Planning a school field trip? Or just ready to get the kids out of the house for some hands-on learning? South Carolina’s Old 96 District is teeming with fun educational opportunities. As a region rich in history, culture, and nature, there is no limit to the types of field trips possible!
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site: In 1780, these rolling fields in Laurens county became the site for a Revolutionary War battle. Bring the whole family to learn the history of the battle’s intriguing twist ending and keep your kids engaged as they hike trails with historical markers.
Burt-Stark Mansion: On May 2, 1865, Confederate President Jefferson Davis held the last Council of War with Confederacy cabinet members in the Burt-Stark Mansion. Hoping to continue the fight, he was met with unanimous opposition and realized that the Confederate independence cause was lost. Explore the home and the grounds at the Burt-Stark Mansion in Abbeville and learn about a pivotal time in Civil War and Southern history.
Dr. Benjamin Mays Historic Preservation Site: Greenwood, SC’s Dr. Benjamin E. Mays was a mentor to Martin Luther King Jr. and an intellectual leader of the Civil Rights Movement. Now, his childhood home stands as a museum for his legacy and influence.
Heritage Gold Mine: Come explore the original features of this 1850’s gold mine in McCormick, South Carolina including the open trench, vertical shafts, and a horizontal tunnel. Pan for gold in the former second-richest vein of gold in South Carolina, and keep what you find! Guided and self-guided tours are also available.
Hickory Hill Milk: Where does your milk come from? Come see for yourself! Enjoy a two hour farm tour of all aspects of this local, working dairy here in Edgefield, South Carolina. You don’t have to be into anything agriculture to appreciate all you’ll learn in one of these tours. Tours are available during Fall and Spring.
Hickory Knob State Resort Park: Try something new at this skeet shooting range or archery range located in McCormick, designed specifically with families and kids in mind! Make a getaway out of it by staying at the park, the only state resort park in South Carolina.
Hidden Pasture Unicorn Farm: Every child (and child at heart) will love visiting this real-life unicorn farm! Bring your imaginations and come play while Hidden Pasture in Laurens County hosts your field trip with animal interaction, learning about farm animals, meeting real unicorns, pony and unicorn rides, and playing on our bounce houses and playground.
Laurens County Museum: The Laurens County Museum is dedicated to telling the county’s history – formed in 1785 – including the Revolutionary War that played a big part in early local history. Located in downtown Laurens, the museum has three facilities: the original museum, the Witherspoon Building, and the Library and Museum of Revolutionary War History.
LushAcres Farm: LushAcres Farm and Market offers three great field trip opportunities for students of all ages! Come have fun on the farm and enjoy a Spring Field Trip, Fall Field Trip, or the new Educational Gem Mine Trip! During your visit, enjoy a large play area, the barnyard animal experience, and a variety of seasonal activities.
Ninety Six National Historic Site: This was the first Southern land battle of the war, with the original Star Fort still surviving in its original form, the last of its kind. Pick from several trails to explore and enjoy live reenactments throughout the year, right here in Greenwood County, South Carolina.
Railroad Historical Center: The Railroad Historic Center, located inside an old train depot in Greenwood, preserves history with a small museum, nearly a dozen railroad cars to explore, and guided tours. Visit an engine, dining car, and caboose during the tour with knowledgeable guides.
The Museum in Greenwood: History buffs and families alike will love The Museum in Greenwood. For more than 50 years, The Museum has served the Greenwood community by capturing and showcasing the area’s rich and vibrant past. In fact, many of their exhibits feature items collected from our very own locals.