Travel South Magazine Travel South low (kasey daleo's conflicted copy 20 | Page 30

RoNaLd E . McNaIr MeMoRiAl AnD LiFe HiStOrY CeNtEr
PEE DEE COUNTRY , SC
Welcome to Pee Dee Country ! This seven county region , named for the original Native American Pee Dee Indians who inhabited it long ago and subsequently the Pee Dee Rivers , still offers the natural wonders that attracted the Native Americans and early settlers . A sparkling gem of nature ’ s best , Pee Dee Country has a unique combination of scenic parks and natural areas , as well as a history spanning both Revolutionary and Civil War times , reflected in its wonderfully preserved historic homes , plantations , and buildings .
Here is the ideal place to experience the heritage of the agrarian lifestyle of the old South and its relaxed way of life . Both cotton and tobacco played an important role in the early growth of the region , and the South Carolina Cotton Trail was developed to showcase the era . The Cotton Trail takes visitors on a revealing tour through three Pee Dee counties and you ’ ll find visitor information centers for the trail in Bennettsville , Hartsville , and Bishopville . The South Carolina
Cotton Museum is located in Bishopville and has preserved the legacy of the cotton culture in South Carolina and a way of life long gone but still reflected in the present . The South Carolina Tobacco Museum is located in the historic train depot in
Mullins and depicts farm life and the growing fascinating museums displaying local artifacts .
Pee Dee Country offers three beautiful state parks and natural areas and many local parks , as well as four scenic rivers . The area also has more
PeE DeE CoUnTrY OfFeRs ThReE BeAuTiFuL StAtE PaRkS AnD NaTuRaL ArEaS AnD MaNy LoCaL PaRkS , As WeLl As FoUR ScEnIc RiVeRs .
than 30 exciting and affordable golf courses ! It ’ s no wonder that outdoor activities are popular here ! Come chip , putt , paddle , cycle , race , raft kayak , hike , fish and just have fun ! Come stay and play with us , and discover a place like no other !