Celebrate in the Heritage Village
A visit to the South Carolina State Fair’s Heritage Village offers a glimpse into the past and frontier times. Explore reconstructed historical structures, observe traditional crafts and demonstrations and learn about the daily lives of early settlers. Heritage Village aims to recreate the atmosphere and ambiance of a frontier community. Encounter reenactors dressed in period costumes who can provide information about the challenges and customs of the time. Heritage Village offers a tangible connection to history.
Located in Hampton Plaza near the Rocket.
Hot Glass Academy
Watch amazing glass-blowing demonstrations by professional glass artists. Creating their works of art at 2,100 degrees Fahrenheit, these glass blowers will shape the molten material to convey their vision. No two artworks are exactly alike. This is exciting and mesmerizing to watch from start to finish.
Michael Felk - Tinsmith
Using never before seen 18th century tools, Michael Felk brings to life the past with interpretive shows. Felk’s knowledge and personality will draw fairgoers in and keep them entertained – while educating them on the craft of making practical and beautiful products. He will also have some of his tin wares available for sale.
American Heritage Museum
Feel the fibers of America’s past with a hands-on museum experience. This historical exhibit shows what hard work and ingenuity have accomplished through the years. Experience historically accurate displays – showing how the country developed from earlier times to the present day – and how our ancestors did such things as cut wood, make syrup or ice cream and perform various other activities – all without the help of modern-day technology.
Reggie Delarm -
Minature "Yellow Ware" Pottery
For more than 20 years, East Knoll Pottery has been devoted to accurately reproducing the style of pottery known as “Yellow Ware,” using yellow clays, traditional designs and clear lead-free glaze for everyday use. Reggie Delarm will dress in period costume as she throws clay on a potter’s wheel and demonstrates how pottery has been made for decades.
Roger Abrahamson -
The Giant Bowl Turner
Roger Abrahamson, a craftsman and teacher, performs wooden bowl turning on a human-powered spring pole lathe — a lost art dating back to times past. Abrahamson enjoys educating audiences about wood. His presentation features a continuous demonstration of how woodworking was done before machines and factories.
Heart Felt Creations
Discover the world of timeless craftsmanship with Heart Felt Creations! Experience living history demonstrations that transport you to a bygone era, as Bob and Cindie showcase their deep commitment to preserving our rich heritage
Purgatory Iron Works
Witness awe-inspiring craftsmanship with this professional blacksmith group as they demonstrate an array of historical hardware from intricately crafted cooking elements to mighty tomahawks. Their demonstrations will transport you back in time. Prepare to be captivated as they explain the rich history, tools and techniques honed by craftsmen for over two thousand years. Immerse yourself in history and gain a deeper appreciation for the time-honored art of blacksmithing.
Experience Traditional Woodworking
with Kaleo Simmons
Kaleo Simmons brings the artistry and history of woodworking to life at the South Carolina State Fair. His demonstrations showcase the intricate relationship between blacksmithing and woodworking, explaining the evolution and use of various tools. Kaleo will feature top-tier woodworking devices, including a hand-spun wood lathe and shaving horse, focusing on crafting handles for tools and creating “treen”—essential wooden implements used in homes. Visitors can expect to see the creation of items such as spoons, bowls, axe handles, arrow shafts, barrels, buckets, bows, and baskets. Join Kaleo for an engaging and educational glimpse into the craftsmanship of early settlers.
Veteran, Craftsman, and Primitive Skills Expert,
Albert A. Rasch
Albert A. Rasch is a U.S. Veteran and renowned outdoor blogger. After returning to Florida, he became actively involved with local historical and reenactment groups. For over a decade, he has played a key role in organizing and presenting at the largest craft events in the state. Four years ago, he joined Purgatory Ironworks, working both in the shop and on the road. Born in New York to Cuban-American parents, Albert speaks fluent Spanish, making him an invaluable resource for Latino fairgoers. In addition to his metalworking expertise, Albert is a primitive skills expert, having trained under the legendary Ben Kirkland from southwest Georgia.
