South Carolina has had a rich and varied history. The state also features some historical destinations which have turned into tourist must-visit hot spots, especially in the town of Aiken. You can enjoy a walk down the path of history in this quaint location.
Although initial attempts failed, a permanent English settlement was set up in 1670 on the coast close to present day Charleston. The colony was named Carolina, Latin for "Charles land" and divided into South and North Carolina in post 1700. The fertility of the low country and the harbours helped South Carolina prosper and soon settlements began to spread. The town of Aiken in South Carolina is a result of the hard work of civil leaders, homeowners and store owners who took pride to develop the town for over 175 years. Today it boasts historic monuments which are a great reflection of an illustrious past.
Historical Monuments in Aiken, South Carolina
The rich and illustrious past of the state is evident from the various landmarks in the state. From plantations and culture filled streets to a number of civil war sites - the list of attractions is endless.
1. Aiken Visitors Center and the Train Museum - Located within the rebuilt Aiken Railroad Depot on Park Avenue, it has nine dioramas accurately showing Charleston, Summerville, St. George, Branchville, Denmark, Blackville, Aiken's freight station, Aiken's passenger depot, and Hamburg, near North Augusta, as they were in the year 1916. The Visitors Center located downstairs will provide you with travel-related information in the form of maps, brochures and event information as well.
2. Statue of William Aiken - The statue of the man who had the town named after him is located at the fountain located in the Newberry Street Festival Center between Park Ave. and Richland Ave. The statue is dedicated to a man who helped save the port of Charleston by moving agricultural goods to the port of Charleston by a train.
3. Hopelands Gardens - This 14-acre public garden bequeathed to the City of Aiken by Mrs. C. Oliver Iselin consists of a network of paths which is shaded under 100 year old live oaks. The gardens also host free concerts and theatrical productions during summer. The gardens remain open between Monday-Sunday, 10:00 A.M. until sunset. There are no admission costs to enter the garden and it is located at Whiskey Road and Dupree Place.
4. Rye Patch - This 10-acre estate was the winter home of Edmund and Dorothy Knox Goodyear Rogers. It was given to the town by the family of the late Mrs. Dorothy Knox Goodyear Rogers. The outbuildings which include stables, guest cottage and also a beautiful rose garden are a huge draw.
5. The Aiken Golf Club, Rose Hill, and Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame are other attractions which cannot be missed. The Aiken County Historical Museum, which is also known as "Banksia" presents a glimpse of the town's past, present and future.
The best way to explore Aiken, South Carolina is to choose the services of a tour guide or tour service in town. Find out more about more about South Carolina travel and discover great things to do in Aiken for the whole family at AikenIs.com.
