FREE EVENT - At the Cherokee County Museum, Thursday, May 28th at 6 PM.
In April of 1791, President Washington set out on a 1,900 - mile journey to visit each of the southern states -- Virginia, the Carolinas, and Georgia. He spent more time in South Carolina that in any of the states. In this lively and humorous presentation, author Kathryn Smith, impersonating Martha Washington in full 18th century dress, recounts his travels and shares the inside story of life with her "Old Man." Audiences will learn some things they never knew about the man behind the myth.
Kathryn Smith is a former newspaper reporter and editor who now spends her time writing and speaking about history. She is the author of "The Gatekeeper", the first biography of FDR’s private secretary and de facto White House Chief of Staff Marguerite A. LeHand, and "Gertie: The Fabulous Life of Gertrude Sanford Legendre", which won the Benjamin Franklin Gold Award from the National Independent Book Publishers Association, and two books about Prohibition in the South: "Baptists and Bootleggers" and "Methodists and Moonshiners". Kathryn lives in Anderson, S.C. with her husband, Leo.
Please contact us at the Cherokee County Museum at 864-489-3988 for more information.
✨Volunteer Spotlight ✨
We’re excited to shine the spotlight on one of our incredible volunteers, Wes Spencer!
Wes is always willing to jump in wherever he’s needed—helping with building and grounds, supporting special events, and even cooking pancakes for Santa. His versatility and willingness to serve make him an invaluable part of our team.
When asked about his favorite exhibit, Wes says it’s hard to choose—“It’s all so great!”—but the radio room holds a special place in his heart. It brings back fond memories of listening to “Carolina in the Morning” on WAGI-FM growing up. He also loves seeing his grandkids enjoy the stage and costume area in the Montgomery Wing.
Off campus, his favorite spot is Fort Thicketty, where he takes pride in the ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance this important historic site with new trails, kiosks, and improved access.
Wes volunteers because he cares deeply about the future of Cherokee County. As our community grows, he wants to help ensure that our local history is preserved for generations to come—and he values being part of a team that supports our amazing staff.
Thank you, Wes, for all that you do! We are so grateful for your dedication and heart for this community.
#VolunteerSpotlight #LocalHistoryMatters #cherokeecountymuseum
FREE EVENT - TONIGHT ONLY!!! Discover the beginnings of America’s fight for independence as we launch our SC250 Speaker Series at the Cherokee County Museum.
The opening program, Revolutionary War 101, offers an accessible look at the causes, key moments, and lasting impact of the American Revolution, with special focus on South Carolina’s decisive contributions.
Our presenter, Rick Wise, is the Executive Director of the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust and a recognized authority on Revolutionary War sites throughout the state. A U.S. Army veteran and trained military historian, he plays a leading role in The Liberty Trail project and regularly provides battlefield interpretation, public programs, and preservation guidance. Rick’s clear, engaging approach makes complex history easy to understand—and unforgettable.
Join us for this FREE EVENT at the Cherokee County Museum in Gaffney, SC Thursday, April 23, as we explore the stories and legacies that continue to shape our nation.
✨ VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT ✨
We’re proud to shine this month’s Volunteer Spotlight on TOSHA COTTRELL, whose passion for history and community makes a lasting impact at the Cherokee County Museum.
Tosha serves in multiple roles, bringing both expertise and enthusiasm to everything she does. As an archivist, she helps organize and preserve historical records, supports genealogical research, restores artifacts, and assists with collections management. Her work plays a vital role in ensuring that Cherokee County’s rich history and traditions are protected and passed down for future generations.
You’ll also find Tosha welcoming guests as a docent and event assistant. Whether she’s guiding school groups, engaging with families, or helping during special events, she shares the excitement of discovering local history and encourages lifelong learning for visitors of all ages.
When asked about her favorite exhibits, Tosha couldn’t choose just one. She loves both the Archives and the Kids Zone, noting that these spaces create opportunities for interactive programming that bring youth and seniors together through shared learning experiences.
Tosha volunteers because of the meaningful connections it fosters. She values the opportunity to preserve local heritage, engage with the community, and learn through hands-on experiences. Most of all, she says the reward comes each time she participates in museum activities and sees the impact firsthand.
We are grateful for Tosha’s dedication, knowledge, and heart for service—she truly helps bring our museum to life!
CAST/CREW SPOTLIGHT 💫
Today’s shout out goes to @billy_joseph_jr ! Not only was he incredible in the role of “David”, it we’re also extremely thankful to him for helping us secure our location and our period pieces for wardrobe! Be sure to check out the @ccmuseumsc and so many of the incredible displays Billy has curated!
A huge congrats to Billy for being one of the team never who took home the Best Costume Design award at the CP48 awards!
Billy is no stranger to the 48, and has been in several award winning 48’s over the years prior to this one.
We love you Billy!
📸 BTS: @joe_lining + @rhodes_makes_videos
🌟 Volunteer Spotlight 🌟
We’re excited to spotlight Noah Lindemann, a dedicated volunteer whose work with CHAPS—now the Cherokee County Museum—began in 2002. From serving on building and exhibits committees and creating a scale model used in the museum’s original design, to restoring murals, installing exhibits, working on floors and grounds, and helping with special displays—Noah’s impact can be seen throughout the museum.
Most recently, Noah repaired the Big Mill Arch, which is now proudly displayed in the foyer of the museum. He has volunteered at countless events, led art workshops, and guided school groups and families through the museum.
In retirement, Noah continues to share his time and talents wherever they are needed. When asked for a favorite memory, he couldn’t choose just one—but restoring the three murals stands out as a highlight.
Thank you, Noah, for your incredible service and lasting impact on the Cherokee County Museum!
Join us for a Night at the Museum!
Step back into the Roaring 20s this Valentine’s Day.
❤️February 14 • 6PM–11 PM
❤️Enjoy a night of glamour, music, dancing, and amazing gourmet food stations.
❤️Dress to impress & celebrate love in style!
🥞✨ Pancakes for Preservation with Santa! ✨🥞
Join us at the Cherokee County Museum on Monday, December 1 from 5pm–7pm for a delicious evening in support of preserving our local history!
Bring your family and friends to enjoy warm pancakes, have pictures taken with Santa, and the opportunity to help protect the stories and treasures of Cherokee County. Every plate supports museum preservation efforts!
Tickets can be purchased at the front desk, online ccmuseumsc.org or from one of our Board Members.
🌟 Volunteer Spotlight🌟
Meet RICK MEEHAN, our passionate Fort Thicketty historian! Rick brings history to life at the Cherokee County Museum by offering on-site interpretation and sharing the rich stories of the colonial community that built the fort.
Recently, Rick captivated an audience of nearly 400 Cub Scouts, their parents, and leaders with a dynamic presentation that many called the highlight of their camporee. His dedication to educating young minds is truly inspiring!
Rick’s favorite exhibit, here at the museum, is the Revolutionary War Room, which showcases a breathtaking mural, rare artifacts, and a detailed Fort Thicketty display. To make history feel real and relevant, Rick volunteers in authentic Colonial American attire—sparking curiosity and helping younger generations understand the roots of our freedom-loving nation.
Rick is usually joined by his wife, Renee, who is right by his side supporting his efforts and sharing in the mission of preserving our historical treasures.
Thank you, Rick (and Renee!), for your incredible work and commitment to preserving our local history!
Thank you to everyone who came out to join us at The Bad Seed Dinner Theatre! Your support means the world to us, and we’re so grateful for the incredible community that makes nights like these possible.
We couldn’t do it without you—see you at the next show!
#DinnerTheatre #CommunityTheatre #LivePerformance #TheBadSeed #SupportTheArts #TheatreLife
