Way More than Horses! - Thoroughbred Country
Transcription
Way More than Horses! - Thoroughbred Country
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Photographs and art in this publication are copyrighted and cannot or be reproduced without the written permission of the photographer y. artist and/or Thoroughbred Countr 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 2 32 34 What’s Close By 35 36 3 3 6 9 9 12 14 15 16 16 18 18 18 18 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 24 25 Barnwell County 26 26 28 28 28 29 30 31 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 37 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 43 43 44 45 46 47 48 48 49 51 52 54 Meeting & Rental Facilities 55 Festivals & Special Events 57 Plan Your Visit 60 Guided Tours 61 Transportation62 General Living 63 63 63 63 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 W W 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 ell State t Barnw Cabins a Birding at Brick Pond Park Allenda le Coun ty Cou rthous e DuPont Planetari um at R uth Patr ick Scien ce Educa tion Cent er y ller Ga on is rr Ha m Inside the Ji Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide 64 65 Thoroughbred Country Visitors Guide Thoroug hbred PO Box 8 Country Aiken, SC 50 29802 book! Find us on Face dcountrysc horoughbre facebook.com/t sarily does not neces e id u g r's to si vi terest red Country s or points of in se es n si u The Thoroughb b y it ital information. ting of all hosp untry for more o C d contain a full lis re b h g u ro ontact Tho in the region. C of the y is a program tr n u o C d re b h Thoroug ernments. Council of Gov ah n n va Sa er w Lo PRINTED IN USA PRINTED IN USA Phone (803) 649-7981 Toll Free 1-888-834-1654 www.tbredcountry.org 15M - 2/12 40M - 4/13