North Augusta Shines as Host of Inaugural South Carolina Humanities Festival

North Augusta Celebrates Culture and History at the SC Humanities Festival

North Augusta recently transformed into a hub of creativity and rich history as it hosted the South Carolina Humanities Festival, which ran from September 12 to 14. This marks the first time North Augusta has been the center stage for this celebrated event, and it certainly made its mark!

The festival kicked off with a vibrant atmosphere featuring **live demonstrations**, engaging lectures, and ample opportunities for community members to explore the cultural tapestry that defines this charming city. Attendees were treated to delightful weather that reached a pleasant high of 78°F, with a gentle breeze from the north, creating an ideal backdrop for the festivities.

Local Artistry Comes to Life

One of the highlights of the festival was the work of local fiber artist Makenzye Barfield, who showcased a stunning woven piece at the Arts and Heritage Center. Over the past year, Makenzye crafted this piece live, allowing guests to witness her artistic process firsthand. “It shifts and changes just like we do as people,” she shared, as she described her work. The vibrant colors used in her weaving, dyed from black walnuts, added a local and organic touch to her art.

Another local talent was Ike Carpenter, known for his ability to create unique items like buttons and toys from materials such as wood and peach pits. Visitors marveled at his craftsmanship, with displays set up at the historical Charles Hammond House, one of North Augusta’s oldest homes.

Discovering Historical Gems

The Charles Hammond House served as a focal point during the festival, offering guided tours that allowed visitors to step back in time. This historic house, built between 1765 and 1775, has a rich backdrop, tied to its namesake, a Virginia patriot of the Revolutionary War. Beth Francis, a descendant of Charles Hammond, donned period attire and welcomed guests inside for a glimpse into history. “I’ve lived in North Augusta almost my whole life and have witnessed its ups and downs. It’s incredible to see it restored and appreciated,” she remarked.

James O’Neal, who purchased the Charles Hammond House in 2017, has worked tirelessly to restore it while also modernizing it to serve as an Airbnb. It’s been two years since it opened its doors for public tours, and this year’s event drew crowds eager to explore its charming halls.

Celebrating Local Talent

Concurrent with the festival, the North Augusta Artist Guild held its annual “Fall into Art” reception, emphasizing the creative spirit of the region. This event was part of a packed schedule, including lectures on various topics, such as pottery from the renowned Edgefield area by Tony Riley, who captivated audiences with tales of the craft that boasts international acclaim.

Festival-goers were also treated to presentations on jazz history, further enriching the cultural experience. The vibrant sounds of an uplifting jazz band could be heard throughout the venue, complementing the atmosphere perfectly.

A Community Affair

The festivities were organized by Mary Anne Bigger, who highlighted the festival’s role in bringing the community together. “It’s a great way for everyone to come back and reacquaint themselves with what we have to offer,” she said, noting the collaborative efforts that engaged various regional partners from places like Edgefield, Beech Island, Graniteville, and Aiken.

Dr. Randy Akers, the executive director of SC Humanities, emphasized North Augusta’s potential, saying the city was selected for its “dynamic leadership and vision.” He believes that understanding and celebrating local history not only promotes community spirit but also encourages economic growth.

Closing Festivities

As the festival wrapped up, artists and historians alike left their mark, engaging the community in meaningful discussions while showcasing the area’s artistic heritage. The South Carolina Humanities Festival was a successful endeavor, melding the past with the present, and North Augusta showed that it’s a place where art and history flourish together.

With such a rich cultural offering, residents and visitors alike are already looking forward to the next festival, eager to explore and celebrate the ongoing narrative of their beloved North Augusta.