Flowertown Headlines
Welcome to the Flowertown Festival
The Flowertown Festival celebrates its 36th Anniversary this year with what is shaping up to be the best ever lineup of artisans and food.
With more than 200 vendors from across the country joining with artisans from the Lowcountry, guests will have a chance to view and purchase the best assortment of crafts and original artwork anywhere.
Children have their own festival withing a festival with the Children's Jubilee. The area, which is near Cummings Theological Seminary on South Main, will be the site of amusement rides, games, and other attractions and boths brought together just for the entertainment of the littlest festival visitors.
With more than 200 vendors from across the country joining with artisans from the Lowcountry, guests will have a chance to view and purchase the best assortment of crafts and original artwork anywhere.
Children have their own festival withing a festival with the Children's Jubilee. The area, which is near Cummings Theological Seminary on South Main, will be the site of amusement rides, games, and other attractions and boths brought together just for the entertainment of the littlest festival visitors.
2008 Flowertown Festival poster
Jessica Crouch of Daniel Island is the artistic eye behind this year's beautiful Flowertown Festival Poster. A resident of Daniel Island, Crouch is the art director for Cognetix, an advertising and marketing firm in West Ashley.
Raised and schooled in West Virginia near Charleston, she says she visited the Lowcountry while doing a college internship with the Spoleto Festival.
"I loved this area from the start," she says. "I knew I would come back."
Raised and schooled in West Virginia near Charleston, she says she visited the Lowcountry while doing a college internship with the Spoleto Festival.
"I loved this area from the start," she says. "I knew I would come back."
The Ponds development is situated on a 1,950-acre tract that will also have a 1,110-acre nature preserve that will be complete in time for the first residents. Access to Schultz Lake, the bed of the Ashley River, will also be available on site.
Sales have been off to a flying start at The Ponds as houses are under construction.
Situated on Highway 17-A, south of Summerville, the 1,950-acre master planned community features a new Summerville YMCA wellness center has one of the major components to Dorchester County's largest planned development to date.
The YMCA broke ground 25,000 square-foot facility will feature:
Situated on Highway 17-A, south of Summerville, the 1,950-acre master planned community features a new Summerville YMCA wellness center has one of the major components to Dorchester County's largest planned development to date.
The YMCA broke ground 25,000 square-foot facility will feature:
Gary Lukridge'
As a boy in Spartanburg, Gary Lukridge's best friend lived across the street from the downtown YMCA.
Lukridge recalls sleeping over at his house so that the next morning the two of them could cross the street to play basketball.
"He was Magic Johnson and I was Larry Bird," Lukridge says.
Lukridge recalls sleeping over at his house so that the next morning the two of them could cross the street to play basketball.
"He was Magic Johnson and I was Larry Bird," Lukridge says.
Richard Miler, President
Richard Miler, President
Chris Berry, Vice President
Nicole Bailey, Secretary
Chris Berry, Vice President
Nicole Bailey, Secretary
Chamber President and CEO Rita Berry.
Welcome to Greater Summerville and Dorchester County!
Dorchester County, South Carolina is known worldwide for its natural beauty, historic plantations and bustling economy. The county is located in the Eastern part of the state and is bordered by Orangeburg, Berkeley, Colleton and Charleston counties. Though settled earlier, the county was created in 1897.
The population of the county continues to grow and reflects the economic state of the county. In 2005, a wide variety of companies invested $103 million in the county. Manufacturing, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Services, and Government continue to be the major employment sectors.
Dorchester County, South Carolina is known worldwide for its natural beauty, historic plantations and bustling economy. The county is located in the Eastern part of the state and is bordered by Orangeburg, Berkeley, Colleton and Charleston counties. Though settled earlier, the county was created in 1897.
The population of the county continues to grow and reflects the economic state of the county. In 2005, a wide variety of companies invested $103 million in the county. Manufacturing, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Services, and Government continue to be the major employment sectors.
Children's Jubilee
It's the favorite go-to spot for children attending the Flowertown Festival - the Children's Jubilee - and kids can locate it even if they didn't go to the festival last year.
It's almost as if these vertically challenged trailblazers are equipped with some unseen GPS device. Children just instinctively know where the fun is.
Bess and Bobby Brinkley of Brinkley Entertainment Inc. and sister company McBride Concessions will be back again this year bringing the the same tried and true classics such as the super slide and Thomas the Train. As always, the Brinkley's will be adding a little something new to the mix as well. This year, kids can also enjoy a rock climbing wall and a new attraction called the "Bee Bop" ride.
It's almost as if these vertically challenged trailblazers are equipped with some unseen GPS device. Children just instinctively know where the fun is.
Bess and Bobby Brinkley of Brinkley Entertainment Inc. and sister company McBride Concessions will be back again this year bringing the the same tried and true classics such as the super slide and Thomas the Train. As always, the Brinkley's will be adding a little something new to the mix as well. This year, kids can also enjoy a rock climbing wall and a new attraction called the "Bee Bop" ride.
Brinkley Entertainment Inc. which provides the rides for the Children's Jubilee is also sponsoring "The Big Give" to collect supplies to help kids.
Its time again for the Flowertown Festival. This annual festival allows people to get together and experience the arts and crafts that the people in the community and beyond have to offer. But there's more to the festival with participants looking beyond the obvious to help others.
People like Bess Brinkley of Brinkley Entertainment Incorporated. Brinkley has planned to kick off her "Big Give" at the Flowertown Festival. Brinkley has decided to see what the community can offer back to itself. Brinkley has been giving communities the opportunity to give back to themselves for almost 19 years, but this is the first time for an organized effort to include locals.
"Summerville is a good place to start this program," she said last week. "Summerville is great and just wonderful..'
People like Bess Brinkley of Brinkley Entertainment Incorporated. Brinkley has planned to kick off her "Big Give" at the Flowertown Festival. Brinkley has decided to see what the community can offer back to itself. Brinkley has been giving communities the opportunity to give back to themselves for almost 19 years, but this is the first time for an organized effort to include locals.
"Summerville is a good place to start this program," she said last week. "Summerville is great and just wonderful..'
Anna Dale gives "Toby," one of Azalea Park's many public sculptures, a kiss during last year's Sculpture in the South show. This year's premier event takes place May 17 and 18.
Summerville's "Toby," the yellow retriever, won't bite, bark or jump up on you. Toddlers are hesitant to approach him, until they realize that he can be patted and won't be making any sudden moves. That's because Toby is a sculpture, one of several in Azalea Park. So many people have patted his head that some of the patina has worn off. That's okay.
In Summerville, people are encouraged to touch and feel the public artwork. The sculpture belongs the people of the Town of Summerville and many of it is on display in Azalea Park for all Flowertown Festival visitors to see.
From wildlife to engaging figures, a permanent sculpture collection is being created by the nonprofit organization Sculpture in the South. Whether you're resting on a park bench beside "Toby" or finding your place in a life-size game of "Follow the Leader," The Summerville Collection has a piece of public sculpture that will warm your heart and stir your imagination. Now everyone, especially those who might never step foot inside a museum, has the opportunity to encounter fine art in everyday life.
In Summerville, people are encouraged to touch and feel the public artwork. The sculpture belongs the people of the Town of Summerville and many of it is on display in Azalea Park for all Flowertown Festival visitors to see.
From wildlife to engaging figures, a permanent sculpture collection is being created by the nonprofit organization Sculpture in the South. Whether you're resting on a park bench beside "Toby" or finding your place in a life-size game of "Follow the Leader," The Summerville Collection has a piece of public sculpture that will warm your heart and stir your imagination. Now everyone, especially those who might never step foot inside a museum, has the opportunity to encounter fine art in everyday life.
Festival traffic pattern
It should come as little surprise that after decades of directing motorists through the heart of Summerville during the Flowertown Festival, the town's police have the traffic flow down to a science.
"Once everything is blocked down — it basically runs itself," says Lt. Bob Burris, head of the police department's traffic unit.
On each day of the three-day festival, traffic blockades will go up at 7:30 a.m. and come down at 6:30 p.m.
"Once everything is blocked down — it basically runs itself," says Lt. Bob Burris, head of the police department's traffic unit.
On each day of the three-day festival, traffic blockades will go up at 7:30 a.m. and come down at 6:30 p.m.
Summerville Fire Chief Marc Melfi (right) and Engineer Tony Failla work on documents for an incident action plan during a March 20 meeting of the Lowcountry Incident Support Team.
Like any team, the Lowcountry Incident Support Team (IST) is eagerly awaiting its first practice.
The regional, multi-agency team is empowered by a U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant to assist departments in times of need.
The Summerville Police Department isn't likely to be under duress during this year's Summerville Family YMCA Flowertown Festival, but the IST team is creating an incident action plan anyway. Team officials saw the festival as an opportunity to give team members their first crack at implementing what they learned in their training.
The regional, multi-agency team is empowered by a U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant to assist departments in times of need.
The Summerville Police Department isn't likely to be under duress during this year's Summerville Family YMCA Flowertown Festival, but the IST team is creating an incident action plan anyway. Team officials saw the festival as an opportunity to give team members their first crack at implementing what they learned in their training.
For the police who patrol it, the Summerville Family YMCA Flowertown Festival is more about controlling crowds than curbing crime.
"It's an extremely quiet event - thankfully," says Summerville police Capt. Jon Rogers.
"A lot of it comes down to crowd control," Rogers says.
"It's an extremely quiet event - thankfully," says Summerville police Capt. Jon Rogers.
"A lot of it comes down to crowd control," Rogers says.
'Y' to host national prayer breakfast May 1
The Summerville Family YMCA will host a community Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 1, which is The National Day of Prayer.
The breakfast, which will be held at Bethany United Methodist's Fellowship Hall, will feature keynote speaker, Chaplain Rob Dewey of the Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy. Chaplain Dewey's organization supports emergency responders and their families, as well as the general public in times of unexpected crisis. Chaplain Dewey was the chaplain on the scene of the Sofa Super Store Fire June 18, 2007 when nine local firemen lost their lives.
The Summerville Family YMCA will host a community Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 1, which is The National Day of Prayer.
The breakfast, which will be held at Bethany United Methodist's Fellowship Hall, will feature keynote speaker, Chaplain Rob Dewey of the Coastal Crisis Chaplaincy. Chaplain Dewey's organization supports emergency responders and their families, as well as the general public in times of unexpected crisis. Chaplain Dewey was the chaplain on the scene of the Sofa Super Store Fire June 18, 2007 when nine local firemen lost their lives.
With year-round activities and promotions, Summerville D.R.E.A.M. (Downtown Restoration, Enhancement and Management) drives traffic to Historic Downtown Summerville. Unique shops and dining experiences will grab your attention and satisfy your taste buds.
Summerville D.R.E.A.M. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Summerville by enhancing the aesthetic, cultural, social and economic aspects of the downtown area while preserving its historic identity.
Affiliated with Main Street SC (MASC) and the National Main Street Association, Summerville D.R.E.A.M. works to enhance community identity and pride by providing "hometown" events, assisting businesses with design improvements, building tourism and marketing Historic Downtown Summerville to residents and guests.
Summerville D.R.E.A.M. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in Summerville by enhancing the aesthetic, cultural, social and economic aspects of the downtown area while preserving its historic identity.
Affiliated with Main Street SC (MASC) and the National Main Street Association, Summerville D.R.E.A.M. works to enhance community identity and pride by providing "hometown" events, assisting businesses with design improvements, building tourism and marketing Historic Downtown Summerville to residents and guests.
Flowertown 10K results
SUMMERVILLE, SC MARCH 15, 2008 8:00 AM
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SUMMERVILLE, SC MARCH 15, 2008 7:50 AM
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Summerville golf courses are among the most challenging in the state.
If you're in town for the Flowertown Festival and want to squeeze in a round of golf, you're in luck: Summerville has several quality courses to choose from.
The Pine Forest Country Club course received a four-star rating from Golf Digest in 2002, has been rated as the top non-resort course in the Charleston area and is a winner of the prestigious Player's Choice Award.
Built on the site of the historic (and now defunct) Pine Forest Inn, the course is widely considered one of the most challenging and beautiful in the Lowcountry. It is known for its excellent course conditions and superb layout.
The Pine Forest Country Club course received a four-star rating from Golf Digest in 2002, has been rated as the top non-resort course in the Charleston area and is a winner of the prestigious Player's Choice Award.
Built on the site of the historic (and now defunct) Pine Forest Inn, the course is widely considered one of the most challenging and beautiful in the Lowcountry. It is known for its excellent course conditions and superb layout.
Southern-ranked superstar Adam Elliget (r) balances a backhand volley during last year's Flowertown Festival Jr. Tennis Clinic.
For sports fans, the Flowertown Festival Mixed Doubles Tournament can serve as a nice break from the more traditional festival activities.
Located in the heart of the festival at the Azalea Park Courts just off Main Street, the tournament has featured some quality tennis action for the past six years. Mixed doubles matches for nine age groups will play out Friday from 5-9:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until only the age division champions are standing.
On Sunday, the tournament festivities open at noon with a free, one-hour tennis clinic conducted by members of the Charleston Southern University men's and women's tennis teams and their coach, Mike Baker. Loaner racquets will be available for the clinic. The tournament finals will follow and typically run through 4:30 p.m.
Located in the heart of the festival at the Azalea Park Courts just off Main Street, the tournament has featured some quality tennis action for the past six years. Mixed doubles matches for nine age groups will play out Friday from 5-9:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. until only the age division champions are standing.
On Sunday, the tournament festivities open at noon with a free, one-hour tennis clinic conducted by members of the Charleston Southern University men's and women's tennis teams and their coach, Mike Baker. Loaner racquets will be available for the clinic. The tournament finals will follow and typically run through 4:30 p.m.
From left, Ellie hout and Isabel Lozada practice on beam at the John Tupper Gymnastics Center at Richardson Avenue.
The Summerville Family YMCA has been teaching kids how to pirouette, flip and turn cartwheels across the floor for nearly a decade.
In its 10th year, the Y gymnastics program is growing by leaps and bounds. The program currently provides instruction to some 500 gymnast at the John Tupper Gymnastics Center at Richardson Avenue. It also supports both USAG and AAU competitive teams.
"We have classes for all age groups and we have programs for both recreational and competitive athletes," Summerville Y Gymnastics Director Kristin Fry said. "We have definitely grown as far as the number of participants and our competitive team is doing very well, which is taking the program to a new level."
In its 10th year, the Y gymnastics program is growing by leaps and bounds. The program currently provides instruction to some 500 gymnast at the John Tupper Gymnastics Center at Richardson Avenue. It also supports both USAG and AAU competitive teams.
"We have classes for all age groups and we have programs for both recreational and competitive athletes," Summerville Y Gymnastics Director Kristin Fry said. "We have definitely grown as far as the number of participants and our competitive team is doing very well, which is taking the program to a new level."
Charleston Lacrosse Club coach Peter Collins Sr. (r) covers stick handling skills during last summer's YMCA youth lacrosse camp.
Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the nation and the Summerville Y is out to meet the demand.
The Y, which has offered a wide range of sports leagues for youth and adults alike for some time, now has a youth lacrosse program. This winter, the Y held clinics every Tuesday for youth interested in learning about the sport or honing their skills. In June, for the second summer in a row, the Y will sponsor a lacrosse camp for youth age 5-18. Program officials are hoping it will all culminate in the Y having youth teams that can compete against other recreational lacrosse teams in the area.
"It all started with the summer camp which we held in hopes of generating some interest in the sport in general," Charleston Lacrosse Club board member Dan Lile said. "We had a good response from the younger age groups so Jonathan Lewellyn at the Y wanted us to start a program. He's a lacrosse fan and we appreciate the Y's interest in developing a youth program as well as the space they provide."
The Y, which has offered a wide range of sports leagues for youth and adults alike for some time, now has a youth lacrosse program. This winter, the Y held clinics every Tuesday for youth interested in learning about the sport or honing their skills. In June, for the second summer in a row, the Y will sponsor a lacrosse camp for youth age 5-18. Program officials are hoping it will all culminate in the Y having youth teams that can compete against other recreational lacrosse teams in the area.
"It all started with the summer camp which we held in hopes of generating some interest in the sport in general," Charleston Lacrosse Club board member Dan Lile said. "We had a good response from the younger age groups so Jonathan Lewellyn at the Y wanted us to start a program. He's a lacrosse fan and we appreciate the Y's interest in developing a youth program as well as the space they provide."
Taste Of Summerville - 2008 Flowertown Festival
It doesn't get any yummier than delectable recipes in the "Taste Of Summerville - 2008 Flowertown Festival" cookbook.
If you're looking for an easy to fix, yet mouthwatering casserole, it's all right there. If you need a dessert to satisfy that sweet craving, it'll be hard to beat the Eggnog-Pecan Pound Cake.
"This year's cookbook is filled with recipes from the YMCA staff, the board and members," says Kristin Fry, gymnastics director.
If you're looking for an easy to fix, yet mouthwatering casserole, it's all right there. If you need a dessert to satisfy that sweet craving, it'll be hard to beat the Eggnog-Pecan Pound Cake.
"This year's cookbook is filled with recipes from the YMCA staff, the board and members," says Kristin Fry, gymnastics director.
Festival-goers get tickets and a map of the participating restaurant locations at the Taste of Summerville booth.
Tickets for this year's Taste of Summerville are $1 each. The cost of the food items ranges from 1 to 6 tickets. In all there are 14 restaurants and vendors participating in the 2008 Taste Summerville. Located on South Main Street, the "Taste of Summerville" offers festival-goers a chance to stroll from booth to booth sampling the best that Summerville has to offer. The sponsor for the event is Logan's Road House.
The restaurants for the 2008 Taste of Sumerville are:
The Restaurant at Middleton Place
The restaurants for the 2008 Taste of Sumerville are:
The Restaurant at Middleton Place
Short Central Avenue, located in the heart of downtown Summerville is a great place to grab a bite to eat or stroll through locally owned shops.
Summerville is one of the most charming and quaint communities you'll find with a pace of life that is a little more relaxed. People are friendly and like to say hello, and maybe chat if you're so inclined. While in Summerville you will experience our "small town" feel while enjoying some very sophisticated amenities.
On your way to the festival, stop by the Visitor Center, located at 402 N. Main St. -- just and pick up information on all the other things available to you in our town. The Visitor Center is the hub of information on Summerville and Dorchester County. The staff will help you with maps, brochures and information on not only what to do but where to eat and sleep. During the festival the center will have someone on hand to entertain you with information on historic homes and tell you some stories from Summerville's heyday as a resort in the mid-1800s.
The festival itself is located in our town gem, Azalea Park; this 12-acre park features ponds, thousands of azaleas and 12 installations of The Summerville Collection - permanent public sculpture gifted by Sculpture in the South. While enjoying the festival take in some of the amenities of our park.
On your way to the festival, stop by the Visitor Center, located at 402 N. Main St. -- just and pick up information on all the other things available to you in our town. The Visitor Center is the hub of information on Summerville and Dorchester County. The staff will help you with maps, brochures and information on not only what to do but where to eat and sleep. During the festival the center will have someone on hand to entertain you with information on historic homes and tell you some stories from Summerville's heyday as a resort in the mid-1800s.
The festival itself is located in our town gem, Azalea Park; this 12-acre park features ponds, thousands of azaleas and 12 installations of The Summerville Collection - permanent public sculpture gifted by Sculpture in the South. While enjoying the festival take in some of the amenities of our park.
Lapel pin
Hat — $12
Sponsored by: Belk
Sponsored by: Belk
The Flowertown Festival is known for its crafts.
Artisans. groups and vendors for the 2008 Flowertown Festival
(venues subject to change)
S12 A Bit of Country
(venues subject to change)
S12 A Bit of Country
Lolly Wolly Doodle sells monogrammed children's clothing and accessories.
Lolly Wolly Doodle owner Brandi Temple has been making monogrammed children's clothing and accessories for three years, but this marks her first year she as a vendor at the Flowertown Festival.
The growing business was born out of the frustration Temple felt when she tried to buy distinctive clothing for her children and found that even the simplest dresses were overpriced and poorly constructed.
"I couldn't find any big sister, little sister sets," she says, so she picked up some simple patterns and started looking for great fabrics.
The growing business was born out of the frustration Temple felt when she tried to buy distinctive clothing for her children and found that even the simplest dresses were overpriced and poorly constructed.
"I couldn't find any big sister, little sister sets," she says, so she picked up some simple patterns and started looking for great fabrics.
Barrettes are offered in colorful and distinctive looks.
Necessity really is the mother of invention.
For years, Ellen Debenham of Summerville had a hard time finding barrettes large enough to hold her thick hair and with two daughters in the picture, the problem of managing thick hair just grew. She knew she wasn't the only person looking for something strong, yet beautiful to tame her mane, but she couldn't find anything in the marketplace that could do the job and look good too.
She decided that if she couldn't find what she needed, she would have to make something that would do the job. After conducting a little research to find out what sort of clasps were the best in the industry, Debenham got creative and started designing barrettes that were strong enough to control the most challenging tresses, yet distinctive, colorful and beautiful. She came up with creations that are all original - as different as the personalities who wear them. Some are made with handmade papers and others with original artwork. All feature genuine French auto-lock clasps -the best on the market.
For years, Ellen Debenham of Summerville had a hard time finding barrettes large enough to hold her thick hair and with two daughters in the picture, the problem of managing thick hair just grew. She knew she wasn't the only person looking for something strong, yet beautiful to tame her mane, but she couldn't find anything in the marketplace that could do the job and look good too.
She decided that if she couldn't find what she needed, she would have to make something that would do the job. After conducting a little research to find out what sort of clasps were the best in the industry, Debenham got creative and started designing barrettes that were strong enough to control the most challenging tresses, yet distinctive, colorful and beautiful. She came up with creations that are all original - as different as the personalities who wear them. Some are made with handmade papers and others with original artwork. All feature genuine French auto-lock clasps -the best on the market.
Boogie Shoes by Tracy Agostini are returning this year to the Festival.
They're festive, fun, colorful and they get your feet noticed.
Tracy Agostini is selling her Boogie Shoes again at this year's Flowertown Festival and based on previous performance, she'll probably sell out.
She started making the girly shoes because it was something that was fun for her to do. Using wholesale ribbons and materials, she wanted to see how they would do in the marketplace. She's been busy ever since.
Tracy Agostini is selling her Boogie Shoes again at this year's Flowertown Festival and based on previous performance, she'll probably sell out.
She started making the girly shoes because it was something that was fun for her to do. Using wholesale ribbons and materials, she wanted to see how they would do in the marketplace. She's been busy ever since.
Carolina Treasures offer handmade diaper bags, burp clothes and changing pads.
Meredith Baum, of Summerville, is enthusiastic about participating as a first time vendor in this year's Flowertown Festival.
Meredith along with her mother, Theresa Sloop, creates handmade diaper bags, burp clothes, and changing pads. Their business is called Carolina Treasure and has been operating since 2005.
"My three boys inspired the business," Meredith said. "I couldn't find anything cute for them in stores when they were babies."
Meredith along with her mother, Theresa Sloop, creates handmade diaper bags, burp clothes, and changing pads. Their business is called Carolina Treasure and has been operating since 2005.
"My three boys inspired the business," Meredith said. "I couldn't find anything cute for them in stores when they were babies."
Swim lessons are ongoing at the Y.
The Summerville YMCA operates two pools, one at the Cedar Street Wellness Center and another in Oakbrook.
Both pools are open for classes and adult or lap swimming.
Adult swimming at the Wellness Center is Monday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m.-12 noon and 4:30 -6 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 6-8 a.m. and 2:30-6 p.m; Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ; Saturday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.
Both pools are open for classes and adult or lap swimming.
Adult swimming at the Wellness Center is Monday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m.-12 noon and 4:30 -6 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 6-8 a.m. and 2:30-6 p.m; Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ; Saturday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; and Sunday from 1-4 p.m.
The Children's offers a place for kids to play outside on the playground or inside with games while their parents exercise.
The Summerville Family YMCA has a great program for parents who workout and do not have a place for their children to stay until they are done.
The YMCA has a children's center where the parents can go and work out for up to two hours while their children play on the playground, make crafts, read stories, watch movies and do many other activities.
This service is offered to the parents when they purchase a family package at the YMCA.
The YMCA has a children's center where the parents can go and work out for up to two hours while their children play on the playground, make crafts, read stories, watch movies and do many other activities.
This service is offered to the parents when they purchase a family package at the YMCA.
The YMCA operates a wellness center on Cedar Street.
H.P. Compton Wellness Center
The Summerville YMCA state-of-the-art H.P. Compton Wellness Center has pleasantly surprised more than a few area residents. "This is the nicest YMCA in the South," commented one new member. A few steps inside the new front door and you'll see why so many people are joining our YMCA.
The spacious and bright interiors include:
The Summerville YMCA state-of-the-art H.P. Compton Wellness Center has pleasantly surprised more than a few area residents. "This is the nicest YMCA in the South," commented one new member. A few steps inside the new front door and you'll see why so many people are joining our YMCA.
The spacious and bright interiors include:
Festival patrons enjoy the natural beauty that inspires the event.
Amputee Support Group
Contact Amber Kincheloe
568-7692, peglegamber@yahoo.com
Contact Amber Kincheloe
568-7692, peglegamber@yahoo.com
The bridges across the canals are among the charming details of the festival location, Azalea Park.
With apologies to Edgar A. Guest for rearranging pronouns, this excerpt from his poem "It Couldn't Be Done," puts the story of the start of the Flowertown Festival in a nutshell.
While you slowly slalom through the crowds in Summerville's Azalea Park this weekend, you might reflect that this event, which now brings more than 250,000 people to our town for a three-day fete, was the upshot of the work of a trio of determined women. And it all began with a bona fide failure.
In 1972 Charlsie Vorwerk, Jean Gantt and Imogene Williams, along with other volunteers of the then Summerville Young Women's Christian Organization (YWCO) started planning for an event to raise money for the struggling group. They were joined by Frances Stogner, Joan Stanley and Heather Roderick, who, among others, wanted to have a real home for a "Y" in Summerville. For years the YWCO had operated out of a couple of rooms in a business building along Main Street, a former residence on Cedar Street, various churches and a disabilities center. It was past time to consolidate. The women's idea was to hold an arts and crafts show, inviting local and regional artisans and using profits to begin a fund for the construction of a home for the "Y."
While you slowly slalom through the crowds in Summerville's Azalea Park this weekend, you might reflect that this event, which now brings more than 250,000 people to our town for a three-day fete, was the upshot of the work of a trio of determined women. And it all began with a bona fide failure.
In 1972 Charlsie Vorwerk, Jean Gantt and Imogene Williams, along with other volunteers of the then Summerville Young Women's Christian Organization (YWCO) started planning for an event to raise money for the struggling group. They were joined by Frances Stogner, Joan Stanley and Heather Roderick, who, among others, wanted to have a real home for a "Y" in Summerville. For years the YWCO had operated out of a couple of rooms in a business building along Main Street, a former residence on Cedar Street, various churches and a disabilities center. It was past time to consolidate. The women's idea was to hold an arts and crafts show, inviting local and regional artisans and using profits to begin a fund for the construction of a home for the "Y."
Summerville is known as "Flowertown in the Pines"
Dorchester County's history dates back to 1696, when Dorchester was settled by two distinct groups that set sail from England. The Puritans came seeking religious freedom and the Anglicans came with the crown's blessing to seek land and wealth. The Puritans arrived in 1696 from Dorchester, Massachusetts, and were responsible for the name of the town, the fort and eventually the county.
The Anglicans had been around for some 20 years when the Puritans arrived but St. George's, Dorchester was not built until 1719. Together, the Anglicans and the Puritans built Dorchester into the third largest town in the state and an important shipping center for rice planters sending their goods down the Ashley River to Charleston. The tabby fort built of mud, oyster shells and limestone, now known as Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, was constructed prior to the Revolutionary War and was used to defend the area. Such famous generals as Moultrie, Francis Marion and Wade Hampton held off the British from the fort.
The birth of Summerville at war's end spelled the demise of Dorchester. All that remains is the fort, St. George's bell tower and foundations of some houses, which are being carefully excavated.
The Anglicans had been around for some 20 years when the Puritans arrived but St. George's, Dorchester was not built until 1719. Together, the Anglicans and the Puritans built Dorchester into the third largest town in the state and an important shipping center for rice planters sending their goods down the Ashley River to Charleston. The tabby fort built of mud, oyster shells and limestone, now known as Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, was constructed prior to the Revolutionary War and was used to defend the area. Such famous generals as Moultrie, Francis Marion and Wade Hampton held off the British from the fort.
The birth of Summerville at war's end spelled the demise of Dorchester. All that remains is the fort, St. George's bell tower and foundations of some houses, which are being carefully excavated.
President Clay azaleas
Azaleas straining under the weight of blooms, Red Bud dots the landscape and a few late camellias hand on. In Azalea Park, peak color has dazzled residents and visitors for the last couple of weeks. Although this week sees the end of the blooming season for many of our spring favorites, there is still color to enjoy.
Among the local azalea favorites are :
G. G. Gerbing, a medium size white bloom, adds great show to any garden. Good examples are in many yards, in Azalea Park behind Bethany United Methodist Church in Summerville and in Cypress Gardens.
Among the local azalea favorites are :
G. G. Gerbing, a medium size white bloom, adds great show to any garden. Good examples are in many yards, in Azalea Park behind Bethany United Methodist Church in Summerville and in Cypress Gardens.
The walking tour provides a glimpse of historic homes.
As you're out and about at the Flowertown Festival this weekend, you'll no doubt admire the historic homes that grace the Summerville landscape.
Well, why not go out and find out about those homes?
The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce has a Summerville Walking Trail of Homes and Flowers to guide visitors and residents alike who want to know more about the homes and their history.
Well, why not go out and find out about those homes?
The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce has a Summerville Walking Trail of Homes and Flowers to guide visitors and residents alike who want to know more about the homes and their history.
The Azalea Park canals were built in the early 1930s with WPA grant money.
Strolling through Azalea Park on an early spring day, surrounded by thousands of the trumpet-shaped blooms that give that common ground its name, you are truly in Summerville's Eden.
Besides the flowers, you can enjoy ornamental pools, delightful garden architecture, colorful seasonal plantings, a cozy amphitheater and arresting sculpture. Hard to imagine that this mini paradise was once a swampy, mosquito, infested, vine entangled gap in the ground known as Pike Hole.
Ironically, this land had been purchased for a mid town park by the Civic League many years before the Depression. This organization was the forerunner of the Flowertown Garden Club. The ladies raised money to buy a 16-acre tract by holding ice cream suppers and cake sales. Unfortunately the economy had hit rock bottom and there was no money to be had for project development. Hugh Hamilton, who served for years as town treasurer, wrote in an article in the April 13, 1967, Summerville Scene that because the league was unincorporated, members decided to vest the deed to the property to the Town of Summerville. Town government, of course, had no "extra" money either.
Besides the flowers, you can enjoy ornamental pools, delightful garden architecture, colorful seasonal plantings, a cozy amphitheater and arresting sculpture. Hard to imagine that this mini paradise was once a swampy, mosquito, infested, vine entangled gap in the ground known as Pike Hole.
Ironically, this land had been purchased for a mid town park by the Civic League many years before the Depression. This organization was the forerunner of the Flowertown Garden Club. The ladies raised money to buy a 16-acre tract by holding ice cream suppers and cake sales. Unfortunately the economy had hit rock bottom and there was no money to be had for project development. Hugh Hamilton, who served for years as town treasurer, wrote in an article in the April 13, 1967, Summerville Scene that because the league was unincorporated, members decided to vest the deed to the property to the Town of Summerville. Town government, of course, had no "extra" money either.
The Azalea Park gazebo
Vendors - There are more than 200 vendors displaying their wares and their original artwork. Artisans come to the Flowertown Festival from all over the country to join local artisans in bringing only the best for visitors to the festival.
Food - The Taste of Summerville provides festival-goers with an opportunity to sample the best food that Summerville has to offer. Tickets are $1 and the cost (in tickets - no cash, please) at the booths is anywhere from $1 to $6 for samples.
Attendance - Nearly a quarter of a million people attend the Flowertown Festival each year.
Food - The Taste of Summerville provides festival-goers with an opportunity to sample the best food that Summerville has to offer. Tickets are $1 and the cost (in tickets - no cash, please) at the booths is anywhere from $1 to $6 for samples.
Attendance - Nearly a quarter of a million people attend the Flowertown Festival each year.
Dates: April 4-6
Times: Friday and Saturday 9-5
Sunday 9-4
Times: Friday and Saturday 9-5
Sunday 9-4