The Palmetto Porch

The Civil Rights Movement had several epicenters around the country, many of those places taught about in history books. While South Carolina doesn’t always immediately come to mind, it has its place within a time filled with resistance, and hope. Cecil Williams is the founder of the Palmetto State’s first civil rights museum in Orangeburg, and has been lauded as one of the chief photographers of...

In Barnwell, there is a quaint red building nestled along Highway 278, The Little Red Barn Studio And Gallery contains more than art and pottery—it carries with it a journey of mixed purpose and rebirth. Owner Liz Ringus stops by the Porch to talk about the studio’s origin, and how its interesting evolution has helped bring a spotlight to rural artists and local history. To learn more about Barnwe...

In Walterboro, sitting Inside what was a stunning Victorian home, the South Carolina Artisans Center contains eclectic treasures and handmade finery, all crafted by South Carolina-based artists. The center is a nice complement to the Lowcountry’s newfound identity as a Southern art haven. David Smalls, executive director, gives his perspectives on the area’s emerging artisan culture. To learn more...

The Carolina Shag is the official dance of South Carolina. Historians have traced its origins to North Myrtle Beach. But what is the Shag? And who are the people–the ‘shaggers’-- keeping the tradition alive? Lori Setzer and Darrell Gaither, both from the Ocean Drive Shag Club, visit the Porch to tell us about the dance, its evolution, and what preserving the Shag means to them. To learn more about...

When people leave home, they often take a part of their home with them. Chef Rob Masone is no different, treating hungry patrons to unique twists on comfort food. Back in his native Rock Hill, Chef Rob runs Kounter, a restaurant with a notable history. He stops by the Porch to talk about his travels, his passion for food, and how finding one’s way home can take a surprising turn. To learn more abo...

It’s time for another season of The Palmetto Porch, an original podcast from Discover South Carolina. This time around, Devyn Whitmire is speaking to some of the most uniquely charming people and places across the Palmetto State. Join Devyn, as she gets to the heart of what makes South Carolina such a great place to visit, by speaking to the locals who make it so special. Premiering December 5th....

South Carolina isn’t known for snow, but there’s at least one city where folks can enjoy a white Christmas in the South. Less than fifty miles from South Carolina’s capital, Newberry community-driven holiday events make it seem like a Christmas card come to life. Area native Mary Alex Kopp left Newberry after high school, but found her way back and rediscovered what was great about her hometown. S...

Sumter is a famous name, it’s from the Revolutionary War hero known as “The Fighting Gamecock” Thomas Sumter. But this town’s reputation has swelled beyond history, making it a hub for arts, entertainment, and education. Nat Bradford, of the watermelons of the same name, joins us on the porch to talk about Sumter in detail. And Jeffrey Lampkin, most famous for his appearance as a contestant on the...

Greenwood lives up to its name with more than just its nature trails. Nearby Lake Greenwood State Park offers activities for adventurous travelers and their families. The area is also home to the South Carolina Festival Of Flowers, which attracts visitors from all around. Ellesor Holder brings her experiences with the festival to the Porch, and tells us why it is one of South Carolina’s marquee ev...

If you’re into art, you’re in luck. Lake City is often celebrated for its eclectic mix of down-home hospitality and vibrant artistry, while being deeply rooted in agriculture and horticulture. Jamison Mady Kerr is a director for ArtFields, and she’s bringing her perspectives on Lake City’s thriving art scene to the Porch. Phillip “Shady” Rodgers, through his work directing events for the Moore Far...

When you think about Hollywood, it’s often bright lights and Beverly Hills. But with the number of TV shows and movies filmed in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, that may be changing. We hear from Dan Rogers, whose work at the South Carolina Film Commission brings the area to the big screen. Also, Beaufort native Nannette Brown Sutton, who creates a truly wonderful atmosphere at her boutique, Lulu Bur...

The third-oldest city in the Palmetto State, Georgetown is an idyllic town. This charming stop along the Hammock Coast is just a one-hour drive from Charleston, ready to receive visitors eager for a mix of coastal living and small-town flair. But Georgetown is often overshadowed by some of the state’s bigger, more famous destinations. Hope McFaddin draws on her experiences managing the South Carol...

It’s in Aiken that a person can find a blend of rich culture and quiet, rustic beauty. Aiken has certainly turned a lot of heads as a destination, and has been recognized as one of the best small towns in America. A lot of that fame has to do with an incredible horse culture, and amazing food to match. Lisa Hall, museum coordinator at the Thoroughbred Museum and Hall of Fame in Aiken, shares the b...

Summerville is the birthplace of the ambrosia of the South: sweet tea. Today, it has a quaint downtown and a host of businesses, restaurants and activities. But it wasn’t always that way—the town has come into its more modern identity. We join Diane Frankenberger, owner of downtown staple People, Places, & Quilts, on a porch in Summerville to talk about the town’s journey. And Oak Road Brewery CEO...

It’s Anderson’s proximity to a long-distance power transmitter that earned it the name “The Electric City”. But in modern times, Anderson lures in visitors with its natural amenities and scenic views. Pro bass fisherman Brian Latimer gives us his take on what makes the outdoors in Anderson so great. And Gwen Davenport, who helps promote activities in her work with the State Parks system, tells us...

In Camden, visitors can get a heaping of horses, history, and the arts. And while another conflict can quickly come to mind when traveling through the American South, it’s here where visitors can learn about the Revolutionary War, and South Carolina’s special role in America’s origin story. Rickie Good, director of Camden’s Revolutionary War Visitor Center, teaches us about South Carolina’s signif...

Columbia, South Carolina’s capital city dating back to 1786, is nestled perfectly in the middle of the Palmetto State. But this jewel of a town is used to being the center of attention for other reasons, as it boasts one-of-a-kind art, parks, culinary experiences, and more. DiscoverSC Official Ambassador Darius Rucker swings by to talk music, local flair, and of course, the Gamecocks. And Historic...

Want to learn what makes South Carolina so special? Here’s a hint: it’s not only the places, it’s also the people who call South Carolina home. Listen along to Discover South Carolina’s Devyn Whitmire as she travels through the state interviewing locals who share their unique perspective on places to visit, foods to try and insider travel tips on the Palmetto Porch Podcast. To learn more about our...