Upcountry History Museum

Upcountry Road to Freedom
2026-04-25 10:00 - 2027-09-05 17:00 (America/New_York) | SC
Upcountry Road to Freedom: Upstate South Carolina During the American Revolution

April 25, 2026 – September 5, 2027
In a war remembered more for battles at Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Yorktown, it was the events of the Southern Campaign, 1778-1781, that finally turned the tide for American independence. The hard-fought war came to an end in 1783, but not before South Carolina found itself at the frontline of battles against British forces determined to regain control of the war by redirecting their efforts to the Southern colonies. This central military operation involved strategic battles in the Carolinas, Georgia, and Virginia.
More than 135 military engagements took place in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War. Most were skirmishes involving patriots and loyalist militias. A few, however, were battles that directly affected the outcome of the war.
Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, the exhibition will focus on Upcountry South Carolina people, places, and events. This major exhibition, organized by the Upcountry History Museum in partnership with Clemson University and private collectors, will explore the lesser-known people of Upcountry South Carolina, who helped turn the 13 colonies into one nation.
Historic artifacts, archival materials, and accoutrements from soldiers, civilians, and diverse groups, many on loan from private collections, will illustrate key phases of the war including the path to independence, colonists to revolutionaries, the war’s darkest hours, and the new nation’s formation.
Diverse perspectives, including stories of Upcountry South Carolina women, African Americans (free and enslaved), indigenous peoples, and soldiers will further illustrate what it meant to gain independence and become the United States of America.

Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit
2026-05-15 10:00 - 2026-09-26 17:00 UTC | SC
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit
May 16, 2026 – September 27, 2026

Young adventurers and their caregivers will travel back in time to unravel the secrets of world-famous heroes and heroines in Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit.
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum is an animated PBS KIDS TV children’s series based on New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Chris Eliopoulos children’s book series, Ordinary People Change the World.
The 2,000 square foot interactive exhibit brings to life the acclaimed PBS KIDS TV series, which follows kid adventurers Xavier Riddle, his sister Yadina, friend Brad; and Berby the flying robot, as they tackle everyday problems by doing something extraordinary: traveling back in time to learn from real-life inspirational figures when they were children.
The imagination-stirring STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) and early literacy experience is filled with holograms, heroes, heroines and engaging activities specially designed for children ages 3-10. Adventurers enter the Secret Museum through a hidden portal – just like in the tv series – to unlock different periods in history and meet inspirational heroes and heroines, learning about their extraordinary contributions and actions that helped change the world for the better.
Hands-on exploration includes uncovering dinosaur skeletons with paleontologist Mary Anning, discovering a secret garden with botanist George Washington Carver, and examining x-rays with chemist Marie Curie. Visitors also travel through a real-life version of Hall of Heroes! A room filled with additional hands-on learning experiences regarding many of the world-changing historical figures featured in the television and book series.
Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit highlights the importance of empowering children to dream big and recognize their ability to make a real and meaningful difference in the world. Children not only unravel the secrets of heroes and heroines from the past but also learn how they can be role models of the present. In addition to supporting STEAM learning and early literacy, the exhibit illustrates that when children are encouraged to believe in themselves, they can accomplish amazing things.

Franklin
2026-06-13 10:00 - 2026-11-01 17:00 (America/New_York) | SC
June 13 – November 1, 2026
“All of human life can be found in Charles M. Schulz’s 17,897 Peanuts comic strips.” The Saturday Evening Post, July 2018
He never kicked that football. His baseball team was historically terrible. He got nothing but rocks for Trick-or-Treating. Yet Charlie Brown can count one absolute triumph on his resume. Fifty-eight years ago, Charlie Brown made a friend. That friend, Franklin, broke barriers, infuriated segments of the readership, and remains a radical statement from a tumultuous time. Why? Franklin was the first Black character in the Peanuts comic strip.
In the summer of 1968, the world was reeling from the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Charles Schulz’s Peanuts characters were at the height of their popularity, having recently starred in their fourth TV special after A Charlie Brown Christmas and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown had been established as instant classics.
Schulz was a perceptive observer. He was always curious, and with his wit and wry sense of humor, he opened minds and hearts that others could not. Shortly after the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr., he received a letter from Harriet Glickman, a Los Angeles school teacher. Mrs. Glickman strongly believed that the Peanuts comic strip could positively influence attitudes on race and proposed that Schulz add a Black child to the Peanuts gang. Her tenacity inspired Schulz to defy his editors, and on July 31, 1968, Franklin, made his national debut.
Fifty-eight years ago, Charlie Brown lost his beach ball. It was found and returned to him by a boy named Franklin, and the two teamed up, and built a sandcastle together. It was straightforward, sweet, and completely radical. The simple encounter of two boys on a beach was how Schulz introduced the first Black character in his widely read comic strip. Franklin went on to appear regularly in the comic strip and in media spin-offs.
Franklin, a national traveling exhibition, organized by the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, Santa Rosa, CA, explores the origins of this beloved Peanuts character. Making its Southeastern United States debut at the Upcountry History Museum, the exhibit, designed for audiences of all ages, will be on display June 13 – November 1, 2026. The exhibit includes archival materials, comic strips, objects, and hands-on-activities.

Picturing America's Pastime
2026-06-27 10:00 - 2027-01-24 17:00 UTC | SC
Picturing America’s Pastime
June 27, 2026 – January 24, 2027

“The greatest of all, the game which seems to breathe the restless spirit of American life, that calls for quick action and quicker thinking, that seems characteristic of a great nation itself, is baseball.”
– Photographer Charles M. Conlon, 1913

As baseball became our “National Pastime” in mid-19th century America, a new art – photography – was there to document the sport. From the grandeur of the early game to the vibrancy of today’s big league action, almost every facet of baseball has been captured in sepia, black-and-white and color. Baseball and photography grew up together, each becoming more refined and gaining in popularity during the mid-19th century.
Preserving the historic connections between baseball and photography, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, located in Cooperstown, New York, maintains a collection of over 50,000 unique images, and is the world’s largest repository of baseball photos.
Organized by the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Picturing America’s Pastime will make its only Southeastern United States stop at the Upcountry History Museum. Commemorating the interconnected worlds of baseball and photography, the exhibition takes visitors beyond the standard highlights of baseball history. Fifty-one rarely seen photos, spanning a period from 1866 to 2012, reveal the full landscape of our national pastime. Each photo includes a historic quote along with detailed captions, highlighting little-known information about the players and the photographers.
Connecting Upstate SC local history to national history is a priority of the Upcountry History Museum. The Picturing America’s Pastime traveling exhibition includes Greenville, SC’s own Shoeless Joe Jackson. In partnership with the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum, the Upcountry History Museum will commemorate Jackson’s legacy along with other Upcountry South Carolina baseball legends through archival materials, artifacts and memorabilia.

Support provided by

Battleground Carolina: The Battle of Kings Mountain
2026-08-04 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | SC
A 10-month lecture series meeting on the first Tuesday at 5:30 PM of the listed months below.

Join historian Durant Ashmore in an engaging lecture series that explores the American Revolutionary War through the lens of South Carolina’s Backcountry, a region whose people, terrain, and battles played a critical role in the struggle for independence. While often overshadowed by events in the northern colonies, the Backcountry was a contested and volatile landscape where Loyalists, Patriots, and British forces clashed in brutal and decisive engagements.
Drawing on primary sources, battlefield archaeology, and recent scholarship, Durant Ashmore will examine key battles of the Backcountry, the leaders and dedicated militia who fought them, and the civilian populations often caught in the middle. The series will highlight how guerrilla warfare, local loyalties, and geographic factors shaped the course of the war in South Carolina, ultimately and directly influencing the outcome of the Revolution.

January 6 | February 3 | March 3 | April 7 | May 5 | June 2 | August 4 | September 1 | October 6 | November 3

Lecture #7 – August 4 : The Battle of Kings Mountain

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.

Neighborhood Night
2026-08-06 17:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | SC
Access for All!
UHM is open on the first Thursday evening of select months throughout 2026.

The Museum operates with the firm belief that its exhibits, events, and programming should be accessible to all, regardless of cultural, ethnic, geographic, or socioeconomic differences. The Neighborhood Night initiative, introduced in 2015, provides free access to educational programming for underserved children, families, and adults.

WHEN: Thursday, August 6th | 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Upcountry History Museum
HOW: Drop in to explore the Museum and its changing exhibitions. No registration is required.
WHY: Neighborhood Nights demonstrate the Museum’s commitment to accessibility, regardless of economic constraints by providing full access to the Museum’s diverse exhibitions.
Traveling Exhibits: Picturing America’s Pastime, Franklin, Upcountry Road to Freedom: Upstate South Carolina During the American Revolution, and Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum: The Exhibit
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS: Call (864)467-3100 or email info@upcountryhistory.org

Exhibit Drop-In Tour
2026-08-07 14:00 - 14:30, 2026-08-21 14:00 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | SC
Upcountry Road to Freedom
Explore Upcountry Road to Freedom: Upstate South Carolina During the American Revolution with a guided tour led by UHM Education Coordinator, Abby Silon. This exhibition features artifacts, archival materials, and accoutrements from soldiers, civilians and diverse groups from Clemson University and private collectors.
After the tour, test your knowledge with rapid round trivia!

Drop-In Tours will occur on select Fridays at 2:00 PM.
Tours last approximately 30 minutes.
Drop-In Tours are included with your general admission.

Lunchbox Learning
2026-08-12 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Upcountry History Museum, 540 Buncombe Street, Greenville, SC, 29601, United States
The History and Controversies of the South Carolina State Flag

Presented by Durant Ashmore
When South Carolina rebels seized a British waterfront fort in the fall of 1775, they raised a unique new flag. Join us as we explore the state’s historical efforts to standardize the design, while also unpacking the intense legislative and cultural debates surrounding the flag—including recent state study committee findings regarding the exact placement of its imagery. Discover the untold stories, symbolism, and evolving legacy of the Palmetto State’s most prominent symbol.
Durant Ashmore is a Historical Consultant and Battlefield Preservationist. A lifelong resident of Greenville County, he is a graduate of Greenville High, Furman University, and has a master’s degree in landscape architecture and a graduate minor in historic preservation from the University of Georgia. Durant specializes in the Revolutionary War history of the Ninety-Six District and gives frequent lectures to museums, libraries, and civic groups throughout the Upstate.

Lunchbox Learning is generously sponsored by:

Connections Café - Picturing America's Pastime
2026-08-13 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | SC
Connections Café is a monthly program in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association for individuals living with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Programs vary each month but usually include a short meeting with updates from the Alzheimer’s Association, a tour of a Museum exhibition, and a hands-on activity time in the classroom.
Connections Café meets the second Thursday of each month at 2:00 p.m.
Admission is free for all participants and caregivers.

August 13, 2026 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us on August 13th to explore Picturing America’s Pastime.

Connections Café is generously sponsored by:

Battleground Carolina: The Battle of Cowpens
2026-09-01 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | SC
A 10-month lecture series meeting on the first Tuesday at 5:30 PM of the listed months below.

Join historian Durant Ashmore in an engaging lecture series that explores the American Revolutionary War through the lens of South Carolina’s Backcountry, a region whose people, terrain, and battles played a critical role in the struggle for independence. While often overshadowed by events in the northern colonies, the Backcountry was a contested and volatile landscape where Loyalists, Patriots, and British forces clashed in brutal and decisive engagements.
Drawing on primary sources, battlefield archaeology, and recent scholarship, Durant Ashmore will examine key battles of the Backcountry, the leaders and dedicated militia who fought them, and the civilian populations often caught in the middle. The series will highlight how guerrilla warfare, local loyalties, and geographic factors shaped the course of the war in South Carolina, ultimately and directly influencing the outcome of the Revolution.

January 6 | February 3 | March 3 | April 7 | May 5 | June 2 | August 4 | September 1 | October 6 | November 3

Lecture #8 – September 1: The Battle of Cowpens

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.

Connections Café - The History of the Reedy River
2026-09-10 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | SC
Connections Café is a monthly program in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association for individuals living with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Programs vary each month but usually include a short meeting with updates from the Alzheimer’s Association, a tour of a Museum exhibition, and a hands-on activity time in the classroom.
Connections Café meets the second Thursday of each month at 2:00 p.m.
Admission is free for all participants and caregivers.

September 10, 2026 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us on September 10th to explore the history of the Reedy River.

Connections Café is generously sponsored by:

Neighborhood Night
2026-10-01 17:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | SC
Access for All!
UHM is open on the first Thursday evening of select months throughout 2026.

The Museum operates with the firm belief that its exhibits, events, and programming should be accessible to all, regardless of cultural, ethnic, geographic, or socioeconomic differences. The Neighborhood Night initiative, introduced in 2015, provides free access to educational programming for underserved children, families, and adults.

WHEN: Thursday, October 1st | 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Upcountry History Museum
HOW: Drop in to explore the Museum and its changing exhibitions. No registration is required.
WHY: Neighborhood Nights demonstrate the Museum’s commitment to accessibility, regardless of economic constraints by providing full access to the Museum’s diverse exhibitions.
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS: Call (864)467-3100 or email info@upcountryhistory.org

Battleground Carolina: Cowpens to Ninety Six
2026-10-06 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | SC
A 10-month lecture series meeting on the first Tuesday at 5:30 PM of the listed months below.

Join historian Durant Ashmore in an engaging lecture series that explores the American Revolutionary War through the lens of South Carolina’s Backcountry, a region whose people, terrain, and battles played a critical role in the struggle for independence. While often overshadowed by events in the northern colonies, the Backcountry was a contested and volatile landscape where Loyalists, Patriots, and British forces clashed in brutal and decisive engagements.
Drawing on primary sources, battlefield archaeology, and recent scholarship, Durant Ashmore will examine key battles of the Backcountry, the leaders and dedicated militia who fought them, and the civilian populations often caught in the middle. The series will highlight how guerrilla warfare, local loyalties, and geographic factors shaped the course of the war in South Carolina, ultimately and directly influencing the outcome of the Revolution.

January 6 | February 3 | March 3 | April 7 | May 5 | June 2 | August 4 | September 1 | October 6 | November 3

Lecture #9 – October 6: Cowpens to Ninety Six

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.

Battleground Carolina: Ninety Six to Hayes Station
2026-11-03 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | SC
A 10-month lecture series meeting on the first Tuesday at 5:30 PM of the listed months below.

Join historian Durant Ashmore in an engaging lecture series that explores the American Revolutionary War through the lens of South Carolina’s Backcountry, a region whose people, terrain, and battles played a critical role in the struggle for independence. While often overshadowed by events in the northern colonies, the Backcountry was a contested and volatile landscape where Loyalists, Patriots, and British forces clashed in brutal and decisive engagements.
Drawing on primary sources, battlefield archaeology, and recent scholarship, Durant Ashmore will examine key battles of the Backcountry, the leaders and dedicated militia who fought them, and the civilian populations often caught in the middle. The series will highlight how guerrilla warfare, local loyalties, and geographic factors shaped the course of the war in South Carolina, ultimately and directly influencing the outcome of the Revolution.

January 6 | February 3 | March 3 | April 7 | May 5 | June 2 | August 4 | September 1 | October 6 | November 3

Lecture #10 – November 3: Ninety Six to Hayes Station

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED.

Connections Café - Native American History of South Carolina
2026-11-12 14:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | SC
Connections Café is a monthly program in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association for individuals living with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Programs vary each month but usually include a short meeting with updates from the Alzheimer’s Association, a tour of a Museum exhibition, and a hands-on activity time in the classroom.
Connections Café meets the second Thursday of each month at 2:00 p.m.
Admission is free for all participants and caregivers.

November 12, 2026 | 2:00 p.m.
Join us on November 12th to explore Native American history in South Carolina.

Connections Café is generously sponsored by:

Neighborhood Night
2026-12-03 17:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | SC
Access for All!
UHM is open on the first Thursday evening of select months throughout 2026.

The Museum operates with the firm belief that its exhibits, events, and programming should be accessible to all, regardless of cultural, ethnic, geographic, or socioeconomic differences. The Neighborhood Night initiative, introduced in 2015, provides free access to educational programming for underserved children, families, and adults.

WHEN: Thursday, December 3 | 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Upcountry History Museum
HOW: Drop in to explore the Museum and its changing exhibitions. No registration is required.
WHY: Neighborhood Nights demonstrate the Museum’s commitment to accessibility, regardless of economic constraints by providing full access to the Museum’s diverse exhibitions.
COST: FREE!
QUESTIONS: Call (864)467-3100 or email info@upcountryhistory.org
