After a leisurely breakfast we headed south to Lancaster, SC to check out the cultural sites there. The first stop was the Springs House originally built between 1820 and 1830 and purchased in 1888 by Leroy Springs who founded the Lancaster Textile Mill which was one of the largest textile mills in the country. The house remained a residence until 1957 when it was purchased by the city and was used as the city hall until 2000. Since then it has served as the Lancaster County Council for the Arts.

After our visit to the Springs House we went to the old Lancaster Court House. Designed by Robert Mills, who also designed the Washington Monument, the building was constructed in 1828 and served as the Hall of Justice until 2008 when an attempt was made to burn it down. Fortunately, most of the building survived the fire and it was fully restored in 2011. It now serves as the Historic Museum of Lancaster County.

Across the street from the Old Court House is the Native American Studies Center, an extension of USC, Lancaster Campus which is dedicated to teaching native American history, art, folklore and culture. It also has a wonderful exhibit of Catawba Indian pottery, pottery making tools and pottery making techniques.

After a delightful dinner we returned to our hosts home where we visited until bedtime. Another truly delightful day with friends. Tomorrow morning, we head west.

Best to all,
Wayne & Peggy