North Augusta’s Living History Park Faces Challenges After Storm
In the heart of North Augusta, a unique treasure known as the Living History Park has recently been in the news for all the wrong reasons. This beloved park, which has been enchanting visitors for 33 years, has suffered significant damage due to a fierce storm that swept through the area. The storm left a trail of destruction, forcing the park to close its doors, leaving many in the community heartbroken.
Bringing History to Life
The Living History Park is more than just a collection of buildings; it’s a place where history comes alive! The park features a recreated village that represents life during the period between 1735 and 1785. It offers visitors, especially children, a hands-on experience where they can engage with history in a meaningful way. From shucking corn to helping cook meals and even dyeing clothes, there’s something for everyone to learn and do.
Lynn Thompson, the founder of the park, has affectionately referred to it as her “baby.” After the storm struck, her husband urged her to stay away for a few days, worried that the sight of the damage would upset her. But eventually, the reality hit hard when she returned to see the aftermath. “It breaks my heart,” she shared. “I don’t know how long it will take to clean it up.”
The Aftermath
Despite the heartbreak, there’s a sense of resilience among the park’s staff and supporters. Thompson expressed her concerns about the costs involved in the cleanup. While the city has some insurance on the buildings, it unfortunately doesn’t cover the fencing, light posts, and many other items that were also damaged. Many volunteers and community members have stepped up to help; for instance, the Wesley United Methodist Church in Evans has mobilized volunteers to help with the cleanup.
Long-time park volunteer Ernest McPeake, who has dedicated 23 years to the park, echoed the sentiment of gratitude that no one was hurt during the storm. “We’re fortunate no one was hurt or killed,” he said. “Buildings can be replaced, but people cannot.” He knew it would require massive effort to bring the park back to its former glory.
Future Events in Limbo
As the cleanup continues, events that have always drawn crowds to the park have been canceled, including beloved community gatherings. The Christmas event, which brings joy and connection to many, is still in limbo as the team assesses the situation. “It’s going to be a decision we are going to make in the next couple of days,” Thompson said hopefully. “I’d love to have it because I think the community needs this.”
For now, the park remains closed to the public due to safety concerns. Fallen trees and unstable structures pose risks, making it critical to stabilize the area before allowing visitors back in.
Community Support Needed
The Living History Park relies heavily on grants and donations to operate, and this devastating storm has made those needs even more pressing. Community members looking for ways to help can visit the park’s website for more information on how to contribute. For those interested in lending a hand for cleanup efforts, updates will be shared on the park’s Facebook page, encouraging local residents to get involved.
As North Augusta rallies around the Living History Park, there’s hope that this beloved community asset will rise again, ready to welcome visitors and inspire future generations about the incredible history that shapes the area.
