Things to Do in Barnwell County
Barnwell County in South Carolina was named after John Barnwell, a local figure in the Revolutionary War.
Barnwell County Courthouse & Sundial
The original courthouse, built in Boiling Springs in 1789, was succeeded by several buildings on the present site. The present courthouse was built in 1878-79. The unique vertical sundial in front of the courthouse was given to the town in 1858 by Joseph D. Allen, who was a state Senator from Barnwell at that time. Legend has it that this is the only vertical sundial in the United States and though erected prior to standard time (1883), it keeps within two minutes of that.
Barnwell County Museum
Discover Barnwell and South Carolina's heritage through exhibits, guided tours and special programs. Vocal and instrumental performances are also offered at various times.
Exhibits include artifacts and information about the early days of the town and general area. Open by appointment.
Blackville Historic Tour
Your step-on guide will present historical downtown, churches and homes, Healing Springs, Civil and Revolutionary War sites and the Mennonite Community. Choose the Mennonite Church History and Culture option and one of the church elders will invite you in and share the history of their church and a bit about their way of life. Another option is a visit to Lill's Herb Garden. Here Lill shares her herb garden and secrets for growing, preserving and using herbs. You may choose to end your tour with the Afternoon Tea option. You will be welcomed into a Mennonite home where you will enjoy a choice of several kinds of tea as well as sandwiches and pastries. A trolley is available for the town portion of the tour for an additional fee.
Completed in 1848, the building was originally home to the Barnwell Presbyterian Church. The building was used as a courthouse after Federal troops set fire to the county courthouse in 1865. A lightning storm damaged the steeple in 1891 and it was never rebuilt, hence the present appearance of the building. The building is currently home to the Circle Theater. The theater presents several performances during the year.
Indigenous Americans believed in the springs' natural healing powers and brought wounded Revolutionary War soldiers here to drink. Locals still believe in the springs' powers and drink its waters. In 1944, the acre of land the springs are on was legally deeded to GOD by LP "Lute" Boylston. Open during daylight hours.
Family owned and operated lavender farm producing lavender based products which are sold at the farm mercantile. The lavender farm is open seasonally for U-pick lavender, oil distillation demonstrations, events and weddings.
A 100-acre lake providing largemouth bass, bluegill, shell-cracker and catfish. Also used for boating and water skiing. Boat ramp, fishing pier and is handicapped accessible.
Little Red Barn Pottery & Art Gallery
Formerly the Leigh Banana Case Company Commissary, this historic building was moved to its present location in the early 1950's. In 1998, Master Potter, Liz Ringus moved her pottery business to this location. Her hand-turned Paw Print Pottery, SC face jugs and other local artisans are showcased on premises.
The Veterans Memorial Park was planned, developed, and organized by The Vietnam Veterans of America Salkehatchie Chapter 828. The Veterans Memorial Park is located on US 278 West, adjacent to the Barnwell County Airport. All monuments at the Veterans Memorial Park represent veterans of WW1, post WW1 wars, and all men and women that have worn the uniform. A walking and running track on the perimeter of the park is used by locals and visitors alike. The Veterans Memorial Park is a non profit project for the community, state, Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), and the United States of America. The Veterans Memorial Park is maintained by veterans, families of veterans, and the citizens of Barnwell County.
Did you know that Williston was once the asparagus capital of the world? Learn fun facts like these at the Williston Museum located just off Highway 78. Housed in a former 1900s schoolhouse, the museum has various exhibits showcasing the life and history of this historic South Carolina town.
This town park has a unique feature of a PDGA level disc golf course great for beginners to advanced players with woods, water and bamboo. The park is equipped with a playground, picnic tables and tennis courts making it a great family friendly attraction.