.denmarkhighschool.com
Voorhees College, Voorhees Rd, D enmark.
803-793-3351. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. The school was founded in 1897 in an
effort to emphasiz e vocational curriculum for
rural African-American students.
www.voorhees.edu
Woodlands Plantation, Hwy 78, 3 M iles
south of Bamberg. SC Hwy Historical Marker.
Home of William Gilmore Simms, South
Carolina’s most notable author.
Salem United Methodist Church, Thunder
Rd and Salem Church Rd, 4 miles southwest of
Denmark. Boyhood church of Bishop Holland
Nimmons McTyeire, founder of Vanderbilt
University.
Barnwell County
Ashley-Willis House, W Main St, Williston.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. A G reek Revival house built betw een
1833 and 1850, featur es a wide gable-fr ont
form unusual for the period. G eneral Judson
Kilpatrick used this house as his headquar ters
before burning most of the to
wn and
proceeding to Aiken and Columbia.
Lower Three Runs Baptist Church,
Patterson Mill Rd, Snelling vicinity. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Three Runs was a mother
church to at least 5 congr egations organized
in present day Barnwell and Allendale counties
between 1802 and 1849.
Hilda, West Main St, Hilda. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Hilda was char tered in
1910 and grew up around a depot built her e
in 1903.
Barnwell County Courthouse, east side of
SC 3, betw een Pascallas St and R eynolds St,
Blackville. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The
county courthouse was on this site from 1871
to 1874.
Macedonia Baptist Church, Dexter St,
Blackville. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Local
African-Americans worshipped in the balcony
of the H ealing Springs Baptist Church until
1866 when the late Rev James Tolbert walked
from Augusta, GA to Blackville to establish a
religious mission. Rev Tolbert prepared a place
under a brush arbor for a regular meeting
place. After building an edifice in 1887, about
200 excursionists from Augusta, GA came to
participate in a dedication for the new church.
41 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Blackville, SC 3 and M ain St, Blackville. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. Blackville was founded
in 1833 and the first overnight stop on the SC
Canal & Railroad Company railroad.
Barnwell County Courthouse, at the
courthouse, Barnwell. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The first courthouse on this site was
built in 1800. Later courthouses were built here
in 1819 and 1848.
Bethlehem Baptist Church,
Wall St,
Barnwell. SC Hwy Historical Marker. Listed on
the National Register of Historic Places. One
of the fe w pre-Civil War churches organized
by and for African-Americans. B uilt in 1829,
it was donated to black B aptists in 1860. The
present building was constructed in 1889 using
some of the original materials.
Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles,
Hagood Ave and Burr St, Barnwell. Listed on
the National Register of Historic Places. Built
of cypress wood, with virgin hear t pine pe ws,
this beautiful building was used to stable Union
horses when Kilpatrick ’s Cavalry marched
through Barnwell. Call 803-259-3477 to
schedule tour.
Barnwell, Collins Park, Barnwell. SC Hwy
Historical Marker. Originally called R ed Hill
and later the Village, Barnwell was founded in
1800.
St Andrews Roman Catholic Church,
Academy St, Barnwell. The oldest remaining
church structure in Barnwell. This is one of
the only churches that was not accosted by
Sherman’s armies.
Ellenton Agricultural Club & Town of
Ellenton, SC 64 at the edge of the to wn of
Barnwell. SC Hwy H istorical Marker. The
club was organized to promote the welfare and
interest of the Ellenton farmers and to improve
conditions generally.
Morris Ford Earthworks, Old Allendale
Rd (Route S-6-70), 1/2 mile east of US 278.
North of the S alkehatchie River Bridge. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. Nearby earthworks at
Morris Ford, on the S alkehatchie River, built
in the spring of 1780 b y Loyalists. Soon after
Charleston fell to the B ritish, Captain J ohn
Mumford of the SC militia was killed in action.
He is buried at this site.
Episcopal Church of the Holy Apostles
Boiling Springs Academy Site, Boiling
Springs Rd, Boiling S prings Community. SC
Hwy Historical Marker. The academy building,
along with its r ecords, was burned b y Federal
troops in February 1865.
Boiling Springs Presbyterian Church,
Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling S
prings
Community. SC Hwy H istorical Marker.
Present sanctuary was built in 1897.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 42
Winton County Courthouse Site, 5 miles
south of Barnwell on SC 3. SC Hwy Historical
Marker. Winton County became B arnwell
District in 1798 and Barnwell County in 1868.
Tarleton Brown, Boiling Springs Rd, Boiling
Springs Community. SC Hwy H istorical
Marker. The grave of Tarleton Brown, militia
officer, state r epresentative and state senator ,
is located her e. He enlisted as a priv ate in
the SC militia in 1776, was commissioned a
Lieutenant in 1778 and pr omoted to Captain
in 1780.
South Carolina Department of
Natural Resources
Fishing & Hunting Licenses by Phone,
1-866-714-3611
Fishing & Hunting Licenses Online,
www.dnr.sc.gov/purchase.html
For rules and regulations pertaining to hunting
and fishing in South Carolina, contact:
SC Department of Natural Resources,
PO Box 167, Columbia, 29202
General Information 803-734-3886
To Report Violations 800-922-5431
www.dnr.sc.gov
Fishing - Rivers
Edisto River, a natural cathedral of
swamp, hardwoods and cypress follow
this blackwater river. Pinfish, catfish,
largemouth bass, eels and bream fishing.
Wood ducks, alligators and birds are
abundant. The following areas offer access:
Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd,
Windsor. 803-649-2857. Aiken County .
Enjoy fishing in three lakes or the E disto
River for bream, bass and catfish. Boat rentals
available. Hard surface boat ramp . Nature
trail, canoe trail, picnic shelters, campsites.
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Davis Bridge Landing, Located off of SC
4 on Veterans Rd betw een Salley and White
Pond. Aiken County . Small craft access,
parking and fishing areas.
Highway 21 Boat Landing, SC 21. Aiken
County. Ramp, gravel parking.
Keadle’s Bridge Landing, Located off SC 4
and Windsor Rd. Aiken County. Hard surface
ramp, limited parking.
Edisto Boat Landing, off of New Holland
Rd, between Couchton and N ew Holland.
Aiken County. Facilities include boat ramp
for small craft, small parking area and area for
fishing from the bank.
Zig-Zag Landing, 15 miles east of Bamberg
on SC 61. Bamberg County. Boat ramp, paved
parking.
Salkehatchie River, bream in the spring
and fall. Largemouth bass and chain
pickerel. The following areas have access
to the Salkehatchie River:
Bufords Bridge, US 301/321 nor theast
of Ulmer. Bamberg County. Ramp, gravel
parking.
Ray’s Crossing Landing, Ray’s Crossing Rd,
off SC 300. B arnwell County. Hard surface
ramp, dirt parking.
Bobcat Landing, Bobcat Rd off of Bamberg
Rd, north of B amberg. 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
Charleston-Augusta Hwy in D enmark. Hard
surface ramp, paved parking.
Edisto River
43 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Savannah River – Upper, tree-covered
floodplain and hillsides provide pleasant
scenery. Largemouth bass, hybrid bass,
striped bass, crappie, catfish, redbreast,
bream and perch are found in the river. Its
abundant oxbows of ‘dead lakes’ provide
excellent fishing. The following areas have
access to the Upper Savannah River:
Jackson Landing, Take Jackson Rd to Fisher
Rd, then to Landing Rd. Aiken County. Hard
surface ramp, handicapped accessible dock,
fishing area, gravel parking. 
Riverview Park Boat Ramp, Hammonds
Ferry Rd, North Augusta. Parks, Recreation
& Leisure Services. 803-441-4300. Aiken
County. Hard surface ramp, dock, pav ed
parking. Primitive campsites nearby.
Silver Bluff Landing, Silver Bluff Rd to Bluff
Landing Rd. Aiken County. Small craft access.
Savannah River – Lower, the natural
impoundments of the Savannah River
provide a natural setting for panfish.
Redbreast, bream, catfish, warmouth and
yellow perch are found in abundance as
well as largemouth bass, hybrid bass and
crappie. Some striped bass run up the
river in spring. The following areas have
access to the Lower Savannah River:
Fishing - Ponds & Other Areas
Barnwell State Park, 223 S tate Park Rd
(Off SC 3), Blackville, Barnwell County.
803-284-2212. Enjoy fishing in a 16 acre
or 8 acr e lake for largemouth bass, crappie,
bluegill and catfish. Boat rentals available.
Nature trail, picnic shelters, meeting facility,
cabins, campsites. A pril thru Oct: Mon-Th
9 am-6 pm and F
ri-Sun 9 am-9 pm.
Nov thru March: Mon-Sun 9 am-6 pm.
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Crackerneck
WMA,
Contact SC
Department of N atural Resources for mor e
information including complete r
ules
and regulations and dates open to public.
803-725-3663. All individuals utilizing
Crackerneck are required to sign in prior to
entering the ar ea and sign out upon leaving.
Anyone not follo wing this pr ocedure will be
considered trespassing.
Lake Edgar Brown, Downtown Barnwell,
off US 278. B arnwell County. Boat ramps,
walking trail, paved parking. Enjoy fishing for
catfish, bream, and bass.
Whetstone’s Crossroads, 15 miles east
of Bamberg at SC 61 & US 21. B amberg
County. Fee charged. P ublic welcome. Hard
surface ramp and tackle shop.
Public Boat Ramps, 1-800-ASK-FISH.
Cohen’s Bluff Landing, Cohen’s Bluff Rd off
SC 3. Allendale County . Hard surface ramp,
dock, paved parking.
Johnsons Landing, Johnson Landing Rd off
SC 3. Allendale County . Hard surface ramp,
dock, paved parking.
Little Hell Landing, US 301 to US 125,
turn left at F urse Mill Rd and trav el 15.5
miles. Little Hell Rd, one mile fr om Millett.
Allendale County. Hard surface ramp, gravel
parking.
Steel Creek Landing, Off US 125 near
Martin. Allendale County. Ramp, gravel
parking.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 44
Kilkenny Park on Lake Edgar Brown
Hunting & Sporting Clubs
Aiken Driving Club, PO Bo x 271, Aiken,
SC 29802. H orse-drawn carriages and car ts
meet each month. www.aikendrivingclub.com
Blackwater Hunting Services, 7585 Hwy
300, Ulmer. Terry Hiers, 803-541-4868.
Liberal game limits and lengthy hunting
seasons. No overbooking. 4 bedroom, 5 bath
lodge. Deer, turkey, fishing.
www.blackwaterhunting.com
Broxton Bridge Plantation, Ehrhardt.
800-437-4868. A hunting preserve offering
hunting, fishing, sporting clays, pistol and rifle
range and continental tower shoots. On the
southern end of the plantation is an old Civil
War battleground with br eastworks intact.
Guided tours available with prior notice. Jerry
Varn, owner. 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 sports activities and can
accommodate a variety of special functions.
Hunting, sporting clays, trap shooting. F or
membership information.
www.carolinastar.com
Cowden Plantation, 383 B rown Rd,
Jackson. 803-471-3616. Ov er 10,000 acr es
of deer, hog, tur key, duck, do ve, quail, bass,
bluegill and farm catfish. Appointment
required. Accommodations available.
www.jarrettrifles.com/cowden.html
Crackerneck WMA, Wildlife Management
Area and E cological Reserve owned by the
US Department of E nergy and consisting
of 10,470 acr es. Contact SC D epartment
of Natural Resources for dates open to the
public and the complete rules and regulations.
803-725-3663. Fishing and hunting for deer ,
turkey, waterfowl and small game. Anyone
utilizing Crackerneck is r equired to sign in
prior to entering and sign out upon leaving.
Anyone not follo wing this pr ocedure will be
considered trespassing.
Gravatt
Camp
and
Conference
Center, 1006 Camp G ravatt Rd, Aiken.
803-648-1817. Bishop Cole Lodge, the
Cottages, Stewart Dining Hall, and the
beautiful, pastoral surr oundings combine
to make for a rewarding and pleasant stay.
Recreation options include swimming,
canoeing, archery, high and lo w rope course
are available by reservation. Guests may also
enjoy hiking, basketball, ping pong and tennis.
No Hunting.
www.bishopgravatt.org
Lakeview Plantation/Cedar Knoll, 875
Cedar Knoll Rd, F airfax. Hayward or D ona
Simmons, 803-584-0689. Lakeview Plantation
offers enjoyable year-round riding or hiking
with over 60 miles of w ell-maintained trails.
The property has ev olved into an intensiv ely
managed hunting pr operty with a br oad
based habitat management pr ogram designed
to enhance all type of wildlife. H unt trophy
deer, wild boar and turkey. Fish in a stocked,
private lake. View wildlife. 2,600 private acres.
Lodging and meals available.
www.lakeviewplantation.com
Quail Trough Hunting Preserve, 2032
Edgefield Hwy , Aiken. D ennis Willing,
803-648-5483. Over 500 acr es. Oct 1 thr u
April 1.
Red Bluff Lodge, 130 Boone Trl, Allendale.
Jim or Terri Boone, 803-584-7363. A full
service lodge offering outdoor activities yearround. Rifle, shotgun and pistol ranges.
Certified gunsmith and spor ts shop on site.
Hunt deer, turkey, hog and alligator . Other
activities include: fishing, kayaking, mountain
biking, camping and naturalist tours. Lodge
can accommodate gr oups of 1 to 22 people.
Full meal service available.
www.redblufflodge.com
Tinker Creek Hunting Plantation, 97
Weathersbee Rd, Williston. 803-266-4840.
Hunting quail, dove, deer and turkey on 2,800
acres in Barnwell County.
www.tinkercreekhunting.com
45 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Fox Hunts
Whiskey Road Fox Hounds, 520 Hitchcock Rd, Aiken.
Mrs David Smith, MFH,
803-649-0638. Fox hunting (mounted) in Aiken, Blackville and Allendale (Oct thru March).
Hunts on Th and Sun mornings. www.whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com
Polo
Aiken Polo Club, Polo Information Line, 803-643-3611. P olo seasons are Sept through Nov
and March through mid-June. Games are at Whitney Field off Whiskey Rd. Call for game times.
www.aikenpoloclub.org
New Bridge Polo & Country Club, 862 New Bridge Rd, Aiken. 803-648-3699.
www.newbridgepolo.com
Photo
courtes
y
of Lar
ry Gleas
on
y of La
Photo courtes
rry Gleason
302 Polo, Polo Hotline, 803-643-4939. www.302polo.com
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 46
Equine Facilities
Almost Heaven Stables, 220 G olf Course
Rd, Warrenville. 803-663-3001. Focusing on
total horse care. Lessons, trail rides, boar ding,
horse camps, bir thday parties. Facilities
include trails, covered picnic shelters and game
area. Call for reservations.
www.almostheavenstables.com
Black Forest Equestrian Center, 4343
Banks Mill Rd, Aiken. 803-644-6644. Facility
was built in old E uropean architectural style.
Facilities include a covered dressage arena with
80’ of mirrors, 3 outdoor ar enas, 12 miles of
trails on 500 acr es and 2 stabling facilities.
Riding lessons, stall and pastur e boarding
available. www.blackforestfarm.com
Chasin’ Farm, 4030 Chasin Way (off Pony
Trail), Aiken. 803-648-6277. S ituated on 80
acres. Facilities include covered riding arena,
dressage, jumping, turnout, training. Riding
lessons, boarding, breeding, and training. N o
dogs allowed. By appointment only.
Highfields, 147 Warehouse Rd, Aiken.
803-649-3505. Home of PSJ P rogressive
Jumps and P rogressive Stabling. A 60 acr e
facility featuring 3 all weather rings, grass
jumper field, 3 permanent barns, polo field,
turn out paddocks and RV hook-ups. Available
for equestrian and non-equestrian ev ents,
clinics, stick and ball, schooling and more.
www.psjshows.com 
The Hippodrome, 5540 J efferson Davis
Hwy, US 1, 5 miles fr om I-20, exit 1, N orth
Augusta. 803-278-4785. F acilities include
open air equestrian ar ena and stables situated
on 32 acres. More than 30 equine ev ents 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.
Jumping Branch Farm, 179 Fox Pond
Rd, Aiken. J ulie Zapapas, 803-642-3484.
Riding lessons, training. Visitors welcome by
appointment. www.jbfarm.com
Performance Equine Vets, 3827 Charleston
Hwy, Aiken. 803-641-0644. S pecializing
in equine r ehabilitation. Offering advanced
services such as cold laser r ehab. Servicing
hunter,
jumper,
eventing,
dressage,
western, recreational and other disciplines.
www.performanceequinevets.com
Photo courtesy of Larry Gleason
Aiken Complex, 3827 Charleston Hwy ,
Aiken. 803-641-0644. Full service stabling
facility that includes exercise, turnout and
premium hay and feeds. Boarding and
on-site veterinary services also av ailable.
www.aikencomplex.com
47 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Canoe & Kayak Rentals
Adventure Carolina, Inc, 1107 State St, Cayce. 803-796-4505. Guided canoe and kayak trips
down the Edisto River. Reservations and deposit required. www.adventurecarolina.com
Aiken State Park, 1145 S tate Park Rd. Windsor, 803-649-2857. Office Hours: 11 am-
Photo courtesy of South Carolina State Parks
Noon. Canoe and kayak boat r entals available year round. Enjoy paddling y our own canoe,
kayak or r ental boat on the 1.7 mile canoe trail on the S
outh Fork of the E disto River.
www.southcarolinaparks.com
Aiken County
Golf
Aiken Golf Club, 555 H ighland Park
Dr, Aiken. 803-649-6029. 18 holes. P
ar
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.com
The Golf Club at Cedar Creek, 2475 Club
Dr, Aiken. 803-648-4206. 18 holes. P ar 72.
Designed by Arthur Hills. Bermuda greens.
Walk/cart. Cedar C reek 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.cedarcreek.net/golf
Houndslake
Country
Club,
901
Houndslake Dr, Aiken. 803-648-6805. Three
9 hole courses. P ar 36, B ermuda greens.
Designed by Joe Lee. Walk/cart. No walk-in
traffic. Play on course limited to members,
guests of members and lodge guests. See listing
under lodging. www.houndslakecc.com
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 48
Carolina
Springs
Practice
Facility,
1301 Womrath Rd, N orth Augusta.
803-279-9803. Fully irrigated, B ermuda
tees, practice bunker . Expert club r epair
and refinishing. Batting cages. Certified
instructors available.
Mount Vintage Plantation & Golf Club,
375 Mount Vintage Plantation Dr, North
Augusta. 803-279-5422. 18 holes. P ar 72.
Designed by Tom Jackson.
www.mountvintage.com
The River Golf Club, 307 Riv erside Blvd,
North Augusta. 803-202-0110. 18 holes. Par 71.
Designed by Jim Fazio. Bent grass greens. Cart.
Built as a H ilton Head style links course with
mostly flat fairways and water on 11 holes.
www.rivergolfclub.com
Midland Valley Country Club, 151
Midland Dr. Graniteville. 803-663-7332.
18 holes. P ar 72. D esigned by Ellis Maples.
Bermuda greens. Walk/cart. Large undulated
greens are the main featur e of this design.
Reservations may be made one day in advance.
www.playmidlandvalley.com
Aiken County (continued)
Barnwell County
New Ellenton Golf Course, 301 F airway
Dr, New Ellenton. 803-652-7867. 9 holes.
Par 36. Designed by Waters. Bermuda greens.
Walk/cart.
Sweetwater Country Club, 571 Clubhouse
Bamberg County
Crestwood Golf Course, 6505 Car olina
Hwy, Denmark. 803-793-0108. 9 holes. P ar
35. Bermuda greens. Walk/cart.
Paw Paw Country Club, 128 Paw Paw Rd,
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. www.sweetwatercountryclub.org
Williston Country Club, 15 Fairway Dr,
Williston. 803-266-7616. 9 holes. P ar 36.
Bermuda greens. Walk/cart.
Bamberg. 803-245-4171. 18 holes. P ar 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
9 to demand accuracy off the tee.
Photo courtesy of Christopher Hall
Allendale County
Fairdale Country Club, 3312 B arton
Rd, Fairfax. 803-584-7117. 9 holes. P ar 72.
Bermuda greens. Walk/cart.
Fairdale Country Club
Miniature Golf
Hole-N-One Family Fun Center, 3197 Whiskey Rd, Aiken. 803-643-1715. 18 world-class
holes of miniature golf, baseball and softball batting cages, interactive video and redemption prize
arcade and snack bar. Miniature golf and batting cages are lit for night play. Birthday parties and
group rates. Open year round. Call for hours.
Other Recreation
Aiken Skate Park, 1700 Whiskey Rd,
Hammond Hill Skate Park, Cypress Dr,
Climbing Wall, Price Avenue, Aiken,
803-642-7631. Must register and pay fees. All
equipment provided.
Park Avenue Lanes, 1100 P ark Ave SE,
Aiken. 803-648-9227. Bo wling alley,
video games, snack bar . Non-smoking.
www.parkavelanes.com
Aiken. 803-642-7631. Call for session and fee
information.
Carolina Dragway, 302 D ragstrip Rd,
North Augusta. 803-441-4300. Call for
session and fee information.
Jackson. 803-471-2285. 1/4 mile drag racing
track. Regular schedule of races and events.
www.carolinadragway.com
Richardson’s Lake, 919 Richar dson Lake
Gravatt Adventure & Discovery Center,
Strikehouse Bowl, 2205 Whiskey Rd,
1006 Camp Gravatt Rd, Aiken. 803-648-1817.
Challenge course designed to develop leadership
skills and increase self-esteem and confidence.
www.bishopgravatt.org
Rd, Warrenville. 803-663-3600. N atural
swimming area. Open May thru Sept.
Aiken. 803-226-0622. Bowling alley with grill
and bar inside. www. strikehousebowl.com
49 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Edgar Brown
Ducks at Lake
A unique
view of
Hopeland
s Garden
s
Club
untry
ale Co
Faird le County
a
Allend
nty
in Bamberg Cou
Crepe Myrtles
Veteran’s Memo
rial Park in Ba
rnwell County
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 50
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 the SCDNR web site at www.dnr.sc.gov or contact SCDNR directly at
803-734-3886.
US 78, Windsor. US 78, Windsor. Turn left
on Spring Branch Rd. D rive 5 miles, turn
right on O ak Ridge Club Rd. The preserve
is 1 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 rar e and state-listed endanger ed
gopher tortoise. The preserve is the nor thern
most known location of the large terr estrial
tortoises.
Ditch Pond Heritage Preserve, From
Williston, drive west on US 78 for 3 miles,
parking is on the right. F oot traffic only. No
camping. An observation area provides a place
to view Ditch Pond, approximately 25 acr es,
one of the v ery few Carolina bays that hav e
retained its natural state. Throughout the
preserve you may see one or more of eight rare
plant species grown here.
Janet Harrison High Pond Heritage
Preserve, bounded by SC 39, Car olina Bay
Trl and Trojan Rd, near Monetta. This 30-acre
preserve was established to pr otect a Carolina
Bay, the high pond v egetative community
occurring within the bay and populations of
several rare plant species. A windmill located
near the tract (on the south side of Car olina
Bay Trail) is a local landmar k, and has led
to the pr eserve being colloquially-kno wn as
“Windmill High Pond”.
Henderson Heritage Preserve, From Aiken,
travel north on SC 19 for 2 miles. Turn left
beside Aiken M emorial Cemetery, Mayfield
Rd. Located on both sides of the r oad. This
417-acre preserve was acquired and dedicated
to protect a longleaf pine-scrub oak sandhills
ecosystem.
Photo courtesy of Larry Price Photography
Aiken Gopher Tortoise Heritage Preserve,
Cathedral Bay Heritage Preserve, SC 64,
1.6 miles south of Olar. Also known as Chitty
Bay or Chitty Pond. The 58-acre Cathedral
Bay is an excellent example of the Carolina Bay
phenomenon found throughout the A tlantic
Coastal Plain. The long axes of all Car olina
Bays parallel one another acting as basins that
collect rainwater r unoff holding it abo ve the
normal water table. Carolina Bays are wetlands
that vary in size, ranging from less than an acre
to several hundred acres and often suppor t
abundant wildlife. Cathedral B ay is a striking
example of a pond cypr ess pond. A ccess to
Cathedral Bay is b y wading or canoes. N o
motorboats allowed.
Savannah River Bluffs Heritage Preserve,
From Exit 1 on I-20 driv e south on SC230
turn right on O ld Plantation Rd at the
Wildlife Viewing Area sign. Turn right at fork
to parking lot. H iking only loop to a bluff
overlooks the Savannah River. In season view
rare rocky shoals spider lilies. Also along the
river see deer, fox and raccoons. This preserve
includes some v ery rare plants such as R elict
Trillium, which is on the federal endanger ed
species list. Other rare or special-status plants
also grow here.
51 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
State Parks
The state of South Carolina set aside some of the best examples of its natural, cultural and
recreational resources, and presents them to you as state parks. These properties, found
from the edges of the Blue Ridge to the shores of the Atlantic, protect and preserve the rich
heritage of the Palmetto State and invite you to sample its unique offerings. The South
Carolina State Park Service takes stewardship of the resources and service to you, the
visitor, seriously and invite you to visit the following state parks in this region:
Aiken State Park, 1145 State Park Rd,
Windsor. 803-649-2857. US 78, 16 miles
east of Aiken. Built in 1934, this park,
located along the fr ee-flowing Edisto River,
is a combination of a riv er swamp and dr y
sandhills. Facilities include campsites with
standard and full hook-ups, nature trail, canoe
trail and picnic shelters. A ctivities include
birding, hiking, fishing, paddling and boating.
Canoe and kayak rentals available.
Redcliffe Plantation State Historic
Site, 181 R edcliffe Rd, B eech Island.
803-827-1473. US 278, 3 miles southeast
of Beech Island. This park was originally the
home of G overnor James Henry Hammond
in the 1800’ s. Throughout the y ear special
programs are offered on topics such as the
African-American history of the site, heirloom
gardening, genealogy/research and cemeter y
preservation. Facilities include a mansion, two
slave quarters, and stables. A ctivities include
picnicking, hiking and home tours.
Barnwell State Park, 223 S tate Park Rd,
Blackville. 803-284-2212. SC 3, 7 miles east of
Barnwell. Built in the 1930’s, this park, located
on the coastal plain, includes 3 lakes for y our
enjoyment. Facilities include 5 cabins, fully
equipped for 4 people, campsites with standard
and full hook-ups, nature trail, picnic shelters
and meeting facility. Primitive camping ar ea
with picnic tables, fire ring and water available
for organized groups. Activities include fishing
and boating. Boat rentals available.
Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, 325
State Park Rd, E hrhardt. 803-267-3675. SC
641, 7 miles SW of E hrhardt, 13 miles fr om
Allendale. At this site Union troops clashed with
Confederate soldiers defending theSalkehatchie
River. Rivers Bridge features the battlefield, an
award-winning battlefield interpretive trail, the
memorial grounds, a community building and
picnic shelter. Activities include self-guided
battlefield interpretive tours, and picnicking.
Special tours and seminars thr oughout the
year.
Reservations may be made online at www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
or by calling toll free1-866-345-7275.
Nature Trails
Carolina Bay Nature Reserve, Price Ave, Aiken. City of Aiken Parks, Recreation &
Tourism. 803-642-7631. Walk the trail, watch the wildlife or just enjoy the pleasure of
woods and water only a few yards from Whiskey Rd. This is a city park with a difference: a
natural wetland with minimal improvements and a maximum of tranquility. An observation
deck overlooks the bay and can be used by school groups or reserved for private rental. The
deck is an open-air structure with bench seating, complete with an overhead fan. Brochures
(available at the par k) provide a map, a guide to the trail and information on plants and
wildlife.
North Augusta Greeneway, North Augusta. 803-441-4300. A r edeveloped railroad right-ofway, this paved walking and bicycling path is currently over 7 miles. The Greeneway runs along
the Savannah River and is the major connector of planned city-wide bicycle paths. Designated a
National Recreation Trail. Part of the Transcontinental Bluebird Trail. Open dawn to dusk.
Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary, 4542 Silver Bluff Rd, Jackson. 803-471-0291. A
3,154 acre wildlife sanctuary owned by the National Audubon Society. Walking trails available.
Please call ahead for current hours. www.sc.audubon.org
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 52
Ca
rolina Ch
Photo cour
tesy of La ickadee
rry Price
Photogra
phy
e Historic Site
Redcliffe Plantation Stat
lina State Parks
courtesy of South Caro
Photo
Wood Storks
Bluff Audubon Center
Photo courtesy of Silver
Barnwell State Park
Photo courtesy of South
Carolina State Parks
Site
State Historic
Rivers Bridge
Aiken Sta
te Park
Photo courtesy of
South Carolina Sta
te Parks
53 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Aiken
County
City & County Parks
Recreation
Center,
917 Jefferson Davis Hwy, (US 1/78)
Graniteville. 803-663-6142. P icnic area,
basketball court, playground, walking track.
Allendale Green, US 278, Allendale.
Fountain, gazebo, benches.
Boyd Pond Park, 373 Boyd Pond Rd, Aiken.
803-642-0314. Four ballfields, two soccer
fields, hiking, walking and mountain bike trails,
30 acre fishing pond with 300 ft boardwalk
and boat ramp , picnic shelters, playgr ounds,
self-guided bird watching, geocache pr ogram
and a remote control vehicle track.
Brick Pond Park, 88 G eorgia Ave, North
Augusta. Wetlands, walking trail and birding.
Citizens Park, 1060 Banks Mill Rd, Aiken.
803-642-7761. 15 multi-purpose fields,
batting cages, co vered eating ar eas, walking
track, soccer fields and playgrounds.
Collins Park, 486 M ain St and M arlboro
Ave, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. O pen 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, w etlands and large
open play area.
H O Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd,
Aiken.
803-642-7631. G
ymnasiums,
classrooms, racquetball cour t, aerobics room,
handicapped accessible playgr ound, outdoor
basketball courts, tennis center, walking trail
and picnic shelters.
Harrison-Caver Park, 4181 Augusta Rd,
(SC 421), Clear water. 803-593-4698. Tennis
courts, playground, walking track, softball
fields, picnic area.
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 54
Hartzog Park, Olar. Depression era park with
picnic tables.
Jack Phillips Park, 17 Galilee Rd, Barnwell.
Picnic tables and benches.
Jim Harrison Park, Palmetto Ave (US 321),
Denmark. Award winning do wntown park
includes gazebo and fountain.
Kilkenny Park, Corner of J ackson &
Wellington, Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Fishing
access, non-motorized boat access, picnic ar ea
with grills and walking path .
Lemon Park Sports Complex, 123 Park St,
Barnwell. 803-259-3317. Playgrounds, multipurpose field, baseball field with press box,
T-Ball field and walking path.
Main Street Park, Railroad bed, B lackville.
Walking trail, benches and gazebo.
Ness Sports Complex, 133 Ness Dr.
Bamberg. T-Ball, soccer, baseball, slo w pitch.
Full summer sports program for all ages.
Riverview Park & Activities Center,
101 Riverview Park Dr, North Augusta.
803-441-4311. Baseball and soccer fields,
tennis courts, racquetball courts, picnic
shelters, playground, horseshoe pits, four
gyms, indoor walking/jogging track.
Robert E Foster Park, Main St and 3 rd St,
Bamberg. Tennis and volleyball courts, picnic
tables and playground.
Roy Warner Park, 4287 Festival Trail Rd
(SC 39), Wagener. 803-564-6149. B allfields,
tennis courts, basketball courts, playground.
Community Center available for rental.
Smith-Hazel Park, Pool and Recreation
400
Kershaw
St,
Aiken.
Center,
803-642-7635. Basketball court, tennis courts,
picnic tables, walking track, seasonal pool,
gym, playground and rental facilities.
Williston Town Park, US 78 next to
Williston-Elko High School. Williston.
Playground, picnic tables, basketball and
tennis court.
Aiken County
USC-Aiken
Conference
Center,
471
University Pkwy, Aiken. 803-641-3587.
Several rooms and facilities av ailable with a
variety of seating capacities. A ccommodates
25-500 theater, 25-400 classr oom, 20-400
banquet. www.usca.edu
USC-Aiken Convocation Center, 375
Robert Bell Pkwy, Aiken. 803-643-6900.
Located on the U niversity of South Carolina
Aiken Campus. A state of the ar t 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 r entals for any function, and
two practice courts. www.uscatix.com
Rye Patch Reception Center & Guest
Cottage, 100 Berrie Rd, Aiken. 803-642-7650.
This 10 acr e estate was the winter home of
Edmund and Dorothy Knox Goodyear Rogers.
A favorite location for w eddings, receptions,
meetings and parties. Also available is the Guest
Cottage with capacity of 30 theater for smaller
meetings and parties. www.cityofaikensc.gov
Aiken County Parks, Recreation &
Tourism, 828 Richland A ve, Aiken.
803-642-7559. Several facilities av ailable.
www.aikencounty.net/tourism
General Elliott Inn, 939 New Bridge Rd,
Aiken. 803-642-8108. Contemporar y Queen
Anne style home. A ccommodates 42 for
dining, 150 for par ties. Fine dining in home
atmosphere. By reservation. 
www.generalelliottinn.com
Municipal Auditorium, City of Aiken,
215 The Alley, Aiken. 803-642-7654.
Accommodates max 150 banquet, max 300
reception.
URS Center for the Performing Arts, 126
Newberry St, Aiken. 803-648-1438. State of the
art theater, seats 320.
Gravatt Camp and Conference Center,
1006 Camp Gravatt Rd, Aiken. 803-648-1817.
Facilities and beautiful surr oundings. Two
meeting areas available, largest accommodates
over 100. www.bishopgravatt.org
Guest
House at Houndslake, 897
Houndslake Dr, Aiken. 803-648-9535.
Unique inn with golf course vie ws. Meeting
space for 40 theater , 25-30 classr oom and
40 reception. On site catering av ailable by
Houndslake Country Club.
www.houndslakeguesthouse.com
The Hippodrome, 5540 J efferson Davis
Hwy, North Augusta. 803-278-4785. 45,000
sq ft indoor and 52,500 sq ft outdoor arenas,
both with announcer ’s booths. B leachers,
concession stand, RV hook-ups. Equipped for
equestrian events.
Living History Park, 299 W Spring Grove
Ave, North Augusta. 803-279-7560. N atural
amphitheater, Colonial barn accommodates
294, educational cabin, prep kitchen and
stage. Weddings, birthdays, parties, etc.
www.colonialtimes.us
Newberry Hall, 117 Newberry St SW, Aiken.
803-641-7087. Accommodates 200 reception,
100 classroom, 150 theater , 120 banquet.
Outdoor patio, accommodates a tent, is also
available. www.newberryhall.com
Lookaway Inn, 103 W Forest Ave,
North Augusta. 803-426-1030. Listed on
the National Register of Historic Places.
Accommodates groups up to 150. A vailable
for indoor, courtyard and gar den weddings
and events. Catering available.
www.LookawayInn.com
North Augusta Community Center, 495
Brookside Dr, North Augusta. 803-441-4290.
14,000 sq ft banquet and meeting facility with
kitchen. Accommodates 500 theater , 300
classroom, 500 reception, 500 banquet. Rental
linens and equipment available.
55 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Rose Hill Estate, 221 Greenville St, NW,
Aiken. 803-648-1181. A 1900 Winter Colony
estate secluded behind walls that enclose an
entire downtown city block. B ar, club r oom,
and restaurant. Chapel, gaz ebo, tent area and
indoor locations av ailable for confer ences,
weddings, receptions, holiday par ties and
retreats. www.rosehillestate.com
Rosemary Inn Bed & Breakfast, 804
Carolina Ave, North Augusta. 803-426-1546.
Listed on the N ational Register of H istoric
Places. Accommodates groups up to 125.
Available for indoor and outdoor events and
weddings. www.RosemaryInnBB.com
Allendale County
Brandt Building, Allendale County
Offices,
803-584-3438.
accommodates 75.
Auditorium
Lower Savannah River Alliance
US
301.
Education
Center,
Broxton Bridge Plantation, 1685 Broxton
Bridge Rd, Ehrhardt. 800-437-4868. Banquet
hall seats 120. Meeting room accommodates
300 theater. www.broxtonbridge.com
Dane Theater, 131 S Palmetto Ave, Denmark.
803-793-3734. This building was the largest
movie theater in the area in the 1950’s. Theater
accommodates 455.
Ehrhardt Hall, 13764 B roxton Bridge Rd,
Hwy 601, Ehrhardt. 803-267-2020. Banquet
hall seats 200. On premises catering available.
www.ehrhardthall.com
Rivers
St, Allendale. 803-584-6084. Located in a
picturesque 1920 Victorian bungalow filled
with local ar ts and crafts. The sun room is
perfect for small intimate gatherings such as
classes, lectures, luncheons and clubs. There is
no fee for reserving this room. Accommodates
20. Kitchenette available. www.salkarts.com 
USC Salkehatchie, 1102 James Brandt Blvd,
Allendale. 803-584-3446. M eeting rooms
available. http://uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu
Bamberg County
Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield
Regional Library System, 803-642-7575.
Several facilities available in Aiken, B amberg,
and Barnwell Counties. www.abbe-lib.org 
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 56
State
Historic
Site,
Voorhees College Leadership Conference
Center, 86 Porter Rd, Denmark. 803-793-3351.
Accommodates 125. O ther rooms and
facilities also available. www.voorhees.edu
803-584-8133. Large confer ence area,
indoor/outdoor restrooms and picnic ar ea.
Accommodates 50.
Salkehatchie Arts Center, 939 N M ain
Bridge
325 State Park Rd, E hrhardt. 803-267-3675.
Community building accommodates up to 100.
Kitchenette, restrooms, fireplaces. Reservations
www.southcarolinaparks.com
Barnwell County
Aiken-Bamberg-Barnwell-Edgefield
Regional Library System, 803-642-7575.
Several facilities available in Aiken, B amberg,
and Barnwell Counties. www.abbe-lib.org 
Barnwell State Park, 223 State Park Rd,
Blackville. 803-284-2212. SC 3, 7 miles east of
Barnwell. Solomon Blatt community building
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. R
eservations
www.southcarolinaparks.com 
The
Blackville
Community
Center,
19464 Solomon Blatt Ave on the corner of
Reynolds and S olomon 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 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 p .m. Requests for
reservations of the center ar e made up to
twelve months in advance.
This is a partial listing of events. Please call for actual dates and times
Antiques in the Heart of Aiken, the first
weekend in February at Aiken Center for
the Arts. 803-641-9094. This show offers a
unique opportunity to view and purchase fine
antique furnishings represented by more than
20 specialized dealers from across the nation.
www.aikencenterforthearts.org
Battle of Aiken, the weekend in February after
President’s Day. Confederate P ark near Aiken.
803-642-2500. History comes alive with 20
cannons, 100 cav alry horses and 1,000 living
history experts. This reenactment brings to life
the Battle of Aiken which occurr ed February
11 and 12, 1865 and was the last victor y for the
Confederacy. Also featured are concessions and
settlers selling goods comparable to the time in
history of the Battle. www.battleofaiken.org
Juilius Daniels Memorial Blues Festival,
Photo courtesy of Larry Gleason
the 4th S aturday in F ebruary at the D ane
Theater in D enmark. Blues festival honoring
piedmont blues legend J
uilius Daniels
born (1901) in D enmark, SC. B enefits
the Historic Society of B amberg County.
www.bambergcountychamber.org
Aiken Triple Crown, the last three Saturdays
in March. 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 par ty and horses jumping
hurdles at Ford Conger Field. The last weekend
features a Polo match. All three events are open
to the public. Proceeds aid the community and
local charities.
Annual Spring Herb Fest, the third Saturday
in March at the Little R ed Barn Gallery,
Barnwell. 803-541-7900. S ponsored by the
gallery and the Barnwell County Herb Club.
3rd Thursday, held seasonally in do wntown
Barnwell from 5-7pm the 3r d Thursday
of the month (M arch-June & S ept-Oct)
Entertainment,
local businesses and
organizations, downtown stores and activities
provided for the whole family.
www.cityofbarnwell.com
Polo Matches, spring season is April to June;
fall season is S eptember to mid N ovember.
Aiken Polo Club 803-643-3611.
www.aikenpoloclub.org
Dogwood Festival, in A pril on M ain
St, City of
Denmark. 803-793-3734.
Family oriented festiv al featuring food,
rides, entertainment, games and contests.
www.bambergcountychamber.org
Cooter Fest, Allendale during the spring.
This festival focuses on the arriv al of spring
with cooter (tur tle) races, a parade, food,
crafts, a str eet dance, carnival rides, petting
zoo and an art show.
www.cooterfest.com
Olde Towne Artisans’ Fair, April at the
Living History Park in North Augusta.
Olde Towne Preservation Association.
803-279-7560. Annual juried invitational
show featuring high quality ar t, traditional
and contemporary art, original and fine
reproductions. Music and food all w eekend.
www.colonialtimes.us
Annual Golf Tournament, Sweetwater
Country Club in Barnwell. 803-259-5004.
Held in A pril. Sponsored by the B arnwell
County Chamber of Commerce. Hole-in-One,
Longest Drive, Closest to P in competitions.
www.barnwellcountychamber.org
57 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Aiken Lobster Race, the first Friday in May
in downtown Aiken. 803-646-0523. Features
live Maine thoroughbred racing lobsters.
Gourmet foods, rides, family activities, a
community performance stage and more.
www.lobsterrace.com
Salkehatchie Stew, sponsored by the
USC Salkehatchie Leadership I nstitute.
803-584-3446. The Stew is a r egional
initiative which preserves local stories
for future generations through theatrical
productions, music and spoken wor d.
Storytelling and community productions
are offered throughout the year.
www.salkstew.com
Hopelands Gardens Summer Concerts,
an outdoor concert series, May through August,
held at H opelands Gardens. City of Aiken
Parks, Recreation & Tourism 803-642-7631.
Performances each Monday at 7 pm. Featuring
ballet, jazz, big band, militar y, cloggers and
classical music with local and r egional artists
on the Roland H Windham Performing Arts
Stage. Picnic suppers w elcome. Admission is
free. www.aikenis.com
Confederate Memorial Day Ceremony,
in May on the F riday closest to Confederate
Memorial Day (May 10) at Riv ers Bridge
State
Historic
Site.
803-267-3675.
www.SouthCarolinaParks.com
Under the Crown, held at the Living History
Park of North Augusta in June. Olde Towne
Preservation Association. 803-279-7560.
Historical interpreters will show you Colonial
life and skills. M usketry, sewing, firestarting
and other tools and trades of the Colonial
period. Interactive discussions and activities.
www.colonialtimes.us
Bamberg Citywide July 4th Celebration,
at Ness Sports Complex, B amberg. Bamberg
Town
Hall,
803-245-5128. F estival
atmosphere with food booths, clowns, games
of chance and entertainment. Entertainment
is followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
www.bambergsc.com.
Barnwell Family Fun Fest - Independence
Day Celebration, held July at the Veterans
Memorial Park in Barnwell. Sponsored by the
City of B arnwell and the B arnwell County
Arts Council. 803-259-3266. Activities, food,
music and fireworks. www.cityofbarnwell.com
Schuetzenfest, in E hrhardt during the last
weekend in A ugust. Ehrhardt Town Hall
803-267-5335. A time of fun and fello wship
as the town celebrates its German heritage and
promotes its hospitality. Parade on Saturday.
www.ehrhardtsc.com
Aiken’s Makin’, in the P arkways of
Downtown Aiken during the second full
weekend in S eptember. Aiken Chamber of
Commerce 803-641-1111. An annual display
of juried ar ts and crafts fr om Aiken County
and the S outheastern states. The festival
includes arts and crafts, food v endors, baked
goods and entertainment.
www.aikensmakin.net
A Taste of Downtown Aiken, a selfguided walking tour to the fine eateries in
Downtown Aiken in S eptember. Aiken
Downtown
Development
Association
803-649-2221. This tour also takes participants
by the many unique specialty shops in the area.
www.downtownaiken.com
Southeastern Regional Rowing Regatta,
at Langley Pond in June. Aiken County
Parks, Recreation & Tourism 803-642-7559.
Regional championship ev ent sponsored by
the United States Rowing Association. Rowers
from all o ver the S outheast compete in this
annual event. www.aikencountysc.gov/tourism
The Little Red Barn Gallery
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 58
Barn Gallery in B arnwell. 803-541-7900.
Area potters get together and fire pottery in an
outdoor high speed kiln. The pottery is pulled
red hot from the kiln and placed in containers
with shredded paper, sawdust and other
combustibles, allowed to flare briefly and then
the container is closed up to cr eate a forced
reduction atmosphere. This fast process causes
interesting effects in the glazed surface that are
unique and exciting.
Western Carolina State Fair, held in
October at the Aiken Fairgrounds. Aiken
Jaycees 803-648-8955. Rides, enter tainment
and special shows daily.
www.westerncarolinastatefair.com
A Taste of Wine & Art, the 3rd Thursday
in October at the Aiken Center for the Ar ts.
803-641-9094. This spectacular evening event
has become a perennial favorite and features a
vast array of wines from around the world and
the signature dishes fr om the CSRA ’s finest
restaurants and caterers plus a high-end silent
auction. www.aikencenterforthearts.org
Model T’s to Olar, held October in O lar.
Model T and M odel A car sho w, antique
tractor show. Festivities include food v endors,
parade, crafters, inflatables, music, art and
history exhibits, electric and gas golf car t drag
racing and more.
Colonial Times: A Day to Remember, the
third weekend in October at the Living H istory
Park. Olde Towne Preservation Association.
803-279-7560. Colonial life is recreated through
demonstrations, exhibits and enlistment
in
the voluntary militia. A ttractions include
blacksmithing, working smokehouse, beehiv e
bake oven, open fire cooking, goldsmithing,
spinning, musket firing and more.
www.colonialtimes.us
Annual Quilt Show, in November at
the Aiken County H istorical Museum.
803-642-2015. Textile artists from Aiken
County compete in this annual juried sho w.
Lectures, demonstrations and classes ar e also
part of the event.
www.aikencountyhistoricalmuseum.org
photo courtesy of City of Aiken
Raku Burn, in October at the Little R ed
Christmas in Hopelands
Chitlin Strut, held the S aturday after
Thanksgiving at the S alley Civic Center and
Fairgrounds. 803-258-3485. Visitors are
drawn to this small community to celebrate
this unusual food item that has been a southern
tradition for o ver 100 y ears. Activities also
include a parade, hawg-calling contests, food
and craft v endors, beauty pageant, carniv al
rides and a car show. www.chitlinstrut.com
Christmas in Hopelands Gardens, annually
in December. City of Aiken, Parks, Recreation
and Tourism, 803-642-7631. Walking tours
along lighted pathways thr ough Hopelands
Gardens with holiday displays. Christmas
concerts performed by local choirs pr ovide
entertainment from the gar den’s performing
arts stage. H istoric buildings in the gar dens
are decorated and open for touring each night.
Hot chocolate, apple cider and holiday cookies
are served nightly. Admission is free.
Annual Christmas Parades and Tree
Lighting Events, held December in sev eral
communities. For a complete list of parades
and events visit our website.
www.tbredcountry.org
Trail Rides, holiday rides and special trail
rides throughout the year at these locations:
Lakeview Plantation 803-584-0689
www.lakeviewplantation.com
Broxton Bridge Plantation 803-437-4868
www.broxtonbridge.com
Silverbluff Audubon Society 803-471-0291
www.sc.audubon.org.
For a complete list of area events
throughout the year, visit
www.tbredcountry.org
59 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
For assistance, please call Thoroughbred Country at 888-834-1654 (toll fr ee), visit us online at
www.tbredcountry.org or check with the local information bureaus listed here.
Aiken County
Aiken Chamber of Commerce
121 Richland Ave E
Aiken, SC 29802
803-641-1111
www.aikenchamber.net
Aiken County Visitors Center
Holley Building
113 Laurens St
Aiken, SC 29801
803-642-7557
www.aikencountysc.gov/tourism
Aiken Downtown Development
208A The Alley
Aiken, SC 29801
803-649-2221
www.downtownaiken.com
Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum
406 Park Ave SE
Aiken, SC 29801
803-293-7846
www.aikenis.com
Midland Valley Area Chamber of
Commerce
PO Box 310
Langley, SC 29834
803-593-3030
North Augusta Chamber of Commerce
406 West Ave
North Augusta, SC 29841
803-279-2323
www.northaugustachamber.org
Allendale County
Allendale County Business & Industry
Association in partnership with
SouthernCarolina Alliance.
PO Box 1107, Allendale, SC 29810
803-584-9200
www.SouthernCarolina.org
Bamberg County
Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce
604 Airport Rd
Bamberg, SC 29003
803-245-4427
www.bambergcountychamber.org
Barnwell County
Barnwell County Chamber of Commerce
367 Fuldner Rd
Barnwell, SC 29812
803-259-7446
www.barnwellcountychamber.org
City of Barnwell Tourism and
Community Development
Serpentine Fence at Aiken
County Historical Museum
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 60
130 Main St
Barnwell, SC 29812
803-541-6555
www.cityofbarnwell.com
Thoroughbred Country
Beech Island Historical Society
Assistance in individualizing your tour plans.
Physical Address: 2748 Wagener Rd
Aiken, SC 29801
Mailing Address: PO Box 850
Aiken, SC 29802
803-649-7981 or 1-888-834-1654
tourism@tbredcountry.org
www.tbredcountry.org
Tours of historic B eech Island and Z ubly
Cemetery available by appointment.
144 Old Jackson Hwy,
Beech Island, SC 29842
Jackie Bartley
803-867-3600 or 803-827-0184
bihs@comcast.net
www.beechislandhistory.org
Aiken Ghost Tours
Carolina Aviation of Aiken
90 minute guided haunted history walking tour
of Downtown Aiken. Tour is approximately 1
mile long. Tours begin at sundown. Seasonal
and by appointment. G roup tours av ailable.
803-270-0773. cubbage@bellsouth.net
Flight school, aircraft maintenance, discovery
flights, sight seeing tours.
125 Aviation Blvd
Aiken, SC 29805
803-502-1007
www.CarolinaAviation.net
Aiken Tours
City of Aiken P arks, Recreation & Tourism.
Public tours on Saturday mornings,
reservations and pre-payment required. Group
tours available by appointment.
406 Park Ave SE
Aiken, SC 29801
803-642-7631
www.aikenis.com
Photo courtesy City of Aiken
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).
Barnwell Historic Tours
City of B arnwell Tourism and Community
Development Department.
130 Main St
Barnwell, SC 29812
803-259-3266
www.cityofbarnwell.com
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 M ar-Nov, Wed-Sun
at 3 pm. Two hour sunset tour M ar-Nov,
Saturdays (Call for times). Private Charters.
803-730-9739
cvbradshaw@windstream.net
www.patriottourboat.com
61 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Airports
Car Rentals
Aiken Airport, 129 A viation Blvd, Aiken.
Aiken Limousine & Transportation,
803-648-7803. Located 7 miles north of Aiken
on US 1, E xit #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
Allendale Airport, 467 Airpor t Loop,
Fairfax. 803-584-3801 or 803-584-3438.
Located one mile off US 278. 5,005’ by 75’
paved and lighted r unway. VOR and GPS
approach. Hangars and fuel av ailable. Open
7 days a w eek. 9 am-6 pm during D aylight
Savings Time. 8 am-5 pm during EST . After
hours: Ben Oswald, 803-584-2060 or Norman
Gillyard, 803-584-0256.
Augusta Regional Airport, 1501 A viation
Way, Augusta, GA. 706-798-3236. D elta
Connection & US Airways Express. Car rentals
available. www.augustaregionalairport.com
Bamberg Airport, 709 Airport Rd, Bamberg.
803-245-5191. Located off US 78. 3,600’
paved and lighted r unway. No instrument
approach. No fuel av ailable. Open 7 days a
week.
Barnwell Regional Airport, 155 Airpor t
Rd, Barnwell. 803-259-1090. Located one
mile from the city of Barnwell on US 278. Two
runways: 5000’ by 70’ and 5000’ by 100’. Both
lighted and pav ed. NDB appr oach. Hangars
and fuel available. Open 7 days a week.
Columbia
Metropolitan
Airport,
3250 Aviation Way, West Columbia.
803-822-5000 or 888-562-5002. M
ost
major airlines ser ved. Car r entals available.
www.columbiaairport.com
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 62
153 Pendleton St NW, Aiken. 803-648-9977.
B & B Ford Inc,
10476 Dunbarton Blvd, Barnwell.
803-259-5524.
www.b-bford.com
Enterprise Rent A Car,
3915 Richland Ave W, Aiken. 803-641-0135.
www.enterprise.com
Express Rent A Car,
943 Dougherty Rd, Aiken. 803-642-1096.
Public Transportation
Aiken Taxi Service, 803-642-9910 or
803-507-TAXI. Serves major airports and
all of Aiken County . Senior citizen discount
available. Meter rates charged within city
limits. Flat rate charged outside the city
.
24 hours a day. 7 days a week.
Best Friend Express, Call 803-649-7981 for
schedule. Aiken and N orth Augusta routes.
Mon-Fri www.bestfriendexpress.com
Bus Terminal of Augusta, 1128 G reene
St, Augusta, GA. 706-722-6411. S erved by
Southeastern Stages and Greyhound.
Bus Station of Aiken, 153 P endleton St
NW, Aiken. 803-648-6894. D aily routes to
most major SE cities.
Carolina Cab, Serves Aiken County and
airports. 803-648-4545. S enior citizen
discount available. 24 hours a day . 7 days a
week.
Colleges
Aiken Technical College
2276 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Graniteville, SC 29829
803-593-9231 www.atc.edu
Denmark Technical College
500 Solomon Blatt Ave
Denmark, SC 29042
803-793-5176 www.denmarktech.edu
University of South Carolina - Aiken
471 University Pkwy
Aiken, SC 29801
803-648-6851 www.usca.edu
University of South Carolina-Salkehatchie
1102 James Brandt Blvd
Allendale, SC 29810
803-584-3446 http://uscsalkehatchie.sc.edu
Voorhees College
103 Academic Circle
Denmark, SC 29042
803-780-1234 www.voorhees.edu
Hospitals
Aiken Regional Medical Center
302 University Pkwy
Aiken, SC 29801
803-641-5000
www.aikenregional.com
Allendale County Hospital
1787 Allendale Fairfax Hwy
Fairfax, SC 29827
803-632-3311
www.allendalecountyhospital.com
Barnwell County Hospital
811 Reynolds Rd
Barnwell, SC 29812
803-259-1000
www.bchospital.org
Local Newspapers
The Aiken Standard
326 Rutland Dr NW
Aiken, SC 29802
803-648-2311 Daily
www.aikenstandard.com
The Advertizer-Herald
369 McGee St
Bamberg, SC 29003
803-245-5204 Wednesdays
www.advertizerherald.com
The People Sentinel
9988 Dunbarton Blvd
Barnwell, SC 29812
803-259-3501 Wednesdays
www.thepeoplesentinel.com
The Star
106 E Buena Vista Ave
North Augusta, SC 29841
803-279-2793 Thursdays
www.northaugustastar.com
Climate & Seasonal Highlights
Thoroughbred Country’s climate is generally
mild and humid. S pring starts in M arch.
Summer begins in J une with pleasant balmy
days that become quite hot befor e 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 har dy camellias. Winter
temperatures can reach 20-30 degrees, and
on rare occasions, w e are treated with a light
dusting of sno w. South Carolina’s annual
hurricane season runs from June through early
November.
Azaleas, dogwoods, wisteria and mor e 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.
63 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Park
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Inside the Ji
Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 64
65 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide
Thoroug
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PO Box 8 Country
Aiken, SC 50
29802
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Phone (803) 649-7981
Toll Free 1-888-834-1654
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