# Oconee History Museum


## Posts

- [Gift Wrap Fundraiser](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/gift-wrap-fundraiser/)
- [Field Trips](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/field-trips/): Field Trips Making History Fun Our goal at Oconee History Museum is to make history relevant and engaging for your students. Our staff will provide a guided tour of the museum exhibits and a supplemental activity of your choosing. We will make every effort to cater our tours and activities to best meet your curriculum standards and learning goals. What You Will See In The Museum When you visit the Oconee History Museum you will see a variety of artifacts illustrating the history of Oconee County.  Our main attractions are our two dugout canoes found in local rivers that date […]
- [1960's Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1960s-apple-festival-programs/): 1966-1969 1966 1967 1968 1969

## Pages

- [Exhibit Hall](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit/oconee-history-museum/exhibit-hall/): Oconee History Museum Exhibit Hall The exhibit hall in our main location is named after John Ashton Hester. Displays Unique to Oconee County Oconee History Museum displays hundreds of artifacts that tell the story of Oconee County and its people. Visitors learn how Oconee’s physical and cultural landscape has changed over the past 250+ years through exhibits featuring the history of Native Americans, immigration, railroads, New Deal programs, textile mills, agriculture and much more. If you would like to see your family representated in the museum, consider submitting a photo for display in the Oconee Ancestor’s Gallery. Chattooga Canoe Oconee […]
- [General Store Museum](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit/general-store-museum/): General Store Museum Westminster, SC General Store Museum Housed in the Barrett-Jones building along historic Main Street in Westminster, the General Store Museum displays a vast collection of historic artifacts from the original England’s General Merchandise store. The original general store building (2 blocks west on Main Street) was build in 1908, and England’s General Merchandise opened for business at that time. For decades, the downtown general store carried everything its customers might ever need or want, including the “Fly” hovering lawnmower, Blue Horse notebook paper, saddle shoes, and much more! For over 100 years the shopkeepers accumulated a collection […]
- [Oconee History](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-2/): Oconee History Era One (Prehistory – 1783) Era Two (1783-1861) Era Three (1861 – 1929) Era Four (1876 – 1929) Era Five (1929 – 1945) Era Six (1945-1972) Era Seven (1973-Present)
- [Home](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/): This Month at the Museum We preserve and share the stories that define our region. Through exhibits, programs, research and digital collections, we make local history accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a new arrival, or a traveler passing through, our museum welcomes you into the narrative of Oconee. About Visit Learn If you are planning a first-time visit, researching your family roots, or exploring from afar, we invite you to connect with Oconee County’s rich past. From Cherokee towns to mill villages, from railroad expansion to lake building, our exhibits capture the ingenuity and creativity of the […]
- [Learn](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn/): Learn Click to expand categories below depending on your interest: Oconee History Seven eras from 1700s to Present Day Genealogy & Local Resources Historic Preservation Resources Teaching Tools Historic Audio Historic Videos Why We Celebrate In an effort to further knowledge about local history, we welcome requests for historical research.  Find out about Research Requests
- [Teaching Tools](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/teaching-tools-2/): Teaching Tools Oconee History Museum’s goal is to provide quality instructional materials to help teach about our past. Field Trips Educational Presentations Teaching Trunks Curriculum Guides
- [Visit](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit/): Visit Welcome to the Oconee History Museum Our museum consists of two branch sites that are approximately 10 minutes from each other. Each location offers a unique experience for families, sightseers and history lovers! Come discover the real people, moments and cultures that shaped Oconee County, SC. Oconee History Museum 123 Browns Square Drive Walhalla, SC HOURS Tuesday – Saturday11am-5pm Explore the history of Native Americans, immigration, railroads, New Deal programs, textile mills, agriculture and much more as it relates to Oconee County. The exhibit hall offers a self-guided tour of Oconee’s history. Popular exhibits include the dugout canoes that […]
- [Educational Presentations](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/educational-presentations/): Educational Presentations Highlighting various aspects of life in Oconee County, South Carolina These presentations may be DOWNLOADED for educational use. Please DO NOT reproduce or alter these presentations. Directions:  Click on the link to download the PowerPoint presentation.  When the dialog box appears, click the “Read-Only” button.  You will be able to view and present this presentation, but you will not be able to edit it. Edible History: Apples in Oconee File size: 26 MB Education In Oconee File size: 7 MB Exploring History in Westminster File size: 8 MB History of Lake Keowee File size: 13 MB History of […]
- [Oconee History Museum](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit/oconee-history-museum/): Oconee History Museum Main Location Oconee History Museum is located in Walhalla, South Carolina. This location serves as the museum headquarters. The facility includes an exhibit hall, meeting room, ancestor’s gallery, storage facilities, and staff offices. Museum Resources We are proud to offer community resources at our Walhalla location Exhibit Hall Heritage Park Meeting Room Background History Our building headquarters has an interesting story. The building was constructed in 1892 near the Walhalla Depot. At the time, the town of Walhalla was the terminus of the Blue Ridge Railroad. (The Blue Ridge Railroad had been envisioned as a trade route […]
- [Field Trips](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/field-trips-2/): Field Trips Making History Fun! Our goal at Oconee History Museum is to make history relevant and engaging for your students. Our staff will provide a guided tour of the museum exhibits and a supplemental activity of your choosing. We will make every effort to cater our tours and activities to best meet your curriculum standards and learning goals. What You Will See In The Museum When you visit the Oconee History Museum you will see a variety of artifacts illustrating the history of Oconee County.  Our main attractions are our two dugout canoes found in local rivers that date […]
- [About](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/about/): About Our Purpose At the Oconee History Museum, we bring history to life through exhibits, educational programs and special events Our Mission Oconee History Museum preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of Oconee County, South Carolina. We conduct research and curate exhibits to tell stories of the people and places that shaped Oconee County.  Our Story Oconee History Museum began as an idea in 1999 when a group of concerned citizens saw a need for the preservation and interpretation of Oconee County’s heritage. It was decided to house the museum in Walhalla inside an old tobacco factory that was built […]
- [Calendar](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/calendar/): Events September 2025 Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1:00 PM 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11:00 AM 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 1 2 3 4 5 Upcoming Events Click on an event for more information September 20, 2025 @ 11:00 AM A fun walk in downtown Seneca on a beautiful day! October 31, 2025 @ 5:00 PM Rain or Shine! November 27, 2025 @ 12:00 AM December 14, 2025 @ 7:00 PM A festive night in support […]
- [The Land Beside the Water](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/the-land-beside-the-water/): The Land Beside the Water A Journey Through Time In this video, a professional actor, portraying Andrew Pickens’ son, leads us through the year and the events that shape who we are today. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_E The Land Beside the Water from GBA Productions. This 20-minute video was sponsored by the Greater Oconee Chamber of Commerce and produced by GBA productions, and was the recipient of the 2009 Aurora Award.
- [The Great Canoe Rescue](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/the-great-canoe-rescue/): The Great Canoe Rescue This 7-minute video tells the story of the Chattooga & Keowee Canoe rescues. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_E The Great Canoe Rescue from GBA Productions.  Volunteers prepare to transport the “Keowee” Canoe to the museum where it joined the “Chattooga” canoe that was found in 2004. Volunteers preparing canoe for transport
- [Era Six (1945-1972)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-six-1945-1972/): Era Six (1945-1972) Lake Hartwell The Flood Control Act of 1950 authorized the building of Hartwell Dam and Reservoir as the second unit in the comprehensive development of the Savannah River Basin. The dam itself was to be constructed on the Savannah, some 17 miles to the southeast of the spot on the Tugaloo River, where Anderson and Oconee Counties intersected. Ten miles east of this spot, the Tugaloo formed a junction with the Seneca River, thus creating the Savannah. Full pond was to be 660 feet above sea level. The reservoir would extend up the Tugaloo almost to the […]
- [Era Five (1929-1945)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-five-1929-1945/): Era Five (1929-1945) Oconee County Hospital “Oconee County Hospital” admitted its first patient on January 31, 1939. Construction had begun the year before, with leveling and excavation work done by Works Progress Administration (WPA) workers who used shovels and wheelbarrows. The site for the hospital was chosen for its central location in Seneca at the intersection of roads leading to Walhalla, Clemson, and Westminster. This location is now the site of the Lila Doyle Nursing Care Facility. Money for the original hospital was raised by the communities that it would serve and matched by the WPA. It was not until […]
- [Era Four (1876-1929)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-four-1876-1929/): Era Four (1876-1929) Russell Farm The Russell Farm often served as overnight lodging for weary travelers between Highlands, NC and Walhalla, SC. As many as 80 visitors are said to have stayed there at one time, including a future president, Woodrow Wilson. Many travelers, weary of the hot summers of South Carolina, would vacation in Highlands. Their train ride ended in Walhalla and from there, they continued by stage coach for two more days. The first part of the house was built in 1867 by Ganaway Russell. The story goes that he helped to drive a herd of cattle to […]
- [Era Three (1861-1876)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-three-1861-1876/): Era Three (1861-1876) The State Constitution of 1868 Among these was a guarantee that all South Carolinians could vote, without regard to race or property ownership, and that educational opportunities be provided without regard to race. Coming three years after the Civil War, and written to a substantial degree by newly freed slaves, its validity was not readily accepted by the majority of white citizens. However, it was this document that enabled Oconee County to be created. As part of the new order, districts became counties and new counties were created. The counties, for the first time, all had budget […]
- [Era Two (1783-1861)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-two-1783-1861/): Era Two (1783-1861) John Caldwell Calhoun was born on March 18, 1782 in Abbeville District, South Carolina. After attending Yale, he entered a political life serving in the SC State Legislature, was subsequently elected to Congress in 1811 and in 1817, was appointed as US Secretary of War. Calhoun became vice president of the United States of America in 1824 under president John Quincy Adams. Elected a second time as vice president under Andrew Jackson, Calhoun would eventually resign from the position in 1832. He was immediately elected back into Congress as a US Senator. Calhoun died in Washington on […]
- [Era One (Prehistory-1783)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-one-prehistory-1783/): Era One (Prehistory-1783) Paleo Period 10,000-8,000BC The Paleo Period is the end of the Ice Age. Paleo Indians used simple tools they made by “knapping” which is the process of flaking stone into useful shapes. The people during this time lived a “survival” lifestyle in which they hunted small animals and gathered wild plant foods. They also hunted large animals which provided protein and fat. The Paleo-Indians were nomadic and did not raise crops nor did they make pottery. Archaic Period 8,000-1,000BC ne of the most important advancements in hunting during the Archaic Period was the atlatl which was a […]
- [Era Seven (1973-Current)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-history-1__trashed/era-seven-1973-current/): Era Seven (1973-Current) Dam Construction In the six and a half years that elapsed between the groundbreaking ceremony of April, 1967 and Keowee / Toxaway’s formal dedication of October 1973, unbelievable activity took place. Central to the plan was the construction of three dams. Two of these were required to impound water that would become Lake Keowee, a body of water with a surface area of 18,400 acres at full pond and boasting a 300 mile shoreline. Of both acreage and shoreline, an estimated 75% lies within Oconee County. Elevation is 800 feet above sea level, 140 feet above neighboring […]
- [Historic Videos](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/): Historic Videos 1962 SC Apple Festival Parade Acony, The Story of the Oconee Bell The Great Canoe Rescue The Land Beside the Water Oconee: Golden Corner of South Carolina Seneca from 1906 Westminster 1924
- [Historic Audio](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-audio/): Historic Audio Walhalla High School Musical Memories of 1968 Walhalla High School Musical Memories of 1970 Walhalla High SchoolRazorback Sounds of 1971
- [Why We Celebrate](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/why-we-celebrate/): Why We Celebrate Join Oconee History Museum & Lake Hartwell Country as we explore the origins and history of some of Oconee County’s favorite festivals. Use the links below to explore digital exhibits about each of these historic festivals that are unique to Oconee County. Also be sure to join us for in-person programs at Oconee History Museum as we reminisce and get ready to celebrate. Of course we hope you will join us for all the unique history, culture, and fun that make these annual festivals something to look forward to in Oconee County! Hillbilly Day Mountain Rest, SC July 4 View our […]
- [Area Information](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit-us-1__trashed/area-information/): Area Information Museums Off Main Downtown Walhalla’s Short Street connects Oconee History Museum with our museum neighbors – Museum of the Cherokee in South Carolina & Oconee Military Museum at Patriots Hall.  Public visiting hours overlap among the 3 museums on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays between 11am and 4pm.  Visit during those times and see all 3 museums in 1 afternoon!  Contact Oconee History Museum staff to coordinate field trips or special group tours that include all 3 museums. Visitor Information Oconee SC Visitor’s Guide Visit Oconee Oconee County Information Oconee County, South Carolina Oconee County Chamber of Commerce Oconee Economic Alliance
- [Meeting Room Rental](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/contact-us/meeting-room-rental/): Meeting room Rental Activity Room Our Walhalla location has an Activity Room that can be rented to individuals and organizations for business meetings, civic club meetings, birthday parties, showers, receptions, and more.  The space includes use of presentation and sound equipment, chairs, tables, and access to partial kitchen and restrooms. Please contact the Oconee History Museum staff at 864-638-2224 to check availability and make reservations. Basic Fee: $50 for 3 hours $20 for 3 hours (non-profit groups only) Rental Policy Rental Agreement
- [Kelsie Patton](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/kelsie-patton/): Kelsie Patton Assistant Curator Kelsie Patton joined the Oconee History Museum in 2025. Born and raised in the Pittsburg region of Pennsylvania, she earned her bachelor’s in Anthropology and Public History from Saint Vincent College in 2023. Kelsie lived in the United Kingdom while pursuing a master’s degree in Museum Studies from University College London. Email Kelsie
- [Jennifer Moss](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/jennifer-moss/): Jennifer E. Moss Director/Curator Jennifer Moss has worked at Oconee History Museum since February 2011. An Oconee County native, Jennifer graduated from Seneca High School in 2001. She earned a bachelor’s degree in History from Coastal Carolina University in 2005, and completed master’s coursework in History at Old Dominion University. In 2019, Jennifer was named one of Oconee’s Top 20 Under 40. Email Jennifer 2015 South Carolina Hospitality Employee of the Year
- [Our Staff](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/our-staff/): Our Staff We are here to help! Director/Curator Jennifer Moss – info@oconeehistorymuseum.org Assistant Curator Kelsie Patton – patton@oconeehistorymuseum.org Administrative Assistant Lisa Ridge Docent Renee Ramsay – General Store Museum
- [Our Board](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/our-board/): Our Board of Directors Oconee History Museum leadership is drawn from our general membership. Directors serve 2-year terms. Board Officers Ernie Lombard President Ernie is a native of Oconee County and a resident of Mountain Rest, as well as a registered nurse. Ilona Meeks Vice-President Ilona resides in Westminster and retired from Bank of America (Technologies & Operations) and the US Army Reserves. She volunteers at Our Daily Bread, and is a member of the American Legion Post 124 Walhalla. Dennis Taylor Secretary  Dennis retired as Clemson University Archivist and Records Officer in 2018. He holds master’s degrees in History […]
- [Curriculum Guides](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/curriculum-guides/): Cirriculum Guides Our Curriculum Guides offer an in-depth look into the educational offerings from Oconee History Museum.  Each guide provides South Carolina Social Studies curriculum standards that are met while on a field trip to the museum, as well as programs that we offer during your visit. Kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd Grades 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grades
- [Teaching Trunks](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/teaching-trunks/): Teaching Trunks Teaching Trunks are designed to make learning fun with hands-on use of artifacts in your own classroom.  Each trunk includes lesson plans, artifacts, copies of historical documents, and other information for you and your students to explore. We offer Teaching Trunks for FREE, but we suggest a $20 donation to help cover costs of up-keep. Teaching Trunks Textile Times Learn all about textile history in Oconee County and in the Southeast.  This trunk features artifacts from local cotton mills, as well as some real cotton for the students to examine.  The lessons include how the mills operated, as […]
- [Westminster 1924](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/westminster-1924/): Westminster 1924 Virtual Tour of Westminster, South Carolinac.1924 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwwQIvlsc-Q This 8-minute video about Westminster, South Carolina, was created using a virtual model designed by Patrick Roeder.  Narrated by Denise McCormick.
- [Seneca from 1906](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/seneca-from-1906/): Seneca from 1906 Virtual Tour of Seneca, South Carolinac.1906 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSP4PTMQymE This one-of-a-kind video project was created using a virtual model designed by Patrick Roeder. Narrated by George Allgood.
- [Donate Artifacts & Photos](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/get-involved/donate-artifacts-and-photos/): Donate Artifacts & Photos Artifact Donations We thank you for your interest in donating an artifact to Oconee History Museum for future generations to enjoy!  Oconee History Museum considers artifacts pertinent to the diverse history and heritage of the geographic area of Oconee County, South Carolina. Other artifacts, not from Oconee, but representative or typical of an era in Oconee’s history will also be considered for use as exhibit props or educational tools, but will not be accepted into the permanent collection. While we wish that we could accept all items, Oconee History Museum faces storage, funding, and staffing limitations […]
- [Support Us](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/get-involved/support-us/): Support Us Oconee History Museum depends on community support! Artifact conservation can be technical and expensive, but is essential nonetheless to maximize the longevity of Oconee’s treasures! Proceeds pay for ongoing building repair and maintenance, artifact storage area renovations, exhibit and display improvements, and much more, including special projects like the General Store Museum. Oconee History Museum, Inc. is a 501(c)3 tax deductible organization, operated by an independent board of directors. Please consider helping us by making a tax-deductible contribution. Join with other community members to help preserve and showcase Oconee County’s rich history. Friendship and financial contributions are vital […]
- [Volunteer](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/get-involved/volunteer/): Volunteer Volunteers are essential to our operation.  If you have special skills or interests, please contact us for opportunities.  Internships for course credit are also available. Volunteer Projects Housekeeping Groundskeeping and Gardening Docents/Tour Guides:  Oconee History Museum and General Store Museum Guest Services Workshop Instructors Advertising and Awareness Archival Projects Events and Program Staffing Please Fill Out Application Below
- [Membership](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/get-involved/membership/): Become a Member Membership is vital to helping preserve and showcase Oconee County’s rich history and heritage. Annual membership varies by level. As a member, you’ll receive discounted rates to special events, classes, and workshops. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joins our membership and these contributions are essential to the on-going work of the museum. Membership Payment Options Print out the membership form below and send a check to: Oconee History MuseumP.O. Box 395Walhalla, SC 29691 Bring the membership form and your payment in person to: Oconee History Museum123 Browns Square DriveWalhalla, SC 29691 Join or Renew ONLINE
- [Get Involved](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/get-involved/): Get Involved We Need You! Oconee History Museum depends on community support to preserve our heritage and we rely on members and patrons to help further our goals! Donate : Artifacts or Images Membership Support Us Volunteer
- [Research Requests](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/contact-us/research-requests/): Research Requests We Welcome Requests For Historical Research! Anyone requesting historical research assistance is required to fill out the Research Request Application (below). Please be as specific as possible on the application regarding the information requested. We can help with the following topics: Textile Mills and Villages Cherokee and Frontier Settlement Railroads and Transportation Agriculture and Farms Civic Groups Businesses Schools and Education Family History Lakes Hartwell, Keowee, and Jocassee Civil War Cemetery Records Town Histories Centennial Celebrations Maps, Photographs, Books, and More! Resources: Geneology and Local History Research Request Guide Agreement for Use of Photographs & Digital Images
- [South Carolina Apple Festival](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/why-we-celebrate/south-carolina-apple-festival/): South Carolina Apple Festival Source: Pendleton District Historical and Recreational Commission, South Carolina Apple Festival Association, and Long Creek Apple Growers c. 1970s Please do not use or reproduce image without permission. Westminster, South Carolina The South Carolina Apple Festival comes to Westminster and Long Creek, South Carolina during the week following Labor Day each year. Just as the leaves turn from green to orange and red, locals and visitors head west along Highway 76 through downtown Westminster to Long Creek to celebrate and enjoy the local apple harvest. This part of Oconee County is the heart of Oconee’s once-booming […]
- [Razorback Sounds of 1971](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-audio/razorback-sounds-of-1971/): Razorback Sounds of 1971 Razorback Sounds of 1971
- [Outreach](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/contact-us/outreach/): Speakers & Education Opportunities Oconee History Museum is happy to provide guest speakers for civic organizations or clubs of all ages. Speakers may present about the museum or special historic topics by request.
- [Contact Us](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/contact-us/): Contact Us Outreach Field Trip Requests Research Requests Meeting Room Rental Museum Locations Admission to our museums is FREE $3 donation per person is encouraged. Oconee History Museum 123 Browns Square Dr.Walhalla, SC 29691 864-638-2224 Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM General Store Museum 126 E Main StreetWestminster, SC 29693 864-647-9550 Thursday & Friday 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM Contact Us
- [Oktoberfest](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/why-we-celebrate/oktoberfest/): Oktoberfest Source: 1988 Oktoberfest brochure from Nancy Todd James Collection Walhalla, South Carolina Each year since 1979, Walhalla residents and visitors have donned their dirndls and lederhosen during the 3rd weekend of October for Walhalla’s Oktoberfest to celebrate and share the town’s unique German history and heritage. Since the town’s settlement in 1850 by members of the German Colonization Society from Charleston, Walhalla has blended its German heritage with its American identity to create a culture and community all its own. In the decades that followed, Walhalla would grow to become Oconee’s County seat of government and a gateway to […]
- [Oconee: Golden Corner of South Carolina](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/oconee-golden-corner-of-south-carolina/): Oconee: Golden Corner of South Carolina This video follows the Oconee County Library’s Bookmobile on a journey throughout Oconee County. Video Date: 1969 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=doNfiPnzxKU
- [Musical Memories of 1970](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-audio/musical-memories-of-1970/): Musical Memories of 1970 Musical Memories of 1970
- [Musical Memories of 1968](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-audio/musical-memories-of-1968/): Musical Memories of 1968 Musical Memories of 1968  
- [Jake Sluder Heritage Park](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/visit/oconee-history-museum/jake-sluder-heritage-park/): Jake Sluder Heritage Park The Jake Sluder Heritage Park features outdoor exhibits including a Hardie-Tynes steam engine, “The Cage” Oconee County’s portable jail, and the Verner Wellhouse. The park also features a native plant garden and an engraved brick walkway. Brick Walkway The Jake Sluder Heritage Park features a memorial brick walkway recognizing community members and museum supporters.
- [Historic Preservation Resources](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-preservation-resources/): Historic Preservation Resources Oconee County is rich with history and historic places. Oconee History Museum wants to help protect, preserve, and promote those special places. This page will be continually updated with resources to help organizations and property owners engaged in historic preservation projects. Every project is unique, so please contact us with any questions. Historic Preservation Consultants & Professionals Serving Oconee, Anderson, and Pickens Counties, Lake Hartwell Country’s preSERVE The Blue Wall team can provide historic preservation consultation, and hands on preservation work ranging from stabilization to restoration and even relocation. Click the image above for more information. For […]
- [Hillbilly Day](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/why-we-celebrate/hillbilly-day/): Hillbilly Day Mountain Rest, South Carolina Hillbilly Day is a reflection and celebration of the character and culture of the Mountain Rest community – a community long characterized by a unique blend of Appalachian independence and Southern hospitality. Historically, Mountain Rest was known for being a waystation for tourists enroute to the mountains of Georgia and North Carolina. In the early days these travelers journeyed by stagecoach, and many stayed overnight at the Russell House, which served as an inn from the 1860s to the 1950s. During the Great Depression of the 1930s the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the […]
- [Temp](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/temp/)
- [Oconee County School Directories](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/oconee-county-school-directories/): Oconee County School Directories Special thanks to Oconee County Public Library for digitizing and indexing the Oconee History Museum’s collection of Oconee County School Directories. These digitized images are property of Oconee History Museum. Oconee History Museum is happy to provide this digital collection for fair use purposes such as teaching, research, and private study. Publication in any form is not permitted. School Directory INDEX 1928-1929 School Directory of Oconee County, SC, 1928-1929 School Directories INDEX 1940s School Directory of Oconee County, SC 1940-1941 School Directory of Oconee County, SC 1941-1942 School Directory of Oconee County, SC 1942-1943 School Directory […]
- [Looking Back – 1888, 1907, 1911, 1914](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1888-1907-1911-1914/)
- [Looking Back – 1915, 1918, 1924, 1935](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1915-1918-1924-1935/)
- [Looking Back – 1941 -1945 (Veterans Memorial cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1941-1945-veterans-memorial-cover/)
- [Looking Back – 1950 – 1955 (Linda’s Drive-In cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1950-1955-lindas-drive-in-cover/)
- [Looking Back – 1963 – 1965 (yellow cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1963-1965-yellow-cover/)
- [Looking Back – 1966 – 1968 (orange cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1966-1968-orange-cover/)
- [Looking Back – 1973 – 1980 (green cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1973-1980-green-cover/)
- [Looking Back – History of Sports in Oconee County](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-history-of-sports-in-oconee-county/)
- [Looking Back – 1938, 1948, 1958, 1988, 1998, 2008](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1938-1948-1958-1988-1998-2008/)
- [Looking Back – 1956, 1966, 1986, 1996, 2006 (red cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1956-1966-1986-1996-2006-red-cover/)
- [Looking Back - 1927,1937,1947,1957,1987,1997,2007 (gray cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-1927193719471957198719972007-gray-cover/)
- [Looking Back - 1889,1899,1909,1949,1989,1999 (white cover)](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/looking-back-188918991909194919891999-white-cover/)
- [News Around Westminster 1888-1909](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/news-around-westminster-1888-1909/)
- [News from Rural Communities](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/news-from-rural-communities/)
- [Titles relevant to the history of areas neighboring Oconee County, SC](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/titles-relevant-to-the-history-of-areas-neighboring-oconee-county-sc/)
- [Titles relevant to the history of Westminster, Long Creek, Chauga, Madison, Cleveland, Tugaloo, Fair Play, and Oakway in Oconee County, SC](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/titles-relevant-to-the-history-of-westminster-long-creek-chauga-madison-cleveland-tugaloo-fair-play-and-oakway-in-oconee-county-sc/)
- [Titles relevant to the history of Seneca, Newry, and Keowee areas of Oconee County, SC](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/titles-relevant-to-the-history-of-seneca-newry-and-keowee-areas-of-oconee-county-sc/)
- [Titles relevant to the history of Walhalla, West Union, Mountain Rest, Tamassee, and Salem areas of Oconee County, SC](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/titles-relevant-to-the-history-of-walhalla-west-union-mountain-rest-tamassee-and-salem-areas-of-oconee-county-sc/)
- [Titles relevant to the history of the Cherokee in Oconee County, SC](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/titles-relevant-to-the-history-of-the-cherokee-in-oconee-county-sc/)
- [General History Titles Related to Oconee, Pickens & Pendleton](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/general-history-titles-related-to-oconee-pickens-pendleton/)
- [How To History: Locating Historic Cemeteries](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/how-to-history-locating-historic-cemeteries/)
- [How to History: Finding Deeds & Wills](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/how-to-history-finding-deeds-wills/)
- [How to History](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/how-to-history/)
- [Genealogy Resources](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/genealogy-resources/): Genealogy & Local History Resources Working on your family tree? Whether you are local or across the country we are here to help. Oconee History Museum staff is always working to make our collections more accessible. Please feel free to contact us with your local history and genealogical questions. We can provide research access to many out-of-print local history books and our archival collections. Many genealogical resources for Oconee County are available online! Good Places to Start SC Genealogical Society Oconee County SC Genealogy (familysearch.org) Oconee County SC GenWeb Project Pickens County SC GenWeb Project View our How-To-History: At Home […]
- [Farm Plat Book & Business Guide: Oconee County, SC 1953](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/farm-plat-book-business-guide-oconee-county-sc-1953/): Farm Plat Book & Business Guide: Oconee County, SC 1953 Summary: This book divides Oconee County into 21 map blocks labeled Block A – Block U. Each map block is located on a separate page. Each map block shows roadways, waterways, railroads, farmsteads (by owner), schools, churches, cemeteries, municipalities, unincorporated areas, ditches, canals, and various other structures. Every other page shows business advertisements from the book’s local sponsors. Oconee History Museum has provided an index to the business advertisements, as well as a listing that cross-references the Oconee County SC Cemetery Survey to the cemeteries shown on each block of […]
- [Celebrating 75 Years of Stories at Oconee County Public Library](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/why-we-celebrate/ocpl75/): Celebrating 75 Years of stories at the oconee public library Oconee County Public Library celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2023! Oconee History Museum and Oconee County Public Library have partnered to create this digital exhibit to showcase the impressive history of the libraries in Oconee County, as they work to provide the community with free resources and access to a world full of information. Early Libraries Keowee Courier April 19, 1900 In the late 1890s, many individuals, especially the women of Oconee County, made a concerted effort to improve community literacy by providing reading material for school children and local […]
- [1962 Apple Festival Parade](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/learn__trashed/historic-videos/1962-apple-festival-parade/): 1962 Apple Festival Parade
- [1980's Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1980s-apple-festival-programs/): 1980’s Apple Festival Programs 1980-1981 1980 1981
- [1975-1979 Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1975-1979-apple-festival-programs/): 1970’s Apple Festival Programs 1975-1979 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979
- [1970's Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1970s-apple-festival-programs/): 1970’s Apple Festival Programs 1970-1974 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974
- [1966-1969 Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1966-1969-apple-festival-programs/): 1960’s Apple Festival Programs 1966-1969 1966 1967 1968 1969
- [1960's Apple Festival Programs](https://oconeehistorymuseum.org/1960s-apple-festival-programs/): 1960’s Apple Festival Programs 1960-1965 1961 1963 1964 1965


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