Southern Festivals News Service
If you're looking for a place to have fun, there is
a lot to see in Lee County, South Carolina. First there is the annual
Lee County Cotton Festival. Then there's Lee State Park with camp
sites, nature-based education programs, horseback riding, canoeing
and fishing in the Lynches River that runs through the park.
One of the most unique topiary gardens on the east coast is
here. Nationally recognized topiary sculptor Pearl Fryar has crafted
beautiful free-form gardens. Nearby is Tanglewood, the plantation
home of world famous US Senator "Cotton Ed Smith." Visit Mary McLeod
Bethune's birthplace, complete with picnic tables in a wonderful
setting. The Opera House which houses locally produced Broadway shows
is also the social focal point for many community activities.
Historic Lee County and Bishopville:
Experience A Grand Past And See A Bright Future
The people of Lee County are proud to be a part of South Carolina's
largest cotton-producing county. There is a history here that reaches
back to days when Indians roamed the land. After settlers arrived,
soon came roads and stage coaches that traveled from as far north as
New York all the way to Florida. Bishopville soon became a stage
coach crossroads, then came trains and highways, US 15 which runs
through the middle of town was one of the premier north-south routes
from New York to Miami.
A Warm Welcome
In Lee County and Bishopville you'll discover a beauty and charm.
Here is a countryside that depicts a gentle way of life, one that
values friendship and hospitality. You'll be welcomed with warm and
friendly smiles, firm handshakes and a feeling of family.
Most of the buildings on the two main blocks of the business district
are listed on the National Registry of Historic Buildings. One of the
most beautiful courthouses in South Carolina welcomes you into the
town. Historical markers help you identify the many special
historical locations. The Lee County Historical Society pays
attention to the many details of keeping a historical record and
overview of the area.
A Touch Of The Old South
If you come in the spring you'll be welcomed by sweet smelling
honeysuckle, and a profusion of color from azaleas, jasmine, dogwood,
wisteria and roses. The renewal of spring is at its best in our
county.
From tractors and cotton picking machinery in the field to iron
fences dating back to before the turn of the last century. Lee County
and Bishopville will give you a true touch of the Old South.
The South Carolina Cotton Museum
In Lee County, Cotton is King and it has been for a long time. Lee
County is South Carolina's largest cotton producing county. This
makes it a fitting place for the South Carolina Cotton Museum which
opened in 1994. This museum showcases the economic, social and
political impact of cotton in the South. Take a trip through time
from the days of hand-picked cotton and mule-powered gins to today's
machine-powered pickers and storage modules. Cotton is a part of your
life every day. Find out how and why at the South Carolina Cotton
Museum open Monday through Friday from 10am-5pm.
The Lee County Cotton Festival: You'll Have A Cotton-Pickin' Good Time
There is nothing so sweet as the crisp fall air, fields filled with
white bolls of cotton, marching bands, the smell of barbecue, popcorn
and other good things cooking. That is a big part of what Lee County
is about.
Join us as we celebrate King Cotton. You'll have a great time at this
big family event. Each year a new South Carolina Cotton Queen is
selected from a bevy of beautiful young ladies from all over the
state.
Country Style Food
Your taste buds will water with anticipation as you attend the "Taste
of Lee" Tuesday, October 3, 2001. You'll sample a cornucopia of
local dishes. The desserts are pure culinary delights. During the
Festival, October 19-20, dozens of food vendors are there every day,
so there's always something good to eat.
Down Home Entertainment
Friday night of the Festival sounds of music roll up and down the
main street as you shake a leg to the latest dance steps or just sit
on the side and watch the happy, fun-loving crowds.
Saturday is filled with more fun than anyone should have including
games and prizes for the children. Live entertainment stages filled
with a variety of performers. If you're a car buff, there are more
than 100 classic and antique automobiles and trucks. There will be an
exciting rodeo on Friday and Saturday nights and a Tractor Pull on
Saturday afternoon.
Sight Seeing And Shopping
Take advantage of the clothing outlet stores where you can save big
dollars on brand label items such as formal wear and
Sunday-go-to-meeting dresses. While you're here, you'll see dozens of
antebellum homes dating back over a hundred years.
It's Easy to Visit Us
Bishopville is just off I-20 at exit 116 or 120. Both exits will lead
you directly, in two minutes, to all the excitement. Plenty of
parking within a short walk from Main Street. Camp at Lee State
Natural Area, if you wish, with lots of tent space or RV parking
complete with electric power and running water. We have three hotels
by the exits or downtown.
To find out more about our Lee County Cotton Festival
Call (803) 484-5145 or E Mail Us
We know how to show you a cotton-pickin' good time.
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