Francis Marion is a South Carolina hero. As an officer of the Continental Army, the "Swamp Fox," as he was known, pioneered guerrilla warfare tactics in his relentless fight against the British forces.
Paintings depicting some of Marion's most triumphant moments line the walls of the Marion County Museum. But it is the exhibit on today's modern Marion County heroes that's the star of this charming attraction.
The Marion County Oral History Project is the result of interviews conducted by Duke student Jacob Tobia that chronicle the lives of people living in Marion County. The museum exhibit includes excerpts of the interviews and large-scale photos of the interviewees.
Event though the interview subjects come from a rather narrow geographical region, the diversity of their experiences is fascinating. Lucia Attkinson tells of attending President Richard Nixon's inauguration. Lolabell Foxworth, an 84-year-old mother of nine, shares the tale of her life as a housekeeper and what made her change careers. Tommy Lett tells what it was like to teach at an integrated school for the first time.
These are the stories of Marion County. There's no better way to learn about the place's history than by listening to theirs.
This exhibit lets you do just that. Listening stations around the room give you the chance to hear the interviewees in their own voices.
The museum is at 101 Wilcox Ave., Marion. For days of operation and hours, Click here.
