Explore the Upcountry History Museum

From the moment you walk through the door of the Upcountry History Museum in Greenville, you know that this will not be a dry, academic look at history. A few sloppy, friendly hogs (in statue form) greet you in the lobby. Look past the farmer who's calling the porkers and you will find a nearly full-scale replica of an old town square. As you wind your way through the various buildings, stairways and shops in this "town" you are guided through the history of the Upcountry, a region of South Carolina that includes 15 counties in the northwest part of the state.

Your tour begins with a short film about the people in the Upstate. The film defines the region's character as being about ambition, but defines that ambition broadly as it explores the political, economic, social and spiritual ambitions of the people who live there.

The film is just the beginning of the high-tech gadgetry that is used to compliment the museum's collection of artifacts. The museum uses evocative lighting design, sound design, video segments, interactive computer screens and hands on displays to capture (particularly the young) museum-goer's imagination.

The museum also has an ongoing series of educational programs. On Aug. 21, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. you will have the opportunity to tour the museum's excellent World War II exhibit with one of the museum historian's that helped curate it. Reservations are recommended.

The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and college students with I.D., $3 for kids ages 4-18, and free for children 3 and younger.

For more information on the Upcountry History Museum visit www.upcountryhistory.org.