This publication was written by Kim Cooper and her staff at Find Aiken Real Estate. Aiken, South Carolina ©2015 Not subject to Copyright
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To those of you desiring more than a casual glance, welcome to historic Aiken, South Carolina. Come and experience our town with its beautiful parkways and shaded streets, its double avenues and historic mansions and enjoy a bit of our intriguing folklore. Among the many things that have helped to shape Aiken, three of the main events are the railroad, the Winter Colony influence and the largest industrial impact for the area, the Savannah River Site. William Aiken, President of the South Carolina Canal and Railroad Company, commissioned a railroad to run from Charleston, South Carolina to Hamburg, South Carolina running through Aiken. The railroad was completed in 1833, and the city of Aiken was chartered in 1835. Aiken became a place of retreat for Charlestonians who wanted to escape the heat and malaria brought on by the summer months. The Winter Colony was made up of wealthy northerners who were attracted by Aiken’s warm climate and ideal area for equestrian sports. Restorations completed during the Winter Colony era bring an air of sophistication and charm to downtown Aiken. The Savannah River Site (SRS) is a facility that was designed to produce nuclear materials during the Cold War. It was completed in 1953 and the construction of the 300 square-mile site employed 38,582 workers. The site has brought thousands of people to Aiken over the years and played a significant role in winning the Cold War. Aiken is filled with history that can be discovered at the old train depot which is now the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum, by visiting Banksia, where the Aiken Historical Museum is located, or by talking with the locals. These three events, although not the only major events in our history, had a tremendous effect on defining and shaping Aiken. We hope you’ll be intrigued to learn more about our fascinating past and enjoy Aiken’s present when you visit. 3
Equestrians began to bring horses to this area during the 1800's. The Aiken area has grown to welcome every equestrian discipline known. Visitors and locals enjoy fox hunting, dressage, flat racing, driving, polo, jumping and trail riding. Aiken hosts year-round equestrian events, featuring polo tournaments in the spring and fall played on historic Whitney field, March triple-crown equestrian events, and dressage riding tournaments. Aiken is the home of Dogwood Stables, one of the country’s top horse training facilities. This facility has trained over 75 Kentucky Derby winners, and currently is the home of Palace Malice: winner of the 2013 Belmont Stakes who will target 5 stakes in 2015. Aiken also has its own racing museum, the Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum. POLO Aiken's Polo history includes the Bostwicks, the Hitchcocks, and many other wealthy Americans. Aiken serves as an ideal location for year round polo. International and American polo teams practice, play, and compete in Aiken polo events. STEEPLECHASE A long-time tradition in Aiken is the Steeplechase horse race. Steeplechase combines the precision of jumping with the speed of a race to create a very exciting event! The races are between two and four miles in length and the fences are 52-inch hurdles at varying heights. Aiken hosts a Steeplechase event during the fall and spring seasons. This is the chance for all to get outdoors and enjoy the history, horses and heritage of Aiken, South Carolina. FOX HUNTING Historically the sport of the elite, fox hunting in Aiken is a fall favorite event. Usually held in Hitchcock Woods, the largest urban forest in the South, the event involves a scent drag, fox hounds, and hunters.
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Three Runs Plantation Bridle Creek Hollow Creek Cedar Meadows Overbrook Farms Fox Hollow Braeloch Cullum Farms Hatchaway Bridge Farms
Spring Meadows The Vale Estates Chimebell Chase Newbridge Polo Hopeland Farms King’s Ridge Wood Valley Solstice Meadow Tall Pines
Black Forest Equestrian
Aiken Complex
Center 4343 Banks Mill Rd, Aiken 803-644-6644
3827 Charleston Hwy, Aiken 803-641-0644
www.blackforestfarm.com
www.aikencomplex.com
Built in old European architectural style, including a covered dressage arena with 80' mirrors, 3 outdoor arenas, 12 miles of trails on 500 acres and 2 stabling facilities. Riding lessons, stall and pasture boarding available.
Full service stabling facility that includes exercise, turnout and premium hay and feeds. Boarding and on-site veterinary services. Short-term boarders encouraged.
Almost Heaven Stables Highfields 147 Warehouse Rd, Aiken. 803-649-3505
www.psjshows.com Home of PSJ Progressive Jumps and Progressive Stabling. A 60 acre facility with 3 rings, grass jumper field, 3 permanent barns, polo field, turn out paddocks and RV hook-ups. Available for equestrian and non equestrian events, clinics, stick and ball, schooling and more.
Jumping Branch Farm 179 Fox Pond Rd, Aiken. 803-642-3484
220 Golf Course Rd, Warrenville Reservations: 803-663-3001 Lessons, trail rides, boarding, horse camps, and birthday parties. Facilities include trails, covered picnic shelters and game area.
Chasin' Farm 4030 Chasin Way, (off Pony Trail), Aiken Appointment only. 803-648-6277 Situated on 80 acres. Facilities include covered riding arena, dressage, jumping, turnout and training. Riding lessons, breeding, and boarding.
www.jbfarm.com Riding lessons, and training. Visitors welcome by appointment.
Aiken Polo Club Whiskey Road Fox Hounds 520 Hitchcock Rd, Aiken 803-649-0638 Mounted fox hunts: Oct-March. Hunts: Th./Sun (a.m.)
www.whiskeyroadfoxhounds.com
Season: (Sept-Nov) and (March-mid-June) 803-643-3611 Games are at Whitney Field off Whiskey Rd.
www.aikenpoloclub.org
302 Polo Wagener, SC 803-643-4939
Why Worry Hounds 548 Cooks Pond Rd., Windsor 803-641-8048
New Bridge Polo & Country Club
Aiken Hounds
www.newbridgepolo.com
862 New Bridge Rd, Aiken 803-648-3699
www.hitchcockwoods.org 803-643-3724
Wagener Polo Club www.wagenerpoloclub.com 561-719-3318
Crestview Polo Club 5
894 Cooksbridge Rd., Aiken 803-640-9955
The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum celebrates the great tradition of racing and Aiken’s vital role in it. Forty Champion Thoroughbreds have trained at the famed Aiken Training Track. The Hall of Fame immortalizes each in the Iselin’s charming, old carriage house. The Hall of Fame features both flat racers and steeplechase horses, from 1942 through the present. Photos, trophies and other memorabilia highlight these outstanding horses. Learn more about us by visiting the pages listed below. Located in Hopelands Gardens at 135 Dupree Place (off Whiskey Road) Aiken, SC 29801 www.aikenracinghalloffame.com (803) 642-7631
Palace Malice 2013/2014 Aiken Trained Horse of the Year 2013 Belmont Stakes Winner
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Much like the equine culture, the sport of golf has embedded itself into Aiken's history since the very beginning. In 1892, Thomas Hitchcock, a prominent New York sportsman, established the Palmetto Golf Club near what is now downtown Aiken. However, the Palmetto Golf Club is not the only golf facility in Aiken. Aiken County has 15 golf courses. These courses explode with activity during the week of the Masters Tournament, one of four major championships in men's professional golf held every year in April just twenty-five minutes away across the Savannah River in Augusta, Georgia.
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With over 8 different Facilities, Tennis in Aiken is thriving! From private to public facilities, its your choice where you want to play. Aiken offers USTA tennis leagues for people of ALL ages. Come join the fun! Odell Weeks Tennis Center– 10 Hard/ 1745 Two Notch Road SE Aiken, SC 29803 Public Courts
Pro: Mark Calvert
10 Clay Courts (803) 642-7739
Cedar Creek– 2 Hard Courts 2178 Club Drive Aiken, SC 29803 Private Club
(803) 648-4206
Fermata Club– 6 Hard Courts 841 Whiskey Road Aiken, SC 29802 Private Club
Houndslake Country Club– 901 Houndslake Drive Aiken, SC 29803 Private Club
Pro: Nick Lombardo (803) 648-9114
6 Hard/ 2 Clay Courts (803) 648-1690
USC Aiken Tennis Complex– 6 Hard Courts 471 University Parkway Aiken, SC 29803 Semi-Public Courts
(803) 641-7974
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Pro: Stan Mechanic
(803) 514-2730
Riverview Park– 7 Hard Courts 100 Riverview Park Drive North Augusta, SC 29861 Public Courts
Pro: George Stathos
8 Clay Courts
Reserve Club at Woodside– 6 Clay Courts 3000 Reserve Club Drive Aiken, SC 29803 Private Club
Pro: Steve Dahm
(803) 641-3357
Woodside Plantation Country Club– 2 Hard/ 1000 Woodside Plantation Drive Aiken, SC 29803 Private Club
Pro: Arturo Costa
Pro: Don Freezor (803) 441-4310
Mount Vintage Tennis Center– 6 Clay Courts 215 Moutn Vintage Plantation Drive North Augusta, SC 29860 Private Club (803) 278-2425
The Hope Diamond is a 45.52 carat stone shrouded in mystery. Speculation swirls regarding its origins. It wasn’t known as “The Hope Diamond” until the 20th century, and its journey around the globe has only added to its mystique and legend. The Tavernier Blue Diamond, the entire 115 carat stone from which it is thought the Hope was taken, was a coarsely-cut, triangular-shaped stone. A French merchant named Jean-Baptist Tavernier returned to Europe from his travels in India 1640 and 1667 with his magnificent treasure. Gem historians surmise that the diamond was mined from the Kollur Mine in the Guntur district of Andhra Predesh, India.
FROM THE EYE OF A HINDU IDOL One of the most interesting tales about the stone is that Tavernier may have pried it from one of the matching blue diamond eyes of a Hindu idol. As punishment for his great disrespect, the temple priests cast a terrible curse upon all who come into possession of the diamond. This idea has been largely debunked by historians mostly on the premise that the matching blue diamond eye has never surfaced. In 1669, King Louis XIV of France bought the Tavernier Blue and had it cut down from its original 115 carats to 67 1/8 carats. From that time it was called the Blue Diamond of the Crown, or simply “The French Blue.” At the urging of his wife, Marie Antoinette, King Louis XVI had the French Blue set into a more elaborate jewelled pendant for the Order of the Golden Fleece. Although she never actually wore it, Marie Antoinette is cited as one of the most famous victims of “the curse.” Eventually, the name “The Hope Diamond” was given to it when it became part of a large gem collection owned by Henry Philip Hope. Evalyn Walsh McLean acquired the diamond in 1910 after Pierre Cartier dazzled her by placing the stone in a platinum setting surrounded by a row of sixteen alternating “Old Mine Cut" and pear-shaped diamonds. Evalyn was the only daughter of an Irish immigrant who became a multimillionaire when he struck it rich in the silver mines of Colorado. She married Edward Beale McLean in 1908 and became heir to the Washington Post and Cincinnati Enquirer publishing fortune.
A DIAMOND FOR THE DOG Although they divorced in 1929, Evalyn never parted with her “blue.” As a winter colonist in Aiken, she wore the massive diamond as decoration on her gowns and her swimsuits alike, whether she was appreciating art, attending concerts or digging weeds out of her garden. It even adorned her dog’s collar. People who knew Evalyn said that she was always misplacing it, only to recruit the help of friends and family into a “game” of finding it again. Mrs. McLean’s heirs sold it to Harry Winston, who in turn donated it to the Smithsonian Institution. Today the Hope Diamond is in the permanent collection at the Smithsonian in the National Museum of Natural History, where millions of people visit it each year. In 2009, the Smithsonian celebrated a half-century of public viewing by giving the stone a new setting that was selected by vote online. 9
About The Shag Dance The Carolina Shag is considered a main form of Swing Dance. It is the Official State Dance of South Carolina (since 1984.) Originally written, the Carolina Shag formed out of the Charleston, and Collegiate Shag. However, today there is no resemblance to them at all. The name, Carolina Shag originated at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina in the 1930's, when back then, the dance was originally a mix of the Charleston and Collegiate Shag (according to 10/1938-Dance Index Magazine's article on the dance. "Carolina Shag" descriptions) with some of the original basic steps being called the: Cuban Step, Shuffle, Twinkle, etc. Carolina Shag became known as "Beach Swing" and was done to "Beach Music," which was basically old Motown, Blues and Oldies music today. The Shag is done primarily in the Southern States such as Florida, the Carolina's, Virginia, Georgia, etc. and has a very smooth, and very connected feel with your partner and the music. Today, West Coast Swing and Shag are starting to merge by some folks in both dance worlds due to the US Open Swing Dance Championships with the best qualities of each of the two together and forming a newer, but not as popular a style called SWAG! However, the Carolina Shag will always be a mainstay in the Carolina Swing Dance communities. Shag became the official state dance of South Carolina in 1984. Learning in Aiken In Aiken, there is more than one place to learn! The Polo Tavern in downtown Aiken is the most popular place to learn to shag. It is a relaxed environment, where everyone is learning how to do the Carolina boogie! Different from a dance class, mostly because those who come, are there to simply have a good time! No judgment, no rules, just pure fun! Once you know how, you can even join the CSRA Shag Club! Additional places to learn in Aiken: The Shack, Safari Lounge, Woodside Plantation, Woodside Reserve Club 10
Each year, Aiken hosts an annual event called Dancing with the Aiken Stars; a benefit event for the Child Advocacy Center and Community Medical Clinic of Aiken County. Each group competes for your vote to raise money for the Child Advocacy Center and the Community Medical Clinic. In 2013, this event alone raised over $140,000. Each group consists of people who live and work in Aiken, and everyone is invited to partake! It’s a night filled with fun, for the dancers and spectators! So put on your boogie shoes, it’s time to dance! Location:
USCA Convocation Center 375 Robert M Bell Parkway Aiken, SC 29801
https://www.facebook.com/DancingWithTheAikenStars
https://
The Cinderella Project is a non-profit organization in Aiken that collects gently used formal gowns, handbags, and accessories for girls who are financially unable to purchase these items for the prom. Area high school students are able to choose from hundreds of dresses and accessories, all for FREE! The organization was started by women in our community that noticed there were so many girls that didn’t choose to go to prom because they could not afford a dress to wear. Prom is something that every girl should get the chance to experience, and with the Cinderella Project this dream has come true. Every year Maxwell Law Firm accepts donations and then sets up the boutique for girls from any High School in Aiken to come 11 pick out their dress and accessories. It is pure fashionista fun! Just this year, (2015) 85 girls were fitted with dresses!
http://www.cinderellaprojectsc.com/
Witness what it was like to live during the Civil War each February at Confederate Park. The Battle of Aiken is a reenactment of what happened in the place we call home, during the Civil War. The goal is to provide you with the most accurate and realistic portrayal of Aiken’s Southern Heritage and the conditions and events that were a part of life in the difficult days of February 1865. We invite you to visit the many Sutlers, Vendors, Camps, Exhibitors, and attractions that make up the Battle of Aiken. The Battle of Aiken is a non-profit group and all of the staff are volunteers. No one on the Board of Directors is paid for his or her work. All of the net proceeds raised from the events go toward historic preservation efforts in South Carolina. While you are there, you can buy things like homemade baked goods, cookies, brownies, cake, muffins, and even homemade toys, dolls, wash cloths, flags, buttons, magnets, book marks, bonnets just like you would during the time of the war. Feel the thundering hooves of horses, hear the sound of the cannons, smell the homemade bread baking, sample the fresh peaches, strawberries or sweet potatoes. View War Between the States and living history! Discover our past as you scour civil war battle sites and view plantation homes that still retain all the grace and charm of yesteryear. Tour graceful Aiken and learn about its beginnings as a winter colony for wealthy northerners.
Event Site: 1210 Powell Pond Road, Aiken, SC 29801 Mailing Address: Battle of Aiken, P.O. Box 1863, Aiken, SC 29802
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Located in Aiken County, Aiken State Park sits nestled along the South Edisto River in an outdoor-lover’s paradise. Aiken’s most notable attraction is the still, black water of the South Edisto River - fishing and canoeing are both popular here. A 1.7-mile canoe and kayak trail winds down the South Fork of the Edisto River. Fishing for bream, bass and catfish can be enjoyed from along the bank. Aiken State Park is also as rich in its history as it is natural beauty. During the Great Depression, an African American detachment of the Civilian Conservation Corps built the park. Their work can still be seen in some of the remaining structures as well as interpretive signage. HOURS AND ADMISSION
Admission : $2 adults; $1.25 SC seniors; age 15 & younger free Days and Hours of Operation : M-Su 9am-6pm Office Hours : 11am-noon 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 lodging facilities.
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The arts are a dynamic part of Aiken County. There are several places to catch the ballet, watch a great play or musical, and cast your eyes on fantastic works of art. Music fills the air with concerts throughout the year, including an outdoor concert series in both Aiken and North Augusta. Visit the websites of the locations here to see what you can enjoy when you visit Aiken, South Carolina. Aiken Center for the Arts 122 Laurens St., SW Aiken 803-641-9094 Mon.-Sat., 10am-5pm
www.aikencenterforthearts.org The beautiful center features regular gallery exhibits by local, state and regional artists. A variety of artists display works for sale year-round in the gallery store. The center hosts events throughout the year and offers instruction in a variety of mediums for all ages. This wonderful facility has 7 classrooms and a 180 seat performance pavilion. Renting available for special events!
Etherredge Center 471 University Pkwy., Aiken 803-641-3305
www.usca.edu/ec The Etherredge Center is located on the campus of the University of South Carolina-Aiken. The facility houses an art gallery, the O'Connell Theater, and a larger main stage theater. A variety of university and community events and productions are presented at the Etherredge Center annually. Each year, visitors and residents alike look forward to the Cultural Series, a great collection of entertainment brought in from across the US and abroad.
USCA Convocation Center 375 Robert Bell Pkwy., Aiken 803-643-6900
www.georgialinatix.com This is a state of the art facility with the capacity ranging from 3500 to 4100 patrons. It is conveniently located on the University of SC Aiken campus. Many family oriented events, athletic events, trade shows, and nationally renowned concerts and entertainers are enjoyed at this great center. Renting available for special events!
URS Center for the Performing Arts 126 Newberry St., Aiken 803-648-1438 Box Office Hours are Tues.-Fri., 9 am-5 pm. Closed 12-1pm
www.aikencommunityplayhouse.com www.aikenperformingartsgroup.org Home to the Aiken Community Playhouse (ACP) and the Aiken Performing Arts Group (APAG). The theater seats approximately 300. Featuring comedy, drama, musical plays, national and international professional shows throughout the year.
Ruth Patrick Science Center 471 University Pkwy., Aiken 803-641-3313
rpsec.usca.edu Located on the campus of the University of South Carolina-Aiken, The Ruth Patrick Science Center (RPSC) is cooperative effort by the University of South Carolina Aiken, local industry, and area public school districts. RPSC is a permanent program for enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education14in the elementary, middle and high schools of the area. Its hands-on approach to teaching is designed to help people experience the beauty, the order and the power of science and mathematics, as well as the interest and fun of discovery.
The Aiken Symphony Guild was founded in 1986 to bring exceptional music to our community. We do this through our partnership with Aiken Symphony Orchestra (ASO). The Guild is responsible for seeking Sponsors and conducting Special Events that raise funds for the Guild’s music programs for students and the ASO concert series. The Guild’s student programs include the Youth Concert Series for all fifth grade students in Aiken and Edgefield counties and the Concerto Competition for students eighteen years of age and younger. To date, more than 35,500 fifth graders have attended these concerts. In addition, advertising in the ASO concert Program is a project of Aiken Symphony Guild in support of Aiken Symphony Orchestra. The Guild is an all volunteer organization. Generous contributions by individuals, corporate sponsors, advertising by local businesses in the concert program, and grant awards happen because of the efforts of Guild members, passionate about bringing great music to Aiken. We thank our sponsors, program advertisers, donors, members, and all who attend ASO concerts. The Aiken Symphony Guild is a 501(C)3 corporation has been retired. In its place is a new identity, the “Aiken Symphony Orchestra.” http://aikensymphonyguild.org (803) 644-7394
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For the past 10 years, Aiken has been the host of a family-fun filled hoe down with a little extra twang! Every May, thousands of people gather at the Aiken Fairgrounds to see several regional and nationally acclaimed bluegrass artists such as: Keller Williams, Jeff Austin, Greensky Bluegrass, Larry and Jenny Keel, Steve McMurray, The Travelin’ McCoury’s, Delta Cane, Town Mountain, Whitewater Ramble, Hackensaw Boys, Doug and the Henrys, and many more. It is a two-day event with food and beverage vendors and welcomes overnight camping of all kinds! Aiken Bluegrass Festival proceeds benefit STAR Riding, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities improve their quality of life through safe interaction with horses. For Ticketing please visit:
https://www.aikenbluegrassfestival.org/tickets Location of Festival: 561 May Royal Drive Aiken, SC 29801
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Be a part of Aiken's biggest annual reunion and party during the Lobster Races! 29 years and counting this exciting event is held every year during the first week of May in the heart of downtown Aiken. The races are the main event but there are also 7 different stages with all kinds of live music! There is dancing and rides and attractions for kids! Proceeds from the Lobster Race are donated to programs for the mentally and physically challenged in Aiken County. Average annual attendance of approximately 12,000. At the Gate - $10 Children under 6 - Free Students - $ 5 with a student ID (over 18 years of age must show school ID to get student price) T-shirts are $20, those wearing a 2014 Lobster Race T-shirt get in free. Over 21 with ID: wrist band to purchase alcoholic beverages $1.00 Newberry Street Festival Center Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 646-0523 www.lobsterrace.com www.facebook.com/pages/Aiken-Lobster-Race/
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In 1976, the Vice President of Trade Development for the Aiken Chamber of Commerce decided that Aiken needed an event to attract people to the downtown area. Thus, Aiken's Makin' was born. This show was to be a "showcase" for items made by local residents. For many years the show was held downtown along the sidewalks of the local stores. However as the show has grown and attracted more and more vendors, the event has moved to the parkways of the downtown area. Through the years the event has grown from a mere 50 vendors to 300. Vendors show everything from pottery, woodcrafts, furniture, baskets, stained glass, quilts, clothing, needlecrafts, toys, jewelry, ceramics, art and many other items. The one prerequisite is that all items must be handmade by the seller. Food has also become a staple at the event. Aiken's Makin' draws quite a crowd during the two day event. Attendance is estimated to be 25,000 to 30,000 people in our parkways over the course of the two day event. The Greater Aiken Chamber of Commerce is still the governing body of Aiken's Makin,' but, with the support of over 100 volunteers, the entire community joins forces and works together to make this a safe and enjoyable event for everyone involved from the vendors to the shoppers.
http://www.aikensmakin.net/index.cfm
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We are on a mission to improve lives of Aiken County Children. Celebrity Waiter night is an annual Aiken charity even in which several restaurants around Aiken have their own employees as well as volunteers from the community wait tables. All proceeds benefit The Children’s Place Inc and has been nothing but a favorable outcome since the start. The success of Celebrity Waiter Night is a testament to the spirit and generosity of the Aiken community...bringing "celebrities" from across our area to spend a night in a waiter's shoes in many local restaurants. Just last year this event raised more than $100,000.
Anna Camp
Bo Mitchell
Actress Born in Aiken, SC.
Actor Born in Aiken, SC.
TV series:
Major Movies:
TV series:
Major Movies:
True Blood Mad Men The Mindy Project
The Help Pitch Perfect
East Bound and Down October Road
Juwanna Mann Palo Alto
Beth Spangler
Andy Williams
Singer/Songwriter Born in Aiken, SC.
Singer/Songwriter Born in Aiken, SC. (1927-2012)
Season 7 Contestant of NBC’s The Voice
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Academy Award for Best Original Song “Born Free” in 1967
William “Refridgerator” Perry
Brandon Wallace
(Football)
(Basketball)
Aiken High SchoolClemson University Chicago Bears Philadelphia Eagles
Silver Bluff High School University of South Carolina Boston Celtics
1986 Super Bowl XX Champions
Michael Dean Perry
James “Jimmy” Carter (Boxing)
(Football) Aiken High School Clemson University Denver Broncos
(1923-1994) World Lightweight Boxing Champion
1990 NFL All Pro Team 1998 Super Bowl XXXII Champions
Inducted into International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2000.
Jamal Reynolds
Kevin Kisner
(Football)
(Golf)
Aiken High SchoolFlorida State Greenbay Packers
South Aiken High School University of Georgia
Dekota Watson
Pro in 2006 Wins: Mylan Classic (2010) Chile Classic (2013) Callaway Pebble Beach Invit’l (2013)
(Football) South Aiken High SchoolFlorida State Tampa Bay BuccaneersJacksonville Jaguars Dallas Cowboys
Corey Chavous (Football)
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Matt Hendrix (Golf) South Aiken High School Clemson University 2003 NCAA Champions
Silver Bluff High School Vanderbilt Arizona Cardinals Minnesota Vikings St. Louis Rams
Pro in 2004 2 wins on NGA Pro Golf Tour
Troy Williamson
(Tennis)
(Football)
Aiken High School
Silver Bluff High School University of South Carolina Minnesota Vikings Jacksonville Jaguars
As of 2013, Number 1 ranked player in the world. Since the world ranking system was created in 1991, no American had been ranked #1 in the world.
Camden Riviere
People of Aiken take pride in their health. This is most likely why we have over 6 fitness clubs here in Aiken. While some clubs may just offer standard fitness machines there are some that offer much more. Group fitness classes, tanning beds, indoor pools, steam rooms, etc. Aiken is the place to get fit! Village Fitness 440 Society Hill Drive Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 226-9180 www.villagefitnessaiken.com Planet Fitness 2531 Whiskey Road Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 226-0183 www.planetfitness.com YMCA 621 Trolley Line Road Aiken, SC 29801 www.thefamilyy.org Gold’s Gym 101 Corporate Parkway Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 648-4653 www.goldsgym.com Crossfit Aiken 14 Enterprise Avenue Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 646-7548 www.crossfit-aiken.com Aiken Yoga 116B Pendleton Street Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 514-8833 www.aikenyoga.com Nu-Look Weight Loss and Fitness Center 790 East Pine Log Road Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 641-9800 21
Listed on the Aiken Historic Register, the Farmers Market sells fresh produce including corn, tomatoes, beans, fruit and more. Goods displayed are laid out on the tables built by farmers and families of Aiken County over 50 years ago. The Market, now as then, is a place where produce is sold and conversation and recipes are shared with friends, old and new. If you are interested in selling your locally grown produce at the market, call 803-6427761. Produce Available at the Farmers Market During the Season (please note that produce available varies throughout the year and this list is not all inclusive) Please support small local family farmers. Look for the Certified South Carolina Grown logo. Buy LOCAL. Buy FRESH.
Hours of Operation April – September Tue. Thurs. Sat. 8:00 am – 12:00 October – March Sat. 8:00 am – 12:00 22
The Aiken area is blessed with having some of the best medical care available for its citizens. The Aiken Regional Medical Center is a state of the art medical facility offering a wide variety of specialties and services. Also, within a 30 minute drive to Augusta you will find the Georgia Regents University/ Medical College of Georgia, University Hospital, Trinity Hospital, the United States Veterans Affairs Medical Center , and more. Aiken Regional Medical Centers is a 245 bed facility that was opened in 1917 and has been in its current location since 1976. ARMC has 120 physicians that represent 40 plus specialties. 92% of the staff is board certified and many are certified in multiple areas. ARMC prides itself on going above and beyond to ensure the care and recovery of the patients that utilize the facilities is a smooth process tailored to them individually. ARMC also goes to great lengths to differentiate itself from other medical institutions. Part of this comes from community education and outreach. By offering many different programs and services they have something for everybody. Some of these include first aid and CPR training, American Red Cross babysitting classes, health fairs and support groups, programs to help teens make wise choices, family life education programs, wellness programs for seniors, and a free health magazine called Quality of Life. The hospital also host seminars at multiple locations throughout Aiken in conjunction with 5 area churches, four planned communities and the City of Aiken. These seminars are an easy way for members of the community to get useful health and wellness tips. ARMC is also committed to reaching women and helping them to become educated to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. For this reason, the Women Enlightened for Better Health initiative was created. This is the first program of its kind in the CSRA.
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Women who take part in the program can have access to Aiken Regional's Women's Health Nurse Navigator. Members also get to enjoy the hospitals classes, programs and events at a discounted rate. Seniors also get a newsletter that is a great source for healthy living tips, healthcare information and information about events hosted by the hospital. There is a large number of small businesses as well as manufacturing facilities in Aiken and the Hospital is actively working with them to educate and train the employees on proper health care and wellness. This can result in fewer sick days, less on the job injuries, increased productivity and better problem solving abilities. The Program provides multiple services to local business including: Periodic heath risk assessments, Preventative, Bio-metric and comprehensive cardiac screenings, Personal health portfolios, Education seminars and health fairs, Disease management and nutrition guidance Physicals, Drug screenings
1) Emergency department treats over 54,000/ people per year 2) The Women's LifeCare center delivers over 1,200 every year 3) There are more than 4,800 surgical procedures done each year 4) With the exception of the Aurora Pavilion, all patient rooms are private 5) Consistently ranked among the nation’s top hospitals for quality measures in pneumonia care 6) Recognized by South Carolina Emergency Management as having the No. 1 Incident Command System in the state 7) Recognized as the only storm ready healthcare facility in the CSRA by the National Weather Service
Aurora Pavilion Behavioral Health Services - Provides individualized assessment and inpatient and outpatient treatment for adults, children, adolescents and seniors who have behavioral, emotional, and substance abuse problems. Bariatric Surgery -Offers gastric bypass surgery and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy surgery. The process includes preoperative counseling, support groups and nutritional counseling. Cancer Care Institute of Carolina - Offers both radiation oncology and hematology/oncology services, in addition to support services for cancer patients and their families. Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina - Offers everything from health screenings and education to diagnostic testing, medication, surgery and rehabilitation. Diabetes and Nutrition Teaching Center -Board Certified in pediatric and adolescent nutrition and weight management, renal nutrition management and diabetes self-management. Emergency Department - Committed to making your emergency department experience as smooth and simple as possible with caring physicians and staff available 24/7 Joint and Spine Center - People recovering from hip or knee replacement surgery will work with their physician, nurses, physical therapist, "coaches" and a case manager during a week-long recovery program. Patients will participate in both individual and group therapy sessions to ensure the best recovery experience. Laboratory Services -has four locations including Laboratory at ARMC, Outpatient Services at ARMC, Southside Medical Services, and Northside Drawing Station. Palmetto Pediatric Center - Provides inpatient and outpatient services for infants, children and adolescents. Children can get regular health care as well as care when they are sick. Inpatient services include the newborn nursery and inpatient admissions. Sleep Evaluation Center - Patients undergo sleep studies that examine how you breath and sleep which can be instrumental for a physician to identify a sleep disorder and begin treatment options. Southside Imaging Center - Offers services including digital mammography, open MRI, multislice CT scans, ultrasound and more. The Vein Center- Offers several procedures to treat venous diseases. These include sclerotherapy, ligation/phlebectomy and VNUS Closure. Women's Life Care Center - Services include Gynecologic care, breast surgery, treatment of menopause and osteoporosis, estrogen replacement therapy, and more. The childbirth center prides itself on advanced clinical expertise and a warm and caring staff. Women's Life Care Diagnostic Services - Services include mamography, bone densitometry, stereotactic breast biopsy and routine xrays. Our all digital mamography insures that results are both fast and comprehensive. Wound Healing Institute of Carolina - This facility is committed to giving you the care and the healing that you need. Their Services include hyperbaric oxygen therapy and much more.
There is Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center clinic in Aiken, SC. The Community Based Outpatient Clinic are staffed by caring and dedicated VA employees. These professionals provide many services including primary care and mental health services to smaller communities and rural areas to provide care that is accessible and convenient. Also, within a 30 minute drive to Augusta you will find the Georgia Regents University/Medical College of Georgia, University Hospital, Trinity Hospital, the United States Veterans Affairs Medical Center , and more. Aiken has the finest care for our elderly citizens with numerous nursing and assisted living facilities complete with skilled nursing care, assisted living, and physical and restorative treatment.
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46,956—Owner Occupied Homes 17,297 Apartments
84.4% Highschool Graduate or higher (25+) 23.7% Bachelor Degree or higher (25+)
6,000– SRNS 3,312– Aiken County Public Schools 2,800– Shaw Area MOX 2,400– SRR 1,250– Kimberly-Clark 1,200– Aiken Regional Medical Centers 930–25Bridgestone America 770– AGY
35 min
Augusta, GA
1 hour
Columbia, SC
2.2 hours
Greenville, SC
2.5 hours
Charleston, SC
2.5 hours
Hilton Head, SC
2.5 hours
Charlotte, NC
3 hours
Atlanta, GA
3 hours
Asheville, NC
3.5 hours
Myrtle Beach, SC
4.2 hours
Raleigh, NC
162,812– Aiken County population 1.7 %- Populate growth since 2010
1,080– Square miles in Aiken County 1,071.3– Square miles of land in Aiken county 20.7– Square miles in the city of Aiken 3.28– square miles in Hitchcock Woods
Humid, Subtropical 75.3º—Average high 52.2º—Average low 51— inches per year average annual rainfall 109º— Highest temperature– August 22, 1983 -4º— Lowest temperature– January 21, 1985
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TakoSushi- Sounds like an unusual mix? It is. The ambience is a direct result of the menu concept - a seemingly odd combination of sushi and rustic Southwestern cuisine. TakoSushi prides themselves on down to earth, richly flavored dishes of Mexico - done in New Mexico style. The sushi is hand-rolled using only the finest seafood, rice and veggies. Sauces are made from scratch, beans slow-simmered and tortillas made the old fashioned way. TakoSushi is a "feel good" kind of place that attracts people of all ages and walks of life. The mood is vibrant and spicy. You can slip out of your hectic day with one of the many specialty martinis or boutique style wines, and slip into a place in time where life is good and the food beyond your expectations. TakoSushi, FRESH, FUN & FUNKY! Check out the lunch or dinner menu by visiting:
210 The Alley Aiken, SC 29801 27 (803) 642-8899
http://www.tako-sushi.com/menu/lunch/ http://www.tako-sushi.com/menu/dinner/
222 The Alley Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 226-0418
Nestled in the heart of downtown Aiken, TRIO Bar & Kitchen was established in 2015 by Aikenites Jeffrey, Philip, and Bryan. The menu takes a spin on classic dishes such as gourmet burgers, fish & chips, and prime steaks. Offering dishes with Southern, Latin American, and Soul Food influences, TRIO uses only the freshest and highest quality meats and seafood available on the market. Everything is made fresh in house by Chef Botero-Drake who has over 17 years of experience. If you're looking for a place to have a quick lunch, relaxing drink, or a night on the town, this is the right spot. Tuesday and Thursday nights they provide karaoke, BINGO on Wednesday nights, and live music on Friday evenings featuring local bands. Don’t let the BINGO fool you, there is opportunity to win many prizes such as a bottle of wine, gift cards, and bucket of beer. Many guests keep returning to see what the night may hold and to the taste the next best thing on the menu. http://www.trioaiken.com/menu
In their 26th year, Malia’s still remains dedicated to the culinary excitement afforded by the finest, freshest and most ethically produced ingredients. They source locally whenever possible, befriending our farmers who are so vital to the kind of dining experience we’re known for. Then, sometimes it’s lamb from Australia or salmon from Scotland. Malia’s is a restaurant that is dedicated to their loyal locals, following who are routinely joined by the international travelers drawn to “the good life,” in which we all enjoy here in Aiken, SC. Malia’s thrives on the friendly faces who, at the end of the experience, say, “Wow.” Enjoy some of the finest and freshest ingredients available that create a dining experience to remember. The lunch menu changes daily. The dinner menu changes monthly. Locally owned and operated. http://www.maliasrestaurant.com/menu/ 28
120 Lauren’s Street SW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 641-1909
752 Silver Bluff Road Aiken, SC 29803 (803) 649-9915 Tucked away in the Centre South Shopping Center in South Aiken, The Red Pepper Café – Aiken Restaurant and Bar brings a unique and customer-centric experience to dining and entertainment. Fine casual dining and great music. From freshly prepared meals to fine wines to superb service, it seems as if The Red Pepper Café is not satisfied unless their customers are satisfied. This restaurant features daily Chef’s specials as well as a full bar and the best patio and outdoor dining in Aiken! They also have a large banquet room that is perfect for meetings, gatherings and special events. Locally owned and operated. To check out their menus visit: http://redpepperaiken.com/menu/dinner/ http://redpepperaiken.com/menu/lunch/ http://redpepperaiken.com/menu/wine-beer/
159 Lauren’s Street NW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 226-0078 Take a step back in time with a visit to Betsy's on the Corner where we are dedicated to providing the best food and service anywhere. Enjoy full table service from a menu of homemade soups and salads, hotdogs, hand-pattied burgers, specialty sandwiches hot off the grill, daily Blue Plate (just like Mama made), frosty shakes and ice cream treats at our old-fashion soda fountain. Join us Saturday morning for a real Southern breakfast served from 7am until 11am. In addition, Betsy’s always has weekly specials as well as Blue Plate Wednesdays! “My love affair with food began at an early age when, with the aid of a footstool to enable me to see over the kitchen counter, I began frying chicken. Fried chicken is just one of the many recipes learned in my mother's kitchen that I still use today, but most have evolved into a lighter version of my mother's Southern cooking! My aim is you will feel at home when dining with us. See you On the Corner!!” -Betsy http://betsysonthecorner.com/menus/ 29
The Aiken Brewing Company is a colorful little restaurant and microbrewery, located right in the heart of downtown Aiken. This place offers a charming atmosphere and excellent service. This is a lot due to the fact that it is a family owned and operated establishment. The customers are treated like friends. The homebrews are simply unique and the food is great too. You should definitely try the ribs and the chicken wings when you visit! The place becomes very lively at night and is a great spot to make some new friends and have a lot of fun. Beers on Tap: German Kolsch Nut Brown Ale Old Aiken Ale Thoroughbred Red West Coast Pale Ale Mug Club: Joining Aiken Brewing Company’s Annual Mug Cub has benefits. For starters, when you join the Mug Club you will receive your own personal beer 20oz mug that is unique to you, which is an upgrade from the standard 16oz pint glass. Mugs are stored at Aiken Brewing Company during the year of your membership, and may be taken home at the change of the calendar year. Mugs are crafted annually and are typically available towards the end of December. In addition to the mug, you will receive a discount on our International Night events. Discount is available for only mug club members, and does not include any guests.
140 Lauren’s Street SW Aiken, SC 29801 (803) 502-0707 www.aikenbrewingcompany.com
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