Abbeville was founded in 1758, a courthouse town and the county seat, built on a square near a large spring on land owned by General Andrew Pickens. Dr. John de la Howe, an early Huguenot, named the town for his hometown of Abbeville, France.

The town of Abbeville was so actively involved in events relating to the Civil War that it claims the title "Birthplace and Deathbed of the Confederacy". On November 22, 1860, Secession Hill was the site of the first public meeting organized to consider seceding from the Union. On May 2, 1865, at the Burt-Stark Mansion, President Jefferson Davis met for the last time with his Council of War and agreed to disband his Confederate troops.

A tree-shaded square is surrounded with unique shops and stores, which as a result of their restoration to their 19th century appearance, display their original colors and styles. The Abbeville Opera House was restored to its original splendor in 1968. In 1984, the Belmont Inn was renovated, completing the restoration of the historic square. The 20th Century Fox movie, "Sleeping With the Enemy" starring Julia Roberts was filmed here.

Due West is home to Erskine College and Seminary, the only Associate Reformed Presbyterian College and Seminary in the United States.

Calhoun Falls State Park is an ideal spot for both camping and boating enthusiasts. For more information: Greater Abbeville Chamber of Commerce, 864/366-4600, 107 Court Square, Abbeville, SC 29620 Calhoun Falls Chamber of Commerce 864/418-8672, P. O. Box 452, Calhoun Falls, SC 29628

Edgefield County
Founded in 1785, Edgefield County has played a large role in South Carolina's history. The county is best known for having produced ten governors and five lieutenant governors. Residents have also assisted in the establishment of Clemson University and Winthrop University.

The town of Edgefield boasts the Old Edgefield Pottery where a resident potter still makes alkaline-glazed stoneware in the Old Edgefield pottery tradition. Antebellum homes such as Oakley Park and Magnolia Dale are open for tours and provide an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon while learning the colorful history of Edgefield. In Edgefield, a complete genealogical library is housed in the Courtesy Center. The Center provides the necessary connections for those intent on filling in their family tree.

The town of Trenton is home to the award-winning Trenton Peach Festival.

Nearby Johnston, with its Victorian architecture and many antique shops, was designated in 1983 as "The Peach Capital of the World." For more information: The Edgefield County Chamber of Commerce, 803/275-0010, 416 Calhoun Street, Johnston, SC 29832

Back To Top

Greenwood County
The Visitors Center at Ninety Six National Historic Site makes an excellent starting point in Greenwood County. Here, at the home of the Revolutionary War's first southern land battle, visitors will find much reconstructed history.

The Museum, located in Greenwood, displays Indian artifacts, a pioneer doctor's office, a geology collection, war relics and mounted birds and animals. The Greenwood Community Theater and Lander University provide cultural events in the area. The Railroad Museum is another point of interest, featuring railcars dating to the 18th century. Greenwood County, though a bustling high-tech industrial and cultural center, has not lost the lush beauty for which it was named in 1824. A definite "must" on the calendar for summer visitors is the week-long South Carolina Festival of Flowers. The Park Seed Company, nationally known as one of the largest family-owned mail order seed companies and for its magnificent gardens, is a major focal point during the festival. Stoney Point Golf Club will entertain every golf enthusiast. Emerald Farm, located off Hwy. 34, is a fully operational goatmilk farm which sells cheese and soaps in a delightful gift shop.

Ware Shoals provides an easy-going way of life on the banks of the Saluda River.

For more information: Greenwood Area Chamber of Commerce, 864/223-8431, P. O. Box 980, 110 Phoenix Street, Greenwood, SC 29648 Ninety Six Chamber of Commerce, 864/543-7653, P. O. Box 111, 120 West Main Street, Ninety Six, SC 29666

Back To Top

Laurens County
Laurens County began as a major intersection of travel in colonial America. The same five crossroads promoted a centralization of agriculture and textile mills in later years, and Laurens County quickly gained an agrarian wealth and lifestyle that is well-demonstrated by the fine homes and churches in Laurens' and Clinton's historic districts. Presbyterian College is a 4-year liberal arts school, nestled in the beautiful historic section of Clinton.

Laurens County abounds with historical sites such as the Revolutionary War's Lyndley's Fort, the sites of the Battle of Musgrove Mill and the Hayes Station Massacre. Also bearing historical landmarks are the Rosemont Plantation and a variety of 18th century churches. The James Dunklin House in Laurens is a showplace of antiques.

Blessed with a moderate climate, abundant water supply and excellent transportation (Interstate 26 intersects the county), the people of Laurens County have fashioned what could be described as a prototype of the rapidly growing "New South" in an atmosphere of charming Old-South beauty. For more information: Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, 864/833-2716, P. O. Box 248, Laurens, SC 29360, 291 Industrial Park, Clinton, SC 29325

Back To Top

McCormick County
At the doorway to the fabulous J. Strom Thurmond Lake, McCormick County offers a beautiful blend of the old and new. Amidst modern recreational facilities in breathtaking settings, you'll enjoy visiting Dorn Mill – a restored grist mill. The Guillebeau House and the John de la Howe School are some of the historic sites that await you.

The City of McCormick is literally built on history. Beneath the town lie almost five miles of tunnels from the gold mines of previous centuries. You'll find entrances to the tunnels within walking distance of the town's central business district.

The McCormick County Arts Council (MACK) offers music and painting classes, theater, craft programs, exhibits and performances and the Gallery Shop.

Facilities for fishing and boating await sportsmen at beautiful J. Strom Thurmond Lake, formerly Clarks Hill. The Visitors Center for Lake Thurmond is located just off Hwy. 28. Sumter National Forest provides over 20 miles of hiking trails. An abundance of deer, wild turkey,and dove make hunting a popular pastime. The Dorn Sport Fishing and Boating Facility provides an area for fishing enthusiasts and tournaments.

Hickory Knob, Baker Creek and Hamilton Branch are beautiful state parks which provide facilities for golf, paddle boating, picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming and camping. Savannah Lakes Resort and Marina boasts a beautiful lodge, lakeside restaurant and two magnificent 18-hole championship golf courses. For more information: McCormick County Chamber of Commerce, 864/852-2835, P. O. Box 938, 100 Main Street, McCormick, SC 29835

Back To Top