Travel South Magazine Travel South low (kasey daleo's conflicted copy 20 | Page 184

THOROUGHBRED
COUNTRY
{south carolina}
history from every american era is evi-
dent throughout this region known as
thoroughbred country. learn about
colonial times through demonstrations
in pottery, frontier trading and black-
smithing. Explore civil War battle sites
and historic plantation homes. Visit
small, quaint towns where you will find
museums rich with history and festivals
that display local culture.
While history abounds, thoroughbred
country is also a place of natural beauty.
notice the spanish moss gracing enor-
mous live oak trees. Ponder over the un-
usual elliptical phenomenon known as a
carolina Bay. hike through an urban forest
or let the elegance of a local garden carry
you to another time. cool off with a drink
from the healing springs, whose waters
are believed to have curative powers.
Experience four beautiful counties in western South
Carolina, where yesterday is preserved for today.
AIKEN
aiken county is known throughout the
world as an equestrian training center
claiming national champions. champi-
ons include: Palace Malice, 2013 Bel-
mont stakes winner; Pleasant colony,
1981 Kentucky Derby winner; summer
squall, 1990 Preakness winner; sea
hero, 1993 Kentucky Derby winner; and
Kelso, horse of the Year for 5 consecu-
tive years in the 1960s.
aiken county is also a place of history
and natural beauty. hitchcock Woods,
one of the largest urban forests in the
united states, and hopelands Gardens,
are two places to visit for anyone who
appreciates the beauty of preserved
land. hunting, fishing, golfing and shop-
ping are also available. Whatever
brings you here, enjoy!
ALLENDALE
From the moss-laden oaks along the
savannah river to the fields of white
cotton and ripe peaches, allendale
county is proud of a rich culture filled
with history and southern tradition.
Formed from parts of Barnwell and
hampton counties in 1919, allendale
is the youngest county in south car-
olina.