Places to See
Founded in 1733, Camden is the oldest inland city in South Carolina. During the Revolutionary War, British General Lord Cornwallis and his troops occupied the city for over a year, and two notable battles were waged in Camden.
Dozens of antebellum structures still grace Kershaw County. Many were renovated at the turn of the 20th century when Camden became a popular winter community for wealthy Northern families. Their influence still shapes Camden's continued interest in history, horses, and the fine arts.
Places to Visit
In Kershaw County, there is so much to do. From antiquing in downtown Camden to taking in a lively game of golf to touring historic Boykin. Here are just a few thing to see and do in Kershaw County:
Antiques on Broad
This is the area's largest antique mall featuring a beautiful selection of quality antiques from all eras.
This restored house, circa 1812, is the former home of Bonds Conway, believed to be the first African-American in Camden to purchase his freedom and that of his family. The Kershaw County Historical Society is now housed here.
Camden Antique Market
An upscale mall with 15 dealers in a climate controlled location in the heart of Camden’s antique district.
Is responsible for collecting, preserving, and making accessible items of importance to the history of the area. The artifacts in the museum represent a diverse collection of items relating to the cultural heritage of Kershaw County. The Archives has been recently renovated and expanded to better preserve Camden's heritage.
Guided and self-guided tours are available and focus on Camden’s Colonial and Revolutionary eras. The 107 acre outdoor museum complex includes the 18th century town site, the furnished 1785 Craven House, two restored log cabins with exhibits, partial reconstruction of British military fortifications and the reconstructed and furnished Kershaw Cornwallis House (pictured), headquarters for Lord Cornwallis.
Liberty Hill Presbyterian Church & Cemetery
This church, circa 1880, features a 142-year-old bell from the original church and a solid mahogany organ believed to be imported from England. This church is believed to be one of the oldest in South Carolina.
Facility offers theatre performances, concerts, rotating art exhibits, and a variety of classes that range from music and dance to pottery and painting. A beautiful 175 year old home serves as the administration office for the center. The Center also hosts the popular Downhome Blues Festival, Camden Polo Cup, and the Finally Friday concert series.
This museum is devoted to the history of steeplechasing in America with memorabilia from many past and present race meets. A library, archives, and interactive exhibits provide entertainment and education for all.
Built in 1740, the Broome Place is located in the heart of the historic Boykin district. Brooms are made on the original broom equipment (more than 100 years old) inside a one-room restored former slave house.
King Haiglar and Opera House Tower
A noble Catawba Indian who befriended early Camden settlers, King Haiglar is often called "The Patron Saint of Camden." Today he presides over Camden in the form of a life-sized weather vane which sits atop the tower of what once was the Opera House, now a local department store.
Once the site of a WWII fighter-training base, this property now holds two race tracks available for club racing and track rentals. This premier 2.3 mile road course hosts a variety of races for racing enthusiasts and as well as NASCAR teams looking to hone their road course skills. A new .7 mile kart track was added in 2009.
Visit the charming Boykin Mill Pond Community and you will find a window into the old south. There are tours, a general store and one of the best fine dining restaurants in South Carolina.