The Manning area has a rich and colorful history. Discover why the area was so important in the growth of our nation, through the American Revolution and beyond. Here are five of the greatest historic sites in the area to learn about how our country, state, and the city grew into the great places they are today.
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Trinity A.M.E. Church
The Trinity A.M.E. Church, built in 1874, is a great way to discover the rich history of the Manning area. Soon after the Civil War, 50 men and women recently freed from slavery bought the land in 1870 to build their church. They had been holding their religious services in a stable and wanted an official place of worship. The original frame building built here burned down in 1874, but another frame replaced it the same year. In 1914, the building was covered in brick veneer, which is how it stands today.
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Francis Marion Reflections
This historical marker and mural was built to commemorate the American Revolution. In 1780, General Francis Marion successfully fought and successfully pushed back the British in the area. Marion, known as the “Swamp Fox,” is a national hero who helped pave the path for America to gain its independence. The mural depicts him and his men in the Black and Santee River Basins.
This mural is part of a collection that commemorates General Marion’s work for our country. From here, you can visit his statue, the Swamp Fox Mural, the Ambush at Half-Way Swamp Mural, and more. Take a tour of the city’s great historical reminders of how our nation became what it is today.
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Manning Library
The Manning Library was built between 1909 and 1910 in the Classic Revival style. If you’re a fan of architecture and beautiful buildings, this is a great place to explore. Stepping into the library is like stepping back in time to over 100 years ago. Its beautiful columned facade and one-story structure tell a tale of the state’s heritage and history.
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Pleasant Grove School
This historical site represents an important part of South Carolina’s history. This school was built after the local school district bought the land in 1933 to be the new home of their school for African-Americans. It closed down in 1953 when it had five teachers who taught 159 students. It’s now a community center and a reminder of the area’s history.
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Battle of Fort Watson and Santee Indian Mound
The Santee Indian Mound was built for one of the greatest chiefs of the Santee Native Americans. It was then used by the British during the American Revolution to police the Santee River and the road that connected Charleston and Camden. In 1781, this post was taken from the British — the first one to be taken in South Carolina. It’s a great monument to America’s success in the war.
Give yourself some extra time to explore all the history and culture the Manning area has to share with you. You can spend an entire day learning about the history of the area through the many historic sites that were erected to remind us of our varied, proud history.
Image “Francis Marion Memorial Celebration” via Flickr by S.C. Air National Guard used under CC0 Public Domain Mark 1.0
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