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VISIT CLEMSON www.visitclemson.com
contents
visit clemson
2016/2017
Experience the best, stay with us!
outdoor
4 5 6 7 7 7 8
Explore Natural Beauty Parks Waterfalls Jocassee Gorges Clemson Experimental Forest Golf Lakes & Rivers
attractions
9 Clemson Outdoor Lab 11 Things to See & Do
culture: arts & entertainment
13 14 14 15 17
Performing Arts Visual Arts Libraries Festivals & Events Venues
local eats
20 Restaurant Spotlights 21 Area Dining List
heritage
yesterday
GO TIGERS!
shopping
1381 Tiger Blvd • Clemson, SC
23 Hagood Mill 24 Tales of the Past
explore
26 Clemson University Campus Walking Tour 30 Area History 35 Retail Spotlights 37 Area Stores List
lodging
38 Area Accommodations
864-654-9410
www.hiexpress.com/clemsonsc www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 3
outdoor
Nature meets culture at the South Carolina Botanical Garden
Encouraging folks to connect with the natural world, the diverse 295-acre garden showcases ecosystems found from the mountains of South Carolina all the way to the coast. “We are extremely fortunate to have the garden here in Clemson because there are very few places in the state of South Carolina where you can grow the kind of native ecosystems that we’re growing here along our Natural Heritage Trail,” South Carolina Botanical Garden manager John Bodiford said. “In a half-mile, you can walk from a maritime forest to the Jocassee Gorges. There’s no other place that I know of in South Carolina where you can do that.” About 750,000 people visit the garden ever year. With First Friday Nature Walks offered monthly, as well as educational programs for children and adults throughout the year, the garden is a main attraction in the Upstate. “It’s a very colorful place. A place where folks can come and experience nature and yet feel somewhat safe and not feel like they’re in a wilderness area since some folks are uncomfortable with that,” Bodiford said. “It’s a place where you can learn about nature and learn about the art of horticulture.” Visitors can walk miles of nature trails and woodland hikes, spotting the garden’s internationally known nature-based sculpture collection along the way. And for a little South Carolina history, visitors can 4 | VISIT CLEMSON
but do include some hills. Join Dr. David Bradshaw, the Garden’s naturalist, for a fun informative walk on the first Friday of the month. April-October 7 a.m., NovemberMarch 9 a.m.. The walks last from 1 to 2 hrs. and are free. For more information call, (864) 656-3405 or www.clemson.edu/ scbq. To learn more, visit vclem.us/scbg.
check out the Hanover House or the Hunt Family Cabin. From dawn to dusk every day, access to the garden is absolutely free. So anyone can explore the Camellia Garden, Wildlife Habitat Garden, Xeriscape Garden and Hosta Garden, as well as the 70-acre Schoenike Arboretum, in one location without paying a dime. Bodiford said the garden is situated in a temperate climate, basically a big broad band that wraps around the globe where most plants thrive. “There are very few places on the face of this earth where you’re going to find the number of plant species you’ll find right here in Oconee and Pickens counties,” he said. Hiking, walking/jogging, and nature trails are in the garden totaling 3.4 miles; on 294 acres. Most trails are generally level, www.visitclemson.com
Victoria Valley Vineyards With rolling hills of vineyards, Victoria Valley Vineyards is like a little taste of Europe right in the Upstate. Driving through the gates of the vineyard, visitors can view the winery — a French chateau-styled building which houses a tasting room, gift shop and deli. As folks sit back and relax with a glass of wine on the terrace, they can peer out at the 47- acre site. The Jayne family chose the property for its elevation and soil composition, perfect elements for producing Vinifera Wines. From the novice to the connoisseur, any wine lover will enjoy the experience at Victoria Valley Vineyards. For more information, go to vclem.us/ vineyards or call (864) 878-5307. Sassafras Mountain Any South Carolinian will agree that one of the most spectacular views in the Palmetto State is from the peak of Sassafras Mountain.
At 3,560 feet, it’s the highest point in South Carolina. And a newly paved road leads drivers nearly all the way to the top. “From where you park you only have to walk about 200 feet to get to the top,” Foothills Trail Conference executive director Heyward Douglass said. “Just a few years ago, that road was so crummy you almost needed a four-wheel drive to get up there.” Not everyone wants a lift, though. Others like more of a challenge. Hikers can ascend Sassafras Mountain from two different approaches. Either they can start at the bottom and hike seven miles to the top (where they’ve parked another car for a quicker descent), or they can take an easier path. “About halfway up the mountain the trail crosses the road,” Douglass said. “Lots of people will park there, hike up and hike back down. It’s about five miles round trip.” The summit is open to the public without restriction. It is 100 yds. up a paved trail. Four states can be viewed from the summit: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. To learn more, visit vclem.us/sassafras. Hagood Mill Located just three miles north of Pickens, Hagood Mill hosts a variety of events as well as folk life and traditional arts demonstrations. From storytelling and banjo extravaganzas to blues concerts and cooking on an open hearth, the mill offers something for everyone of all ages. The centerpiece of the Hagood Mill historic site is the water-powered 1845 gristmill. One of the finest examples of 19th century technology in the Upstate, it operates just as it has for the last century-and-a-half. In the old mill, fresh stone-ground corn meal, grits, and wheat flour are available for sale as well as rye flour, buckwheat flour, grits and organic yellow corn meal and grits. For more information, go to vclem.us/hagood or call (864) 898-2936. Doodle Trail Once a railroad running between the cities of Pickens and Easley, the Doodle Trail is now paved and available to walkers, runners, roller bladers and bikers. The Doodle freight line got its name because of the route it ran between the two towns. The train could not turn around, so it was often compared to a doodlebug. With a relatively flat terrain, the 7.5-mile trail has no more than a three-percent grade. So visitors of all ages — from the very young to the young at heart can enjoy an afternoon on the Doodle Trail. To learn more, visit vclem.us/doodle. Town Creek Bike Park Dirt jumps, raised half-log trails, wooden banked turns and a 4,000-foot flowcoaster are just a few of the features of the Town Creek Bike Park in Pickens. The Appalachian Lumber Greenway is an eight-foot wide path connecting the Pickens Recreation Center and the Playground of Promise. The trail follows the historic railroad route of the Appalachian Lumber Company. With nearly 100 acres, this state-of-the-art park is attracting riders of all levels from across the Southeast. To learn more, visit vclem.us/tcbp.
NATURAL BEAUTY: GEMS OF THE UPSTATE ➤ CITY PARKS
W.C. Nettles Park, located on 102 Nettles Road adjacent to Issaqueena Trail is our largest park that holds the administrative offices for our Parks and Recreation department. Nettles also has two youth baseball fields, one girls softball field, two adult softball fields, seven regulation tennis courts, and two regulation soccer fields, all lighted. The park also has a play structure, picnic shelter and restrooms. Nettles Parks also houses our Dog Park. You can find it at the rear of the park near the soccer fields. Ashley Dearing Park, located at 1020 Berkeley Drive, offers a lighted baseball field, play structure, picnic area and shelter and restrooms. Clemson Park, located on Clemson Park Road off Frontage Road, has two lighted tennis courts, a picnic area, shelter and grills. The park also has play structures and restrooms. Jaycee Park, located on College Avenue and Edgewood Avenue, Jaycee Park is a shady park with picnic tables and play structure located right beside Catherine Smith Plaza and Fountain in downtown Clemson. Mountain View Park, located on Lake Hartwell at the end of Mountain View Lane, has a 1-mile walking trail, Public Access boat ramp, 9-hole disc golf course, and picnic areas. Abernathy Waterfront Park, located along Lake Hartwell and Keowee Trail, is a linear waterfront park just over ½-mile long. The park also has picnic areas and lake access. This linear waterfront park trail is just over .5 miles long. The walking trails consist of paved pathways and boardwalks. It can be accessed off Keowee Trail Road. Gateway Park, Clemson, The parks walkways are a combination of paved surfaces, pervious concrete, and soft mulch bedding. Gateway Park is a passive park and contains no ball fields, basketball courts, or playground equipment. Access is off SC Hwy. 93. Clemson Mountain View Park, Wooded 9 hole course with rolling hills on peninsula of Lake Hartwell, 298 Moutain View Lane, Clemson To learn more about city parks, visit vclem.us/cityparks.
➤ COUNTY PARKS
Mile Creek Park (Pickens), This park is a large peninsula with three “islands” at the end and over 7 miles of www.visitclemson.com
lakefront offering water views/access in almost any direction. More than twothirds of the 69 RV and tent campsites offer direct access to Lake Keowee and all have water and electrical hook ups as well as fire rings. With hiking trails, boat ramps, ample parking for cars and trailers, a large dock and a sandy-beach swimming area, the Park takes advantage of all Lake Keowee has to offer. Numerous picnic sites, each with a table and grill, provide ideal locations for day visitors picnicking with family and friends. The Park offers four play areas, two with playground equipment, as well as a basketball court and sand volleyball court. Park Hours: 7am until 10pm. For more information, see vclem. us/milecreek or call (864) 868-2196. Chau Ram (Oconee), Chau Ram County Park is located at the confluence of the Chauga River and Ramsay Creek is Oconee County’s “Best Kept Secret”. With a 40-foot waterfall and Oconee ’s longest suspension bridge, Chau Ram has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can enjoy hiking/biking trails or go tubing and fishing on the river. Many campers use the park as a base when going rafting on the nearby Chattooga River. Shelters and a recreational building are also available. Open March - November. High Falls (Oconee), High Falls County Park is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This 44-acre park is located on Lake Keowee. The park store offers a variety of convenient items and is located in the park’s focal point, The Alexander/Cannon/Hill House. The house was built in 1830, and is one of the last remaining pieces of the area’s history. Among its amenities are 100 campsites, a boat ramp, two shelters, a recreational building, miniature golf, a softball field, volleyball, and horseshoes. 2017 Official Visitors Guide | 5
South Cove (Oconee): South Cove is located on Lake Keowee and offers a variety of day use facilities as well as lakeside camping. Fishing, boating, sailing and water skiing are readily accessible via two park boat ramps. Day use facilities include lighted tennis courts, a volleyball court, playground areas, a handicapped accessible fishing pier and a sand beach for sun bathing. The day use area also provides picnic tables and grills. Camping is provided with 46 campsites on the waterfront.
➤ WATERFALLS
Yellow Branch Falls
➤ STATE PARKS
Table Rock State Park This picturesque park features two lakes, a campground, mountain cabins, meeting facilities and an historic lodge. The park serves as a trailhead for the 80-mile long Foothills Trail through the wilderness along the Blue Ridge Escarpment. Trails through the forested park also include one that leads to the top of Table Rock Mountain itself. Driving along Highway 11 in the Upstate, no one can miss Table Rock. The mountain towers like a backdrop to the 3,000-acre park. With several trails to choose from, hikers can take a leisurely stroll along the Carrick Creek loop or a strenuous climb to the top of Table Rock. The park also serves as an access point to the 80-mile Foothills Trail, which connects several of South Carolina’s state parks. And natives and visitors can cool off their feet after a long hike by dipping their toes in the old-fashioned swimming hole on one of the park’s lakes. This State park boasts of quite a few hiking trails. The Foothills Trail, 80-mile footpath. Pinnacle Mountain Trail, fairly strenuous 3.3 mile trail (one way). Ridge Trail, rugged strenuous trail connecting Pinnacle Mountain and Table Rock Trails. Mill Creek Pass, connects the Pinnacle Mountain Trail and Ridge Trail. The Carrick Creek Loop Trail is a moderate 1.8 mile loop. For more info and a complete list of trails in Table Rock State Park, (864) 878-9813. Admission is $2 for ages 16 and older and $1.25 for South Carolina seniors. Park hours: Spring-Fall: Su-Th 7am-9pm, Fri-Sat 7am-10pm; Winter: Su-Th 7am-7pm, Fri-Sat 7am-9pm Keowee-Toxaway State Park Meander along the trickles and cascades of Poe Creek and stand on a boulder that juts out over Lake Keowee and offers one of the most stunning views in the Upstate — all at Keowee-Toxaway State Park. Providing access to 18,500 acres on Lake Keowee, the park is like the front porch of the Jocassee Gorges. Walking along the trails, hikers might see abundant wildflowers in the spring. Rare species such as the Alleghany spurge and ginseng, or other more common 6 | VISIT CLEMSON
Issaqueena Falls
Riley Moore Falls flora such as the wild iris, violets, Indian pink trillium and various orchids. Raven Rock Trail, bordering Poe Creek and the Natural Bridge Trail is one of the best locations for viewing wildflowers. Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area This lakefront park’s information center displays a wide variety of vintage fishing equipment. And, of course, 56,000-acre Lake Hartwell maintains a reputation for top-flight angling, including for striped and hybrid bass, largemouth, crappie, bream and catfish. In addition to lake access, there is a park store, hiking, camping and unique, affordable one-room camper cabins. They feature bunk beds, a porch and electricity but no running water or bathrooms. The campground facilities are nearby. Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area is located just off Interstate 85 at the South Carolina-Georgia border Admissions: $2/ adults; $1.25/ U.S. seniors; Free for age 15 and younger Office Hours: 11am-noon & 4pm-5pm (extended during Daylight Savings Time from 9am-7pm). Park closes at dark. For more information about South Carolina State Parks in the area, go to vclem.us/ stateparks. www.visitclemson.com
The Upstate abounds with breathtaking waterfalls. Following is a list of our local favorites, all within 40 minutes of Clemson. Issaqueena Falls: Beginning from the parking area for the Stumphouse Tunnel, the 15-minute hike to Issaqueena Falls is an easy excursion for even the beginning hiker, and it’s rich in lore and history. That’s why it is no stretch to lump this 100-foot cascade among the most popular in the Clemson area, and among the most beautiful. Also in the park is the Stumphouse Tunnel, which is 25 feet high, 17 feet wide, and although it was not completed, extends 1,617 feet into the mountain. You can walk to the end of the tunnel, but be aware there may be water and you will need a flashlight to find your way. Directions to the falls: From Clemson drive south on SC Highway 123 to SC 28. Take this road through Walhalla and continue for 6.9 miles and turn right into Stumphouse Tunnel Park. Park and walk across the footbridge on the west side of the parking lot. Riley Moore Falls: (Sumter National Forest) This 12-foot high waterfall makes up in beauty what it lacks in size. Located on the Chauga River it requires a one mile, moderate hike of about 45 minutes. Directions to the falls: From Clemson, take US Highway 123 to Westminster; drive west on U.S. Highway 76 for 7.5 miles and turn right onto Cobb Bridge Road; drive 1.6 miles and turn left onto Spy Rock Road; drive 1.8 miles and park by the side of the road. Chau Ram Falls: There is no hike required to see the picturesque falls created when Ramsey Creek cascades over massive boulders and then flows on into the Chauga River. The falls is a short walk from the parking lot of Oconee County’s Chau Ram Park, located two miles west of Westminister on SC Highway 76. Yellow Branch Falls: This moderately difficult out-and-back trail leads you to the base of a spectacular 50-foot vertical cascade. Starting from the parking area, you will hike approximately .2 mile on the Yellow Branch Nature Trail, before you come to the junction with the Yellow Branch Falls Trail. You will pass through groves of dignified hardwoods and cross meandering creek bottoms before turning to circumnavigate the steep terrain. In the winter when the trees are bare, you can see the Walhalla vicinity as you hike. Wear sturdy shoes and use extra caution during wet conditions as this trail skirts the edges of deep ravines. Conversely, if it hasn’t rained for some time, the falls may be just a trickle of water over a series of ledges. Directions: From Clemson drive south on SC Highway 123 to SC Highway 28 and continue through Walhalla 6.8 miles. Turn left turn into Yellow Branch Picnic Ground, and hike in .2 mile on the Nature Trail (from ei-
ther end) to the Yellow Branch Falls Trail. Hike 1.3 miles to the falls. Station Cove Falls: An easy, 30-minute hike through a gorgeous Appalachian cove forest takes you to Station Cove Falls, a stepped 60foot waterfall that forms from headwaters atop Station Mountain. In the spring and summer, countless wildflowers bloom along the trail. You may see trillium, mayapple, pink lady’s slipper orchids, bloodroot, and redbud. Directions: From Clemson drive south on SC Highway 123 to SC Highway 28 and continue to Walhalla. Turn north on SC 11 for 6.3 miles and turn left (northwest) onto Oconee Station Road. Drive 2.4 miles to the trailhead on the left (parking is limited to four cars). Additional parking is available at Oconee Station State Historic Site picnic area. The 0.5-mile hike begins behind the bulletin board. For a complete listing of the area’s 30-plus waterfalls, please visit vclem.us/waterfalls. Town Creek Trail, Pickens: This trail offers a nice 2.5 mile leisurely stroll along Town Creek and through the woods. Located adjacent to Pickens Playground of Promise. For more information call, (864) 878-6421. For the more adventuresome hiker, a variety of trails can be found in the immediate area.
miles to 98 miles, with everything in between. Other Bike Trails and Mountain Bike trails criss-cross the Clemson Area.
➤ CLEMSON EXPERIMENTAL FOREST
Issaqueena Lake & Dam Trail, Clemson: Located in Clemson University’s Experimental Forest. The 17,500 acre forest is home to over 50 miles of trails. These trails are used by hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike and range from easy to moderate. Access is off Old Six Mile Rd. For more information call, (864)6537649. Lawrence Trail, Clemson: This is an easy 2 mile trail located on the Santee Cooper property at the Anne Springs Close Greenway. Fants Grove (Twin Lakes) Mountain Bike Trails, Clemson: Trail(s) are located in and around the Twin Lakes Recreation area on beautiful Lake Hartwell. They are listed as “easy” and can be accessed off Fants Grove Road and then following the directional signs. For more information, vclem.us/cef Issaqueena Lake & Dam Trail, Clemson: Located in Clemson University’s Experimental Forest. The 17,500 acre forest is home to over 50 miles of trails. These trails are used by hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike and range from easy to moderate. Access is off Old Six Mile Rd. For more information call 864-653-7649.
Lake Jocassee
Lake Hartwell
➤ GOLF
➤ JOCASSEE GORGES
Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve Trail, Pickens: This is a moderate 1.7 mile (one way) path that takes you to the Eastatoe Creek Heritage Preserve. This is an easy trail most of the way, but drops steeply to the gorge for the last .5 mile. Hours are dawn to dusk. Other attractions include the Foothills Trail, Jumping Off Rock and Laurel Fork Heritage Preserve. Bike trails in the immediate area range from easy to difficult with most of them providing ample viewing opportunities of Lake Hartwell or the area’s nearby mountain range. Issaqueena Lake & Dam Trail, Clemson: Located in Clemson University’s Experimental Forest. The 17,500 acre forest is home to over 50 miles of trails. These trails are used by hikers, cyclists and equestrians alike and range from easy to moderate. Access is off Old Six Mile Rd. For more information call, (864)653-7649. For our enthusists who prefer to bike on pavement, check out- www. mapmyride.com/ find-ride/unitedstates/sc/Clemson. This site has over 72 different routes varying from 2
If golf is your sport, the Clemson area has a lot to offer, including the Walker Golf Course at Clemson University. You can play where the Tigers play. Practice your swing and experience Clemson golf on the 18-hole championship Walker Course, one of most prominent golf courses in South Carolina. Designed by DJ DeVictor, the Walker Course serves as home for the Clemson University 2003 NCAA national champion golf team. It is designed to accommodate golfers of all skill levels, the course measures 6,911 yards in length from the Tiger tees and a very playable 5,934 yards from the white tees. The course’s signature Tiger Paw hole is featured as Hole Number 7 in a list of “The Dream 18 of South Carolina: Hidden Gems” on the Professional Golfers’ Association’s website. Pickens and Oconee County have several other public courses. Among them are: Pickens Country Club 18 holes, 6220 yards, par 72 1018 Country Club Rd., Pickens 864-878-6083 Boscobel 18 holes, 66449 yards, par 71 1221 Summers Drive, Pendleton 864-646-3991 Oconee Country Club 18 holes, 6007 yards, par 71 781 Richland Road, Seneca 864-882-8037 To learn more about golf courses near Clemson, visit vclem.us/golf. www.visitclemson.com
Chattooga River
Lake Keowee
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 7
Grand Central Station Disc Golf Course The longest “free to play” course in South Carolina. Great for all ages. 270 Sanders Road, Central SC. For more information, vclem.us/grandcentral.
lake and there are numerous islands ideal for parking the boat and having a picnic. Boat Ramps Cane Creek Access Area Crow Creek Access Area Fall Creek Access Area Gap Hill Landing High Falls County Park Keowee Town Access Area Lake Keowee Marina Mile Creek Park South Cove County Park Stamp Creek Access Area Warpath Access Area
➤ LAKES & RIVERS
There are few places in the world that provide the opportunity to enjoy so many different kinds of water in such close proximity. There are three major lakes – Hartwell, Keowee and Jocassee; The Wild and Scenic Chattanooga River and waterfalls in abundance. Lake Hartwell Has 56,000 acres of water with 962 miles of shoreline bordering Georgia and South Carolina, making it one of the largest lakes in the southeast and ready for all forms of water activity. Boat Ramps Lawrence Bridge Road Twelve Mile Twin Lakes Oconee Point Coneross Lake Hartwell State Recreation area Lake Keowee Covers 18,372 acres with more than 300 miles of shoreline. The mountain views are stunning from almost anywhere on the
the views. Three organizations provide whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River: Nantahala Outdoor Center Southeastern Expeditions Wildwater Rafting
Lake Jocassee Includes 7,565 acres of crystal clear water and 75 miles of shoreline. It is one of the deepest lakes in the area and has several waterfalls into the lake. The most undeveloped shoreline plus the mountain views make Jocassee the lake of choice for those who want to experience the undisturbed beauty of nature.
Rentals Elkmont Trading Company Rent kayaks and canoes; retail shop for all outdoor recreation activities. 100 Liberty Dr, Clemson 864-653-7002
Boat Ramps Devils Fork State Park Double Springs Campground
Upstate Scuba 500 Old Greenville Hwy Ste 7, Clemson 864-653-3483
The Wild and Scenic Chattooga River Provides quiet water for trout fishing; rushing white water for rafting and areas that are perfect for kayaking, canoeing or just sitting beside – or in – and enjoying
Tri-County Boat Rentals Six Mile 864-617-9187 To learn more about the lakes and rivers near Clemson, go to vclem.us/water.
“Where Hair Excellence meets Sustainable Beauty” MEET OUR STAFF AT SOLUNA!
Clemson Farmers Market At Soluna...over the next couple of months we are going to take you on a journey to get to know our staff at Soluna. Look for our ads weekly.
Call us to book an appointment.
Eat Healthy, Buy Local, Have FUN! Fridays from 3pm-6pm, Rain or Shine Patrick Square, 578 Issaqueena Trail, Clemson SC 29631 Regular Operating Season – Mid-May thru Mid-October Harvest Market – First Friday in November Holiday Market – First Friday in December
#Loveyoursylist
• Staff: The best of the upstate, Davines and nationally trained by top leaders in our industry to provide the over the top service
Special events on the First Friday of every month!
• Product: We pride ourselves in offering Natural products Lines that are vegan, paraben free, gluten free. WE have partnered with Davines, Advanced rejuvenating concept, Farm House fresh, to bring the best to our clientele. • Why Soluna: Davines Concept Salon, beautiful and relaxing environment, 100% service & retail guarantee service- hair, nails,massage, skin care, waxing, holistic health coach, spray tan
10239 Clemson Blvd. Suite 310 • Seneca, SC 29678 • 864.882.2299 www.salonsoluna.com 8 | VISIT CLEMSON
www.visitclemson.com
Visit clemsonfarmersmarket.org for details and vendor information
Patrick Square Where Legacies Begin
attractions CLEMSON OUTDOOR LAB
A Place For Everyone When the Clemson Outdoor Lab is mentioned, one of the first things that come to mind are the summer camps offered. That is certainly understandable, according to Charlie White, who served as director from the camp’s inception in 1974 until his retirement in 2006. “When the Clemson Outdoor Lab was approved for construction by the Board of Trustees and (then Clemson University) president R.C. Edwards in July 1973, initial development was only for summer operation of camps for special-needs citizens,” White said. “Now it is a fully serviced, year-round facility, serving thousands each year. It has expanded from summer camps into the direction of a fully functioning conference center that it is today.” That’s not to say that summer camps have lessened in significance at the Clemson Outdoor Lab — far from it. White said summer camps continue to be a primary focus as the South Carolina Jaycees made it their statewide project for Jaycee Camp Hope, which has served children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities, starting in the early 1970s and still going strong.
In addition, the Sertoma Clubs of South Carolina adopted Camp Sertoma as a statewide project in 1974 for speech and hearing and deserving children — fully funding all 240 campers who attend per year. There is also Camp Odyssey, for children ages 6-12; Camp Lions Den, for children ages seven through 17 who have visual impairments or are blind; and Camp Sunshine, weekend camps for children and adults who have severe or profound developmental disabilities. “A lot of folks will come to us because of camp or because of a strong commitment to summer programs,” said Leslie Conrad, who is the third person to serve as director of the Clemson Outdoor Lab, following White’s successor Norman McGee. “Special-needs campers must start at age 7. We do one week for kids without disabilities, and their ages are 6 through 12. We have adult (special-needs) campers in camp here and have someone this summer who has been coming here for 49 years.” Conrad first began working with the Outdoor Lab in 1991, having graduated from college with a Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management degree and with www.visitclemson.com
aspirations of becoming a camp director. After working at a YMCA camp through college, Conrad said she wanted to work at the Outdoor Lab and experience a different type of camp. After getting the job, Conrad continued to look into grad school options before getting hooked on the camp by the campers. “It was to the point where I didn’t have any thoughts of going to a different camp,” Conrad said, adding that she has remained at the camp through grad school and now for well over two decades. Conrad has served as director since 2011 and feels “very fortunate” to have worked with White and McGee “I feel I’ve learned a lot about managing the lab,” she said. “I learned about managing the retreat side of things along with camping and, every week, I learn more. The good thing is you don’t get into a rut. If I stop learning, it is time to move on to something else.” There are generally 50-55 camp counselors, from areas around the country that include Wyoming, Pennsylvania and St. Louis who commit 24 hours a day, seven days a week for seven weeks of their sum2017 Official Visitors Guide | 9
mer to working with campers. “It’s hard, and a lot of them don’t realize how hard it is until the first or second week of camp,” Conrad said, adding that training is also conducted for youth ages 16-17 that are interested in becoming counselors and are quick learners. McGee said it was the Outdoor Lab that brought him to Clemson in 1989 and that, despite his retirement, “still attracts me today.” Not only has the camp played a significant part in McGee’s life but the former director adds that his wife and all five children have volunteered in areas that include summer camps as well as team challenge courses or as lifeguards and sailing instructors. “There is so much to do and enjoy at this great place that one has to come here to fully understand its depth,” McGee said. “The lab is made for groups of people to fully enjoy each other in beautiful, comfortable indoor and outdoor places on a quiet Lake Hartwell cove in the Clemson Forest,” McGee said. Even after his retirement as director of the lab, McGee said he has returned on a part-time basis. “I want to help make the Outdoor Lab the hardest place to leave,” he said. The Outdoor Lab also hosts a variety of events that include conferences, meetings, retreats, weddings, receptions, family reunions, celebrations and cookouts. The internalization of facilities is the primary reason for the explosion of its popularity. There are nine suites, 17 group cabins and Kresge Hall, which is the primary meeting space, and three small meeting spaces. Food service can be provided in any of these facilities. Kresge Hall, the largest building at the Outdoor Lab, serves as the main reception, banquet, meeting and dining facility, accommodating up to 150 guests. The Kresge patio and covered porch offer additional space for gathering, dancing or seating. Bowfin is a lakeside facility for meetings, socials or conferences, with a stacked stone fireplace, hardwood floors and large carpeted loft and two sets of French doors opening to a large porch and windows. There are up to 25 guests that can be accommodated. In addition, Betty’s Place is a conference and meeting room that has a serving area in the back of the room, a large front 10 | VISIT CLEMSON
porch with seating and a deck overlooking the scenic grounds, accommodating up to 40 guests. Katydid is a newly remodeled meeting and social space, in which the facility features a serving area with granite counter top and mini-fridge, wall-to-wall carpeting and a large porch, accommodating up to 30 guests. The facility also features the Cannon Chapel/Pavilion, an outdoor shelter that can be used for weddings, picnics, cookouts, family reunions and more. The pavilion features stone columns, a serving area and ceiling fans, with a stone and brick amphitheater, wooden stage and fire pit attached to the pavilion, seating up to 250 guests. Hope Cabana is a small shelter overlooking Lake Hartwell with a wooden porch swing, additional seating and a charcoal grill, accommodating up to 15 guests, while Eagle’s Nest, a two-story tree house in the
woods, has a screened in upstairs and can sleep up to 12 guests, with a fire pit, running water and an outhouse. Included in the cabins are 10 single beds and individual dressers, each with a large, common bathroom and central seating area, fully carpeted, with heating, lighting and Wi-Fi that can be used by families or groups. Suites consist of one or two bedrooms with deluxe queen or twin size beds, each suite also including a separate living area with a desk, chairs and sofa. Lodging also includes walking and nature trails, games fields, 18-hole disc golf courses, horseshoes, tetherball, sand volleyball, basketball, four square and thunderball. The Outdoor Lab’s Team Ventures Experience prepares individuals and groups to work together through activities and challenges designed to promote communication and teamwork. www.visitclemson.com
“There are businesses or university departments or some organized group that uses our retreat center as a place for a meeting, a retreat and training,” Conrad said. “It’s not only university groups that come here, but groups who are bringing in their own program or agenda and we’re providing the facility, the lodging and the food service to support their event. “It’s very versatile, the things we can do.” While there is a lot of weekend use, Conrad said there is availability Monday through Friday for groups, such as corporate or schools that need a place for outdoor and environmental education. “We have things on our site we can provide, such as walking trails, biking, pontoon boats, canoeing and a community type garden that we hope will turn into a partnership with someone,” she said. Conrad said those wishing to rent the facilities can go to clemson.edu/outdoorlab, while reservations can be emailed directly to reservations-1@clemson.edu. In addition to family reunions, wedding, team building and work retreats and special events, she said the facilities can also host birthday, graduation, anniversary and Christmas parties. “It’s such a unique atmosphere in which you feel far away even though you don’t have to go that far,” Conrad said, adding that football season — whether the Clemson Tigers are home or away — are very popular. “Once we got the WiFi, that definitely helped during football season.” During football season, Conrad said cabins for rent and the suites require a two-night minimum stay. Conrad, director since 2011, said that while leading such a massive endeavor can be overwhelming at times, she credits the experience gained through the tutelage of White and McGee as invaluable. “Growing up with Charlie, you think he’s going to be here forever and the same with Norman,” Conrad said. “I had great leaders and teachers who said they were going to help me do things. I figured out several years ago that I love the outdoor lab and have no desire to leave to work somewhere else because I’m constantly growing and learning.”
attractions South Carolina Botanical Garden This is a unique location that consists of an abundance of natural landscapes, streams, nature trails and display gardens that stretch across 295 acres. The Bob Campbell Geology Museum, a nationally recognized nature-based sculpture collection helps define the garden experience. A great place to explore nature. Open every day from dawn to dusk; admission is free. vclem.us/scbg Bob Campbell Geology Museum See mineral clusters and sparkling gemstones. Marvel at fossilized plants and animals once buried in layers of rock, and don’t miss the iron meteorites and minerals that glow in the dark or Smilodon the Saber-toothed Cat that once roamed what is now South Carolina. Located at 103 Garden Trail, it is open Thurs – Sat 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day, also open Wed 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed University holidays. vclem.us/geology Fran Hanson Discovery Center The Discovery Center, located in the S.C. Botanical Garden on the campus of Clemson University, is the visitor center for the S.C. Botanical Garden offers regional brochures and garden information. Featured exhibits by South Carolina artists rotate quarterly with a permanent collection by S.C. native Elizabeth B. Fuller. The Garden Discovery Room offers touch tables, microscopes and a reference library for nature and gardening enthusiasts. Open Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Closed Clemson University holidays. vclem.us/scbg ‘55 Exchange Located in the Hendrix Student Center, the ’55 Exchange is a student run enterprise that manufactures, sells and serves Clemson’s world famous ice cream and other Clemson products like blue cheese, eggs, music CDs, etc. Open Mon. – Fri., 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; during June & July extended to 8 p.m., Mon, – Thurs.; and Sat.-Sun. 1 to 6 p.m. vclem.us/55exc
Duke Energy’s World of Energy Located on Lake Keowee beside the Oconee Nuclear Station, Duke Energy’s World of Energy is an education center with self-guided exhibits that teach visitors of all ages how electricity is made. Guests also enjoy interactive games, a short nature trail, a butterfly garden and a picnic area with a beautiful view of Lake Keowee. Admission to the facility is free and is open Monday thru Saturday. Special events are held throughout the year so check our website often for details! Enjoy a picnic and beautiful view of Lake Keowee, then take a leisurely stroll along their nature trail. 7812 Rochester Hwy, Seneca. For more information and to find out about upcoming events, go to vclem.us/ woe.
a.m. to 5 p.m., vclem.us/hatchery. Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail This is a self-guided tour to discover the quilt panels located within Oconee, Pickens, and Anderson counties. Begun in February 2010 the project seeks to document the history of quilting, quilters, and their craft. Part of the National Quilt Trail, began in 2001 in Ohio, the Upstate Heritage Quilt Trail is associated with the 25 states in the United States and in Canada. The Trail celebrates the history and heirlooms of creativity born of necessity and recognized as an art form worldwide. For street addresses and GPS coordinates, go to vclem.us/uhqt.
➤LOCAL FARMS
Clemson Farmers Market The Market features fresh, locally grown produce, specialty food items, and Ram Cat Alley handmade arts and crafts. Market hours Located in the historic district of are 3:30-6:30 every Friday, June through downtown Seneca, South Carolina, Ram October. First Friday at the Market takes Cat Alley is home to one-of-a-kind shops, place the first Friday of each month, Junerestaurants and festivals. Both charmingly October, and features expanded Market historic and elegantly sophisticated, this hours, entertainment and activities, food pedestrian-friendly block of locally owned and beverages, and a free outdoor movie sponsored by Patrick Square at 8:30pm. 578 Issaqueena Trail, Clemson. For more information visit vclem. us/farmersmarket. Eden Farms Just a short drive from downtown Easley and Pickens, Eden Farms is open to the public and offers an affordable, unique, and beautiful setting for gatherings of almost any kind. Miles of trails throughout the 160 acres are perfect for hiking and camping as well as riding. Trail rides, special events, cross-country riding and Split Creek Farm training, summer camps for kids and more. We have indoor banquet faciliites and can provide a great birthday party with trail stores and restaurants is a great place for ride, food and fun. For more information, friends and family to meet for good food, vclem.us/eden unique shopping and fun events. vclem.us/ ramcat Split Creek Farm This working farm is a Grade A Dairy loPickens Flea Market & Bargain Exchange cated in a barn designed and built by the Find great bargains and an occasional owners to include the milking and cheese treasure among the yardsale-type items, operations and a kid nursery. A retail gift produce and antiques. Open every Wednesshop featuring goat milk products and folk day. 1449 Walhalla Hwy., Pickens, SC, art is open to the public. 29671. For more info, visit vclem.us/fleamFrom Clemson, take SC Highway 187 and kt or call 864-878-4762. turn north toward Clemson Research Park, 2.7 miles. Turn right at the Mobile gas staWalhalla State Fish Hatchery tion and go 1/4 mile on Centerville Rd. The Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Confarm is on the left. Arts & Crafts in the Barn servation Corps (CCC), this trout hatchery Yard will be held November 19,10 a.m.-5 annually raises some 150,000 pounds of p.m. Mon - Sat (9 a.m.-6 p.m.); Sun (2 p.m.rainbow, brown and brook trout for stock5 p.m.). Call 864-287-3921 or vclem.us/ ing mountain streams and lakes. splitcreek. Located on S.C. Highway 107; open daily 8 www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 11
The Happy Berry Farm A pick your own small fruit farm with blackberries, blueberries, figs, and elderberries. The season runs from June 1st until early September. 510 Gap Hill Rd. Six Mile Sc 29682, 864-868-2946, vclem.us/happyberry. Table Rock Equestrian Center Enjoy horseback riding with a trained guide through the streams and waterfalls of Pinnacle Mountain. Lessons and boarding are also available. Call 864-878-2896 for information and reservations today. Located at 103 Sliding Rock Road, Pickens. www.tablerockresort.com 144 State Road S-39-69, Pickens SC 29671, 864-878-3942 Chattooga Ridge Stables Located at 230 Beulah Land Drive, Mountain Rest, the stables offer horseback riding for beginners to experienced, including pony rides. Farm trail rides through streams and wooded trails. Call for reservations and pricing information, 864-6385754 or 864-324-1102. Directions from Walhalla: Take SC Hwy 28 west from Walhalla; Turn Left on Whetstone Road and go 5 miles to Beulah Land Drive.
Rocky Gap/Willis Knob Horse Trails Map – Hiking 6 The Rocky Gap Trail in South Carolina and the Willis Knob Trail in Georgia combine to offer some of the most scenic horseback riding in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains. Winding across deeply dissected ridges, the trails descend into the beautiful Chattoooga Wild and Scenic River corridor. The Whetstone Horse Table Rock Camp in South CaroEquestrian Center lina serves as a base Fieldstone Farm Bed & Breakfast camp for many users of Horse lovers of all ages can both trails. There is a fee for the Whetstone enjoy trail riding or taking a wagon ride Horse Camp. Earls Ford road is very close around the farm at 640 Fieldstone Farm to Whetstone Horse Camp and provides a Road, Westminster. Beginners can enjoy parking area, and a hiking access trail to learning the basics and trail riding around the Chattooga River. the farm, while more experienced riders may enjoy a remote ride in the Sumter For more great horseback experience go National Forest. Remote trail ride includes to: South Carolina Upstate Equine Council sack lunch and drinks and is a full day event. Call 864-882-5651. www.scupstateequine.org
Green Springs 114
Ram Cat Alley, Seneca American Made & Fair Trade Fun!
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Pottery, glass, baskets, soaps, candles, jewelry, toys & more! Custom & Exclusive South Carolina earrings & nightlights
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT culture In recent years the options for entertainment in the Clemson area have expanded to meet the demands of a diverse population. The city’s lively downtown caters especially to students and young professionals with a smorgasbord of nightlife. Here they can shoot pool, dance to live music, sample brews at a variety of pubs or sip a cappuccino at one of the local coffee companies. Memorial Stadium at Clemson University has hosted The Rolling Stones, Elton John, Billy Joel, U2, The Eagles and Reba McIntyre and, on a more sublime note, Clemson University’s carillon concerts are a special treat, while nightspots such as The Esso Club, and several places along Tiger Boulevard afford an opportunity to enjoy live jazz, soul or other great music. ➤ PERFORMING ARTS The Brooks Center for the Performing Arts Since opening in 1994, The Brooks Center on the Clemson University campus has elevated the city’s cultural offerings to a new level. The Brooks Center is home for the performing arts at Clemson University. The state-of-the-art facility serves as a roadhouse to many nationally and internationally acclaimed dance companies, theatre troupes, and music ensembles of all types. The center is comprised of a 968seat proscenium theatre that serves as the main stage, a 100-seat black box theatre, and a 100-seat recital room. Box Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 1-5 p.m.; (864) 656-7787, vclem.us/brooks. Clemson’s Carillon Clemson University’s carillon concerts feature the 47 bells atop Tillman Hall on
Brooks Center
Clemson’s Carillon campus. Concerts offer a wide repertoire — from show tunes to holiday carols. For information, call (864) 656-6366. Clemson Little Theatre at the Pendleton Playhouse In 1989 The Clemson Little Theatre purchased the old movie theatre on Mechanic Street in Pendleton and renovated it into a modern playhouse that operates in conjunction with adjacent and Cox Hall. The playhouse serves as the home of The Clemson Little Theatre and Clemson Area Youth Theatre. For season or current production information visit vclem. us/clt or call 864-646-8100.
Oconee Community Theatre OCT continues to provide a wide variety of theatre experiences for the community. For current productions and season offerings visit vclem.us/oct. Walhalla Civic Auditorium The Walhalla Civic Auditorium complex is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Originally the Walhalla Graded School, established in 1903, the building and land were deeded to the Walhalla Auditorium Restoration Committee in 2004. Today, the WCA Our mission is a first-class facility for performances, conferences, and seminars that enhance
Lee Gallery
www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 13
the cultural and social life of the area. More than two dozen productions are brought to its stage annually. For current events call 877-368- 5318 or visit vclem. us/wca. ➤ VISUAL ARTS The Arts Center This is a nonprofit community art center located in Clemson that provides exceptional arts education and makes fine art accessible and exciting to our community. In addition to an exciting selection of programs in a variety of cultural disciplines, the Center offers a variety of events in the art gallery and multipurpose auditorium during the day and evening hours. Office & Gallery hours: MondayThursday 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Call for Thursday evening and Saturday hours. (864) 6335051, vclem.us/artscenter. The Rudolph Lee Gallery Located in Lee Hall on the Clemson University campus the Lee Gallery regularly stages art exhibitions during the academic year that primarily highlight the work of students, faculty and area artists. The Fran Hanson Discovery Center (Perimeter Road, west campus,
(864) 656-3405) features artists who demonstrate their work, including fiber art, watercolors and woodcarving. Pickens County Museum of Art and History A variety of exhibits offer a kaleidoscope of life in Pickens County and the Upstate. The museum also has limited engagement exhibits and the museum gift shop features the work of more than 100 local and regional fine, traditional and folk artisans that represents the artistic spectrum of this unique area. Located at 307 Johnson Street, Pickens; Phone: (864) 898-5963 or visit vclem.us/ pcmuseum for current exhibit information. Blue Ridge Arts Center Blue Ridge Arts Center, 111 E. South 2nd Street, Seneca, oversees a continuing series of exhibits featuring the work of both adults and students, community residents and traveling offerings. Classes for all ages and demonstrations are frequent. Information can be obtained by calling 864-882-2722 or vclem.us/brac. The Rainey Fine Arts Center At Anderson University, 316 Blvd. St., (864) 231-2125) have exhibits throughout the year.
Hendrix Student Center On Clemson University’s campus, the center’s 163-seat McKissick Theatre shows first-run films and documentaries at bargain-basement prices. Free to Clemson University students. For more information about entertainment, go to vclem.us/ entertainment ➤ LIBRARIES The Strom Thurmond Institute Created on October 29, 1981, when Senator Strom Thurmond announced his decision to place at Clemson University, his alma mater, the papers and memorabilia spanning his more than 65 years of public service, the center is a leader in applied research and service in public policy areas. It is located on Silas Pearman Blvd. on campus. Call 864-656-4700 for more information. Faith Clayton Genealogy Room Housed at Southern Wesleyan University’s Rickman Library, the collection consists of genealogical material, including photographs, documents, books and a database of 350,000 Upstate names. The collection contains reference books on Cherokee history in Pickens and Oconee counties.
Annual signature events include: Passport to the Arts - March Clemson Festival of Arts – third weekend in May Summer Art Camp – June and July 20x20 Invitational Clay Exhibit and Sale – Fall Art & Fine Craft Holiday Market – November and December Exhibits and classes held throughout the year. Class descriptions and online registration available at www.explorearts.org Please consider becoming a member of The ARTS Center of Clemson. Member’s benefits include discounted tuition on classes.
Our goal is to pamper you from head to toe and to bring out your individual, natural beauty. The experienced and talented staff members at Salon Diva & Spa Inc. are among the most qualified in the industry. Whether you need a full day of relaxation, a completely new hairstyle or a quick manicure, you’ll find it here. CHECK OUT OUR SERVICES, AND CALL US TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY!
212 Butler Street, Clemson, SC 29631 864.633.5051, info@explorearts.org EXPLOREARTS.ORG Exhibit and office hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m., /ClemsonArtsCenter Monday–Thursday; 10 a.m.–2 p.m., Friday @ArtsInClemson By appointment on Saturday or Sunday
Hours: Tues-Fri: 9:00 - 5:00 Evening & Saturday by Appt. Sun: Closed
501 Rochester Hwy. | Suite A-1 | Hwy 130 |Seneca, SC 29672
985-0018
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FESTIVALS & EVENTS Spittono
events Spittoono Spittoono marks quarter-century at same location The Spittoono Festival is an annual family-friendly, three-day music festival held in mid-to-late August for the past 35 years, 25 of which prior to last year had taken place at the South Carolina National Guard Armory near Pendleton. Last year, the event, which is put on by the Redneck Performing Arts Association and raises money for charity, relocated to a pasture at 1569 Eighteen Mile Road in Central. Traditionally held the first week of classes at Clemson University, the festival began as a spoof of Spoleto, the cultural festival held for years in Charleston. The event began in 1981, and over the past 10 years has been able to donate nearly $100,000 to charities. Admission is free and local bands that perform do so at no charge, with monies raised from the sale of t-shirts and cold beverages. Musical styles range from rock ‘n’ roll to country, bluegrass and the blues. The event is held rain or shine and while dogs are welcome, they are asked to be kept on a leash. No coolers are allowed. For more information, vclem.us/ spittoono. Pendleton Spring Jubilee The Pendleton Spring Jubilee began in 1978 as a way to enhance tourism in Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties. The award-winning festival brings artisans from across the country, vying for the 100 spaces that are available. Music is provided by local and regional entertainers, and local food vendors are on hand to provide a variety of items. During its existence over the past 38 years, the Spring Jubilee, held the first Saturday and Sunday in April, has twice been named the Best Festival in South Carolina in a Community of Less than 3,000; a Top 100 event by the American Bus Association; and multi-winner of the Top 20 Events in the Southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. A part of the festival since its inclusion nearly a quarter of a century ago is the Jubilee Joy Ride, involving scenic roads in Anderson County. The 13- and 30-mile loops explore country roads and travel through the communities
of Sandy Springs and LaFrance while The Century consists of a 65-mile route starting at the end of the 30-mile loop and continuing another 35 miles through northern Anderson County. For more information, vclem.us/jubilee. Greater Clemson Music Festival This year marked the fifth year of the Clemson Music Festival, formerly known as Bluesfest, which has expanded to neighboring municipalities the past couple of years. Now, instead of simply blues music, there is country, rock, jazz and beach music for audiences to enjoy at the mid-April event. The festival has also enjoyed a relationship with Clemson Area Transit for transportation to some historical sites in Clemson and Central that highlights textile, railroad and African-American history. A 501(c)(3) non-profit, the festival benefits local charities, emerging African-American performers and cancer survivors. For more information, vclem.us/gcmf. Passport to the Arts For the past six years, four locations in Clemson have provided an evening of art, live music, entertainment, food and drinks through Passport to the Arts held each March. The town-gown event is coordinated through The Arts Center and Clemson University Center for Visual Arts at the Lee Gallery, the Charles Cheezem Education Center at Patrick Square and CATbus headquarters on West Lane. Each guest receives a passport to get stamped at each location and can ride a Clemson Area Transit shuttle where local musicians will provide entertainment. Each new venue will provide local food, music, art and creativity on display. Included www.visitclemson.com
in the passport, which is the ticket, is four beverage drinks (alcoholic and nonalcoholic), appetizers, live music and art exhibits at each of the four locations as well as entertainment on each CATbus. The passport must be kept on hand at all times and any belongings cannot be left on the bus. Typically, attendees are able to view more than 200 works of art by more than 80 artists during the event. Many of the pieces of art on display are for sale for the first time. For more information, vclem.us/ptta. ClemsonFest Clemsonfest has enjoyed several locations in its 23-year history, including Jaycee Park and Bowman Field. However, since 1997, the event has called the Snow Family Outdoor Fitness and Wellness Center, formerly known as the Clemson University Campus Beach and Y Beach, home. Held each July 3rd, the celebration brings an estimated 7,000 people to hear beach music and enjoy the fireworks that conclude the evening. A local Boy Scout troop conducts a flag raising and, later, a flag lowering ceremony and playing of taps. Entertainment includes adults of all ages competing in a grip contest while food vendor choices range from barbecue, grilled chicken and sweet potato fries to ice cream, shaved ice, kettle corn and funnel cakes. There is also a children’s area featuring interactive games, bounce houses and face painting. For more information, vclem.us/ clemsonfest. For a complete list of upcoming festivals and events, see vclem.us/events.
Clemsonfest 2017 Official Visitors Guide | 15
City of
Seneca upcoming events
Historic Ballenger House Christmas Event! st
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212 E. South Third St. Seneca, 29678
CHRISTMAS AT THE LUNNEY DECEMBER 11th
Howl-o-ween on the green
Downtown Seneca October 31st
Santa’s Workshop
December 3rd. 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
FREE
Pictures with Santa
Every Thursday April - October. Starts at 6:30 on Ram Cat Alley.
1st Saturday April - October. Downtown on Main Street.
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Seneca SC Events
More info at www.seneca.sc.us 16 | VISIT CLEMSON
www.visitclemson.com
Collins Ole Towne
venues
Looking to Tie the Knot? For anyone looking to tie the knot in the Clemson area, there’s no shortage of options available that will provide beautiful backdrops for the big day. And when it comes to natural beauty, it’s hard to beat the South Carolina Botanical Garden, a sprawling 295-acre property on the edge of the Clemson University campus that also happens to feature roughly a dozen different possible wedding locations, both indoors and outdoors, for almost any budget. With the ability to seat up to 400 people, the Heritage Amphitheater is the largest option, while the Fran Hanson Discovery Center and Carriage House can accommodate up to 400 people as well. Other outdoor options include the Xeriscape Garden, the Hortitherapy Garden, the Hayden Lecture area and the Cadet Life Garden, while indoor options include the Hayden Conference Center, indoors at the Fran Hanson Discovery Center and the Carriage House. For more information, call (864) 6563405 to discuss availability and pricing, or visit clemson.edu/public/scbg/events/ rentals/venues.html.
Pendleton, the historic Ashtabula and Woodburn homes may top the list, as the plantation homes see no shortage of visitors every year. The beautiful homes — Woodburn is located along U.S. Highway 76, while Asthabula is on S.C. Highway 88 — are also available to host weddings from April through October, with times running between three and eight hours. Each location can accommodate up to 400 guests, and the Pendleton Historic Foundation — which oversees both locations — has a rental agreement with a local company to provide any needed equipment.
Ashtabula and Woodburn Of the many historic locations in
For scheduling at Woodburn, be sure to check the Clemson football schedule first, as the home is located right along with of the busiest traffic areas before and after games. For more information, call 864-6500003 or visit vclem.us/weddings. Sleepy Hollow During wedding season, if you drive down Issaqueena Trail, it’s likely you’ll see dozens of cars outside of the Sleepy Hollow Barn and Plantation, and if you look a little closer, you might catch a bride and groom on the wedding green. Sleepy Hollow, founded in 1837 is
Sleepy Hollow www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 17
located on 44 acres of forest, creeks and historic farmland and features the preserved J.C. Stribling Barn, which is on the National Historic Registry provides a perfect reception location. Originally a working farm of 270 acres, Sleepy Hollow also features the largest white oak in South Carolina. For more information, call 864-207-1540 or visit vclem.us/sleepyhollow. Occasions at Wedgefield Since opening in 2002, Occasions at Wedgefield has played hosts to hundreds of weddings with the aim of making each event special and memorable. Located in Central, the venue has a gabled entry, scenic grounds, specialty lighting and décor and a dance area. There’s space for up to 175 seated guests, and 250 guests in a cocktail-style setup. For ceremonies, Olivia’s Garden and Caldwell Pavilion provide an intimate outdoor setting, and in case of inclement weather, the venue has also a “Plan B”
The private retreat also features a cook shed with a grill and a stainless foodprep area, while cookers can also be brought in. The lodge also has spacious, shady decks that help provide a relaxed, rustic atmosphere. For availability and pricing, call 864-654-1000, and for more information, visit vclem.us/millcreek. Collins Ole Towne For those looking to step back to a simpler time on their big day, there are not many more unique options than Collins Ole Towne in Central. Occasions at Wedgefield A recreated 1930s village, Collins Ole Towne ready to go. allows people to visit a depressionFor more information, call 864-639era a one-room church, country store, 0000 or visit vclem.us/occasions. barbershop, small corn mill, small sawmill and little red schoolhouse. For more Mill Creek Lodge information, availability and pricing on Located between Central and Clemson, Collins Ole Towne, which is open to the Mill Creek Lodge offers access to a 20-acre public by appointment only, call 864-639pond and natural surroundings that make 2618. and for more information, vclem.us/ for an ideal wedding location. oletowne.
Looking for the perfect lifestyle community for retirement? Keowee Key has more of what you love – Golf, Tennis, Fitness Center, Swimming, Boating, and Pickleball are just a few of the amenities this active, secure, lakeside community offers.
1392 Stamp Creek Road, Salem, SC 29676. 864-944-2312 www.Keowee-key.com 18 | VISIT CLEMSON
www.visitclemson.com
www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 19
Pot Belly Deli
Blue Heron
a favorite among locals
eats SunnySide Café To say SunnySide Café came out of the gate hot in Clemson would be an understatement, and it doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon. After opening for business on Sept. 29, owner Mark Buce said the restaurant has exceeded his expectations beyond his wildest dreams at this early stage. “It’s been amazing,” he said. “We’ve doubled any of our expectations, and we’ve actually doubled our third-year expectations already.” Serving breakfast and lunch all day, SunnySide Café is open from 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at its location at 405 College Ave., Suite 120. And a major focus that’s been a hit — also exceeding Buce’s expectations — is the restaurant’s dedication to serving local products, as SunnySide Café has partnered with numerous outlets to provide local breakfast sausage, chorizo, ground beef, eggs, grits, coffee, jams, jellies and apple butter. “I wasn’t really sure how big of a deal it would be here,” Buce said. “I came from Asheville (N.C.) a while ago where there are different farm-to-table programs, and it was much more prominent, I thought. But it’s been really well received here, and even the vegan and vegetarian thing, we put it out there because we thought we should offer some of that because this is a college town. Sunny Side Café
20 | VISIT CLEMSON
“But the truth is, it’s 25 or 30 percent of our business now, and that blew me away.” For more on Sunnyside Café, call (864) 653-9532 or visit oursunnysidecafe.com. Blue Heron When it comes to fine dining in Clemson, the Blue Heron doesn’t have many rivals. And when it comes to versatility in fine-dining experience, the restaurant may well stand alone. Opened in 2002, the restaurant also happens to be the longest standing sushi bar in town with an expansive menu, while it also prides itself on its steaks and seafood. The menu also features staples like pizza and pasta, as it offers a wide variety for numerous tastes. “Using quality ingredients, both locally grown and produced abroad, along with premium beef and seafood, the Blue Heron is dedicated to providing its customers with delicious and innovative food,” the Blue Heron’s website reads. And while the main restaurant offers up a fine-dining experience, things are a little looser downstairs in the bar area, where there are pools tables and TVs to watch while waiting on friends to arrive for dinner, or if you just want to pop in for a drink. Open from 4:30-9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, and 4:30-10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant also opens up at 11 a.m. for Sunday brunch. After shutting down brunch at 2:30 p.m., the Blue Heron opens back up at 4:30 p.m. and stays open till 9 p.m. The Blue Heron, located at 405 College Avenue, suite 130, can be reached at (864) 6533354, while they can also be found at blueheronfood.com. www.visitclemson.com
A
mongst Clemson locals, Pot Belly Deli has long been a favorite dating back 22 years at two different loca-
tions. Several years after opening in 1994, the restaurant made a very short move to its current spot, and customers have been steadily coming in to enjoy a wide range of deli sandwiches — both hot and cold — along with salads and an array of breakfast items that are available all day long. And according to manager Etoyai Shaw, it doesn’t take long for customers to feel at home at the local hotspot. “We’re right here in a good spot where most of the students are familiar with us, and having been here this many years, we have a good, regular customer base,” she said. “We know everyone’s names, and we have a really down-to-earth type of feel. We’re very friendly, and everybody here has multiple jobs, so we know pretty much everything we need to do to make our customers happy.” Located at 109 Wall St., Pot Belly Deli lists its hours as 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. However, Shaw said the restaurant opens up 15 minutes early every day for their customers who have to get to work early. She also said the restaurant prides itself on getting out in the community — both in town and on campus. “We’ll do anything we can to try to reach out to our community to be there for them and our Clemson students. We love Clemson, and we don’t accept too many Gamecock fans unless they’re wearing Clemson shirts,” she said with a laugh. Reach Pot Belly Deli at (864) 653-3663 or find it on Facebook.
AREA RESTAURANTS eats ➤ AMERICAN 356 Sushi & Martini Bar 366 College Ave (864) 653-1356 Beef O’ Brady’s 101 Canoy Ln (864) 654-5151
For more restaurant information: www.vclem.us/eat
SunnySide Café 405 College Ave Ste 120 (864) 653-9532
Thaiger Café 1066 Tiger Blvd (864) 507-6089
Pot Belly Deli 109 Wall St (864) 654-3663
Zaxby’s 1059 Tiger Blvd (864) 653-6768
The Burger Joint 378 College Ave (864) 722-9090
Yolk Asian Kitchen 906 Tiger Blvd, Ste 3 (864) 623-7977
Sam’s Gyro & Shish Kebab 361 College Ave (864) 722-5502
➤ COFFEE SHOPS All In Coffee Shop 106 Earle St (864) 372-4510
Subway 826 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 653-8355 341 College Ave (864) 654-1432
➤ ICE CREAM, FROZEN YOGURT Spill the Beans 102 North Clemson Ave (864) 654-1515 TCBY 1390 Tiger Blvd, Ste 302 (864) 654-3030
Blue Heron 405 College Ave (864) 653-3354
The Esso Club 129 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 654-5120
Calhoun Corners 103 Clemson St (864) 654-7490
Waffle House 1064 Tiger Blvd (864) 653-9381
IHOP 1390 Tiger Blvd, Ste 400 (864) 643-1052
Western Sizzlin’ 898 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-3112
Jake’s Wayback Burgers 1390 Tiger Blvd, Ste 112 (864) 653-9700
Wingin’ it 359 College Ave (864) 654-2444
Mac’s Drive In 404 Pendleton Rd (864) 654-1103
➤ ASIAN/ CHINESE Asian Delight 1067 Tiger Blvd, Ste 30 (864) 653-8888
Palmetto’s Smokehouse & Oyster Bar 199 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 650-2664 Pixie & Bills 1058 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-1210 Rick Erwin’s Clemson 127 Market St (864) 654-9466 Ruby Tuesday 900 Tiger Blvd (864) 653-8050 Sardis Den/Goobers 520-2 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 654-7427
Bake and Cook Thai Restaurant 405 College Ave (864) 722-5514 Hibachi Grill China Buffet 1053 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-8868 Kung Fu Cantina 101 Keith St (864) 623-7975 Osaka Express 518 College Ave, Ste 100 (864) 654-3060
Dunkin Donuts 1068 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-4459 Moe Joe Coffee Co 385 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 653-8563 Spill the Beans 102 North Clemson Ave (864) 654-1515 Starbucks 1082 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-1751 ➤ DELI, SANDWICH SHOP Firehouse Subs 385 College Ave (864) 654-7827
➤ FAST FOOD Bojangles’ 102 Canoy Ln (864) 654-8135 Bojangles of Pendleton 7610 Hwy 76 (864) 646-4680 Chick-fil-A 1061 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-4655 Cook Out 1055 Tiger Blvd (864) 653-5314 KFC & Long John Silvers 118 Pinnacle St (864) 654-1598
Groucho’s Deli 104 Finley St (864) 653-7764
McDonald’s 1065 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-3498
Jersey Mike’s Subs 1067 Tiger Blvd, Ste 40 (864) 654-9266
Sonic Drive-in 1075 Tiger Blvd (864) 653-3232
Skins Hotdogs 1070 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-4422
Red Bowl 1390 Tiger Blvd, Ste 210 (864) 654-8800
Jimmy John’s 393 College Ave (864) 653-9001
Taco Bell 1057 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-7746
Sole on the Green 230 Madren Center Dr (864) 656-7444
Tokyo Japan 906 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-4700
McAlister’s Deli 1390 Tiger Blvd, Ste 306 (864) 654-0400
Wendy’s 1048 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-5099
www.visitclemson.com
➤ MEXICAN Chipotle 393 College Ave (864) 653-5801
(864) 722-5464 Little Caesar’s 391 College Ave, Ste 105 (864) 653-9540 Papa John’s Pizza 501 College Ave (864) 653-7272 Peppino’s Pizzeria 384 College Ave, Ste 2 (864) 653-3555 Pizza Hut 1073 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-8646
El Jimador 1062 Tiger Blvd (864) 654-8006
Todaro Pizza 105 Sloan St (864) 654-3001
Moe’s Southwest Grill 391 College Ave (864) 654-6630
Tony’s Pizza 500 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 654-1555
Monterrey Mexican Restaurant 1710 W Main St (Central) (864) 654-1005
Your Pie 111 Earle St (864) 643-4180
Super Taco 391 Old Greenville Hwy (864) 654-6474 ➤ PIZZA/ ITALIAN Brioso Fresh Pasta 360 College Ave (864) 653-3800 Columbos Pizza 203 Pendleton Rd (864) 654-1103 Courtyard at the Villa 217 W Main St (Central) (864) 952-5027 Domino’s 501 Old Greenville Hwy (Bi-Lo) (864) 653-7575 Joe’s NY Pizza 104 Thomas Green Blvd
➤ PUBS Backstreets Pub & Deli 102-1 Earle St (864) 653-7581 Loose Change 349 College Ave (864) 654-1090 Nicks Tavern & Deli 107-2 Sloan St (864) 654-4890 Sloan Street Tap Room 109-1 Sloan St (864) 654-7210 TD’s of Clemson 347 College Ave (864) 653-6518 Tiger Town Tavern 368 College Ave (864) 654-5901 2017 Official Visitors Guide | 21
The New South Architecture & Exhibit “Speaking in the One Historic Voice”
A 1909 American Queen Anne style bungalow, carriage house and “two-seater outhouse”. Architect Charles Christian Hook Former residence of Dr. W. J. & Lilian Mason Lunney. The arts & crafts interior features art glass windows, original chandeliers, long-leaf pine woodwork, quarter-sawn oak mantel, English fireplace tiles, flat panel wainscot with burlap inserts, and an 1866 Chickering & Sons “cocked hat” parlor grand piano.
Open to the Public | Thursday through Sunday 1:00 - 5:00 PM Other hours by appointment | Admission by donation For a pictorial tour & events schedule visit www.LunneyHouseMuseum.org
211 W. South 1ST. Street, Seneca, SC 29678 info@LunneyHouseMuseum.org | 864.882.4811
Come discover Seneca’s premier cultural museum
The Bertha Lee Strickland Cultural Museum Honoring the Past • Elevating the Future
BERTHA LEE STRICKLAND CULTERAL MUSEUM (BLSCM) Downtown Historic District - Seneca’s premier cultural exhibit museum focuses on the richly compelling, authentic local African American history and culture of Oconee County. The museum incorporates technology and tradition to create a meaningful and educational experience for all ages. BLSCM rotates over 85% of its exhibit space 2-3 times annually. It also features “Bertha’s Kitchen” with its orginal bead board walls and ceiling, fireplace and mantels, flooring, and some original furnishing to create an interpretive look into the early 20th Century kitchen in Mrs. Strickland’s home. Call: 864710-9994, Email: blscmuseum@gmail.com or LIKE US on Facebook: facebook.com/cultural
208 West South 2nd Street, Seneca For more information www.blscm.org 22 | VISIT CLEMSON
Open Thursday - Saturday 11:00 AM- 4:00 PM Some holidays excluded. Admission is free. www.visitclemson.com
heritage
F
Hagood Mill: a look into historic traditions
eaturing two restored log cabins, a blacksmith shop, natural trails, a cotton gin and a moonshine still, Hagood Mill offers visitors and residents of the Upstate an opportunity to learn about the heritage of the area. “The centerpiece of the Hagood Mill historic site is the water-powered 1845 gristmill,” director Billy Crawford said. “It’s one of the finest examples of 19th century technology in the Upcountry and operates just as it has for the last century and a half.” Located just three miles north of Pickens, Hagood Mill hosts a variety of events as well as folk life and traditional arts demonstrations. From storytelling and banjo extravaganzas to blues concerts and cooking on an open hearth, the mill offers something for everyone of all ages. The Hagood Mill site is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., every week, all year long. And on the third Saturday of each month, the mill site transoms into a mini-festival providing the public a chance to celebrate in the local community. The Hagood Petroglyph Site, formerly known as the Rock Art Center, opened in September 2015 during the Fiddling Championship. The site is open to the public three days each week – Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Among the 32 petroglyphs at the site, 18 represent people and several are abstract. There are always lots of things to see at Hagood Mill. Demonstrations include everything from blacksmithing, bowldigging, flint knapping and chair-caning to basket making, pottery, quilting, spinning, knitting, weaving, woodcarving and bee keeping. Attendees may ask questions of the artists and purchase many of the traditional arts to take home. In the old mill, fresh stone-ground corn meal, grits and wheat flour are available to purchase. In addition, rye flour, Basmati rice flour, oat flour, oatmeal, popping corn meal, and grits, organic yellow corn meal and grits, and buckwheat flour are produced and may be in stock. Hagood Mill
cookbooks and a variety of other mill related items are also available. “As always, we encourage visitors to bring their favorite oldtime instruments and join in the ‘open jam’ which takes place throughout the day under the ancient cedar beside our beloved 1791 log house,” Crawford said. “There promises to be lots to do and lots of fun. So, head on out, share a picnic or grab a plate of great food on site from the Gatehouse Restaurant and enjoy a special day at Hagood Mill.” Admission is free to the Hagood Mill
www.visitclemson.com
Site and the Hagood Creek Petroglyph Site, however a $5 parking fee is charged during the rain or shine events. The proceeds from parking help fund Hagood Mill. For more information call Hagood Mill at 864- 898-2936 or check the website at visitpickenscounty.com/calendar. –By Stephanie Jadrnicek, The Journal
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 23
TALES OF THE PAST heritage Ashtabula Plantation This is a charming two-story clapboard plantation house built c. 1825 by Lewis Ladson Gibbes (1771-1828) and his wife, the former Maria Drayton and later owned by their son Lewis Reeves Gibbs, the famous SC naturalist. The orginal 2-story brick building on the site dates to before 1790 and was the site of a traveler’s tavern prior to the building of the main house. Ashtabula is a house museum situated on ten acres of open ground with its colonial period brick dependency and well house. The house was restored by the Pendleton Historic Foundation and furnished with antebellum antiques and family artifacts. Located at 2725 Old Greenville Hwy, Central. Tuesdays through Fridays, 1-4 p.m., and Sundays 1-4 p.m.; vclem.us/ashtabula
Freedom’s Hill Church Located on the campus of Southern Wesleyan University, the church features a dramatic history of church-goers who stood against slavery and faced violent opposition. Outside the church is a garden in the shape of a wagon wheel – a symbol once used on the Underground Railroad that spirited slaves to freedom. Student-led worship
services and interpretive programs are the focus of the chapel. vclem.us/freedomshill
Old Stone Church Located at 101 Stone Circle in Clemson, War hero Gen. Andrew Pickens and others built this Presbyterian church in 1797. The sanctuary was damaged by fire and is no longer in use, but stands watch over a fascinating cemetery where many pioneers are buried, including Pickens and his family. Col. Robert Anderson, of Revolutionary War fame, also is buried in the cemetery. Hopewell Plantation Built about 1785 initially as a log structure, Hopewell Plantation is representative of a rural house type, which was common in the late 18th and early 19th century in the South Carolina backcountry. Beginning with a small log structure as a frontier pioneer home for Gen. Andrew Pickens (ca. 1785), Hopewell was substantially enlarged by Gen. Pickens and was his plantation home for about 20 years, (ca. 1785-1815). The historical significance of Hopewell rests on the national stature of General Pickens, who will be remembered in American history for his significant contributions as a Revolutionary War General and later as a Native-American negotiator. vclem.us/hopewell
Woodburn Historic House Built in 1830, this vintage home exhibits 24 | VISIT CLEMSON
www.visitclemson.com
an excellent example of a 19th Century SC Upcountry plantation home. Originally built for Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, members of the Adger family of Charleston took over the plantation and expanded the home. Woodburn now consists of a house, museum, furnished with antebellum antiques and artifacts; walking trails, outbuildings and a recreation of a Victorian carriage house. Sundays, 2-5 p.m., April-October. vclem.us/ woodburn
South Carolina Botanical Garden/ Hanover House & Hunt Cabin Hanover House was built for Paul de St. Julien in 1716 in Berkley County, South Carolina, the Hanover House was reconstructed on the Clemson University campus in 1941 and moved to the South Carolina Botanical Garden in 1994. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is managed by Clemson University’s Historic Properties department. The Hanover House is open Saturdays, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1–4:30 p.m., and Sundays 2–4:30 p.m. It is often open on Wednesdays 11a.m.–12 p.m. and 1–4 p.m.; call the Hanover House 864.656.2241 first to confirm. Closed University holidays. The restored Hunt Cabin was built around 1826 by Charles Hunt Jr., who had married Martha Dalton in 1825. As a wedding present, Martha’s father, Solomon Dalton, gave Charles 2,300 acres of land. The Hunt Cabin was built on this tract of land in Seneca, SC.
The Cabin was scheduled to be torn down, but was purchased by the Clemson Class of 1915 for $35 and moved to Clemson College in 1955. The original home contained four bedrooms on the first floor and a large front porch. As it currently stands, the Hunt Cabin has one large open room on the first floor, and the front porch is long removed. General Andrew Pickens, a good friend of the Hunts, spent many nights in their home. Legend has it that during the Civil War, General Sherman spent a night at the cabin, and thus spared it from the torch during his long campaign in the South. vclem.us/hanover
Located at 307 Johnson Street, Pickens; Phone: (864) 898-5963 or visit vclem.us/ pcmuseum Clemson African American Museum This museum showcases the historical achievements of local African Americans in the Greater Clemson Area and serves as a resource center to engage the community in intellectual discourse about the past. It is located in the Calhoun Bridge Center, 214 Butler St, Clemson, and is open Tues-Thurs., from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; vclem.us/caaam
long before counties were organized. Popular exhibits include the Dugout Canoes being preserved within the museum, a walk-in Stump House Tunnel exhibit and a Depression Era Tenant Farmer’s House. Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 12 – 6 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.; vclem.us/ohc
The Lunney Museum Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, this California-style bungalow has been completly restored and contains a substantial collection of Victorian furniture and period collectibles.; vclem.us/lunney
Fort Hill Plantation Fort Hill was the home of John C. Calhoun and Thomas Green Clemson. Calhoun and his wife, Floride, resided in the house from 1825 until 1850, the year of Calhoun’s death. In 1866 the estate passed to her daughter, Anna Marie, and her husband, Thomas Green Clemson. Clemson would reside in the house until 1888, the year of his death. The plantation is mostly furnished with family artifacts. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon and 1-4:30 p.m.; phone: (864) 656-2475; vclem.us/forthill
Pickens County Museum of Art and History A variety of exhibits offer a kaleidoscope of life in Pickens County and the Upstate. The museum also has limited engagement exhibits and the museum gift shop features the work of more than 100 local and regional fine, traditional and folk artisans that represents the artistic spectrum of this unique area.
Hagood Mill This historic site is a public, nonprofit educational institution whose purpose is to collect, preserve, exhibit and interpret the artifacts, antiquities and archival, cultural and natural history of the county and surrounding region. The new Hagood Creek Petroglyph Site of South Carolina features Native American Rock Carvings and an interactive light show. The Mill hosts special events on the third Saturday of every month with a $5 parking fee. Open Wednesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m.4 p.m.; vclem.us/hagood.
Oconee Heritage Center Located at 123 Browns Square Drive, Walhalla, the Oconee Heritage Center brings history back to life through museum exhibits, educational programs, festivals and much more. The OHC is housed in the historic Tobacco Warehouse (1892) and first opened in 2004. Visitors explore the history of Native Americans, immigration, railroads, New Deal programs, textile mills, agriculture and much more as it relates to the area. The museum offers a self-guided tour through time www.visitclemson.com
Central History Museum This late-18th-century house a 416 Church St., Central, was the home of a local merchant and now houses a collection of historic memorabilia that includes Bertha Evans Morgan’s raised garden. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Open each Sunday 2-4 p.m. and is closed on major holidays. Open by appointment. vclem.us/centralhistory The Central Railway Museum The museum includes a “heritage” layout in classic toy train scales, large dual-level HO layout and a garden layout. The museum is located at 108 Werner St., and is open the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. vclem.us/centralrailway Faith Clayton Genealogy Room Housed at Southern Wesleyan University’s Rickman Library, the collection consists of genealogical material, including photographs, documents, books and a database of 350,000 Upstate names. The collection contains reference books on Cherokee history in Pickens and Oconee counties. vclem. us/faithclayton 2017 Official Visitors Guide | 25
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY CAMPUS WALKING TOUR explore
T
he Clemson University campus is an integral part of life for area residents as well as for students and faculty. Town and gown regularly come together as residents join students and faculty for a weekend walk around campus, attend concerts, picnic at the SC Botanical Gardens and root for the Tigers at football games. Begin your tour at the university’s visitor center (109 Daniel Drive), situated on a small hill opposite Bowman Field, near Sherman St. The 1,400-acre campus is home to a mix of historic buildings and contemporary facilities, surrounded by stately trees, grassy expanses and flowering plants. This walking tour is designed to give a sense of the layout of the campus and features some of the more recognizable Clemson landmarks. The Class of 1944 Visitors Center, located at the front of the campus, houses a welcome center and exhibit area. Here, staff can answer questions and supply brochures about the university.
Fronted by 10 Ionic columns and arched windows, Sikes Hall was built in 1904, and originally served as the center for agricultural studies. Sikes also housed a museum and gymnasium in past years. The building was gutted by fire in 1925, rebuilt and used as the university library from 1927 to 1966.
Walk down the tree-shaded steps from Alumni Circle to Bowman Field. The university’s front lawn, Bowman Field, is a favorite place for students to socialize and play. Named for R.T.V. Bowman, one of Clemson’s first assistant athletic coaches, Bowman Field is the home of Clemson’s first football, baseball, and even basketball games. Sometime referred to as “Bowman Beach,” the field is a popular place for sunbathing, playing Frisbee and studying. Bowman was the traditional parade ground for the cadet corps. Clemson’s Air Force and Army ROTC students use the field for military drills to this day. Continue to the left of Bowman Field to Sikes Hall. In the middle of the circular drive sits the bronze statue of Thomas Green Clemson, the university’s founder. According to legend, students who read the plaque on the base of the statue will never graduate. 26 | VISIT CLEMSON
in the 1930s, the theater was renovated in 1988. Once the location for graduation ceremonies, it’s now a favorite place for students to catch up on reading, sunbathe or just rest. Some instructors hold classes there when the weather is suitable and outdoor concerts, movies and socials are staged at the theater throughout the school year. Continue up the sidewalk toward the clock tower.
Today the two-story brick building houses the offices of the university president, the provost, admissions, financial aid and other officers. Walk up the sidewalk toward the clock tower, passing the Carillon Garden on your left. Funded jointly with the university as a project of the Class of 1943, the Carillon Garden offers a contemplative space. A bell that hung from Tillman Hall’s tower for 80 years is displayed. From the garden, you’ll have a fine view of the Outdoor Theater. A gift from the Class of 1915 www.visitclemson.com
Behind the statue rises Tillman Hall, dedicated in 1891. Tillman Hall was originally called the Agricultural Building, but was later named for Benjamin R. Tillman, South Carolina governor, U.S. senator and original life trustee of Clemson. Today the hall is home to the schools of education and technology and human resource development, as well as the Calhoun Honors College. The tower contains a clock that chimes every 15 minutes and a 47-bell carillon, the largest carillon in the state. Thanks to a program administered by the university’s art department, sitespecific works integrate public art into the fabric of the Clemson campus. Step inside Tillman Hall to see Phil Moody’s text and photo mural titled Three Ages of Man, located on three levels in the south stairwell. To the right of Tillman Hall lies the Military Heritage Plaza. Representing all who attended Clemson and received military training, the plaza recognizes the contributions these individuals made to the security of the nation.
Return to the statue of Clemson and continue walking away from the military plaza.
frame house with a Greek Revival style portico contains original furnishings and family heirlooms of the Calhouns and Clemsons, including the desk John C. Calhoun used while in the U.S. House of Representatives. Calhoun’s one-room office sits outside, just south of the mansion.
To the other side of Tillman Hall lies Cox Plaza, named for President Emeritus Walter T. Cox (Class of 1939), who was the third alumnus to rise to the office of the president (1985-1986). “Dean” Cox served Clemson in almost every role imaginable from an offensive guard for the football team while a student to the baseball team’s ticket manager and from dean of students to vice president for student affairs.
Continue past Calhoun’s office and cross Calhoun Drive. Massive Sirrine Hall is the largest academic building on campus with over four acres of interior space. Named for J.E. Sirrine, a life trustee of Clemson (19281947) whose foundation made a major gift for the construction of the building, the hall is home to the Arthur M. Spiro Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and the Small Business Development Center, as well as a stock-trading room where students can track stock trends in real time. Sirrine Hall serves as the headquarters for textile management and many majors in the College of Business and Behavioral Science, such as accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing.
Walk to Fort Hill Street and turn right. On your left you will pass Trustee House, constructed between 1889 and 1893 of bricks made of Fort Hill clay. Originally a private home used by chemistry department head Mark B. Hardin, the building served a variety of purposes through the years. The house got its name from its use by the university’s board of trustees. Today the Office of Public Affairs occupies the building. Continue up the hill to the white mansion (on your left) set back off the street. Also known as the Calhoun Mansion, Fort Hill the 200-year-old home of statesman John C. Calhoun and Thomas Green
Clemson is open for public tours (daily $5). A national historic landmark, the two-story
Located outside Sirrine Hall, across from the Fernow Café, stands an abstract welded steel sculpture. A mix between a figure and a microscope, Joey Manson’s 1999 work is entitled Shift-Ascend. Opposite, across from Fernow Street,
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2017 Official Visitors Guide | 27
million to build the facility, The Brooks Center for Performing Arts is home to many concerts and plays, including performances by students. Paul Newman and his wife, Joanne Woodward, donated $50,000 for the green room of the center in memory of her father, Wade Woodward Jr., Class of 1922. All events in The Brooks Center are open to the public.
stands Riggs Hall, an engineering building since its construction in 1925. Named for Clemson’s president from 1910 to 1924, Walter Merritt Riggs, the hall currently houses the Holcombe Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and the Office of the Dean for the College of Engineering and Science. Busts of some rather grotesque individuals are mounted between the windows of the top floor of Riggs Hall. Legend says that these busts, reputedly sculpted by the students, are of professors the students did not like while the building was being constructed. Tours of Riggs Hall are conducted by the College of Engineering and Science during the school year.
Walk east, across Jersey Lane. Opposite The Brooks Center, to the east, stretches the McGinty Agricultural Quad Area, located behind Cooper Library. The buildings in this area are Barre, Lehotsky, Newman, and McAdams halls, along with the Poole Agricultural Center. Named for Dr. Koloman Lehotsky, the first department head for forestry, Lehotsky
Walk one block south on Fernow Street and cross Williamson Road. The Flour Daniel Engineering Innovation Building was completed in the summer of 1995. The modern 100,000-square foot building furthers Clemson’s contribution to engineering education and to the economic development of South Carolina. It serves as the home to the School of Mechanical Engineering and the Clemson Institute for Advanced Materials and Manufacturing. The building was made possible by a gift from the Flour Corporation; company employees, many of whom are Clemson graduates, contributed over $3 million to the facility. Outside stands another public sculpture, entitled Six Degrees of Freedom, a merger of rectangular and fluid forms, designed by Linda Howard. The title refers to an engineering term connected with the laws of vibration.
• Sales Department and On the Water Showroom • Boat Rentals
In this area you will also be close to Memorial Stadium, home of Death Valley and the Clemson Tiger football team. Across the street from Memorial stadium stands the Scroll of Honor. The Clemson Corps maintains the Scroll of Honor and work is currently underway on Memorial Park, an extension of the Scroll of Honor site. The Scroll of Honor recognizes those Clemson alumni who made the ultimate sacrifice- those who gave their lives in service to their country. To date, 479 alumni have been identified who were killed from WWI through the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Cross Fernow and turn right onto Williamson Road. Continue to the circle in the road. Recessed below an expanse of green, a semicircular, stepped brick building holds the Strom Thurmond Institute of Government and Public Affairs. Established in 1981, the institute conducts applied research and service in public policy areas. A special collections unit holds many of Clemson’s historical collections, including Senator Thurmond’s papers, as well as the university archives. Walk south of the Thurmond Institute to reach The Brooks Center. Named for Robert Howell Brooks, Class of 1960, who donated $2.5 28 | VISIT CLEMSON
BOAT SALES
www.visitclemson.com
• Covered Fuel Dock • Full Service Marine Center • On the Water Dining at the Grill • Mobile Pump out Service • Boat Storage
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for individual study; the four upper floors are “group study” areas. Computer labs are located on the first and fifth floors. Java City coffeehouse sits on the fifth floor, and the Academic Support Center on the third floor. Exit to the east side and walk to the rear of the library. Head east past Redfern Health Center on McMillan Road. At the south end of Redfern, note the huge oak tree. Here stands the Centennial Oak, a 100-year-old (in 1988) bur oak tree that has grown to a height of 67 feet, with a circumference measuring 12 feet. Its branches spread over 100 feet. Walk back to McMillan Road and cross over to the Hendrix Student Center. Hall serves as the center for all forest resources programs and the professional golf management program. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management is housed here. Barre Hall serves as the administration building for the College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences. It is also the home for agricultural and applied economics. The building is named for Dr. Henry W. Barre, the first Clemson alumnus to direct the Agricultural Extension Office. Between Barre Hall and Cooper Library,
David Tillinghast’s work entitled P211. t45.2001 is a 21-foot high silo form constructed of brick and steel. Inside, a bronze marker features a call number that corresponds to an artist book in the reference section of Cooper Library. Proceed north, passing the roof of the Thurmond Institute, to the Cooper Library. The R.M. Cooper Library is the university’s main gateway to information databases, books, journals and primary research materials. The first three levels are “quiet floors”
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End the tour by enjoying a cone made with Clemson ice cream. The Hendrix Student Center sells Clemson ice cream and blue cheese that’s made on campus. Named for Leon J. (Bill) Hendrix (Class of 1963), a life trustee of the university, the complex houses the university bookstore, the McKissick movie theater, a lounge area and local businesses. In the lobby, one of John Acorn’s six campus Friday Flyers is on view, an eight-foot long aluminum sculpture shaped like a paper airplane. The third floor houses the Michelin Career Center, which hosts career fairs and workshops.
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 29
Clemson City yesterday
A
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
T
homas Green Clemson’s death on April 6, 1888, marked the start of a new era in higher education in the state of South Carolina. Clemson left most of his Fort Hill estate to be used to establish a college that would teach scientific, agricultural and the mechanical arts. But the fulfilling of his vision was far from an easy task. Clemson’s handpicked life trustees mobilized to make the dream a reality. The seven original life trustees met under an oak tree on the lawn of Fort Hill on May 22, 1888. Later that year, Clemson’s will was challenged by his son-in-law who took the case all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. The document was upheld by the high court. Thomas Green In the state Legislature, the coming of another institution of higher learning in South Carolina was hotly debated. Supporters of The Citadel (in Charleston) and of the University of South Carolina (in Columbia) feared competition and potential loss of funds. A strong advocate for the farmers of the state, Benjamin R. Tillman, who later became governor and U.S. Senator, was instrumental in spearheading the tenacious efforts needed to establish the college. Finally the Legislature acquiesced, and on Nov. 27, 1889, South Carolina Governor John Richardson formally accepted Clemson’s gift, which was established Clemson Agricultural College. The college’s trustees became the custodians of revenue generated for agricultural education and research purposes based on two federal laws. The Morrill Act of 1862 (and 1890) had granted land to the states, which was to be sold and the proceeds used to establish colleges. These land-grant schools were to offer instruction in the fields of mechanical arts, agriculture and military science. The Hatch Act of 1887 provided for the establishment of agricultural experiment stations in connection with the colleges. The paving of the way for an experiment station at
Riggs Field 1915
30 | VISIT CLEMSON
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history
fter the Civil War, Upcountry civic leaders and entrepreneurs pushed for renewed investment in rail transportation and local industry. The Atlanta and Richmond Air Line Railroad serviced Charlotte, N.C. and Atlanta with a stop in Calhoun, S.C. Named for John C. Calhoun, this community had developed along the tracks laid in 1872. The town’s streets were arranged in a grid on 60 acres of land owned by local entrepreneur Aaron Boggs. Spurred on by the construction of Clemson Agricultural College in the early 1890s, the community was becoming a boom town. Potential employment on the new campus rising a mile away drew carpenters, bricklayers and other skilled tradesmen to the town. Soon stores, churches and a hotel had been built near workers’ homes. Primarily for purposes of mail delivery, the residents adopted a name for their growing township in 1892. They chose “Calhoun” in honor of John C. Calhoun who had lived from 1825-1850 at nearby Fort Hill. In 1901, the town of Calhoun was formally incorporated as a municipality. The opening of the college in 1893 saw further expansion of the community. Professors who once lived on campus purchased property nearby and built homes. New neighborhoods were born. Businesses opened close to campus. The mile-long dirt road linked the campus and its predominantly residential section with Calhoun’s business section. The predecessor of College Avenue, Calhoun Road was eventually paved. From the time of its incorporation until World War I, the town served primarily as a shipping terminal for the railroad. Mail and baggage were increasingly misdirected to Calhoun, Ga. and Calhoun Falls, S.C., however. To avoid confusion with other towns named Calhoun, resident freeholders changed the name to Clemson in 1943 by a vote of 56 to 9. The state officially recognized the town’s name change in 1946. After the war, college enrollment at Clemson increased dramatically with Congress’ passage of the G.I. Bill in 1944, which helped scores of veterans gain access to higher education. The city grew as well, as many new homes were built in Clemson during this period. In the mid-1960s Clemson underwent rapid growth due largely to increased student enrollment when the college attained university status. To serve a growing population, some businesses moved from College Avenue to larger quarters on Tiger Boulevard (US-123), which soon became one long commercial thoroughfare.
Death Valley
Clemson College in 1890 was instrumental in the school’s eligibility for federal and state funding. Construction on the new campus began apace. Built by state prisoners beginning in 1889, Trustee House served over time as a private home, the trustees’ meeting place, cadet sleeping quarters, a hospital and office space. The college’s first president, Henry A. Strode, served in that capacity for three years (1890-1893), overseeing campus construction. The building that was later named Hardin Hall in honor of acting president Mark Bernard Hardin, Clemson’s first professor of chemistry, was erected in 1890. Built by convict labor as the chemistry building, the hall is the oldest academic structure on campus. It was almost destroyed by fire in 1946. The first instructors were hired in 1891, and the cornerstone was laid for the main classroom building, later called Tillman Hall. Tragedy struck on 1894 when the building was destroyed by fire, along with the school’s library of books, John C. Calhoun’s and Thomas Clemson’s among them. The building was reconstructed that same year. In July 1893, Clemson Agricultural College opened its doors with 446 students and 15 professors. Like Auburn, Texas A & M, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and other land-grant schools, Clemson was originally an all-male military college. To conform to the Morrill Act’s stipulation that the study of “military tactics” be included in the curriculum of landgrant institutions, Clemson College made military training compulsory. Called cadets, Clemson students dressed in uniforms and participated in military drills that were required for all enrollees until 1955. In 1896, members of Clemson’s first graduating class received their diplomas. Degrees were conferred in agricultural and mechanical studies. 20TH CENTURY CHANGES The new century saw the election of Clemson’s fourth president, Patrick Hues Mell (1902-1940), a prominent scientist. Built in 1940, the building that is now named in his honor served as the community’s post office until 1973. The university’s student housing office occupies Mell Hall today. Mell was succeeded by Walter Merritt Riggs (1910-1924), who, before becoming president, had coached Clemson’s first football team, recruiting John Heisman to coach the squad. In 1914, the first campus building to be financed by private donations was built with a $50,000 pledge from oil magnate John D. Rockefeller. Later named Holtzendorff Hall, it served as a YMCA (complete with a swimming pool), university classrooms, a band practice room and a student movie theater. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a law establishing the Cooperative Extension Service (CES), which would become a major focus for the college over the years. A key component of the land-grant system, CES functioned as an educational delivery system. The research findings of the experiment stations were, and still are, disseminated to the public through demonstration — now extension — agents.
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www.clemsonsleepinn.com 2017 Official Visitors Guide | 31
The 1920s brought challenges as well as achievements. Large-scale protests by cadets in 1920 and 1924 over discipline and food quality led to the creation of a Student Affairs Office. The first state appropriation from general funds went to Clemson College in 1922. Strom Thurmond, the longest serving U.S. Senator in history, graduated from Clemson in 1923. Named in his honor, the Strom Thurmond Institute of Government and Public Affairs was built on campus in 1989 as a repository for the papers of his 65-plus years in office, and a center for public policy. In 1924, the board of trustees approved the awarding of Clemson’s first master’s degree. In 1925, Enoch Walter Sikes became head of the college, serving a long term until 1940. The stock market crash of 1929 and the resulting Depression led to staff salary cuts as state funding was reduced. In 1935, however, the federal government issued funds to the college to develop what would be become the Clemson Experimental Forest, which today covers more than 17,000 acres around the campus. During Sikes’ term, Frank Howard, Clemson’s head football coach from 1940-1969, began his long career at Clemson. Clemson students saw active duty in both world wars. In 1917, the entire senior class sent President Woodrow Wilson a telegram, volunteering its services to the country during U.S. participation in World War I. Clemson supplied more army officers in World War II than any other institution of higher learning in the nation except
West Point and Texas A & M. Clemson had the largest infantry ROTC in the country. Over 6,000 Clemson students and alumni served “gladly to the defense of our nation” in World War II: 373 died, 57 from the Class of 1941. The Class of 1944 was the smallest class in Clemson history, with 13 graduates. After World War II, only nine colleges in the nation (including the military academies) remained four-year military schools. Returning veterans had had their fill of the military.
Clemson Tower
A NEW IDENTITY In 1954, the board of trustees hired a consulting firm to study the school’s organization. Dramatic changes, such as elimination of the cadet corps, resulted in the college’s conversion to a civilian institution in 1955. Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) was compulsory for freshmen and sophomores, however, until 1969, when it became all-voluntary. Clemson would see its student population change in other important ways. In 1955, coeducation began at Clemson; the college’s first female student graduated in 1957. Since that year, more than 38,000 women have graduated from Clemson University. In 1963, Clemson enrolled its first AfricanAmerican student, Harvey Gantt, for whom the Gantt Intercultural Center on campus is named. In 1964, reflecting its modern and expanded mission, Clemson Agricultural college was renamed Clemson University by state law.
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PICKENS COUNTY yesterday Pickens was named in honor of the distinguished Revolutionary soldier, Brigadier General Andrew Pickens, whose home of Hopewell was on the southern border of the Pendleton District.
P
ickens County was Cherokee Indian Territory until the American Revolution. The Cherokees sided with the British, suffered defeat and surrendered their South Carolina lands. In 1791, the state Legislature established Washington District, a judicial area composed of present-day Greenville, Anderson, Pickens and Oconee counties, and then composed of Greenville and Pendleton counties. Streets for the courthouse town of Pickensville (near present-day Easley) were laid off, and soon a cluster of buildings arose that perhaps included a large wooden hotel, which served as a stagecoach stop. In 1798, Washington District was divided into Greenville and Pendleton districts. The latter included what eventually became Anderson, Oconee and Pickens counties. A new courthouse was erected at Pendleton to accommodate the Court of General Sessions and Common Pleas, and soon thereafter Pickensville began to decline.
In view of the growing population and poor transportation facilities in Pendleton District, the Legislature divided it into counties in 1826. The lower part became Anderson and the upper Pickens, named in honor of the distinguished Revolutionary soldier, Brigadier General Andrew Pickens, whose home of Hopewell was on the southern border of the district. A courthouse was established on the
Old Pickens Courthouse
west bank of the Keowee River, and a small town called Pickens Court House soon developed. By 1860, Pickens District had a population of over 19,000 persons of whom 22 percent were slaves. The district was largely rural and agricultural. Its small industry consisted mainly of sawmills, gristmills and a few other shops producing goods for home consumption. The district’s Protestant churches were numerous, but schools were few. The Blue Ridge Railroad reached the district in September 1860. During the Civil War the district suffered little from depredations of regular Yankee troops but was frequently plundered by marauders and deserters who swept down from the mountains. The war left the region largely destitute. The South Carolina Constitutional Convention of 1868, meeting during the first year of Congressional Reconstruction, established Oconee County out of the portion of Pickens District west of the Keowee and Seneca rivers plus a small area around the Fort Hill estate that formerly belonged to John C. Calhoun. This small area around the Calhoun property was transferred to Pickens County in the 1960s. A new courthouse for Pickens County was erected at its present location, and many of the residents of Old Pickens on the Keowee moved to the newly created town, some with their dismantled homes. The loss of the Oconee area greatly reduced the county’s population. It did not again reach 19,000 until 1900. The county’s growth was accelerated by the building of the Atlanta and Charlotte Air Line Railroad (later called the Southern Railway) in the 1870s. The town of Easley, named for C L E M S General W. K. Easley, was chartered in 1874. Liberty and Central sprang up along the railroad about the same time and were soon incorporated. Calhoun (now part of Clemson) came into being in the 1890s, to be followed in the early 1900s by Six Mile and Norris as incorporated areas.
A major factor in Pickens County’s growth was the coming of the textile industry. The county’s first modern cotton mill, organized by D. K. Norris and others, was established at Cateechee in 1895. By 1900, the county could boast of three cotton mills, two railroads, three banks, three roller mills, 37 sawmills, 10 shingle mills and four brickyards. Yet until 1940, with a population of 37,000 (13.2 percent black), the county remained primarily rural and agricultural. The most significant developments in the county’s history have occurred since World War II. By 1972, there were 99 manufacturing plants in the county employing almost 15,000 personnel and producing not only textiles but a wide variety of other products. — This article was originally written for “Pickens County Heritage” and is reprinted with the permission of author G. Anne Sheriff.
O N
U N I V E R S I T Y
WE HAVE A SEAT FOR YOU Visit www.clemson.edu/brooks or call (864) 656-7787 for more information.
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2017 Official Visitors Guide | 33
GET IT DONE IN YEAR ONE!
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry ecommends that a child’s first visit to the dentist should occur by their first birthday. Schedule your child's appointment today!
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shopping
Outfitting the Upstate
If you haven’t been to Elkmont, you haven’t been to Clemson.
After hiking the Appalachian Trail, Lee Hill moved to Clemson in 1997. And since the city’s situated so closely to the mountains and lakes, he decided it deserved a better outfitter. Lee bought Outdoor Adventures in 1997, and in September, the Hills opened Elkmont Trading Company — located at 100 Liberty Drive just behind the former Blockbuster Video building. Elkmont features a much larger selection than Outdoor Adventures ever did. And with the name change, co-owner Aimee Hill, Lee’s wife, said the store has made it a point not to pigeonhole itself as just an outdoor outfitter. “We wanted to be broader,” Aimee said. “What we try to do is offer something for everyone. You can come stop here and buy for the whole family. We carry everything from home goods, gourmet foods, women’s boutique items and jewelry all the way up to camping gear, tents, sleeping bags and Orion coolers. It’s a really wide range of items, but everything is kind of geared to have that outdoor feel.” Elkmont Trading Company specializes in footwear, gear, apparel, accessories, gourmet and women’s boutique items. The outfitter also provide rentals for outdoor adventures such as fishing and white water rafting. Inspired by their family heritage, Lee and Aimee named the store Elkmont because of their deep roots in Elkmont, Tenn. There, at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, the native Hills transformed a small logging camp into a resort community for Knoxville professionals who sought respite from the day-to-day grind. So providing access to outdoor adventure is simply in their blood. Lee and Aimee even designed the store to create a rustic setting with reclaimed barn wood, beams and posts — all harvested locally. For nearly 20 years, the Hills have been the meeting the camping, kayaking and climbing needs of the Upstate.
The Upstate’s most unique shopping experience. Featuring Patagonia, Yeti, Chaco, Orvis, KAVU, Birkenstock, Lokai, Rainbow Sandals, Columbia, Ray Ban, Costa, Southern Marsh, Hunter Boots, Primo Grills and many more.
www.elkmonttradingcompany.com 100 Liberty Drive, Clemson | 864.653.7002 Monday - Friday 10 am - 7 pm | Saturday 10 am - 6 pm | Sunday Noon - 5 pm
www.visitclemson.com
2017 Official Visitors Guide | 35
shopping
A New World
Most divers agree this underwater sport is addictive. Mainly because it’s so much more than a sport. Right there under the surface of the water — so easily accessible — lies a whole new world for exploration. But like any sport, diving requires the proper gear necessary to enjoy the experience. Upstate Scuba in Clemson provides everything a diver could need from fins and tanks to lights and cameras. Although Clemson lies inland, diving has been picking up in popularity for some time. “Scuba diving is starting to come around, and a lot of colleges are now doing oceanic research,” Upstate Scuba owner Robbie Bogan said. “Everyone is realizing that the ocean gives us so much, whether it’s from the medical end or the fact that our environment is controlled by the ocean. It’s still an untouched, unknown experience for a lot of people.”
Bogan said people often frequent the shop for accessories such as knives or lights. And many folks inquire about diving certification. Mothers call to ask about the minimum age of certification for their kids, which is 10 years old. Other shoppers are looking for larger items, perhaps a buoyancy compensator to neutralize buoyancy while underwater. “This is like a life jacket, but actually inflates if you’re going underwater and controls your buoyancy as you ascend and descend,” Bogan said. “We also have regulators to regulate the air as they scuba dive.” Another popular item at Upstate Scuba, especially with the increasing use of social media, is the GoPro camera. Bogan said these devices are extremely popular whether scuba diving, skiing or participating in other water sports. Since the camera is made for the water, outdoor enthusiasts can click away without worrying about getting the device wet.
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shopping
For more information about antiques in the area, visit vclem.us/antiques.
➤ APPAREL Entourage 382 College Ave, (864) 225-9303
The Athletic Dept 1102 Tiger Blvd, (864) 653-3802 364 College Ave, (864) 654-1719, wwwtigersportscom
Lansing Alayne 405 College Ave, (864) 643-4170
Tickled Orange 362 College Ave, (864) 654-6888
Upstate Scuba (Scuba/ Snorkeling retail, rental & service) 500 Old Greenville Hwy, Ste 7, (864) 653-3483
Tiger Town Graphic 362 College Ave, (864) 654-1365, tigertowngraphicscom
Southpaw Cycles 103 Canoy Lane, (864) 653-4485
Palmetto Shades 384 College Ave, (864) 643-0190
➤ GIFTS Clemson Florist 1353 Tiger Blvd, (864) 653-7477
➤ ANTIQUES
Sassy’s Shoes and Gifts 109 Sloan St, (864) 654-4150
Clemson Variety and Frame 374 College Ave, (864) 654-4732
Farm House Interiors 124A East Main St., (864) 718-7171
Screen My Tee 215 Pendleton Road, Ste 50, (864) 735-2702
Razzberry Fizz 104 Keith St, (864) 654-7722
Middle of Main Antiques 124C East Main St
Southern Fried Cotton 393 College Ave, (864) 654-7500
Tiger Lily Florist and Gifts 500 Old Greenville Hwy Ste 8, (864) 654-1927
Mountain Made 102 Exchange St., (864) 646-8836
➤ CLEMSON APPAREL Greek Gallery 353 College Ave, (864) 654-6784
➤ SPECIALTY Allens Creations (Framery) 400 College Ave, (864) 654-3594, wwwallensctreationscom
Vintage Market 168 Scenic Plaza Dr, West Union SC 29696 (864) 638-9696
Judge Keller’s 367 College Ave, (864) 654-6646
Elkmont Trading Company 100 Liberty Drive, (864) 653-7002
Uncle Fred’s Warehouse 201 Foothills Center Dr, West Union SC 29696 (864) 916-4166
Knickerbockers 354 College Ave, (864) 654-4203
Glazed (Pottery Studio) 518 College Ave, (864) 643-4242
Warther’s Antiques 321 E. Main St., (864) 638-0200
MH Frank 380 College Ave, (864) 654-4484, wwwmhfrankltdcom
1011 East North 1st St Seneca, SC 29678 (864) 482-2900
Gotta Run Clemson 530 Old Greenville Hwy, (864) 986-0803
Avenue of Oaks 150 Exchange St., (864) 646-8907
851 Tiger Blvd, Clemson, SC (864) 653-7744
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2017 Official Visitors Guide | 37
lodging Hampton Inn 851 Tiger Blvd hamptoninn.com (864) 653-7744
➤ CITY OF CLEMSON Comfort Inn 1305 Tiger Blvd comfortinnclemsonsc.com (864) 653-3600
➤ CLEMSON UNIVERSITY James F. Martin Inn at Clemson University 240 Madren Center Dr (864) 654-9020
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 1381 Tiger Blvd hiexpress.com/clemsonsc (864) 654-9410
Courtyard by Marriott 201 Canoy Ln marriott.com/gspcl (864) 654-8833
Clemson University Outdoor Lab 415 Charlie White Trl clemson.edu/centers-institutes/outdoor-lab/ (864) 646-7502
Hotel Tillman 1303 Tiger Boulevard Clemson, SC 29631 hoteltillmanclemson.com 864-653-6000
Days Inn 1387 Tiger Blvd daysinn.com (864) 653-4411
University Inn and Conference Center 1310 Tiger Blvd 864-986-6200
Chamber Member
Free Breakfast
Fitness Center
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Non-Smoking
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Swimming Pool
Guest Laundry
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Clemson University and Seneca, SC Area
Conveniently located within a mile of Clemson University, the Comfort Inn has 121 newly redesigned smoke-free guests rooms with microwaves and refrigerators, complimentary high-speed wireless internet access, complimentary hot deluxe breakfast bar, outdoor pool, business and fitness center, meeting rooms with on-site catering and designated pet-friendly rooms.
1305 Tiger Blvd. • Clemson, SC 29631 • 864-653-3600 www.comfortinnclemsonsc.com 38 | VISIT CLEMSON
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RIGHT CARE, RIGHT HERE.
The new AnMed Health Clemson building more than triples the space for patients and staff at the Tiger Boulevard complex.
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885 Tiger Boulevard/U.S. Highway 123 Clemson, SC • www.anmedhealth.org
www.visitclemson.com
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2017 Official Visitors Guide | 39
Madren Conference Center
Meet Play
Paws @ the Café
Dine Stay Walker Course
James F. Martin Inn
The Clemson University Conference Center and Inn is the perfect place to experience Clemson and the surrounding area. Enjoy the peace and beauty of the lakeside setting. Conveniently located adjacent to campus, the Conference Center and Inn is the ideal venue to meet friends, play a round of golf at the Walker Course, savor a delicious meal overlooking the lake or strike out to explore Clemson. Solé on the Green Restaurant
40 | VISIT CLEMSON
cuconferencecenter.com
•
It’s the best place for your Clemson experience.
888-654-9020 •
www.visitclemson.com
864-656-7155
•
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