Host Joanna Angle takes us to Union, SC which began as Unionville in 1791. Before the War Between the States, the community prospered as a crossroads where stagecoaches and produce wagons met across from the Broad and Tyger River.
Union has an abundance of historical sites. Next to the massive courthouse is the old Union jail, designed by Robert Mills, built in 1823 using the massive hewn stones and arches characteristic of his style. The Gothic Revival Church of the Nativity dates to 1855 and the stained-glass windows were designed by Louis C. Tiffany.
Palmetto Places takes us to the Kerhulas New Stand for an interview with Julia Kerhulas followed by a tour of Merridun Mansion. Among the mansion's notable features is the dining room ceiling, painted in 1880 by artist Otto Hammer. Many art objects at Merridun were created by Nancy Basket, and she discusses the family tradition of hand-making baskets and her innovative creations made with kudzu paper.
After a visit with Jack O'Dell and sampling his pork and beef hash, Joanna moved on to Rose Hill Plantation which was once an 8,000-acre plantation and home of secessionist governor William Henry Gist. After the deaths of Gist and his wife, the house fell into ruin and sections of the plantation sold off. Eventually Rose Hill passed into the hands of the US Government where it was restored in 1960, becoming a state park thereafter. The park superintendent talks about the life of Governor Gist and events held at Rose Hill State Park throughout the year.
Palmetto Places explored the architectural and cultural heritage of South Carolina's small towns and countryside. Host Joanna Angle explores historic houses, public buildings, and country stores, and talks with local artists, painters, sculptors, weavers, writers, storytellers, and musicians.
Side Notes:
- Watch Our Town: Union
- Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site. Learn more
- On December 10, 1858, William Henry Gist was elected governor of SC, and he served until December 17, 1860. His home at Rose Hill Plantation served as the Governor's Mansion during his term as governor. Read more about this secessionist governor.
- The Inn at Merridun. Some say there are ghosts....
