South Carolina Archives -

Explore the Natural Wonders of Congaree National Park: A Southern Gem Teeming with Wildlife and Enchanting Firefly Magic

July 24, 2023May 6, 2023 by Angela DiLoreto

Discover the magic of Congaree National Park, a southern gem brimming with wildlife and old-growth forests. Immerse yourself in the park’s rich history, from the indigenous people who once called the land home to the battles fought during the Civil War. Experience the park’s unique ecosystem with its towering trees, wetlands, and the Congaree River. Don’t miss the chance to witness the synchronous fireflies lighting up the night sky during peak season, a stunning natural phenomenon exclusive to this park. With hiking trails, wildlife watching, and guided firefly tours, Congaree National Park offers something for everyone.

Honoring America’s First Veterans: The Reinterment Ceremony at the Battle of Camden

May 2, 2023April 22, 2023 by Angela DiLoreto

Camden Battle Revolutionary War soldiers

Discover the history and significance of the Battle of Camden, a pivotal Revolutionary War battle, and learn about the recent ceremony honoring the soldiers who lost their lives. Explore the details of the battle, including the strategic decisions made by both sides, and gain insight into the lasting impact it had on the war. Dive into the emotional story of the recent reinterment ceremony, which brought closure to the families of the soldiers and honored their sacrifice.

Visiting Fort Sumter: The First Shots of the Civil War Were Fired Here

February 13, 2024April 11, 2023 by Vince DiLoreto

On April 12th, 1861, Confederate forces under General P.G.T. Beauregard fired on Union forces at Fort Sumter, marking the beginning of the American Civil War. The fort was strategically placed to control access to Charleston Harbor, a vital seaport for America and the South. Despite being outnumbered and running out of supplies, Union forces held out for 34 hours before surrendering to the Confederates.

Brought Back From Near Extinction, Now It Make’s A Very Unique Bourbon

January 11, 2024January 11, 2023 by Vince DiLoreto

A community of farmers around Charleston, with the help of Clemson University, saved this unique variety of corn from the brink of extinction. And together grew it into a Southern renaissance of food and drink. Creating a smooth bourbon with sweet-tasting notes of butterscotch and even banana.

Do You Thirst for the History of Soda City? Columbia, South Carolina

August 22, 2023August 15, 2022 by Vince DiLoreto

State Capital of Columbia, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina, has the Postal Service to thank for its’ nickname. Postal employees would shorten the city’s name, Columbia, to Cola. This eventually gave way to calling it Cola. Which then morphed into Soda…hence Soda City! The city has since embraced it and ran with it. The new city shuttle system is dubbed the Soda Cap Express. Its logo is even a soda cap, which itself is a play on words. One because of the city’s nickname. And two, because Columbia is the CAPital city of the state.