Small towns are the backbone of South Carolina, even when those tiny places aren’t so tiny anymore. Such is the case with the once very small town of Newberry, which had a population of only 500 residents way back in 1850. But even still, that was nearly 100 years after the settlement was founded in the 1750s. As far as age goes, in keeping up with the three oldest cities in South Carolina (Charleston, founded 1670, Beaufort, 1711, and Georgetown, 1729), Newberry is among the oldest in the state.
For this reason, and actually many others, Newberry is a hidden treasure that's rich in culture and historic cache.
Beautiful architecture blankets the landscape, from the commercial structures to the Greek Revival and Late Victorian homes scattered throughout the city's 14 different districts that are enlisted on the National Register of Historic Places. Hundreds of buildings are included on the list.
Newberry's art scene is unwavering and features a performance hall that is considered by some to be the best in the state.
Known as the Newberry Opera House, the venue first opened in 1882. The second floor of this gorgeous building designed in the French Gothic style contained a performance venue with 426 seats. It was quite large for the day! In modern times, it's one of the most intimate venues to see a live performance. Rock and roll, opera, theater, country music artists... you name it and you'll find it here in Newberry.
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Seasonally, Newberry comes alive with annual events that bring out the locals and attract visitors alike.
From the springtime annual Irish Fling to the low-key, yet fun Octoberfest in the square, and finally the city's annual Christmas in Newberry, there's always something to look forward to and a reason to plan a visit.
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Dining out is no problem. Newberry has scores of restaurants, many of them in historic venues, like Figaro, which sits downtown on the square.
Whether you're seeking fine dining (such as Figaro), or something more casual, you'll find a delicious version of what you're seeking right here in town.
Martin St. Beer Parlor has been open for more than 70 years. It's open every day except Sunday and Monday and can be found at 401 Martin St, Newberry, SC 29108.
Take a stroll or even a drive and admire some of the town's famously beautiful dwellings.
The Main Street Historic District alone includes 51 buildings. Many of them are homes. The structures in this district are mainly of the Italianate, Greek Revival, and Neoclassical styles.
While in town, be sure to check out the small and intimate campus of Newberry College.
Smeltzer Hall (pictured) was built in 1877. What a historic treasure!
While we are on the subject of schools, one of the oldest primary schools in the state is still standing in Newberry, although it's not in the best of shape and it closed decades ago.
The Hannah Rosenwald School was built in 1924-25 and presented three rooms for learning. It was built for African Americans at a time when the population of Newberry was a mere 1,800 residents. You'll find it next to Hannah A.M.E. Church, located at 61 Deadfall Road next to a cemetery.
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Newberry just might be your new favorite spot for a getaway.
Your best bet, upon arrival, is to head to the Visitor Center located within the Newberry Chamber of Commerce.
Of course, you can get a head start on your planning by visiting the website for the Newberry Chamber of Commerce.
If you once thought maybe Newberry was too small, too country, too out-of-the-loop for you, then maybe… just maybe one visit will change your mind entirely.
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