South Carolina History Network

06/16/2026

A new destination for Revolutionary War enthusiasts has arrived in the South Carolina Backcountry. Located in Gaffney, South Carolina, Carolina Rising is an immersive museum dedicated to sharing the stories, sacrifices, and victories that helped secure American independence in the Southern Campaign.
Through interactive exhibits, engaging storytelling, and state-of-the-art technology, visitors are transported back to the pivotal years of the American Revolution. The museum highlights the critical role that the Carolina Piedmont played in the fight for liberty, bringing to life the people and events that shaped our nation's founding.
Carolina Rising serves as an ideal stop for history enthusiasts, school groups, and heritage travelers interested in exploring the Revolutionary War beyond traditional exhibits. Guests can experience dynamic presentations on the Southern Campaign and gain a deeper appreciation for the patriots whose courage and determination helped turn the tide of the war.
The museum is conveniently located near several significant Revolutionary War sites, including Kings Mountain National Military Park and Cowpens National Battlefield, making it a valuable addition to any Revolutionary War itinerary.
Group rates are available for parties of 25 or more, and customized visits can be arranged for educational programs and heritage tours.
As America commemorates the 250th anniversary of its founding, Carolina Rising invites visitors to discover the stories of the men and women who fought for freedom and helped forge a new nation.
For more information or to schedule a group visit, contact Carolina Rising at 864-487-6244 or visit their website.

06/15/2026

We're happy to announce that the Confederation of SC Local Historical Societies has changed its name to the SC History Network. This new name reflects our commitment to connecting, supporting, and strengthening the many historical organizations, institutions, and individuals who work to preserve and share history throughout South Carolina.

06/01/2026

05/21/2026

The Board of the Confederation met yesterday at the Department of Archives and History and made several important decisions. The board also got an update on the planned 2027 conference in Aiken. Stay tuned for more details!

05/19/2026

05/02/2026

🎉 Be an exhibitor at the 2026 SCFM Conference in Aiken, SC, September 9–11, 2026.

Join this vibrant gathering of museum and cultural leaders inspired by this year's theme "Witness to History: Place, Storytelling, and Collective Memory". Connect with professionals from across South Carolina, share your work, and show how your products and services support the stories and missions that shape our communities.

Build new partnerships, strengthen existing relationships, and engage directly with decision-makers in the field.

👉 Learn more or sign up: https://scmuseums.com/scfm2026/exhibit-26
📧 Questions? Email [email protected]

04/30/2026

Interested in summer educator seminars?
Montpelier's July educator seminar offers scholarships for SC Educators and Museum Educators!
Montpelier's July Seminar is scheduled for Monday, July 20 through Thursday, July 23, 2026. This Summer Seminar is the premier of a new format – slightly longer, with more opportunities to explore Montpelier as well as enjoy the deep dive content and small group engagement.
"From 1776 to 1787: "How did we get from the Declaration of Independence to the Constitution?" For more information:
https://www.montpelier.org/events/educator-seminar-from-1776-to-1787/
-------------------
The seminar leader is Dr. Frank Cogliano of the University of Edinburgh, as well as The Whiskey Rebellion Podcast and several books, most recently The American Revolution at 250: Twenty-Four Historians Reflect on the Founding and Revolutionary Friendship: Washington, Jefferson and the American Republic. And over the course of four-days, three-nights he will explore the question: “How did we get from the Declaration of Independence to the Constitution?” Together with participants answers will be drawn from a variety of primary documents, with additional considerations ranging from the question of citizenship in the new republic and who was (and was not) included in the Declaration’s assertion of universal equality.-Montpelier

This workshop, offered by Prof Frank Cogliano considers the constitutional journey the United States undertook between the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, through a study of the major documents that established the foundation of the new republic.

04/10/2026

The American Alliance of Museums strongly opposes the President’s proposed FY27 budget, which calls for eliminating the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH).

These agencies support economic growth, community development, and the preservation of our shared heritage.

Museums alone contribute over $50 billion to the U.S. economy each year, support more than 726,000 jobs, and generate significant tax revenue, delivering measurable returns on federal investment.

Museums continue to have overwhelming bipartisan support, with 96% of Americans in favor of federal funding for museums.

We’ve seen similar proposals rejected before, thanks to strong advocacy and Congressional support. Museums are not optional; they are essential.

👉 Read the full statement and add your organization to AAM’s sign-on letter urging Congress to fully fund IMLS, NEA, and NEH.

🔁 Share this post with your colleagues and networks to help amplify support for museums nationwide.

https://www.aam-us.org/2026/04/06/aam-statement-on-the-presidents-fy27-budget-proposal/