In the middle of Lake Murray sits a piece of land that holds an extensive history behind it. Doolittle Island, also commonly known as Bomb Island, was the location of bombing practices for American airmen during World War II. These Islands were used for many types of practice runs. In which crews dropped flare, incendiary,…
The Rise and Fall of Heritage USA
The Christmas season always reminds me of the glistening lights that once illuminated the winter skyline of the Christian-themed village Heritage USA in the 1980s. It was the third-largest theme park by attendance, with a staggering five million visitors per year, behind only the Walt Disney parks in Orlando and Anaheim. For a moment, the…
The Haunting of the 1927 Lake Lure Inn and Spa: Lake Lure, North Carolina
Western North Carolina in October is gorgeous, with foliage changing colors. A quick drive on U.S. 64 from Hendersonville through Chimney Rock Village and into Lake Lure is the perfect nature therapy. Another treasure awaits travelers across from beautiful Lake Lure on the edge of the small mountain community. The majestic, historic 1927 Lake Lure…
The Collapse of S.C. Country Stores
Country stores were a mix of local politics and commerce, with a dab of church revival on top. They provided a much-needed service for rural residents looking to grab a soda, play a game of checkers, or follow up on the latest news. While we still have locally owned convenience stores alongside big-box retailers, nothing…