Did you know Summerville has a rich history — and that there’s a place dedicated to preserving and sharing it with the community? Cue The Summerville Museum and Research Center located in the hub of downtown…”a little museum with big stories”. 

At this quaint museum located at 100 East Doty Avenue, families can go and explore many artifacts and displays that showcase how life was in the past for Summerville residents. When you visit you will see examples of many animal and tree varieties from the area, numerous pictures and real tools used by people and businesses in the past, and even an extensive fossil collection with fossils found right here in Dorchester County!

Our family moved to the Lowcountry about two and a half years ago and we had no idea how much history there was in Summerville until the boys and I took a spontaneous trip to the Summerville Museum and Research Center. We asked for a private tour of the museum (highly recommended— there’s no extra charge) and my very curious six year old son got all his questions answered. Our favorite part of the museum was the fossil room…we were so surprised to learn that all the fossils came from our area! We had always assumed the museum wouldn’t be of much interest to our young boys, but to my surprise they really enjoyed it.

Whether you are trying to find something to do with your family on the weekend or are just curious about the lush history of our town, visit the Summerville Museum and Research Center. Along with an enjoyable time, you might even walk away with a greater appreciation for where you live.

-Jessica D.