Kentucky and South Carolina, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and surrounding areas offer rich historical experiences for travelers. From the Kentucky Black Trailblazers project to significant Revolutionary War sites in South Carolina, these destinations invite exploration of Southern heritage and pivotal events. Visitors can engage with history through interactive trails, museums, and important landmarks, making it a perfect trip for history buffs.
Exploring Southern History: Noteworthy Destinations in Kentucky and South Carolina
Elizabethtown, Kentucky, stands out as a prominent destination for history enthusiasts, offering a rich tapestry of stories, culture, and immersive experiences that connect travelers to the past. Complemented by nearby locations in South Carolina, including the Old 96 District, Shelby County, and Greensboro, North Carolina, these sites provide vibrant insights into Southern heritage.
Elizabethtown, KY
Elizabethtown is celebrated for its innovative Kentucky Black Trailblazers project, featuring an augmented reality trail that highlights the contributions of influential Black Kentuckians. Visitors can scan QR codes at key locations to learn about these trailblazers and their impacts on the community.
Key historical sites in Elizabethtown include:
- First Black Baptist Church
- General Patton Museum
- Historic Downtown Walking Tour – This tour runs on Thursday evenings from June through September and showcases local characters and lore.
Among its historical relics, the infamous Cannonball, a remnant from the Civil War battle of 1862, is displayed prominently in downtown Elizabethtown. Additionally, the Hardin County History Museum features both rotating and permanent exhibits that celebrate the region’s rich heritage.
Elizabethtown also offers great shopping, dining, and seasonal events, making it an all-encompassing destination for visitors.
Old 96 District, SC
In South Carolina, the Old 96 District is gearing up to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the first Southern land battle of the Revolutionary War in November. Key attractions include the Ninety Six National Historic Site, where visitors can explore the remains of Star Fort and participate in educational programs focusing on colonial settlers and Native Americans.
The Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site in Laurens County highlights a pivotal Patriot victory in the Revolutionary War, while the Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Historic Preservation Site connects Revolutionary history to the Civil Rights Movement, honoring a mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Shelby County, KY
Shelby County, KY, is another important historical hub featuring the Kentucky Black Trailblazers project. This initiative showcases 19 influential Black Kentuckians through augmented reality experiences.
Visitors can explore historic sites including:
- 1903 Carnegie Library
- Shelbyville Fountain from 1895
- Shelbyville History Museum housed in an 1872 Italianate manse
Greensboro, NC
Greensboro, North Carolina, features the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, where visitors can view the historic lunch counter from the 1960 sit-in movement. The Greensboro History Museum covers local history from its origins to the Civil War and the textile industry booms.
Additionally, Blandwood Mansion & Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, showcases pre-Civil War design and architecture. The Walkway of History in downtown Greensboro traces African American legacies through informative plaques and markers.
Hodgenville, KY
Historical parkland in Hodgenville, KY includes the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, which features Lincoln’s birthplace and boyhood home. The Lincoln Museum in Hodgenville showcases period artifacts and dioramas depicting significant life events of Abraham Lincoln.
Hodgenville is also known for hosting the Lincoln Jamboree, the longest-running country music show in Kentucky since 1954. Local agriculture thrives here, with farms offering fresh produce, flowers, and seasonal activities, highlighted by the LaRue County Farmers Market that operates from June through August.
In addition, downtown Hodgenville features various shops and cafes, including Vibe Coffee and The 16th restaurant, renowned for its country-style cuisine.
Each of these Southern towns promises unique experiences, inviting travelers to explore their rich history and culture.
FAQ
What are some historical attractions in Elizabethtown, KY?
Key historical sites in Elizabethtown include the First Black Baptist Church, General Patton Museum, and the Historic Downtown Walking Tour, which occurs Thursday evenings from June through September.
What does the Old 96 District in South Carolina commemorate?
The Old 96 District celebrates the 250th anniversary of the first Southern land battle of the Revolutionary War in November, highlighting the Ninety Six National Historic Site and the Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site.
What can visitors expect in Greensboro, NC?
Greensboro is home to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, the Greensboro History Museum, Blandwood Mansion & Gardens, and the Walkway of History that traces African American legacies.
What is special about Hodgenville, KY?
Hodgenville features the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, the Lincoln Museum, and hosts the Lincoln Jamboree, the longest-running country music show in Kentucky.
Key Features of Southern Historical Destinations
| Location | Highlight | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Elizabethtown, KY | Kentucky Black Trailblazers | General Patton Museum, Historic Downtown Walking Tour |
| Old 96 District, SC | 250th anniversary of Revolutionary War Battle | Ninety Six National Historic Site, Battle of Musgrove Mill |
| Shelby County, KY | Kentucky Black Trailblazers Project | Carnegie Library, Shelbyville Fountain, Shelbyville History Museum |
| Greensboro, NC | International Civil Rights Center & Museum | Blandwood Mansion, Walkway of History |
| Hodgenville, KY | Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park | Lincoln Museum, Lincoln Jamboree |
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Additional Resources
- World Atlas: Kentucky Towns
- Wikipedia: Elizabethtown, Kentucky
- Only In Your State: Underrated Cities in Kentucky
- Dignity Memorial: Ramona Asher Obituary
- Newsweek: Trump’s Removal & EV Support
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
