Attractions
Historic Craig House
Lancaster, SC 29720
John Craig, Esquire, whose family originated in southwestern Scotland, immigrated to South Carolina from Northern Ireland in 1772. After receiving a land grant in Lancaster County from King George III, Craig bought this land in 1773. John Craig, Esquire and several of his sons fought in the Revolutionary War battles that occurred in the vicinity. The current Craig House dates from the early 1830s, and was originally a federal-style farmhouse. In 1901, it was significantly enlarged with a Victorian front addition by John Edgar and Amanda Drennan Craig, who were married in 1883 at Kilburnie, then the residence of the Drennans. Craig House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. The fields and woods surrounding historic Craig House are all part of pre-Civil War Craig Farm, which included more than a thousand acres. Craig Farm today consists of close to 400 acres and is operated as a cattle farm.
Historic Downtown Chester
Chester , SC 29706
Built on a hill, Historic Downtown Chester offers a unique blend of architectural styles, with many original Victorian-era facades. Monument Square features a stately Confederate monument, 19th century cistern designated a national landmark, authentic Civil War cannons and the historic Aaron Burr Rock. The nationally registered Historic District is composed of numerous churches, homes and other buildings. Walking tour brochures are available in boxes throughout town for visitors who want to explores on their own. Revolutionary War historical sites abound, including the county's Old Catholic Church and Cemetery, where 60 Revolutionary War soldiers are buried. For more information, contact Chamber of Commerce or Downtown Development Association.
Historic Rock Hill & the White Home
Rock Hill, SC 29730
This historic home was built (c. 1840) on the edge of the Catawba Indian Territory and has housed five generations of the White family. The home sits on three-acres of early 20th century grounds and new Southern gardens.Guided and self-guided tours are available and the museum features exhibits on the White family, as well as some of Historic Rock Hill's collection of photographs and documents on the history of Rock Hill. The home and grounds are also available for social and corporate engagements. Guided walking tours of Old Town Rock Hill can also be scheduled.
Historical Society of Chesterfield County
Chesterfield, SC 29709
The society houses exhibits focusing on the county's history. There is also a gift shop, and a museum. Mon-Fri.: 10am-4pm. Located in the Chesterfield Visitors Center (Old Chesterfield County Courthouse).
Huckle Grove
This one acre pedestrian park offers visitors a unique look into our country's past. Many of the trees in the park were cultivated from trees which witnessed historic events in the founding of our country. Each tree has its own story to tell. Open from dawn to dusk.
Kilburnie
Lancaster, SC 29720
Believed to be Lancaster’s oldest surviving home, (c. 1828), Kilburnie--originally located downtown Lancaster-- was saved in 1998 from the wrecking ball and moved over three miles to historic Craig Farm where it underwent extensive restoration. Kilburnie’s rich history and architectural significance warranted the enormous and expensive undertaking. The quality of the restoration is best reflected in the intricate ceiling details of the Kilburnie's public rooms accomplishment by nationally known local artist Jim Shore, who also painted portraits of Andrew Jackson, George Washington, William Richardson Davie, and other pictures gracing Kilburnie's walls.
Kilburnie, the Inn at Craig Farm
Lancaster, SC 29720
Now in its 12th year of operations, the Inn is a luxurious, beautifully maintained Bed and Breakfast Inn with the aura of a small private boutique hotel. This 182 year old antebellum “Grand Dame” was moved in 1999 to 400-acre historic Craig Farm and completely restored to her former Greek revival grandeur. Recommended by Southern Living Magazine, Kilburnie attracts connoisseurs of sophisticated and relaxed comfort. All the beautifully furnished and commodious guestrooms have Bose Radios, fire-side seating and spacious bright private spa-like baths (two of which with fireplaces) all complete with hydro therapy whirlpools. The Inn has every modern amenity one would expect in an upscale hotel. Kilburnie’s quiet and expansive country setting belies its 30 miles proximity from Charlotte, NC. Kilburnie is known for its friendly European-laced hospitality and its gourmet breakfasts. There are nature trails to explore, gardens with seating benches, and three large piazzas with rocking chairs for quiet solitude or socializing. Guests enjoy tours of both Kilburnie and historic Craig House, the innkeeper’s private residence. The grounds and Palladian Pavilion are an exceptional setting for weddings and special events. Kilburnie is also ideal for groups of up to ten adults, making themselves home in this wonderful and very private estate. The Dutch-American innkeeper, Johannes Tromp, is the former General Manager of Windows on the World restaurant, which before 9/11 was one of New York City’s premier establishments. Kilburnie is inspected and approved by the South Carolina Bed and Breakfast association.
Kings Mountain National Military Park
Blacksburg, SC 29702
In 1780 a patriot army of frontiersmen from the Carolinas, Georgia, Virginia, and present day Tennessee engulfed an overconfident loyalist force under British Major Patrick Ferguson at Kings Mountain. The battle is considered to be the “turning point of the American Revolution in the South.” Visitors can see a video on the battle, explore the exhibit area and learn about the people who fought at Kings Mountain at the visitor center, and walk the 1.5 mile loop trail around the battlefield. The bookstore offers publications about the area’s military and cultural history and its plants and animals. Combined with the Kings Mountain State Park, there are 16 miles of hiking trails and 16 miles of horse trails. The Ridgeline Trail stretches 12.1 miles and connects with Crowders Mountain State Park in North Carolina, creating a total of more than 15,000 acres of parkland serving more than 1.5 million visitors a year in the fast-growing corridor between Charlotte (NC) and the Greenville-Spartanburg (SC) areas. Every October 7th, a ceremony commemorates the victory at the Battle of Kings Mountain. Throughout the year, 18th century military encampments and demonstrations are held at the park. Please check the webpage and Facebook page for dates and events. 9 am until 5 pm daily except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Years Day, MLK Day, Presidents Day, and Columbus Day. Located off SC 161 and a beautiful 4 mile drive through Kings Mountain State Park.
Kings Mountain State Park
History and nature come together at this 6,883-acre park that was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the late 1930s. Many of its buildings and structures are still in use and the impressive stonework can be viewed throughout the park. Amenities include 2 lakes for fishing, several streams, and almost 35 miles of hiking, nature, & equestrian trails. The park features the Living History Farm, which offers visitors a chance to experience how South Carolina yeoman farmers lived during the 19th century. Several “Living History” days and festivals are held throughout the year. Offers 115 standard campsites with water & electricity, 10 rustic tent sites, 7 primitive group campsites, and 15 primitive equestrian campsites. Also available are the historic Camp York and Camp Cherokee group camps. These camps have several primitive cabins with a large dining hall in each camp designed for groups of over 100 guests. Open 365 days per year from 8 am–6 pm, extended to 7 am–9 pm during Daylight Savings Time. Self-guided tours of the Living History Farm are available daily from 8am--8pm March through October and 8am--5pm November through February. Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife. Pets are not allowed in or around cabins, cabin areas or other lodging facilities. Park entrance fee: $2/adult; $1.25 for SC Seniors; children age 15 and younger are free.
Lake Wateree State Park
The park provides access to 13,800-acre Lake Wateree which is popular for fishing, boating and other water-related activities. 72 campsites with water and electricity. Bathhouse with hot showers, dump station, picnic area, ice, playground, swimming, nature trail, biking & walking, camp store & tackle shop, fishing, pets allowed on leash. 6am-9pm daily. Park entrance fee charged for ages 15 and over. SC 10 east of US 21 (I-77, exit 41).
Lancaster County Council of the Arts
Gallery exhibits, classes and workshops for all ages. Arts and sciences camps, gift gallery, affiliate clubs, festivals, plays, concerts and more. New art exhibits and artist receptions monthly. Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm. Call for event schedule. Located in the historic Springs House.
Lancaster County Historic Courthouse, Jail and Museum
Lancaster, SC 29720
Built in 1828 and 1823, respectively, these facilities are significant works by Robert Mills who is best known as the designer of the Washington Monument. The jail is the only known example of Mill's use of Medieval design. The courthouse had been in use as the county’s courthouse for over 180 years until an arsonist attempted to burn the building in August 2008. The courthouse has been renovated to its original grandeur and now houses the Lancaster County Welcome Center & Gift Shop and the county's Historical Museum (open 10 am-2 pm Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays as well as by appointment).
Lancaster County Jail
Designed by Robert Mills, this facility was completed in 1823. The downstairs cells were meant to hold debtors, a practice that soon waned. In 1965 soldiers under command of General Sherman tried unsuccessfully to destroy the jail. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is the only known example of Mills' use of medieval design.
Lancaster Cultural Arts District
In 2015, the SC Arts Commission designated an area in downtown Lancaster, SC as a Cultural Arts District. Public art can be seen in the form of sculptures, paintings, murals, etc. and performing arts will be found at many locations throughout the district. Bob Doster's Backstreet Studio is the oldest established artist studio in the district (1970's) and many others have followed. Lancaster County Council of the Arts has been active in the district since its inception in the 1970's. Native American Studies Center houses the world's largest collection of Catawba Pottery and artifacts. Visitors will find the arts alive and well here. The chamber offers a self-guided walking tour and other brochures that include 18 historical points of interest, and 23 historical markers throughout the county. Brochures can be picked up at the chamber's office: 453 Colonial Ave. 803) 283-4105 and at the Welcome Center in the historic Robert Mills Courthouse: 104 N. Main St., Lancaster.
Lando Manetta-Mills History Center
This former mill village has experienced over 253 years of history. Known as Walker's Mill during the American Revolution, the grist mill and surrounding area were occupied by British troops during the summer of 1780. Later known as White's (early 1800s), it was one of the first fulling mills in the south. Benjamin Dawson Heath created Manetta Mills in 1896 and for almost 100 years made blankets that were sold all over the world under the Cannon and Lady Peppermill names, among others. The 1920s company store is now home to the history center which portrays the "mill village" way of life. Open 9am-noon on Mondays and Wednesdays and 2-5 pm on Sundays. Other times by appointment. No admission is charged, but donations are welcome. Handicap accessible. The annual festival, "Lando Days" is held the first Saturday in October each year. It features a car show, live entertainment, children's activities, street vendors and food for purchase.
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