New Beaufort Benches Add Flair!

Downtown Beaufort has some new colorful benches placed throughout the Cultural arts District.  If you’re in town stop, take a load off and learn about the history of this fair city. Twelve benches were built by the Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity and painted by various local artists. Each themed work of art was designed to reflect the artist’s mission, identity, and place in the community.

Artist Omar Patterson designed new Beaufort bench on the corner of Bladen and Duke Streets

Artist Omar Patterson designed and painted a bench that was placed on the corner of Bladen and Duke Streets, just outside of the Beaufort Black Chamber of Commerce. The theme of his bench is Lowcountry Dreaming. The Chamber sponsored the bench, which includes the portraits of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman and Beaufort’s own Robert Smalls.

The bench is also beautifully decorated with a Lowcountry sunset, complete with palm trees and marsh grass. This bench captures the spirit of the important African American history in Beaufort.

New Downtown Beaufort benches Painted by Artists

Artists Sandy Dimke, Frank Anson, Lynne Darling and Tom Van Steenbergh painted the bench that can be found in the courtyard at Bay and Bladen Streets. The theme of the bench captures Beaufort’s earliest history and heritage.

Lowcountry Habitat for Humanity sponsored the bench that can be found at the Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park. The theme of this bench is “Seeking to put God’s love into action”. Artist Linda Silk Sviland used blue and green to represent the organization. The image shows a blueprint beside the completed home.

Artist Ginger Noah Wareham designed the bench located in front of the Reconstruction Era National Park on Craven Street. The theme of her bench is “United when the impossible suddenly became possible. It was sponsored by the Reconstruction Era National Park. The bench is decorated with a marsh scene that depicts the second founding of America during Reconstruction, from 1861-1898.

Artists Jess O’Brien, Aaron Miller, Shawn Hill, Shelley Barratt, Brian Canada designed and painted the bench at the corner of Carteret and North Streets. Plug-in is the theme and Beaufort Digital Corridor is the sponsor.

Beaufort College – Rich Heritage of Education is the theme for the bench that sits at the entrance to the Center for the Arts on Carteret Street. Artists Mary Ann Ford and John Rodriguez painted the bench and master builder Greg Rawls completed the project. The bench honors the Old Beaufort College Building that was built in 1852. It served as a school for former slaves after the war. It became the Freedmen’s Bureau from 1866-1873. It became a primary school from 1880-1959. It joined the University of South Carolina system in 1959.

The bench in front of Tabernacle Baptist Church was designed and painted by Reverend Johnnie Smith. He used a wood burning technique along with acrylic paint to complete his design. His bench is titled “The Black Church” to memorialize Tabernacle Baptist Church. Founded in 1811, this church became the first Baptist church for Beaufort African Americans in 1863. Reverend Simmons is a Vietnam War veteran and Gullah artist who grew up on St. Helena Island. The bench is decorated with an image of a praise house, baptism in the river and the Tabernacle church. Tabernacle Baptist Church sponsored the bench.

Gullah and heritage-themed subjects are a favorite for artist Lisa Gilyard-Rivers. She painted the bench that will sit on the Bluff. Her bench captures views from the downtown waterfront marina. Sailboats, palm trees and marsh views cover the front of the bench. A Gullah couple can be found on the back of the bench.

This bench by artist Aki Kato is placed outside the Pat Conroy Literary Center on Bladen Street.  Kato was a favorite artist of Pat Conroy. He also painted a mural inside the center. His bench is based on the book “The Water is Wide”, which is based on Conroy’s experiences teaching school on Daufuskie Island. The bench was sponsored by the Pat Conroy Literary Center.

The City of Beaufort sponsored the bench that is placed near City Hall. Graphic designer Shawn Hill used images that celebrate city government projects and initiatives throughout the years. The bench shows the city’s commitment to ensure history, charm and businesses survive.

Mather School is the subject of the artwork found on this bench by artist Diane Britton Dunham. The Mather School was founded in 1868 as a boarding school for black girls after emancipation. It continued to educate students for 100 years. It is now part of the Technical College of the Lowcountry. Dunham is an internationally recognized artist known for her illustrations of history and traditional African American southern culture. The bench is sponsored by the Beaufort Arts Council. It is placed on the Technical College of the Lowcountry, in front of the Mather School building.

new Beaufort benches - scenes from Forrest Gump

Scenes from the movie Forrest Gump decorate the bench designed by Linda Silk Sviland. Sponsored by Fripp Island Golf & Beach Resort, the bench sits in the Beaufort Arsenal courtyard. The bench celebrates the iconic movie that was filmed in and around Beaufort and the Lowcountry.

The cultural district’s bench project began in 2019, with the installation of six benches. Six additional benches have recently been placed around town. The benches celebrate the art, history, and culture of Beaufort. Look for these benches in prominent places throughout downtown Beaufort.

All photos were found on the City of Beaufort Facebook page.

For more information on Beaufort attractions visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/beaufort-port-royal-area/.

new Beaufort benches map - south carolina
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Life in the fast lane

Hilton Head Island’s long anticipated new outdoor, family-friendly attraction: GoKarts at Hilton Head is open!

Located at the re-branded Adventure Hilton Head @ Broad Creek Marina, these high performance, driver-friendly electric karts will certainly be this summer’s big attraction. Adventure Hilton Head (previously Broad Creek Marina Adventures), in the heart of HHI, has been offering thrills to the community since 2012 when the vastly popular ZipLine Hilton Head opened. The high flying guided ecotour of 7 ziplines including the dual cable racing zip finale was followed by Aerial Adventure’s 6 rope challenge courses in 2016, offering 4 levels of ability and maneuvering through 50 fun obstacles.

Rounding out the perfect HHI destination is the ever-popular, outdoor waterfront dining at the Marina’s Up the Creek Pub & Grill with its new waterfront partner, Paddles! food truck. The excitement for GoKarts at Hilton Head had reached a roar, and now, it will be the perfect summer destination. The double and single carts are equipped with advanced safety features that allow drivers approximately age 8 and above. The doubles will let children approximately age 3 and above join the driver for fast fun. The track will have attendants at all times and will be continuously sanitized. Height and weight guidelines are still to be determined during the final permitting processes.

GoKart HH prices will be about $15 per ride on this exhilarating track with various packages available for repeat riders. In addition, specially priced packages will be available when also zipping and climbing and swinging and flying and jumping on the other challenge activities. Check myadventurehiltonhead.com. Roger Freedman, owner of Adventure Hilton Head, Broad Creek Marina and Up the Creek, Adventure Hilton Head is that welcomed addition for both tourists and locals.

We have to thank the Town staff and the passionate community for their continual support of this project which had its own curves along the way,” commented Freedman. General Manager Nate Jones added, “I grew up here and now am raising a family here. Our adventure park expansion will be the perfect playground for young and not so young. We can’t wait to enjoy kids’ laughter again.” In addition, to driving and flying at Adventure Hilton Head, the adjacent Broad Creek Marina offers loads of water activities including kayaking, skiff tours, parasailing, jet skis, dolphin tours and charter boats. See Broadcreekmarinahh.com for details. Online reservations are strongly recommended.

See myadventurehiltonhead.com for details on available times, pricing and restrictions. — For further information, contact: Pam Freedman pgfreedman@aol.com (860)559-6030.

For information on other Hilton Head adventures visit https://southcarolinalowcountry.com/hilton-head-island-area/.

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Walterboro’s Rice Festival

Come join the fun!

The 2022 Colleton County Rice Festival has been scheduled for April 29-30, 2022.
This annual event features arts and crafts, food, fireworks, music, a parade and much more! Competitors can take part in the corn hole tournament and Rice Run.

According to the Rice Festival website, “Since it first arrived in 1685, rice helped create enormous wealth for the Lowcountry, and Colleton County was perfect for growing it. During the annual Rice Festival, we celebrate the heritage of rice in this community and the beauty of the people and land that continue to bless this great country.”

Come enjoy a fun-filled week of family activities in the warm Carolina sun. The Rice Festival has all the elements that make it fun for the entire family. Central to the festival is an arts and crafts area with a wide array of handcrafted items. The queen of the Rice Festival is crowned in a special pageant and she takes her rightful place of honor in the Rice Festival Parade as it meanders through downtown as a kickoff event to the festival. A 5K run, rated one of the top races in South Carolina, is another signature event for the festival. And what Carolina Festival is complete without a food court? Sprinkle in activities such as fireworks, music, and other entertainment, and you’ve got an event sure to please the entire family.

Explore the streets of our county seat and experience a full schedule of family activities. Come see why Walterboro is the front porch of the Lowcountry. For more information visit Ricefestival.org or follow them on Facebook.

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Beaufort’s John Mark Verdier House Has Been Restored

Downtown Beaufort’s John Mark Verdier House has recently undergone an extensive facelift. The home has served as a well-preserved museum since 1975, giving visitors a glimpse into the home of a wealthy Beaufort merchant and landowner. Master craftsmen have been working diligently since February to restore the exterior and return the house to its former glory. The work is now complete. A ribbon cutting and reopening ceremony will take place this Saturday, May 8th, at 10 am.

The house museum was built in 1804 by a successful merchant and planter. The house was visited by the Marquis de Lafayette on his southern tour in 1825, and later served as the Federal Headquarters by Union troops during the Civil War’s occupation of Beaufort. Luckily, the house remained in the Verdier family until the 1940s. It did, however, led a very colorful life in the early twentieth century. It served as a restaurant, telephone exchange and barber shop. These destructive uses put the house into disrepair. It was slated for demolition in 1944, but a committed group of citizens, that would later be known as the Historic Beaufort Foundation, acquired the house, renovated it, and opened it to the public in 1975.

The Verdier House was once called the Lafayette House because of the 1825 visit by the Marquis de Lafayette during his tour of the south.

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Tour Beaufort from the Water with Coastal Expeditions South

 

Spend a day on the River with Coastal Expeditions South

 

 

If your idea of fun is getting out on the river to learn about native wildlife and history, Coastal Expeditions South has a tour for you! The highly skilled boat captains and their crew have four options in Beaufort: St. Phillip’s Island, Beaufort Dolphin and History, Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise, or a private boat charter. Coastal Expeditions has been in business in Charleston since 1992. In 2020 they decided to branch farther south to Beaufort and the Sea Islands. Let their experienced guides weave stories of local history and point out wildlife native to the Beaufort coast.

 

 

Images from Coastal Expeditions South website.

 

St Phillip’s Island Tour

 

St. Phillip’s Island was recently acquired by Hunting Island State Park. For nearly 40 years, conservationist and cable television mogul Ted Turner and his family used this sea island as a retreat. During their ownership, trails were carved throughout the maritime forest and wildlife habitats were restored. St. Phillip’s Island is a nature-lover’s paradise. Walk under canopies of moss-draped live oaks in search of fox squirrels, bobcats, bald eagles, roseate spoonbills, and painted buntings.  Stroll the pristine beach and look for loggerhead sea turtles and wading birds. Walk along the fresh-water ponds and spot alligators sunning along the banks.

 

 

This naturalist-led ecotour departs from the Hunting Island State Park Nature Center. Travel by boat along the Story River to the St. Phillip’s dock. A park ranger will greet visitors and provide a 3.5-mile tram ride to the beach. Ramble along the beach, hike the interior trails and enjoy all the island has to offer. At the end of the trip, the park ranger will take visitors back to the dock for the return boat ride. It’s a good idea to bring a backpack with drinking water, lunch, camera, sunblock, and insect repellant.

 

For departure times visit Coastal Expeditions St Phillip’s Island Tours.

 

 

Beaufort Dolphin and History Cruise

 

Beaufort is a beautiful and historic city that is best viewed from the water. The Beaufort Dolphin and History Cruise departs from the downtown marina. As you cruise along the waterfront, your captain will tell stories from local history from early Native American s and Spanish exploration to French settlement and English colonization. As the boat travels along the river native wildlife will be pointed out and discussed. Many varieties of birds and marine mammals are sure to be spotted.

 

 

The cruise passes the ruins of Ft. Frederick, an early American fort made of tabby construction. During the Civil War, this fort was transformed into Fort Saxon and was the training facility of the first black regiment for the Union Army. The Emancipation Proclamation was also read here on January 1, 1862. This cruise is entertaining for all age groups. The boat is Coast Guard-certified, and a master captain is at the helm.  Be sure to pack drinking water, binoculars, camera, and a wind breaker.

 

Monday/Wednesday/Saturday/Sunday, 11 am – 12:30 pm

 

 

Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise

 

Coastal Expedition South’s Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise is fun for kids of all ages. This is a family-friendly ecotour that explores the estuary of the Story River where bottlenose dolphin flourish.  While searching for dolphin, the tour also searches for bald eagles, ospreys, and other native birds of prey. Often their nests can be spotted as well. Brown pelicans, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, herons and egrets are sure to be spotted as well!

 

 

The on-board naturalist will also entertain visitors with stories of local history dating from American Indians to European settlers. Be sure to pack drinking water, binoculars, camera, and a windbreaker.

 

Wednesdays & Sundays at 10 – 11:30 am

 

 

Private Boat Charters

 

Looking for a private charter on the river? Coastal Expeditions South has a fleet of three boats ready to take you on a tour of the Beaufort area. An outing with family and friends can be easily arranged. A trip can be tailored around the needs and interests of your guests. Private tours can revolve around dolphins, local history, St. Phillip’s Island and more. You can even schedule a sunset cruise.

 

 

Private tours are available for booking year-round. Boat captains and mates are trained naturalists and gifted storytellers. Their knowledge of local history and wildlife is extensive and entertaining.

 

 

The ladies of the Lowcountry Tourism Commission were treated to a private tour of the Beaufort River. We departed from the downtown marina and headed toward Port Royal Sound. Along the way we were treated to visits by dolphins, snowy egrets, oyster catchers, double-crested cormorants, and a nesting osprey. Along the way, we were delighted with stories of history and nature by the talented and gifted Captain Henry Brandt. He is a natural-born storyteller and comedian, all rolled into one! His knowledge of the Lowcountry shoreline habitat is second to none! His tour was educational and entertaining, and I would definitely recommend his tour services to anyone looking to explore the natural wonder of Beaufort and her surrounding sea islands.

 

 

For more information call (843)884-7684, or email info@coastalexpeditions.com.

 

 

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Let’s Get Pickin’ – Local produce can be found across the Lowcountry

Farm Fresh Produce in the SC Lowcountry

 

Farm fresh local produce can be found during the spring and summer months throughout the SC Lowcountry. From u-pick farms, to produce stands and farmers markets, seasonal produce is abundant in our neck of the woods!

 

 

U-Pick

Beaufort County

You can find Dempsey Farms on the way to Hunting Island State Park, Harbor and Fripp Islands. The farm has various produce throughout the seasons, starting with strawberries in April.  They are a working family farm growing produce for the last sixty years. For a farm fresh experience stop by and pick with us. Follow their Facebook page to see what is available.

1576 Sea Island Pkwy.
St Helena Island, SC 29920
843-838-3656

Bluffton’s Okatee River Farms has a great selection of local fruit and produce. This small family farm is located 1/2 mile from 278 in Bluffton, SC. They grow tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, okra, peppers and strawberries. April and May is the perfect time to stop by for u-pick strawberries. Follow their Facebook page to see what’s available.

1921 Okatie Hwy.
Okatie SC
843-206-5023

Colleton County

 Breland Hill Farm is a multigenerational family farm raising fruits, vegetables, and much more! A market is located in Ruffin. Housed in a repurposed tobacco barn, they grow, process, and sell all of their farm products here. U-pick strawberry fields are also located here. Visit their Facebook page to see what’s in season.

849 Spence Dr.
Ruffin, SC 29475
843-866-7560 Call for hours of operation.

 

 

Shop at the Farm

 

Beaufort County

Morning Glory Homestead is a family farm on St. Helena Island, which uses sustainable agriculture methods to feed the community. This small family farm began as a homestead for a family of seven. Visitors to the farm can buy seasonal produce, bakery items, eggs and honey. You can also call to schedule a farm tour. The tour includes the rich history of the Gullah community.

For more information visit their blog.

Mon – Fri:  By Appointment
42 Robert & Clara Trail
St. Helena Island, SC
843-812-0344

Bluffton’s Okatee River Farms has a great selection of local fruit and produce. They currently have u-pick strawberries. They are also currently planting sunflowers for harvest. They also have seasonal fruit and veggies throughout the year. Visit their Facebook page to see what’s in season.

1921 Okatie Hwy.
Okatie SC
843-206-5023

Colleton

Kindlewood Farms was born from the interest in the age old techniques of grafting and a passion to create quality, sustainable produce. We are dedicated to producing high quality heirloom tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, okra, corn, squash, cucumbers, watermelon, and cantaloupe. We also grow grafted heirloom tomato plants and grafted cucurbits. Visit their Facebook page to see what’s in season and where to find them.

kindlewood.farms@gmail.com
(843)302-2312

Jasper County

If you are in Jasper County and looking for fresh eggs, look no farther than Earleah Plantation. Call for more information or to order and pick up fresh eggs.
843-540-2200,  earleahvintageglass@gmail.com

Whipporwhill Farms is a40-acre small family farm offering fresh chicken, rabbit and pork as well as fresh eggs and seasonal veggies. Come to the farm Monday, Wednesday or Sunday to shop on site, or find them at the Hilton Head Farmers Market at Coastal Discovery Museum on Tuesdays. Visit their Facebook page to see what’s in stock.

870 Tillman Road
Ridgeland, SC
843-473-5231

Hampton County

Murdaugh Farms is a family-owned and operated farm offering a large variety of produce throughout the year. Some of the produce offered include the well-known Hampton County watermelons, squash (several varieties), cucumbers, zucchini, corn, red potatoes and other varieties of potatoes, okra, carrots, collard greens and many other types of produce. As produce becomes available, it will be posted on the Facebook page. We sell our produce both to the wholesale and retail markets as well as to individual buyers looking for just enough for a meal or two.

22603 Pocotaligo Road
Early Branch, SC
803-942-3814

Drawdy Farms is a family-owned business, selling fresh locally grown fruits and veggies. Their produce stand is open year around, with whatever is in season at the time. We proudly serve the low country and support local farmers. Join their Facebook page for weekly updates!

2598 Hopewell Rd
Brunson, SC

 

The Port Royal Farmer’s Market is open Saturdays, from 9 am-noon, rain or shine. You will find fresh, local, seasonal produce, shrimp, oysters, poultry, beef, pork, eggs, bread and cheese. If you have a green thumb, look for plants, ferns, camellias, azaleas, citrus trees and beautiful, fresh cut flower bouquets. Check out the fabulous prepared food vendors serving BBQ, dumplings, she crab soup, crab cakes, paella, coffee, baked goods, bagels and breakfast sandwiches. Find them at the Port Royal Naval Heritage Park at the intersection of Ribaut Road and Pinckney Blvd.

The Bluffton Farmers Market is open Thursdays, from 12-5 pm. Come find fresh, locally grown vegetables, fruits, flowers, plants and herbs at the Farmers Market of Bluffton. Gather with locals and tourists at this weekly community event to buy excellent produce, enjoy delicious food, listen to entertainment, and relax with friends. Located in historic downtown Bluffton along Calhoun and Lawrence Streets and through Carson Cottages, this family friendly market showcases local growers, local food vendors, local entertainment, local community causes and local information about the Bluffton area. Find them at 71 Green Street in historic Bluffton.

Come to the Hilton Head Island Farmers Market at Coastal Discovery Museum and take home fresh produce, chicken, rabbit, pork, seafood, salsa, fresh sausage, beef, meals to cook, cookies, breads, she crab soup and much more! The market is open every Tuesday from 10-3 in the spring, summer and fall. Hours shorten to 9 am-1 pm in the winter. Shopping at the Hilton Head Farmers Market is about more than getting great food, it is about meeting friends, strengthening the community, and rebuilding the local food economy. Find the Hilton Head Farmers Market on the grounds of Coastal Discovery Museum, 70 Honey Horn Drive, on Hilton Head Island.

The Ridgeland Farmers Market hosts a variety of vendors, including produce, baked goods, prepared meals, arts, crafts and estate sales. The market is located on Main Street in downtown Ridgeland. They are open Fridays, from 1-6 pm.

Hampton Farmers Market – 803-943-2586 Highway 278, Hampton

 

 

Roadside Markets

Beaufort County

Barefoot Farms – 939 Sea Island Parkway St. Helena, SC, (843) 838-7421

Dempsey Farms – 1576 Sea Island Parkway, St. Helena, SC, (843) 838-3656

Four Seasons Produce and Nursery – 1611 Trask Pkwy, Seabrook, SC, (843) 846-2777

Lowcountry Produce – 1919 Trask Pkwy, Seabrook, SC, (843) 846-9438

Pasture Shed Farm – 1083 Sea Island Parkway St. Helena Island, SC, (843) 812-8366

Colleton County

Keegan-Filion Farm – 1475 Keegan Drive, Walterboro, SC, (843) 538-2565

Rizer’s Pork and Produce – 2357 Confederate Hwy., Lodge, SC, (843) 866-2645

Breland Hill Farm 1002 Bells Hwy, Walterboro, SC, (843)5497560

Jasper

Whippoorwhill Farms – 870 Tillman Road, Ridgeland, SC, (843)473-5231

Hampton

Drawdy Farms 2598 Hopewell Rd, Brunson

 

 

Community Supported Agriculture

Beaufort County (Bluffton) – Three Sisters Farm

Colleton – Kindlewood Farms

 

 

Fresh Meat & Seafood

Beaufort

Sea Eagle Market is a family owned and operated retail and wholesale market and catering company located at 2149 Boundary St. in Beaufort. Stop by and pick up soft shell crabs, shrimp and more! Open Monday thru Saturday, from 9 am – 6 pm. For daily information visit their Facebook page. (843)521-5090

Maggioni Oyster Company is South Carolina’s largest provider of premium quality wild-harvested bushels and single oysters. They harvest oysters at low tide, wash off the briny mud, and deliver them directly to their customers. Maggioni Oyster Company first opened on Daufuskie Island in 1883 and later built a cannery in Beaufort. They have been family owned and operated for five generations. Find them at 440 Eddings Point Rd, on St. Helena Island. (912)844-1031

Lady’s Island Oysters specializes in single lady oysters, grown in the clean, crisp waters of the SC Lowcountry. The estuaries that nurture their oysters are filled with pure salt water flowing directly from the Atlantic Ocean. Great pride is taken to nurture oysters from hatchery to harvest. Find them at 35 Hutson Drive, in Seabrook. (843)473-5018

Bluffton

Bluffton Oyster Company has been a family run operation since 1899. The Bluffton Oyster Company actually sits on reclaimed land, built up by more than a hundred years of discarded shells from previous shucking operations. The oyster business thrived in early Bluffton and throughout the 1920’s, with five different oyster operations in the area. Now the Bluffton Oyster Company remains the last hand-shucking house in the state of South Carolina. They specialize in fresh local seafood; oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, scallops, fish filets, soft shell crabs and live blue crabs. Hours of operation are 9 am – 5:30 pm, Monday thru Saturday. You can also purchase fried shrimp, oysters and soft shell crab at the Bluffton Farmers Market on Thursdays. Find them at 63 Wharf St. (843)757-4010

Edisto Island

Flowers Seafood has been commercially fishing and serving fresh, local seafood on Edisto Island for four generations. Come into their family owned seafood market and browse the selection of fresh, wild caught seafood. They have a large selection of fish, shrimp, crabs, and other seafood that comes “fresh  off the boat” daily. If you’re interested in cooked food try their “To-Go”  restaurant located right behind Flowers Seafood Company.  The same fresh seafood is made ready to order. Stop by on your way to Edisto Beach. The market is open Monday-Saturday, from 9 am-6 pm, and Sunday 9 am-5 pm. The Flowers Seafood To-Go Food Truck is open Thursday-Saturday 11 am-7 pm. They are located just six miles from the beach at 1914 Hwy 174, Edisto Island, SC (843)869-0033 (Market), (843)869-3303 (kitchen/to-go orders)

Ridgeland

Fiddler’s Seafood Market and Restaurant is a historical and beloved destination where fresh seafood is enjoyed and homemade goods are shared. Fiddlers gives customers an authentic taste of local, old-fashioned southern comfort. Their seafood is either caught by Fiddler’s owner, Billy Rowell on his very own boat or purchased from local fishermen. Within walking distance of their restaurant is the seafood market, where customers can bring home southern hospitality in its finest form. Fresh produce, homemade baked goods, and local crafts are all created by our own staff, or by the artisans of the Ridgeland, SC community. Visit their Facebook page to see what’s going on in the restaurant and market, or visit for yours self. The restaurant is located at 7738 West Main Street, (843)726-6681. The seafood market is just around the corner at 572 South Green Street, (843)726-6691.

Hampton

Tuten’s Fresh Market Meat and Seafood is Hampton’s finest local butcher shop. This family owned business has been around for over 30 years. Ran by an expert butcher and grill master, Tuten’s is dedicated to delivering the very best meat and freshest seafood, with farm fresh produce and some staple grocery items as well! Come by and see them sometime. They’ll be glad to help you find anything you are looking for as well as give you some great tips for seasoning, marinating, and grilling your meals to perfection. Located at 604 Elm St. in Hampton, (803)943-4670. Visit their Facebook page for daily updates.

 

 

 

 

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The PGA Palmetto Championship

The Congaree Golf Club is the home of this 2021 PGA Tour event!

 

PGA Palmetto Championship

The Palmetto Championship, a PGA Tour event, will be held June 7-13 in Ridgeland at the Congaree Golf Club. This one-time event will fill the spot left open when the 2021 RBC Canadian Open was cancelled. This official FedEx Cup event will field 156 golfers.

 

Governor Henry McMaster recently announced the event and said, “South Carolina is open for business and we are proud to have the opportunity to take advantage of this unique opportunity. This nationally televised, elite tournament will give people from around the world a chance to see all that South Carolina has to offer and will jumpstart our tremendous tourism industry. We are grateful to the PGA Tour and Congaree’s owner, Dan Friedkin, for this opportunity to highlight our great state.”

 

 

The Congaree Golf Club was built on Davant Plantation. The original Greek Revival home on this historic property was burned in 1865 by Sherman’s troops. The circa 1820 that we see today was dismantled and transferred piece-by-piece to this site from a neighboring property that was also owned by the Davant family. This property was also the principal backdrop for scenes in the 1995 movie Something to Talk About. The club launched the Global Golf Initiative to target underprivileged high school students who are passionate about golf and show academic promise. They even built a schoolhouse on the property to prepare students for college admissions. Congaree’s Palmetto Championship joins the list of other 2021 significant tournaments in the state including the RBC Heritage in Hilton Head Island, the PGA Championship on Kiawah Island and Greenville’s annual BMW Charity Pro-Am presented by SYNNEX Corporation.

 

The 2021 Palmetto Championship at Congaree will be broadcast on CBS, Golf Channel and PGA TOUR LIVE, and internationally on GOLFTV powered by the PGA TOUR.

Please visit https://www.pgatour.com/tournaments/palmetto-championship-at-congaree.html for details about tickets, sponsorships, volunteering and more.

 

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Let’s go fishing!

SC Lowcountry state parks offer excellent fishing opportunities!

It’s always a good time to go fishing in the South Carolina Lowcountry! We offer a true sportsman’s paradise! Our unique landscape provides many spots for anglers to prove their skills in both fresh and salt water. Our state parks are a great place to “catch the big one”, but don’t forget to pick up a valid South Carolina fishing license before dropping a line into the water.

Hunting Island State Park has five miles of beaches to fish, along with Johnson Creek, a salt-water lagoon, and an ocean inlet. Fish for trout, redfish, and flounder. Head over to the fishing pier at the southern tip of the park to try your luck. The pier extends 1,120 feet into the Fripp Inlet, where snapper, grouper and bigger varieties are found. Bait, equipment and other supplies can be purchased at the park store in the campground. The park also has a tackle loaner program. Rods and reels are available at the nature center for use on the pier.  The park has a boat ramp that has access to both Harbor River and Fripp Inlet. Bring the camper and stay for a while in the beachfront campground.
Hunting Island State Park
2555 Sea Island Pkwy
Beaufort, SC
843-838-2011

Fish along the surf at Edisto Beach State Park or head over to the salt marsh. Flounder, whiting, redfish, and other saltwater fish can be caught here. Want to bring the boat? A boat ramp and dock with access to Big Bay Creek can be found in the park. Edisto Beach State Park also has a beachfront campground.
Edisto Beach State Park
8377 State Cabin Road
Edisto Island, SC
843-869-2156

Colleton State Park connects to Givhans Ferry State Park to offer 23 miles of freshwater, blackwater fishing. The park is conveniently located off Interstate 95 at Exit 68. A boat ramp is just ¼ miles away, with easy access to the Edisto River, one of the longest free flowing blackwater rivers in the country. Fish by boat or along the shore for bream, redbreast and catfish. The park is also the headquarters for the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail. This park participates in the tackle loaner program. Rods and reels are available for loan at the park office.  Colleton State Park also has a campground.
Colleton State Park
147 Wayside Lane
Walterboro, SC
843-538-8206

Lake Warren State Park is located in Hampton, SC. Lake Warren is a 200-acre lake that offers freshwater fishing and boating. Fish this freshwater lake for largemouth bass, brim, redbreast, crappie, and catfish. The lake has two different boat ramps for boats with 10 horsepower motors. Jon boats are also available for rent year-round. Boats come complete with trolling motor, life jackets and paddles. Rentals are available through the park ranger. The lake also has a fishing dock.
Lake Warren State Park
1079 Lake Warren Road
Hampton, SC
803-943-5051

Looking for more fishing opportunities? We have marinas, and multiple charter fishing services.  Have your own boat? We have 31 boat ramps in both fresh and salt water, fishing piers and artificial reefs. Fishing in South Carolina is popular year-round for fresh water, large mouth, red-breast, and catfish. The salt-water species vary from trout, redfish and flounder inshore to marlin, dolphin, king mackerel, snapper, grouper and much more offshore. Choose from a half dozen rivers, a beautiful little lake, or a great big ocean. Like shell fish? Catch your own shrimp and crabs, or dig clams and harvest oysters.

For more fishing opportunities in the SC Lowcountry visit southcarolinalowcountry.com/fishing

 

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Widgeon Point Preserve

Beaufort County’s Newest Treasure

Widgeon Point Preserve

Looking for a dog-friendly place to commune with nature? Widgeon Point Preserve is Beaufort County’s newest passive park.  Here you’ll find 162 acres of mixed pine-hardwood forest, maritime forest, and salt marsh along the Broad River. Located on Lemon Island, off Hwy 170, the preserve is co-owned by Beaufort County and the Beaufort County Open Land Trust.

Sidewalks lead from the paved parking lot to a picnic pavilion, a bird blind, and an event barn.  A 0.7-mile hiking loop travels the perimeter of the adjacent hummock island. The loop is a wide, flat nature trail that travels through pines, palms, and oak trees. Views of the river can be seen from several different vantage points.

The preserve is a great spot for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. There’s even a water fountain that is equipped for dogs. While hiking, keep a keen eye for white-tailed deer, bald eagles, fox squirrels and wading birds. Alligators have also been seen in the fresh-water ponds, so be careful to keep the dogs away from the water’s edge.

The various coastal habitats of Widgeon Point Preserve support a rich diversity of wildlife and plants. Visitors have extraordinary opportunities to observe the natural beauty of the Lowcountry. The preserve is open daily, from dawn to dusk.

Widgeon Point Preserve
43 Okatie Hwy, Beaufort, SC

For more information on Beaufort and Lowcountry attractions, visit southcarolinalowcountry.com.

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Hickory Valley Historic District

Walterboro’s Hickory Valley Historic District lies northwest of the National Historic District. The district once had four key properties and fifteen supporting properties. Most of the buildings were constructed between 1821 and 1929 and reflect the architectural characteristics of the period. The homes include a concentration of early homes dating from Walterboro’s heyday as a pineland resort village for lowcountry planters.

Walterboro was founded in 1784 by planters seeking a healthy climate away from the malarial swamps of the Lowcountry. Modest summer cottages soon clustered in a thriving summer resort. The area of Hickory Valley was bound by Webb, Verdier, Valley and Witsell Streets. The area became a town commons, where military drills were performed, political meetings were held and recreation was enjoyed.

  1. 334 Wichman Street is home to this one-story Victorian frame residence built in 1910. A veranda extends across the entire front. It is supported by turned posts with sawn brackets. A balustrade connects the posts. The hip roof has a central cross gable with an arched vent and fish-scale shingles. The entrance has a transom and sidelights.

2. The Jones-McDaniel House at 418 Wichman Street was originally built as a one-story structure in 1835 by Jenkins Jones. The McDaniel family purchased the home and altered its appearance drastically in 1935. A semicircular portico was added with four colossal Iconic columns and oversized Scamozzi capitals. One story verandas extend from both sides of the central portico.

3. 125 Magnolia Street is home to this two-story frame house with two tiers of verandas. It was built in 1905 with a superimposed portico. Two Iconic columns on brick bases support a centered pediment. The lower veranda wraps around the sides of the home. It is supported by paired wooden columns on brick bases. The upper veranda has single columns.

4. The Beach-Fogarty House is located at 102 Webb Street. This house was built in 1910. It is a one-half story residence sheathed in weatherboard. The hip roof is accented with a pediment over the portico. The central doorway is surrounded by sidelights and a fanlight.

5. 201 Webb Street is the home of the Edward B. Fishburne House. Built circa 1829, this gable roof frame residence is sheathed in weatherboard. A shed-roofed veranda extends across the façade. It is supported by four square pillars. The five-bay façade has a central doorway complete with elliptical fanlight and sidelights. This house was once one of four key properties of the historic district. It is the only one that is still standing.

6. This one-story frame house can be found at 202 Webb Street. The exterior is covered in weatherboard and has a jerkinhead roof. A central hooded chimney rises from the roof. The entrance is protected by a small, pedimented portico.

Built circa 1920, the one and a half story frame house can be found at 205 Valley Street. A gable roof extends over the front porch with a quadruple window in the gable end. The front parch is supported by six wooden pillars. The central entry is surrounded by a transom and sidelights.

Hickory Valley was designated a Historic District in 1980. It includes several of the earliest and most prominent homes of Walterboro. Major architectural styles from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries are represented. The seven homes presented are all that remains of the district.

To read more about the nationally recognized historic properties of Walterboro, read Tour of Walterboro’s Historic District and More Historic Walterboro.

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SOUTH CAROLINA LOWCOUNTRY

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The Lowcountry & Resort Islands Region of South Carolina includes the four, southern-most counties in the state, Beaufort, Jasper, Hampton, and Colleton, which are bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and on the west by the Savannah River and the state of Georgia.

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The South Carolina Lowcountry Guidebook is filled with many things to see and do in the beautiful Lowcountry of South Carolina. Please fill out the information and we will send you a FREE GUIDE BOOK.

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