Charleston Unveils Exciting Exhibit Celebrating South Carolina’s Historical Markers

Charleston Gets a Glimpse into the Past with New Exhibit!

Hey there, Charleston! Are you ready to take a stroll down memory lane? Well, you’re in luck! The S.C. Department of Archives and History just unveiled a brand new exhibit in Columbia on December 5th that celebrates the vibrant history of our state, specifically those fascinating historical markers that you see popping up everywhere in South Carolina. Talk about a blast from the past!

Your History Awaits!

So, what exactly can we expect from this exhibit? For starters, it shines a spotlight on the state’s impressive collection of over 2,000 historical markers that dot our beautiful landscape, from the majestic Table Rock to the charming Temple of Sport in the Lowcountry. Eric Emerson, the director of the agency, shared his excitement saying, “In this age where everything is digital…there is something tangible and out there in the public still generates interest among South Carolinians.” It sounds like these markers really do hold a special place in our community’s heart!

History at Your Fingertips

Edwin Breeden, who coordinated the exhibit, emphasized the importance of connecting local groups to history. “History is not just something that unfolds in other places,” he explains. “It’s something that has real connections to places across the state.” And you know what? He’s right! The markers serve as little portals to the past, often showcasing events and figures that are crucial to South Carolina’s identity.

Can you believe this program has been around since 1936? That’s right—in its early days, it began as the S.C. State Historic Preservation Office. Since then, it has become one of the oldest programs of its kind in the United States, and the best part? It’s remarkably straightforward! Groups interested in installing a marker just need to do their homework, apply, and pony up between $2,500 and $3,000 for the aluminum marker. Easy-peasy, right?

What’s on the Marker Menu?

Every year, the program approves about 50 new markers, and some of them are downright intriguing! Here’s a sneak peek at a few of them:

• First Marker: The Long Canes Massacre in Greenwood County commemorates a 1760 attack by the Cherokee on settlers—definitely a story worth telling!
• 2,000th Marker: Finley High School in Chester was unveiled just last October. This marker recognizes a 1950s equalization school built during the civil rights struggles in the state—what a significant piece of history!
• Personal Favorite: Table Rock in Pickens County. This natural feature’s marker delves into its rich social and cultural history, along with the geological aspects—who knew rocks could be so fascinating?

Hidden Gems

Some markers are like little surprises waiting to be discovered! Emerson mentions a few hidden gems that could easily fly under the radar if not for these markers. Take the ones that denote Cherokee townships, which have no remaining trace today, or the marker near Charleston International Airport that highlights a 1790 garden, which was a game changer for American agriculture because of French botanist Andre Michaux.

But wait, it gets even weirder! There’s an odd marker commemorating the infamous Mars Bluff atomic bomb accident in Florence County. Back in 1958, a U.S. Air Force jet *accidentally dropped* a bomb—not a nuclear warhead, thankfully—but it caused quite a ruckus, leaving a massive crater and destroying a house! Pretty wild, right?

Time to Explore!

So, how about we all take some time to explore these fantastic markers scattered across South Carolina? It’s not just about knowing our history; it’s about connecting with our roots. If you haven’t already, check them out—you never know what fascinating stories might be waiting for you!

And remember, this exhibit is just one of the many ways we can celebrate and honor our state’s rich history. So, let’s get out there and embrace Charleston’s vibrant past—one marker at a time!