Welcome

202 2

Your home.
Your healthcare.
COMMUNITY GUIDE
+ BUSINESS
RESOURCE DIRECTORY

Advanced
Comprehensive
Neurological Care

Healing Together
From initial diagnosis to treatment
and rehabilitation, an integrative team
Aiken, South Carolina
of neurology specialists is here for
you every step of the way.
Housing • Quality of Life
Health Care • Education Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional
Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are
independent practitioners who are not employees or
Relocation Information • And More! agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital
shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided
by physicians. For language assistance, disability
aikenregional.com accommodations and the non-discrimination notice,
www.AikenChamber.net visit our website. 21482100-525734 10/21
 Your home.
Your healthcare.
Aurora Pavilion Behavioral Health Services
Cancer Care Institute of Carolina
Cardiovascular Imaging of Aiken
Cardiovascular Institute of Carolina
Diabetes and Nutrition Teaching Center
Emergency Medicine
Hitchcock Inpatient Rehabilitation Center
Hitchcock Outpatient Physical, Occupational
and Speech Therapy Center HERE FOR YOU
The Neuroscience Center
Orthopedic Services/The Joint Academy BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina has earned the trust
of South Carolinians for 75 years. Ensuring access
Palmetto Pediatric Center
to quality health coverage is vital to the health and well-being
Sleep Evaluation Center of every community in our state.
Southside Imaging Center
Whether you have just moved to South Carolina to retire or
The Surgery Center of Aiken were born and raised here, you will find comfort in knowing
Women’s Breast Health & Imaging Center that BlueCross is your partner in health.
Women’s LifeCare Center
Choosing the right health plan can be overwhelming.
Wound Healing Institute of Carolina I will work with you to enroll you in affordable coverage that Lee Shaw
fits your lifestyle and budget. Call me today so I can show Direct Sales Representative
you what everyone else has been talking about for 75 years. BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
I want you to get the most out of choosing Blue®!
803-382-0136
You’re home here. Walter.Shaw@bcbssc.com
We treat you like family.
Let us help you meet the changing healthcare
needs of you and your loved ones.
Medicare Supplement Plans | Individual and Family Plans
AIKENRegional
Physicians are on the medical staff of Aiken Regional Medical Centers, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not
employees or agents of Aiken Regional Medical Centers. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For
aikenregional.com language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 21482100-563873 10/21
 Welcome
202 2

CO M M U N I T Y G U I D E + B U S I N E SS R E S O U R C E D I R E C TO RY

L E A R N W H AT M A K E S A I K E N A P L A C E T O G R O W

A Place for You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Parks + Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 VIS IT U S

Grow your Career . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76 121 Richland Avenue East
Growing Families . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Equestrian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Aiken, SC 29801
Growing a Full Life . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Home Town . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
S E ND U S A NOT E
History. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Relocation Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
P.O. Box 892
Livability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Aiken, SC 29802
Arts + Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Main Line: 803.641.1111

Economy + Employment . . . . 50 Fax: 803.641.4174

Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 www.AikenChamber.net
Camellias are the queens of
Festivals + Events . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 winter flowers and flourish
Christmas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 in Aiken’s mild winters.
An Ode to Aiken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Hopelands Gardens and the PU B LIS H E R
Dining .......................... 68 gardens at Rose Hill in Aiken Aiken Chamber of Commerce
Weather and Proximity . . . . . . 70 are a camellia lover’s paradise.

PH OTO G RAPH Y
On the cover:
Camellia – Photo by
A.P. Gouge Photography
Micheal Enloe
Mark Hudson
Lista’s Studio of Photography
Jennifer Morton
Moose Pro Foto
Scott Webster Photography
Steve Rich
A Tad Creative Production
Elle Willis

DE S IG N

Proud to call Aiken Home

Samantha Bodie
Amentum and our heritage companies have been part
of the Savannah River Site and its communities since 1989.
Copyright 2022 by the Aiken Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any www.amentum.com
information storage and retrieval system, without the express written permission of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce.
4 5

A PLACE FOR
You
Aiken is the perfect place for all ages and for all seasons.
It offers a distinctiveness often unheard of in today’s
world. One visit to this charming city and you will
discover why people who live here celebrate Aiken Aiken is bustling with life and activity,
yet still maintains its Southern charm
every day – because it’s the perfect place to operate with its tree-lined streets, lush
gardens, equestrian influence and
a business, raise a family, meet friends and enjoy life. restored Winter Colony homes.

Aiken’s true Southern spirit comes

from its friendly people and the sense
of community that permeates its soul.

There truly is a place for

everyone in Aiken.

A TRUE SOUTHERN GEM

Aiken is the best of both worlds - combining a warm, friendly, southern

atmosphere with a subtle sophistication and elegance. Aiken is a town
where people stop in the grocery store to have a chat, friends and
families grow up together, and residents bring their dogs to street-side
cafes for a relaxing cup of coffee.

It’s a place for formal dinner parties, steeplechase galas, and croquet
on the lawn. Aiken is home to active retirees, families and young
professionals. Aiken is little cottages and large historic homes. It’s gated
golf course communities, and rural horse farms. It’s a place for block
parties and candlelight dinners on the porch. Horses and carriages are
commonplace on the city streets, and horses always have the right of
way. It’s a place where professional golfers prepare for the Masters as
the town explodes in a riotous splash of colorful spring blooms. Aiken is
a nature lover’s paradise.

Named South’s Best Small Town in Southern Living Magazine 2018 “South’s Best”
6

WWW.STJAIKEN.ORG | RICHLAND AVE. & NEWBERRY ST. | (803) 648-6891 YOUR SOURCE FOR

TRANSMISSION developed with lots of imagination

& DISTRIBUTION
St. John's PRODUCTS and plenty of Horse sense.
ANCHORS
ARRESTERS
United Methodist Church BUSHINGS
CABLE ACCESSORIES
the church with the fountain
CONNECTORS
CONSTRUCTION
ENCLOSURES
FIBERGLASS
FOUNDATIONS
FUSING
INSULATORS
LINEMAN GRADE TOOLS
POLE LINE HARDWARE
SWITCHING
All are welcome at St. John's! We invite you to join us at any
of our four worship services.
8:30 am Sanctuary
9:02 am Faith Center
11:00 am Sanctuary
hubbellpowersystems.com
6:00 pm Around the Fountain

1/6V_TDW_Sept2016_Resized.indd 1 10/28/16 8:45 AM

BRIDLE CREEK
EQUESTR I AN COM M UNIT Y

We’re working hard for you, South Carolina.

Focusing on safety as our top priority
From the developer of Three Runs Plantation comes another wonderful equestrian neighborhood in Aiken, South Carolina. Bridle Creek
Delivering historic results in service reliability meanders across 600 wooded acres, featuring ve-acre lots and larger. Amenities include a dressage arena, jump arena,
Making it easier for customers to do business with us X-Country Schooling area and an activity center with meeting, social and tness space. All this plus miles of scenic trails. Phase One
Improving the quality of life in the communities we serve
Providing a clean and sustainable energy future is already sold out, with more to come. Inquire today by calling 1-888-297-8881 or email info@bridlecreekaiken.com
Valuing diversity and inclusion
Investing in new technology and innovation 600 Acres • Miles of groomed and marked trails • Jump arena • Dressage arena with mirrors • X-Country schooling area
Activity/Fitness Center • Homesites from 5+ acres • From the developer of Three Runs Plantation

HOMESITES INDIVIDUALLY PRICED • DEVELOPER FINANCING AVAILABLE • BRIDLECREEKAIKEN.COM

DominionEnergy.com

Marketed by The Carolina Real Estate Company, Aiken, SC. Plans and prices subject to change without notice. This does not constitute an offer in any state where prohibited by law. No time requirement to begin construction.
8 9

GROW YOUR
Career
Young professionals thrive in Aiken. Today’s early career
professionals are increasingly beginning to discover a special
place, a place where they can dream big, start a career, and
be a part of a thriving community. That special place is Aiken.

DREAM BIG IN AIKEN

While many young professionals have their sights on making it

in the big cities, more and more are discovering the advantages
of smaller cities like Aiken.

It’s also a great chance to become a “big fish in a small pond.”

With less competition for jobs and more opportunity to earn a
well-known reputation, you may stand out in your chosen field
in a way you never could in an enormous city.

Come experience Aiken!

“If you’re lucky enough to live in Aiken... you’re lucky enough.”

DAV I D JA M E S O N
10 11

Emerson brings technology

and engineering together
to provide innovative
solutions to manufacturers
around the globe.
Our cutting-edge digital automation solutions, field devices,
and industry and application experts help these manufacturers
provide high-quality, consistent, and dependable products to
customers. From medicines to food and beverages, products
your family uses every day are made with the help of Emerson
automation technology.

Western South Carolina's Leader in Economic Development At Emerson, we understand the health of local economies –
especially those where our employees live and work – is crucial
for our collective success. For over 40 years, we have been a proud
partner with Aiken, creating jobs and economic opportunities
for the community.

Learn more at: Emerson.com/ASCO

The Emerson logo is a trademark and a service mark of Emerson Electric Co. © 2020 Emerson Electric Co.
12
GROWING
Families
Communities are so much more than a collection of
houses, schools and businesses. Communities shape
our personality and become a large part of our identity.
Knowing the important role that place plays in growing
In Aiken, families will find plenty
of places to explore together.
up, Aiken is an ideal place for families. Whether it’s a hike in Hitchcock
Woods, a concert in Hopelands
Gardens or a visit to one of the
many playgrounds, there is always an
outdoor adventure waiting to be had.
Looking for a wonderful place
to have a picnic and play under the
towering oak trees?
Families love Aiken’s newest park,
Virginia Acres at the H. Odell
Weeks Activities Center. Kids can
explore 12,000 square feet of new
equipment, which includes slides,
jungle gyms, obstacle courses,
spinners, climbing walls and zip lines.
Getting a little warm?
There are plenty of refreshing ways
to stay cool in the summer.
Take the family to the splash pad
at Citizens Park or to Smith-Hazel
Recreation Center where you will
find a new zero-depth entry pool,
complete with new slides, spray jets
and other water features. Or consider
The African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” is easily seen in Aiken — joining the Family Y, the Fermata
a community where neighbors help each other and children are valued and welcome. Club, or Woodside Country Club.
13
G E T YO U R G A M E O N
Youth sports in Aiken start as young as 4 years old and include
baseball, soccer, cheerleading, dance, swimming, and archery to
name a few. And don’t worry about getting the kids to all these
activities by yourself. Aiken is the type of community where families
help one another, and the carpool is still cool.
EQUESTRIAN
Do you have a horse obsessed child? Aiken will be your child’s paradise.
Instruction in English and Western riding, youth polo, dressage and
other disciplines are plentiful. Whether you own your own horse or not,
Aiken is ready to welcome anyone ready to saddle up.
C R E AT I V E M I N D S
Aiken’s art and culture opportunities for families are vast. There
are concerts and clinics by Juilliard students with Joye in Aiken,
professional productions brought in by the Aiken Performing Arts, and
opportunities to participate in the Aiken Community Theatre Youth
Wing. Art classes at the Aiken Center for the Arts are always popular.
GET SMART
The Lessie B. Price Senior and Youth Center is another jewel for families.
The Center offers programs like Little Yogis (children’s yoga), family
story time, after school tutoring, chess club, fitness and cooking classes.
Intergenerational activities are also scheduled at the Center.
FORE ALL
In Aiken, golf isn’t just for the grown-ups. Youth of all backgrounds
and abilities ages 5-18 can participate in First Tee where golf is used to
teach youth life lessons and leadership skills. It’s a place where strength
of character is more important than a strong game.
GO WILD
Eudora Farms Safari Park, home to around 200 exotic animals, is located
in Salley, SC, about 40 minutes from Aiken. Eudora Farms allows you and
your family to drive through the farm and see animals you normally don’t
see every day. There is also an enclosed petting zoo area nearby, along
with a Parakeet Adventure where over 200 parakeets make their dwelling.
H AV E A B A L L
Playland of Aiken is 3,000 square feet of indoor play in a jungle
theme climate controlled environment. Designed for kids 0 through 13,
Playland of Aiken is a place where kids can just be kids.
14 15

OUR MISSION T H E FAC E S O F

Ensure all students thrive as

Owens Corning in Aiken

future-ready, globally mindful,
and productive citizens through:
A responsive and inclusive
school system distinguished
by high quality and student-
AT centered learning experiences
Transformative, stakeholder
partnerships

LEARN MORE
A culture of purpose,
www.acpsd.net innovation, and excellence.

LOCAL PEOPLE
SERVING YOU

www.aikenco-op.org 1-800-922-1262

Owens Corning has been a staple of the Aiken community for over 40 years.
Owens Corning started its non-woven business in 1979, when it built its first
non-woven manufacturing plant in Aiken, South Carolina. Working safely,
Owens Corning manufactures fiberglass mat products for various building
BUILDING A GREENER TOMORROW. materials such as roofing, gypsum board, and insulation.

Our continued success would not be possible without the hard work and dedication
At Rolls-Royce, we are building more than just industry-leading mtu products at our of our 190 employees. Working with exceptional people is how we have created
manufacturing plant in Graniteville, South Carolina. We are pioneering new technologies like
our microgrid, which combines renewable solar energy with battery storage and a backup
and maintained a strong product pipeline. Bring your skills to Owens Corning
generator set. By developing solutions such as reciprocating engines that run on alternative and be part of our difference. Visit www.jobs.owenscorning.com to learn more.
fuels and microgrids that provide reliable power from renewable sources, we have set out a
path to reach Net Zero by 2050. Together, we can achieve a greener future for all. Owens Corning is a proud member of the Aiken Chamber of Commerce
and looks forward to many more years of operation in Aiken!

www.owenscorning.com
16 17

GROWING A
Fu Life If you enjoy the game of golf
but rarely found the time
during your working years,
now is the time to dust off
your clubs – and Aiken is the
place to do so.
Whether you are an empty nester or a retiree, Aiken is a
The mild winters make golf a
perfect place to simply enjoy life. Offering quality health care, year-round activity, and with
17 golf courses within a 20-mile
a variety of housing options, life-long education opportunities
area, golfers are sure to find
and a pleasant climate, you can set your own pace in Aiken. just the right lie.

Pickleball, one of the fastest
growing sports in America, is
the source of some very healthy
competition in Aiken.
Enjoyed by people of all ages,
it’s a bit easier on the body than
most active sports. It’s played
on a badminton-size court with a
paddle and a harder version of a
whiffle ball. The ball is served
with a waist-level underhand stroke.
Don’t worry if you haven’t
heard of it, it’s easy to learn
and is purported to be
rather addictive.
One can always learn a little something new, and a great place to do
that is at the Center for Life Long Learning. Located on the campus
of USC Aiken, the Center teaches courses that range from turning on
an iPad for the first time to wine tasting to connecting safely to the
Internet to the beauty of Saturn’s rings. You name it—history, diet,
medicine, travel, music, personal technology—and the Center for Life
Long Learning likely offers a course on it at some time.
The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism offers many senior
fit and fun activities. Adult basketball, mahjong, bridge, senior clubs,
bingo and crafts are a few of the fun activities. Get connected to
experience Aiken to its fullest and enjoy your retirement.
Aiken Senior Life Services provides meals, transportation and social
interaction to older adults. A private, charitable nonprofit organization
that allows Aiken County seniors to gracefully age in place.

Whatever your cause or
passion, Aiken has a place
for you to get involved.
AWA R D W I N N I N G
It is the combination of Aiken amenities that have earned Aiken
the reputation as the “No. 1 place to retire,” by Century 21, the
“One of 21 Best Towns for Boomers” by Best Boomer Towns™ and
“One of 10 terrific, affordable retirement towns,” and “8 Tax-Friendly
Cities” by Where to Retire magazine.

Organizations like the United

Way of Aiken County, Aiken
Community Theatre and
Come experience Aiken, where there is a place for everyone and new neighbors quickly become old friends. the Friends of the Animal
Shelter are a few such places.
18 19

T H E FAC E S O F T H E

Aiken C hamber of Coerce

The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is the
FACE of the Aiken business community.

Since 1918, the Aiken Chamber of Commerce has served as the

voice of business in the community. Programs of the Aiken Chamber
bring more wealth and opportunity to everyone in the region.

Aiken’s future as a desirable place to live, work and visit depends

upon a dynamic, diversified and growing economic base that
complements the unique character of Aiken. The Chamber
believes economic vitality is the primary means of supporting
a quality of life that is distinctive to Aiken.

The professional team of the Chamber works daily to be a

catalyst for business growth, the convener of leaders and
influencers, and the champion for a stronger community.

www.AikenChamber.net

OUR TEAM

Led by president/CEO J. David Jameson, (center), the professional team of

Mandy Collins, VP Economic Vitality (left), Dianne Phillips, VP Administration (right),
Emily Murphy, Membership Services (seated left), and Jim Tunison, The Aiken Chamber of Commerce is among the elite, receiving U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Director, Membership Services (seated right), are helping to build Aiken’s future. accreditation at the highest level, 5-Star, for the last 15 years.
20 21

T H E FAC E S O F

Aiken Cit y Government

The FACES of City Government are the Aiken City Council members.

Council members Ed Woltz, Mayor pro tem Gail Diggs, Lessie Price,
Ed Girardeau, Andrea Neira Gregory, Kay Brohl and Mayor Rick Osbon act as the
governing body of our city. Aiken City Council values input from the community
and welcomes residents at its twice monthly meetings either in person or
through livestream. Aiken is proud to be a designated City of Character.
22 23

T H E FAC E S O F

Aiken Cit y Services

The FACES of Aiken City Services are led by City Manager Stuart
Bedenbaugh and the department heads and staff that assist residents
and businesses with all facets of life.

The City is guided by its organizational values along with sincerity and
passion for providing high quality customer service to all.

www.CityOfAikenSC.gov
24 25

T H E FAC E S O F

Aiken Public Safet y

The FACES of Aiken Public Safety are committed to protecting the life
and property of Aiken citizens while promoting a safe community for all.

The City of Aiken utilizes the unique concept of a Public Safety Department
where firefighters and police officers are cross trained in the fire service
and law enforcement fields. Aiken Public Safety is dedicated to maintaining
the highest level of integrity, service and accountability to those they serve.
Led by Chief Charles Barranco, Aiken Public Safety is accredited by the
Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc.
26 27

T H E FAC E S O F T H E FAC E S O F

Aiken’s Grounds Division Aiken’s Parks, Recreation

& Tourism Depart ment
The FACES of the City of Aiken’s Parks, Recreation & Tourism Department are
dedicated to enhancing the community’s quality of life.

Department divisions organize sports leagues, develop recreational programming for

residents of all ages and maintain local venues for special events. Employees promote
health and fitness by providing a variety of activities, wellness programs and educational
opportunities. The department encourages tourism to Aiken through advertisement in
print and online media and welcomes area visitors with information and local tours.

www.CityOfAikenSC.gov • www.VisitAikenSC.com

The FACES of Aiken’s Grounds Division maintain and care for

the many public spaces that make Aiken so unique and beautiful.

The City of Aiken has 174 parkways featuring 375 species of trees. It is no
surprise that Aiken has been named a “Tree City USA” every year since 1985.
The dedicated and knowledgeable crews from the Grounds Division are
responsible for maintaining the City’s historic parkways, Hopelands Gardens
and the showstopping flower beds in the downtown area.
28
History
A CHARMED
To those of you desiring more than a casual glance, welcome
to historic Aiken. Come and experience our town with its
beautiful parkways and shaded streets, its double avenues and
historic mansions and enjoy a bit of our intriguing folklore.
THE BEGINNING
Among the many things that have helped
to shape Aiken, three of the main events
are the railroad, the Winter Colony
influence and the largest industrial impact
for the area, the Savannah River Site.
The South Carolina Canal and Railroad
Company was established in 1828. William
Aiken, president of the Railroad Company
and one of South Carolina’s leading
cotton merchants, hired Horatio Allen, a
distinguished engineer who later built the
Brooklyn Bridge, to build a railroad from
Charleston to Hamburg, South Carolina, a
site on the Savannah River. Work began in
1830 and on October 2, 1833, the first train
arrived in the newly established town of
Aiken, named in honor of the first railroad
president. In 1834, engineers Alfred Dexter
and C. O. Pascalis laid out the town with its
wide streets and parkways, and Aiken was
chartered in 1835. Aiken attracted many
visitors, particularly wealthy Charlestonians.
History and culture play an important role in the community, and various historical sites
and museums offer memorable educational experiences.
29
THE WINTER COLONY
Not only did wealthy Charlestonians find Aiken compelling,
Northerners were lured to the area by the opportunities for
equestrian sports. In the late 19th century, Aiken became “The
Original Winter Colony,” where families such as the Whitneys,
Vanderbilts and Astors spent the colder months in the “place of
retreat from the heat and malaria of unhealthier regions.”
Aiken quickly filled with stately mansions, awe-inspiring churches
and a thriving social scene anchored by equestrian sports.
Among those who wintered here was Thomas Hitchcock, who
along with the Whitney’s established the tract of land known as
Hitchcock Woods for public use.
Today’s current restorations keep past traditions alive and well,
from the beautiful parkways and shaded streets, to the double
avenues, historic mansions and compelling folklore. Hayne
Avenue, Colleton Avenue, South Boundary and Whiskey Road
are old, fashionable residential avenues which attracted both
local residents and winter visitors to build beautiful homes.
Historic downtown Aiken continues to serve as a vibrant
business hub for the community and provides a unique
identity and charm for the area.
S AV A N N A H R I V E R S I T E
The historical importance of the Site is best understood by
recalling the war-time urgency that the Nation felt in 1949 when
the Soviet Union exploded a nuclear weapon. The Nation was
shocked, and President Harry S. Truman chose to respond.
The Savannah River Plant (now SRS) was the major U.S. step
in that response. Truman asked the Atomic Energy Commission
and the DuPont Company to design, build, and operate a facility
to produce nuclear materials (mainly tritium and plutonium) for
the “super” (hydrogen) bomb. The first public announcement
of the Site was made in November 1950 and ground was broken
in February 1951. The first production reactor was taken critical
in December 1953. The unprecedented construction project
employed up to 38,582 workers in building more than 200
structures on the 300-square-mile Site.
The Site succeeded in meeting the Soviet challenge and made
a significant contribution to winning the Cold War.
SRS celebrated its 70th anniversary on Nov. 28, 2020. Today,
the site supports environmental stewardship and maintains the
nation’s nuclear deterrent while ensuring the safekeeping and
disposal of domestic and international nuclear materials.
30 31
A SAMPLING OF AIKEN’S HISTORICAL PLACES T H E FAC E S O F

Baeto Manufacturing in Aiken

Aiken County Historical Museum at Banksia, a former
Winter Colony estate, once served as the original campus
of the University of South Carolina Aiken and as the
community’s public library. The museum offers an exciting
historical view of Aiken and features ongoing displays and
events that bring history to life. The grounds have been
developed into an arboretum and nature trail.

The Aiken Train Museum is a replica of Aiken’s historic

railroad depot. It houses the City of Aiken Visitors Center,
as well as displays depicting the relationship between
the founding of Aiken and the history of the railroad —
from the popular legend of a bride whose “hand was
given in marriage” in exchange for a railroad stop, to
the establishment of the “Winter Colony,” when wealthy
northerners traveled by way of personal railway cars to
spend their winters in Aiken.

The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum

celebrates the great tradition of racing and Aiken’s vital role
in it. Forty champion thoroughbreds have trained at the
famed Aiken Training Track. The Hall of Fame immortalizes
each in the Iselin’s charming, old carriage house. The Hall
of Fame features both flat racers and steeplechase horses
from 1942 through the present. Photos, trophies and other
memorabilia highlight these outstanding horses.

The SRS Heritage Museum preserves the history of the

Savannah River Site (SRS) and interprets to the public the
Site’s role in winning the Cold War. The museum focuses
on SRS’s technical and scientific achievements, sociological
impacts and ecological accomplishments.

Aiken’s Winter Colony gained fame in the late 19th century

as a winter resort for the country’s wealthy industrial elite.
It didn’t take long for Aiken to become a winter home
for many famous and notable people, known as Winter
Colonists. Tours of Aiken are available through Barreto manufacturing opened its Aiken location in 2018 to improve transit times
www.VisitAikenSC.com, www.TailoredToursofAiken.com and product availability for its customers on the East Coast. Barreto is a leader
and www.PedegoElectricBikes.com/dealers/aiken. in innovative outdoor equipment that is engineered to last.
Curious where these Winter Colonists stabled their horses?
Visit the Rye Patch. Statues of the horses can be found along Innovation has paved the way for Barreto Manufacturing to be an industry leader
with information on the horses and their owners. with a long line of firsts in the hydraulic equipment available on the market today:
The Clifford S. Gerde Carriage Museum exhibits nine • All-hydraulic walk behind tiller in 1982
carriages that were once used for trips to the market,
outings around town, commutes to and from work,
• The first all-hydraulic walk behind trencher in 1995
leisurely travel and even pony breaking. Each carriage has • The first all-hydraulic self-propelled mini walk behind trencher in 2005
been restored, some by Mr. Clifford Gerde himself, who was
the founding member of the Aiken Driving Club. Visitors • The first all-hydraulic steerable walk behind trencher in 2007
are invited to learn more about travel in the era before
horsepower came from an engine.
• The first all-hydraulic automatic-drive micro trencher in 2010
• The first full cab-over designed mini-skid steer in 2020

Aiken is proud that Barreto chose to locate its East Coast parts and distribution, sales
representative training and factory-direct sales office at 575 Woodward Drive in Aiken.

www.barretomfg.com
32

We have been creating

Television and Digital marketing
strategies for almost 70 years.
Our commitment is to develop a data-driven strategy to
produce measurable results for every client. We promise custom
solutions to boost your brand and generate qualified leads.

208 Richland Avenue West, Aiken, SC 29801 | (803) 649-7362 | www.citybilliardsofaiken.com

Schedule a FREE brand analysis consultation

with one of our marketing specialists today.
sixmediamarketing.com
706.828.7291

REPORTING AIKEN COUNTY DAILY NEWS SINCE 1867. SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT WWW.AIKENSTANDARD.COM
34 35

Home
A I K E N I S A G R E AT VA L U E BY THE NUMBERS

HOME SWEET 84.8

Aiken, South Carolina
Cost of Living
This is 15% below
8%
Sales Tax
the national average

820
This is the lowest composite index in

If you are looking for a place that offers all the amenities
the 7 Metropolitan Statistical Areas $
measured in South Carolina.
you’ll ever need, a place that offers a perfect balance Source: Council for Community and Economic Research Annual Aiken County
2020 Q4 - 2021 Q3 Index property taxes
between the charm and grace of yesterday and the promise
on a $200,00 home
of tomorrow, you will find it in Aiken, South Carolina. Comparison to Nearby Cities
Asheville, NC: 106%

Charleston, SC: 99.8%

Charlotte, NC: 96.4%

6TH
Lowest property
Columbia, SC: 94.2% taxes in the Nation
Greenville, SC: 91%

Hilton Head, SC: 110.7

Historic homes and charming cottages,

condominiums and townhouses, large
equestrian estates, golf communities with
nature trails, and retirement communities

Grocery: 91.9

Transportation: 84.1

Health Care: 89.3

with endless amenities are available.

Utilities: 85.6
Housing: 70.3
Market Overview
YTD 2021 Median Sales Price
$245,000
YTD 2021 Average Sales Price
$271,793
YTD 2021 Days on market: 95
YTD 2021 Percent
of List Price Received: 98.8%

People are moving in record numbers to South Carolina for the reasonable
cost of living and low taxes. South Carolina has the seventh lowest property taxes
in the country. So, whether its housing, food, transportation, property taxes and more,
you’ll know your dollar goes further in South Carolina than most states.

F O R C O M PA R I S O N TO YO U R A R E A V I S I T
W W W. A I K E N C H A M B E R . N E T / R E L O C A T I O N . H T M L
36 37

T H E FAC E S O F Aiken-Augusta Real Estate

Amazing Service.
CUSTOMIZED REAL ESTATE SERVICES

FOR THOSE WHO EXPECT MORE!

Amazing Experience.
Serving from the River to the Coast in SC and GA

803-226-0881
www.ConciergeREServices.com
118 Laurens Street SW | Aiken, SC 29801

AikenConcierge

chamber_magazine.qxp_Layout 1 10/5/21 12:21 PM Page 1

KAREN DALY
Associate Broker

Aiken’s Commercial Real Estate Professional

(803) 649-8103 • kdaly@meybohm.com
132 Laurens St NW Aiken SC 29801
www.karenadaly.com
The TAYLOR Team
The SMART Choice for ALL Your Real Estate Needs
Consistently providing the knowledge, experience, responsiveness,
and availability to make your buying or selling experience as
enjoyable and profitable as possible.

homesofaiken.com • 803-640-9423
38 39

EXPERIENCE HOPELANDS GARDENS CONCERT SERIES

Culture
AIKEN’S
ART AND
The Aiken community is passionate about art
– all kinds of art – and residents and visitors
alike support the arts with an enthusiasm that
could rival most any large city.
Various entertainment including bands, ballet, bluegrass
and clogging perform on Monday evenings from April
through June at the Windam Performing Arts Stage at
Hopelands Gardens.
J OY E I N A I K E N
The Joye in Aiken Festival brings the world’s best young
artists from the Juilliard School and beyond to Aiken for
public performances, chamber concerts, master classes
and outreach programs in area schools.
AIKEN’S MAKIN’
The Aiken Chamber’s 2-day arts and crafts festival
held annually the Friday and Saturday after Labor Day
along the tree-lined Park Avenue in downtown Aiken.
The event showcases fine arts, glassworks, wood
creations, ceramics, textile crafts and more from artists
across the Southeast.

AIKEN MUSIC FEST

Aiken Music Fest is a 6 event music series held at
Highfields Event Center featuring a top local talent
Visual and performing arts thrive
followed by a headliner band that is currently touring
in the Southeast. Held monthly from May to October, year-round and touch many cultures
each event features local food and a maker’s and and lifestyles, while showcasing
creator’s market where you might find a treasure
local, national and international talent.
you just can’t live without.

AMP THE ALLEY Participation in the arts is highly

The Alley in downtown Aiken comes alive on Thursday
nights with the sound of live music and friends gathering.
Best described as Aiken’s weekly block party, Amp the
Alley is the perfect place to relax, meet friends, listen to
tunes, enjoy a beverage or two and enjoy life!
A I K E N C O M M U N I T Y T H E AT R E
Offering main stage productions, Black Box events,
Coffee House productions, workshops and a Youth
Wing at the Amentum Center for Performing Arts.
Audiences enjoy shows ranging from drama to
comedy and musicals.
encouraged in the area through art
education and enrichment classes.
Both visual and performing arts classes
are available and give all citizens the
opportunity to learn a new skill
or enhance an existing one.
Don’t miss out on our upcoming events.
Visit these websites to stay

AMENTUM CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS up-to-date on the latest news:

This state-of-the-art theatre is home to the Aiken www.VisitAikenSC.com
Community Theatre (ACT) and hosts many of the Aiken
Performing Arts (APA) events. www.AikenDDA.us
www.TBredCountry.org
THE CENTER FOR AFRICAN
A M E R I C A N H I S T O R Y, A R T & C U L T U R E www.discoveraikencounty.com
Located in the historic Immanuel Institute building, the
Center documents and celebrates Aiken’s diversity,
its sense of community and demonstrates the many
contributions of African Americans in not only Aiken
County, but in the state and nationwide.

THE ETHERREDGE CENTER

FOR THE FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS
Located on the campus of the University of South Carolina
Aiken, the Center hosts many cultural events open to the
community, including the annual Cultural Series featuring
traveling theater companies and performers.
40

AIKEN CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Local, as well as international and national, artist
shows and receptions flourish throughout the year
and offer a unique mix of art media. Classes for
children and adults are taught daily.

AIKEN CHORAL SOCIETY

A community chorus dedicated to providing the best
singing experience to interested, talented singers
throughout the Aiken area. The group’s repertoire is
wide and includes celebrating the best in composition
from early music to hit movie themes.

AIKEN CIVIC BALLET

South Carolina’s longest continuously operating
dance company has been in existence for over
48 years. Under the artistic direction of Diane Toole
Miller, the company produces original ballets and
contemporary dance works.

A I K E N P E R F O R M I N G A R T S ( A PA )
Quality professional artists perform in Aiken –
including classical, jazz, brass, chamber, bluegrass,
big band, Broadway and ethnic music performed
by individual vocalists and instrumentalists, bands
and full orchestras- plus dance, comedy, satire
and variety programs.

AIKEN SYMPHONY GUILD

Annually, the Guild is the presenter of the Youth
Concerts for all fifth-grade students in Aiken and
Edgefield counties and the Concerto Competition for
students eighteen years of age and younger.

AIKEN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

The ASO provides artistic leadership to the
community through the presentation of symphonic
music that educates, entertains and enriches the
human spirit, in addition to a program of classical
and pops concerts.
42

LOOKING FOR LOOKING FOR

SOMETHING SOMETHING
SPECIFIC? OUTSTANDING SERVICE
SPECIFIC? P R O U D LY
PROTECTING
Online portal for easy access to payments, reports, and asset control
S AVA N N A H
FIND WHAT YOU FIND WHAT YOU
QUALITY PROPERTIES
Asset protection with our Unique Property Care Program. Ask us!
RIVER SITE
WEALTH BUILDING
SECURITY
ARE LOOKING FOR ARE LOOKING
DoneFOR
Helping you grow your investment portfolio with Real Estate!

Right
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
AT AT
We fulfill a critical
Your PM Service Team!
803-226-0881, #2
National Security mission
www.ConciergePMGroup.com by protecting
nuclear materials
and other security interests,
people and property
in a safe and
cost-effective manner.
LOOKING FOR LOOKING FOR Our Core Functions
of People, Safety,
SOMETHING SOMETHING Professional Excellence
and Customer Focus
are the driving forces
SPECIFIC? SPECIFIC? of the organization.
We look forward
INTERESTS
FOR 38 YEARS
The Centerra history at the Savannah River Site dates back to 1983
when we were selected by the Department of Energy to protect
National Security interests at the Site. The threat of terrorism had
grown across the globe and the SRS security posture was evolving
to ensure continued protection against potential adversaries.
Our paramilitary Protective Force provides physical security,
access control, property protection, law enforcement, accident
and criminal investigations, traffic control, canine explosives and
drug detection, aviation support, river patrol, alarm equipment
monitoring, and a Special Response Team.
The administrative and support functions ensure that our critical
National Security mission is conducted with an overarching
focus on the health and safety of all Site employees, with a strict
adherence to Federal and State regulatory requirements, and in
the most cost-efficient manner.

FIND WHAT YOU FIND WHAT YOU to continuing

our long tradition The Company employs support staff professionals with expertise
in specialized security training, weapons training, physical
of performance excellence
ARE LOOKING FOR ARE LOOKING FOR at the Savannah River Site.
fitness, performance testing, total quality, safety, environmental
management, human resources, compensation and benefits,
resource management, logistics, computer systems, accounting,
AT 803-991-6802
AT Centerra-SRS
P.O. Drawer W
labor relations, and security program planning.

Aiken, South Carolina 29802 We are committed to continuing this tradition of excellence and
look forward to even greater success in the coming years.
External Affairs Office
803-952-7582
Mission First...People Always!
44 45

Wene
AIKEN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTERS R U R A L H E A LT H
302 University Parkway, Aiken, SC SERVICES, INC.
1000 Clyburn Place, Aiken, SC
As Aiken’s hometown hospital, Aiken Regional’s team is dedicated to

A FOCUS ON serving the Aiken Community. The 273-bed care facility, has more than
150 physicians representing over 40 specialties.
RHS offers culturally-competent,
comprehensive primary, preventive, and
supplemental health care services to
Services + Facilities
all people, regardless of ability to pay.
Behavioral Health Services Palmetto Pediatric Center
Business and Industry Health Rehabilitation
With highly trained professionals who are dedicated to the wellness
Cancer Care Sleep Center
of the entire person — from acute care to behavioral health, preventive Cardiology Southside Imaging Center
medicine and wellness programs — the Aiken area offers superior Cardiovascular Imaging Stroke Care
Diabetes Management Surgical Services
health care services covering a broad spectrum of specialties. Emergency Services Telehealth
Gastroenterology Women’s Services
Laboratory Services Wound Healing Institute
Neurology and Neurosurgery of Carolina

Orthopedics

U N I V E R S I T Y H E A LT H C A R E S Y S T E M
University Primary Care - Silver Bluff
1021 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken, SC
Services include the diagnosis and management of simple and
chronic health problems as well as management of all acute, chronic,
simple and complex medical issues of adults. M I L I TA R Y
University Prompt Care - Silver Bluff
1021 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken
Offers walk-in appointments for non-life-threatening conditions The Aiken VA Outpatient
Clinic provides primary
University Hospital in Augusta care and mental health
Health care is a top priority 1350 Walton Way, Augusta, GA services for Veterans.
in Aiken and Aiken County. Serves 25 counties in Georgia and South Carolina with 581-beds at
their not-for-profit community hospital
Health care providers and citizens
alike recognize the value of a The Charlie Norwood VA
A U G U S TA U N I V E R S I T Y H E A LT H S Y S T E M
Medical Center in Augusta
healthy community. Our region’s Level 1 adult and pediatric trauma centers: offers a full complement of
health services to meet the
Augusta University Medical Center
needs of our Nation’s Veterans.
1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA
A teaching- and research-based hospital with 478 beds
Children’s Hospital of Georgia
The Eisenhower Army
1446 Harper Street, Augusta, GA Medical Center at Fort Gordon
Pediatric hospital with 154 beds serves active-duty personnel
and their beneficiaries.
A variety of centers and units such as the Sports Medicine Center
and the Georgia Cancer Center.

A comprehensive range of health care services can be found in Aiken County, including:

Home Health Hospice Care Support Groups

Physical Therapy Sports Medicine Educational Programs
Occupational Therapy Behavioral Health Comprehensive Care Facilities
Therapeutic Massage Exercise Programs Adult Day Services
Chiropractic Care Special Interest Programs Assisted-Living Communities
46

Aiken Specialty Services UNIVERSIT YHEALTH.ORG

is now offering

Pediatric Care! N E V E R STO P C A R I N G .

with This piece of paper is not enough. It’s not big enough to tell the entire story

Jory Croft, PA of our countless nurses, physicians and staff going beyond expectations.
This space is far too small to honor their hard work and dedication during
209 Abbeville Ave, NW, Aiken SC 29801 unprecedented times. But it is enough space to show that we are forever
803.306.1433 grateful, and to encourage them to never, ever, stop caring.

a division of

www.LowCountryHealthCareSystem.com

GET
TESTED
KNOW
YOUR
STATUS
Find confidential testing, medical care
and support services for people living
with HIV and Aids at
Aiken Specialty Services

a division of
209 Abbeville Ave, NW, Aiken SC 29801
803.306.1433
www.LowCountryHealthCareSystem.com
48 49

T H E FAC E S O F
MINIMIZING PAIN. T he Lamington Group
Maximizing Mobilit y.

R H E U M AT O L O G Y PA I N M A N AG E M E N T
Edwin Martinez De Andino, MD P O D I AT R Y Phillip T. Suwan, MD
S P E C I A LT I E S Angela Molnar, DPM S P E C I A LT I E S
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus S P E C I A LT I E S Nerve Blocks, Epidurals,
Osteoporosis, Vasculitis, Gout, Diabetic Foot Care, Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA),
Osteoarthritis, Bone Densitometry Wound Care Implantable Therapies and Kyphoplasty

A I KEN MEDI CA L CEN TER

410 University Parkway, Suites 1400 & 2600
P H O N E : (803) 644-4CMI (264)
F A X : 803.617.1984

same-day
OUTPATIENT
We are pleased to Surgery
announce we have Center
expanded our practice
to include Aiken and the
surrounding areas!

• One of the area’s largest orthopedic care

practices with 5 locations in 4 counties
You didn’t set out to become an insurance specialist — we did.
• State-of-the-art outpatient surgery center
that offers orthopedic and spine surgery
Dave and Jaime Clark are the FACES of The Lamington Group, a family-owned, full-service
• Imaging at both Aiken & Augusta offices
Featuring a Full Complement of 12 Orthopedic Physicians: insurance brokerage. They customize solutions to fit your family or your business needs.
Quality products and services in the field of employee benefits, business insurance,
 Aiken - University Pkwy  Augusta Office Medicare health plans, and individual and family policies are their specialties.
410 University Parkway 3650 J Dewey Gray Circle
Suite 1000 Augusta, GA 30909
Aiken, SC 29801 706-863-9797 Dave and Jaime work for you, not the insurance company, to ensure you have insurance and
803-649-2250
 Thomson Office benefits to protect your future. So, whether it be protecting yourself, your family, your business,
 Aiken - Silver Bluff Rd
2520 University Drive or your employees, The Lamington Group is your one-stop shop for all your insurance needs.
Thomson, GA 30824
399 Silver Bluff Road
Aiken, SC 29803  Waynesboro Office
305 Jones Avenue
 AugustaAikenOrtho.com Waynesboro, GA 30830

thelamingtongroup.com • 803.998.1125
 Economy
50 51
MAKING IT IN AIKEN

A TH RI V I N G

The economic strength of Aiken County lies in the ability

to change with the times and to embrace a global marketplace.
From everyday products, such as pharmaceutical and consumer
health products, to tires, automotive parts, diesel engines, flooring
and materials for nuclear defense and environmental restoration,
many advanced businesses and industries call the Aiken area home.

The range and diversity of these companies provide

a stable working environment and strengthen Aiken
County’s economic base.

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, LLC, the largest employer in

Aiken County and one of the largest in South Carolina, plays a major
role in the area’s economy at the Savannah River Site, which includes
the Savannah River National Laboratory. SRNL provides intellectual
leadership, innovative solutions, and research and technology
necessary to address the nation’s most complex nuclear materials
processing and environmental challenges.

Several other large employers in the area, including Shaw Industries,

Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Zeus Industrial Products, Emerson
ASCO LP, and Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations have invested
heavily in Aiken County and contribute significantly to economic
prosperity.

The area also enjoys a strong global presence with several international
companies, such as Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (Japan),
Rolls Royce Solutions America (Germany), Autoneum North America
(Switzerland), Valmet Inc. (Finland), Newman Technology SC (Japan),
BAE Systems (United Kingdom), BOC Gases (United Kingdom), and
Shinsho American Corporation (Japan).

With the U.S. Army standing up its Cyber Command at Fort Gordon,
Aiken County recognizes the value of its economic base and works closely located in nearby Augusta, Georgia, our region is seeing significant
with existing industries to help ensure their success and longevity. growth in cyber-related companies.

DY N A M I C WO R K F O R C E
With its friendly, progressive business environment, the Aiken area
offers a diverse, well trained workforce and incentives to potential
business and industry.

Aiken Technical College and the University of South Carolina Aiken

are instrumental in preparing students for the business and technical
needs of local employers. In addition, their continuing education
programs support new technological needs brought on by an ever
changing market.
 Aiken Technical College, founded in 1972, provides educational
and workforce development opportunities for citizens of greater
Aiken County.

ATC offers:
• Academic degree, diploma, and certificate programs
• Short-term training and continuing education
• Custom corporate solutions for businesses and industries

Learn more at www.atc.edu.

Discover
Discover Aiken
Aiken Technical
Technical College
College
Ricky Willis
Director of Client &
John Brown Community Relations E D U C A T I N G M I N D S
Martha Montgomery Market Attorney Aiken Technical College, founded
C H A NinG I1972,
N G L provides educational
Market Ops Manager Aiken Technical College, founded in 1972, provides
I V E S
educational
and workforce development opportunities
E N R I C H I N G for
C O citizens of greater
and workforce development opportunities for citizens ofI greater
M M U N I T E S

Aiken County.
Aiken County.
MIKE'S TOP
HEY #HostiloHelps
AIKEN! PRIORITIES
CLIENT CARE
ATC offers:
ATC offers:
• Academic degree, diploma, and certificate programs
• Academic degree, diploma, and certificate programs
For the last 30 years, Mike Hostilo and his team Our team is here to serve you 24/7, nights • Short-term training and continuing education
have helped almost 30,000 people during their
and weekends. Can't come to us? We will • Short-term training and continuing education
come to you. Communication is key and our • Custom corporate solutions for businesses and industries
time of need. The firm is proudly headquartered in
Savannah, GA, where the team employs nearly 60
team is here to do whatever it takes to help
you when you need it most.
• Custom corporate solutions for businesses and industries
local employees who we call the #MHFamily. The
COMMUNITY
Hostilo team is a proud community member of the Our goal is to help as many people as
Aiken Chamber of Commerce and has donated
tens of thousands of dollars to local charities
possible, regardless of the need. Yes, we
help injured victims of car wrecks, but we
Learn
Learn more
more at
at www.atc.edu.
www.atc.edu.
throughout the Southeast. People may call also know it is just as important to show up
advertising attorneys "ambulance chasers," but for the kids because they are the future of
our world. #FTK
here at the Mike Hostilo Law Firm, we do not care
what you call us, as long as you call us. Our goal is COMPENSATION
to make as many people as possible in the "Our clients always walk away with
community aware of the fact that we are here to the biggest piece of the pie, even if E D U C A T I N G M I N D S
help them when they need us most. So, as "Mr. Do we have to reduce our fees." E D U C A T I N G M I N D S
Yaself a Favor" would say, "Do Yaself a Favor and -Mike Hostilo C H A N G I N G L I V E S
C H A N G I N G L I V E S
listen to me, call 844-438-6453, Mike Hostilo." E N R I C H I N G C O M M U N I T I E S
E N R I C H I N G C O M M U N I T I E S

Stay Connected: @MikeHostiloLawFirm.com

54 55

Education
The District’s merit is evidenced by
AdvanceEd accreditation, an “Excellent”
A COMMITMENT TO Report Card rating and many schools listed
among U.S. News & World Reports’ Best High
Schools, including a silver award-winner and
a National Blue Ribbon Award recipient.
Education is a top priority in workforce and economic development
initiatives throughout the area. Aiken County’s private citizens and
business communities have a long standing commitment to education
With public, private and
and embrace the many academic offerings – from pre-kindergarten religion-based schools available, Aiken County public schools are high-performing:
to college and beyond. educational opportunities are plentiful
for all students, where academic, 18 were recognized with Palmetto Gold & Silver Awards.
as well as physical and character,
All are staffed with highly-qualified teachers, staff and
development are stressed.
administrators, including a Presidential Award-winning Math
and Science Teacher, as well as the state Media Specialist
and Agriculture Teacher of the Year.

Area schools are grounded in a philosophy of “All Means All;”

Aiken County Public Schools is leading
a community workforce development
collaborative. AIKEN WORKS is providing
authentic hands-on experiences for
Aiken’s students and propelling Aiken
County forward as a hub of cyber
technology, industrial manufacturing,
health and energy.
all students deserve the opportunity for a high-quality education.
O U R ST U D E N TS E XC E L I N AC A D E M I C S
We have increased the number of students taking AP classes by 77%
in one year and have seen a 30% increase in named AP scholars.
We had 614 students earn college credit through AP classes in 2017,
a 47% increase from the year before.
We’ve seen an increase of 5% in South Carolina Junior Scholars,
with 92 8th graders being named this past year.

Duke Talent Identification Program (TIP) scholars were awarded

The Aiken County community
is invested in public education.
Through taxpayer support, we are
building new schools and renovating
others to ensure a 21st century
learning environment for all students.
to 19% of our 7th grade students, who scored 95% or higher on
grade-level standardized testing.
ARTS + STEM PROGRAMS
The District has an elementary school with magnet designation and
the middle schools infuse science, technology, engineering and math,
STEM, or STEAM (STEM + art), across all subject areas.
Joye in Aiken and Aiken Performing Arts partner with the District to
inspire and enhance arts education through on-campus residencies,
workshops, concerts and outreaches.

A I K E N C O U N T Y P U B L I C S C H O O L S AT A G L A N C E : K - 1 2
The Consolidated School District of Aiken County is South Carolina’s sixth largest school district in population.
1000 Brookhaven Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 : : 803.641.2428 : : www.acpsd.net

4K-12 Student Population: 22,538 TEACHER QUALITY I M M U N I Z AT I O N

Number of Schools: 43
8 High Schools • 11 Middle Schools
21 Elementary Schools
1 Career and Technology Center
1 Adult Education Center
1 Early Education Center
Aiken County is proud to be a
distinguished public school system.
Advanced Degrees: 61% For complete details, call
Average Teacher Salary: $54,701 1-800-27-SHOTS
or visit www.scdhec.net.
Number of Teachers: 1,546
Full-Time Employees: 3,500 AGE REQUIREMENTS
Child Development (4K):
NEW STUDENTS
4 years old by September 1
All new students entering school for the
first time in Aiken County are required Kindergarten (5K):
to provide the following documents: 5 years old by September 1
Birth Certificate • Proof of Residency First Grade:
Immunization Card/Form 6 years old by September 1
56
P R I VAT E S C H O O L S
For parents who wish to explore options outside
of traditional public schools, religious and charter
schools are located in Aiken County.
A Few Options
Horse Creek Academy
(Grades 4K - 10)
www.horsecreekacademy.org
Mead Hall Episcopal School
(Grades 3K - 12)
www.meadhallschool.org
Midland Valley Christian Academy
(Grades 4K - 8)
www.mvcaonline.org
South Aiken Baptist Christian School
(Grades 3K - 12)
www.sabcschool.org
St. Mary’s Help of Christian
Catholic School
(Grades K - 8)
www.stmaryschoolaiken.com
Tall Pines STEM Academy
(Grades 5 - 8)
www.tallpinesacademy.com
C A R E E R P R E PA R AT I O N
All high schools offer advanced courses and
ever-growing numbers of AP courses. All high
schools offer dual enrollment classes at USC
Aiken or Aiken Technical College. All of our
schools have a strong STEM focus, preparing
our students for a successful future.
Thematic Programs at each high school include:
• Cambridge International School
• Aiken Technical College (ATC) Early College
Program National Math and Science Initiative
(NMSI) Advanced Placement Academy
• Farm-to-Table Healthy Living School
• Academy for Technology, Engineering
and the Arts (ATEA)
• Academy of Leadership and Military Science
• Aiken Scholars Academy
CAREER + TECHNOLOGY CENTER
The Aiken County Career and Technology Center
offers a multitude of award-winning programs:
• A highly-publicized collaboration with MTU
America, now Rolls-Royce Solutions America
• Networking/cyber security
• Welding
• Emergency/Fire Management
• Fashion
• Health Science
• Electricity
• Media Technology
57
E D U C AT I O N A L O P P O R T U N I T I E S
Located on the campus of USC Aiken is the
Ruth Patrick Science Education Center, which
offers a hands-on approach to science, technology,
engineering and math.
Established in 1987 as a cooperative effort by USC
Aiken, local industry and the public school districts A M I L I T A R Y - F R I E N D LY D I S T R I C T
in the Central Savannah River Area, its hands-on Aiken County Public Schools are military friendly.
approach to teaching is designed to help people The district has met the extensive requirements of a
experience the beauty, the order and the power of Purple Star designation.
science and mathematics, as well as the interest Among the extensive criteria for Purple Star
and fun of discovery. designation are requirements for a dedicated
A visit to the RPSEC enables students, teachers liaison to serve as a single point of contact, student
ambassadors to offer peer-to-peer support, a
and the public to experience science and
mathematics in a challenging yet exciting way. military-friendly website, military-student exceptions
The center has enriched the educational lives of to enrollment periods for sports and other
more than 250,000 students, teachers and citizens extracurricular activities, and school staff training.
since it opened.
The Center for Life Long Learning teaches
courses that range from turning on an iPad for the
first time to wine tasting to connecting safely to the
Internet to the beauty of Saturn’s rings. You name
it—history, diet, medicine, travel, music, personal
technology—and the Center for Life Long Learning
likely offers a course on it at some time. The mission
of the Center for Lifelong Learning is to provide
both structured and informal continuing education
opportunities for adults in the CSRA in conjunction
with USC Aiken. These opportunities include lecture
classes, technology classes, field trips, and social
events. The goal is to learn and have fun.
58 59

H I G H E R E D U C AT I O N
Aiken County’s institutions of higher education, Aiken Technical College and the D HA
EA

LL
University of South Carolina Aiken, offer outstanding opportunities for area citizens.

OOL
E PIS
THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH A I K E N T E C H N I C A L C O L L E G E ( AT C )
CAROLINA AIKEN (USC AIKEN)
Public, two-year comprehensive college
OP

A comprehensive four-year institution, offering
both undergraduate and graduate degrees in 52
programs of study.
• 3,736 students (Fall 2020): 37 states represented;
32 countries represented; 86% South Carolinians
• 25% of the students who start college at USC Aiken
and graduate do so with no debt.
• Student-Faculty ratio: 15:1 creates opportunities for
individualized learning
• U.S. News and World Report: #1 Regional
Comprehensive Public College in the South. This
2021 distinction marks USC Aiken’s 23rd consecutive
ranking among the top three in this category and
15th time in first place.
• College of Distinction (2020): By demonstrating
continued dedication to high-impact educational
practices that influence both student learning and
student success, USC Aiken has been named as one
of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction.
• Military Times (2020). USC Aiken once again ranks as
one of the top institutions committed to the success
of military and veteran students, according to Military
Times, a highly ranked source among the armed forces.
H
• Supports economic growth and community AL SC
development in the greater Aiken area by
preparing students for gainful employment 129 Pendleton St. SW • 619 Barnwell Ave. NW
or further higher education. meadhallschool.org
• Offers a variety of academic programs in Lower School: (803) 644-1122 • Middle + Upper School: (803) 648-3223
business, computer technology, health sciences,
manufacturing, nuclear, public service and
STEM-related areas such as engineering. Aiken’s independent and college-preparatory day school
• In addition, the College offers several university serving grades preschool - 12 with a fully accredited program
transfer programs for those desiring to earn an that challenges students to pursue Academic Excellence,
Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degree
and continue their education at a Spiritual Growth and Moral Integrity.
four-year institution.
• The College also has an Early Start: Dual
Enrollment Program which provides high school
students with opportunities to enroll in college-
level coursework and earn credits toward both
a high school diploma and college credential.
125 Pendleton St. SW
• State-of-the-art facilities with learning (803) 648-5497
environments that resemble work environments
stthaddeus.org
in the related industry.

#112
750 EMPLOYEES | 40 LOCATIONS |
19 STATES | 1 TEAM

WHAT WE DO
Roadway Geotechnical Aviation

Site Landscape
Development Bridges
Architecture
Value
Engineering Municipal Buildings

Water Services Railroad Environmental www.benesch.com

 61

Top Ranked.
Ranked by US News & World Report as a top
comprehensive regional public college and a Best College
by College of Distinction.

Student Body.
The university has 751 graduate students and 2985
undergraduate students—representing 37 states—for
a total enrollment of 3736. There are 74 international

Aiken
students representing 32 countries.

Thank you, Achievements.

Over 50 programs of study including new offerings in
mechanical engineering, SANS Certification, an MBA, and
a new bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a concentration in
translation and interpretation.

For 60 years of being your In the Community.

The university continues to enhance collaborative

hometown university. partnerships, which provide student access to local leaders

in their fields. The university pumps more than $351M each
year into the Central Savannah River Area.

CELEBRATING 60 YEARS AS
AIKEN’S HOMETOWN UNIVERSITY!
Our Pacers:
University of South >> generate more than $350 million annually into the
Carolina Aiken state economy
>> have been ranked #1 fifteen times by U.S. News &
World Report
>> are STEM and Veteran Military Student Service leaders
>> are K-12 leaders through the Ruth Patrick Science
Education Center
>> will soon break ground on the Advanced
Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC)
>> and the SC National Guard Dreamport

Learn more at usca.edu/60th-anniversary-celebration

 Event s
62 63

FESTIVE
FA B U LO U S ,
AND FUN

Art, antiques, food, music and equine, Aiken is host to

festivals and events all year-long for every interest and
enjoyment. Many of these events are free or go to support ANNUAL EVENTS

a good cause. Find a reason to celebrate and enjoy the

many festivals happening in Aiken.
Spring
Harness Races
Aiken Trials
Aiken Spring Steeplechase
Pacers and Polo
Aiken Horse Show
Hopelands Gardens Concert Series
Aiken Spring Classic Masters
Aiken Spring Classic Finale
Strawberry Festival
Aiken Charity Horse Show
Hops N’Hogs
SC Equestrian Special Olympics
Woofstock Doxie Derby
Run United

Fall
Aiken’s Makin’
Oktoberfest
Chocolate Festival
Western Carolina State Fair
Aiken Fall Steeplechase
Applefest

Winter
Antiques in the Heart of Aiken
Mardi Gras
Battle of Aiken
Joye in Aiken

In Aiken, there is always something new to discover. Come experience Aiken!

64 65

C hrist mas
Ode to Aiken

AIKEN IS A Poem by Debbie Roland

MAGICAL It’s not just the horses or the streets still of dirt

DURING It’s not merely courses, fine dining, desserts

It’s not only sunshine and brilliant blue skies
It’s not solely scenery or art you pass by

There is nothing like experiencing the season of lights in the It’s the great beauty of oak-lined parkways
It’s the fragrance of blooms that you smell every day
beauty of Aiken. Events throughout November and December
It’s facades of quaint storefronts lining downtown
celebrate the fun, the elegance and the meaning of Christmas. It’s the shoulders you bump that are often renown

Come one; come all to take part in a magical Aiken Christmas.

It’s great conversation from all o’er the world
It’s history you hear that is slowly unfurled
It’s the smiles you see showing happiness here
H O L I D AY E V E N T S It’s the way it beguiles and also endears
Aiken Symphony “Home for the Holidays”
Hoofbeats and Christmas Carols Parade It’s the fact that it’s so much more than location
Bloodies & Bagels It’s even quite firmly surpassed “just vacation”

Blessing of the Hounds It’s close to the mountains and also the beach
It’s fabulous destinations in reach
One Table
Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting
It’s a place where careers grow and business is done
Madrigal Feast It’s a workplace environment second to none
Festival of Trees at the Depot It’s where meetings are held under shade of a tree
Night of 1,000 Lights It’s connecting with others while sipping sweet tea
Aiken Jaycees Christmas Parade
Holiday Hop It’s enjoying a sport steeped in tradition
It’s the joy of pursuit under any condition
Annual Santa at the Depot
It’s coming to spend a short time to play
Christmas in Hopelands
It’s finding you’ve made the decision to stay

It’s residents born here and others transplanted

It’s a town that is loved and not taken for granted
It’s where we find home, family and pleasure
It’s richness of life that cannot be measured!

Discover more about these events at www.visitaikensc.com/holiday

66

T H E FAC E O F Production
Tad Jones is the FACE of A Tad Creative Production where he combines
authenticity, creativity, purpose and passion to inspire every person,
place or project to reach its full potential.

Tad enjoys getting to know a person, company, or organization and taking a

We can't wait to make more Miracles!

comprehensive and incremental approach to creatively forwarding their business or
vision. Tad uses a combination of his business degree and experiences in the business
world with his knowledge and skills in photography, videography, social media,
websites, graphic design and SEO to creatively meet the needs of his clients.

atadcreativeproduction.com

Scan here to
learn more:

TheMurphyAdvantage.com
68 69

Dining
DELICIOUS
OPTIONS From innovative cuisine to
FOR old-time favorites, more
than 30 local restaurateurs
serve-up artisan food for
Dining in Aiken is an elegant blend of Southern an unforgettable dining

and global favorites. Known for its small family-owned experience. Below are just a
few of the local favorites:
eateries that span the simple “grab and go” concept
Aiken Fish House
to the elegant and refined — Aiken has it all. & Oyster Bar

City Billiards

El Borikuazo

Fuse FINE DINING

The South’s finest hospitality awaits you in Aiken. Regional fare prepared
Jamrock Caribana
by world renowned chefs. Dine in some of America’s oldest winter colony
La Parisienne residences, or experience modern re-interpretations with all the style and
sophistication you would expect, Aiken dining shines on the world map.
Macaluso’s Restaurant
Profound Wines • Accomplished Chefs • Immaculate Service
Malia’s Restaurant
FOODIE EVENTS
Prime Steakhouse
Bump into friends on the street, dine under the stars, dance to live music, take
Sheffields a cooking class, or just recline and digest - when eating happens in Aiken, it
isn’t just a meal, it’s an event. From local produce at the farmers markets, to
Solo Vino Wine Parlor
the vibe of downtown festivals, or the magnificence of a grand ball, the Aiken
The Stables at Rose Hill food scene is alive with music, flavor, lights and nostalgia.

Takosushi NIGHTLIFE
Good friends, craft cocktails and live music, where the beer is local and so
The Village Café
is the band, watch the game, sing the song, dance in the Alley, play trivia —
Whiskey Alley there’s always something happening in Aiken at night.
Spirits & Tapas
FA R M T O TA B L E F R E S H
The Whitney Listed on the Aiken Historic Register, the Aiken County Farmers Market sells
Restaurant & Bar fresh produce including corn, tomatoes, beans, fruit and more. Goods are
displayed on the tables built by farmers and families of Aiken County over
The Willcox
50 years ago. It is the oldest (in continuous operation at the same location)
Visit the Aiken Chamber’s county farmers’ market in the State of South Carolina.

directory of restaurants at Seasonal produce, sauces, jams, marinades, dry goods, frozen treats, flowers and
www.AikenHasIt.com. more can also be found at the Farm Fresh Market at Cold Creek Nurseries.

Come to Aiken to eat for the variety, the atmosphere and the remarkable mix of cultural inspirations.
Aiken boasts an abundance of delicious restaurants and cafes for all budgets and palates.
70 71
Asheville Charlotte NC T H E FAC E S O F Aiken Manufacturing
Greenville
Bridgestone became a FACE of Aiken manufacturing when it established operations
SC in the Aiken community in 1997. With state-wide record-breaking capital investments
Columbia Myrtle Beach by the company, Aiken is now home to two Bridgestone facilities,
Atlanta
AIK E N the Passenger Tire Plant and the Off-Road Radial Tire Plant.
Augusta

Everyt hing
Fort Gordon
Charleston A SHORT The Bridgestone mission is based on the words of its founder: “Serving Society with
DRIVE TO Superior Quality.” To fulfill this mission, Bridgestone has used the concept of “foundation” to
demonstrate the sustained commitment of team members to provide its customers with world
GA Hilton Head class products and services and to serve the communities where Bridgestone does business.

Savannah
Conveniently located about a short 3-hour drive to the
mountains and the beach. Ideally located and accessible
to major interstates and airports. Aiken’s residents have
the best of both worlds – they can enjoy big city life
without having to live in a large metropolitan area.
Employing over 2,000, Bridgestone is proud to partner with Aiken Technical College to recruit,
educate, and graduate technicians in fields where workforce shortages exist. The Technical
Scholars program provides valuable real-world experience and allows the team member and
Bridgestone to test drive one another. The result is a not only a win for Bridgestone and the
team member, but a win for the Aiken community.
BridgestoneAmericas.com

DRIVE TIME TO NEARBY CITIES

Aiken to Augusta, GA Aiken to Charleston, SC Beaches and Mountains

26 minutes 2 hours 28 minutes Hilton Head, SC
Aiken to Atlanta, GA Aiken to Fort Gordon, GA 2 hours 34 minutes
2 hours 29 minutes 43 minutes Myrtle Beach, SC
Aiken to Columbia, SC Aiken to Greenville, SC 3 hours 26 minutes
59 minutes 2 hours 10 minutes Asheville, NC
Aiken to Charlotte, NC Aiken to Savannah, GA 3 hours 1 minute
2 hours 18 minutes 2 hours 25 minutes

Total Area of County: 1,080.66 square miles • Land: 1,071.03 square miles • Water: 9.63 square miles

Aiken’s residents can enjoy the change of seasons without prolonged severe weather. The sun shines on
Aiken – on average 216 days a year. Never use a snow shovel again – Average snowfall is 0.5 inches.

216 Sunny days per AV E R AG E W E AT H E R January July

year on average.
Average High 54°F 92°F

Average Low 33°F 71°F

The July high is
Average Temperature 64°F
around 92 degrees.
Average # of Rainy Days 78.6

Average Annual Snowfall 0.5 inches

The January low is
around 33 degrees. Elevation 515 feet
72
Outdoors
T H E G R E AT
Every season in Aiken offers exciting outdoor activities
for visitors and residents of all ages. Fun and diverse activities
abound year-round in Aiken and surrounding towns.
Aiken is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
73
ARBORETUM TRAIL
The variety of trees in downtown Aiken is so
diverse that a 4-mile wide area has been
designated as an Arboretum. Using a cell phone,
you can access an interactive self-guided tour
providing facts about each tree.
A I K E N S TAT E PA R K
Just 15 minutes down Highway 302, Aiken State Park
offers, picnic areas, canoing, hiking and camping.
Enjoy a getaway without having to go away.
B OY D P O N D
Boyd Pond is a 30-acre fishing pond surrounded by
wooded parkland. The park has boat ramps, fishing,
self-guided bird watching, and geocaching. The
dense woods provide a refreshing canopy for
summer outdoor fun at any of the park’s baseball
fields, soccer fields, hiking and biking trails.
PA L M E T T O S H O O T I N G C O M P L E X
Enjoy the premier shooting destination in the
Southeast, which houses sporting clays and trap
and skeet fields. The Palmetto Shooting Complex
is part of the National Wild Turkey Federation
(NWTF) and offers member, youth, collegiate
and military discounts.
V I R G I N I A A C R E S A N D C A R O L I N A B AY
Nature and walking opportunities are plentiful
Great park for all ages and all interests! This park
for those that enjoy the outdoors.
boasts trails for walking, running and rollerblading.
The area offers numerous public parks, walking trails
It has basketball, tennis, soccer, racquetball,
and tranquil gardens. Hopelands Gardens,
disc golf, climbing walls, canoeing, picnic areas, a 14-acre public treasure, features garden paths that
playgrounds and more. If it’s outdoor and fun, wind among 100-year-old magnolia and oak trees.
it’s at Virginia Acres and Carolina Bay.
L A N G L E Y P O N D D I S C G O L F PA R K For the more adventurous, Hitchcock Woods,
Love Frisbee? Check out Langley Pond Disc Golf a 2,000-acre woodland preserve nestled in the heart
Park. Enjoy spectacular water holes, varying terrain, of downtown Aiken, has numerous trails and paths
challenging pin locations and towering hardwoods that provide hours of hiking, horseback riding
and bird watching activities for many.
at Aiken County’s championship level disc golf
course. Langley Pond Disc Golf Park is consistently
ranked top 10 world-wide due to the challenging
layout, beautiful views and world-class design.
A U D U B O N ’ S S I LV E R B L U F F S A N C T U A R Y
A 3,400-acre woodland overlooking the Savannah
River. Here you’ll find extensive pine forests and
bottomland hardwood forests; 22 miles of horse
and walking trails; 50 acres of lakes and ponds;
100 acres of grassland; and all manner of birds and
wildlife. And that’s just above ground — underfoot
are archaeological sites from nearly every period in
American history.
C A R O L I N A D R A G W AY
Get ready for thrills at ‘The House of Hook’. Carolina
Dragway is a 1/4 mile drag racing track with a regular
schedule of races and events you are sure to enjoy.
74

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THE

SAVANNAH RIVER SITE SINCE 2014

Construction Engineering

Facility Operation & IT/Cyber Enterprise

Infrastructure Management

Environmental Professional

237 PARK AVE SW, STE 226, AIKEN, SC 29801

WWW.NORTHWINDGRP.COM (336) 706-1911

314 Richland Ave W
Aiken, SC 29801
76
Downtown
TA K E T I M E
T O P L AY I N
Experience historic downtown Aiken where you will find locally
owned shops, chef-owned restaurants and cafés and a theater
with home-grown talent as well as professional productions.
Live Music
Enjoy live music at Amp the Alley,
The Willcox and Rose Hill.
Enjoy Aiken’s Beautiful Parkways
The stunning oaks arching over
South Boundary Avenue are
recognized as one of the prettiest
avenues in the south, according to
USA Today’s Travel Experience South.
Experience Southern hospitality in Aiken.
77
Bakeries, furniture stores, sophisticated clothing boutiques,
gift shops, antique stores and equine-inspired shops line the
streets. Stop and rock a spell in The Alley, where you can sip
sweet tea or share a pint of craft brew or whiskey with friends.
Southern hospitality is a guarantee in downtown Aiken.
Let go of stress and add some “axe-citement” to life by throwing
axes at Woodchuckers.
You’ll get a whiff of coffee being brewed, food being prepared
and flowers in bloom as you enjoy the weather. Walk your dog
downtown and enjoy live music, craft beers and whiskey in the
Alley – where you can carry your drink, sample local fare and
meet new people.
Stroll and shop at unique boutiques and art galleries. Aiken’s
clothiers carry chic clothing, accessories, jewelry and limited
collections of unique boutique fashion.
Explore the Aiken Visitors Center and Train Museum showcasing
interactive exhibits on the 1880-1954 passenger line and 9
dioramas illustrating life in 1916.
78

REAL LIFE,

Real Style
NANDINA
HOME & DESIGN Experience interior design consulting that is
158 LAURENS STREET
personalized, collaborative, principled and focused on
803.649.0616
www.NandinaHome.com creating real homes for those who live real lives.

We
Your Eyes
know
Dr. Kozlowski Dr. Patheja Dr. Potter
Dr. Greer Dr. Smith

AIKEN
110 Pepper Hill Way
803.642.6060
NORTH AUGUSTA
536 W. Martintown Rd
803.442.3006
80 81

D E S T I N AT I O N A I K E N
FOR YEAR-ROUND

Horse Ent husiast s

Perfectly situated in a mild southern climate, Aiken is the perfect
host for year-round equestrian events. Equestrian activities and events
are one of the biggest draws to Aiken and surrounding towns.

THE INSIDE TRACK

on the Aiken equine scene E Q U E S T R I A N C U LT U R E I S L I M I T L E S S
is brought to you by Aiken has established itself as one of the nation’s premier training
centers and horse sporting event venues. Area competitions host
local, national and international competitors. Spectators and “horse The area boasts of international
polo matches, foxhunting, harness
talk” are always welcome.
racing, horse shows, and carriage
It is not uncommon to see a horse and carriage enjoying the canopy and pleasure riding.
of oaks along South Boundary Avenue. Aiken is one of the only cities Busy horse farms and stables dot
the area, and equestrian activities
“A G athering P l ac e”
where horses have the right of way. A horse crossing (with a button
Aiken, South Carolina are so popular that the City of Aiken
at rider height) is located on Whiskey Road, one of Aiken’s busiest
has a designated Horse District with
roads, so horse and rider may safely cross. Aiken embraces its horses. unpaved streets made of hard clay
to protect the horses’ hooves.
Riders enjoy 2,100 acres of forest and 70 miles of sandy trails in the
largest Urban Forest in the U.S. – Hitchcock Woods. Located right
in Aiken, Hitchcock Woods is twice the size of Central Park in NYC.

Aiken embraces the rich history of horse riders hunting foxes B

in the forest by continuing the tradition with five area hunts for Long known as a premier horse
enthusiasts and holds the annual Blessing of the Hounds on training center that has produced
Thanksgiving Day. such winners as Sea Hero, Kelso,
Summer Squall, Good Time and
The newest steeplechase track in the country is in Aiken. The Aiken most recently, Palace Malice who
Steeplechase Association will host the 54th running of the Aiken won the 2013 Belmont Stakes,
the third leg of the Triple Crown.
Steeplechase at its new 140-acre facility in Spring 2022.

Aiken has a strong carriage driving community supported by

the Aiken Driving Club. The parade of carriages is a highlight at
the events of Aiken’s own Triple Crown held three consecutive
weekends in March.

Lessons in all disciplines and for all ages and abilities are available
in Aiken. Aiken County Pony Club and Great Oaks Equine
Assisted Programs are two of the many treasured programs in the
community.

At the Aiken Equine Rescue visitors can tour the largest equine
rescue in the southeastern with 80 acres of rolling pastures
where rescued horses are given the care, love and attention from
“There’s something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”
passionate volunteers and staff.
W I N S TO N C H U R C H I L L
82 83

Horses Home Town

AIKEN IS A
A H AV E N F O R
WELCOMING

One of Aiken’s greatest assets is its people – individuals from

diverse backgrounds who are dedicated to the economic and overall
well-being of the community. Simply neighborly, folks will greet
“A Gathering P l ac e”
Aiken, South Carolina you with “Hey!” and a smile. The citizens of Aiken are a perfect
Equestrian Attractions
Hitchcock Woods
blend of small-town charm and cosmopolitan sophistication.
Stable View is a must-see in Aiken Horse Country. You don’t even need
to be a rider to enjoy all that this 1,000+ acre event facility has to offer: Aiken Training Track

SEE Aiken Horse Park

>> Over 90 species of native birds, including our fledge program to Progressive Show Jumping, Inc.
revive the endangered Red-cockaded woodpecker. at Highfields Event Center
>> Diverse vegetation that dramatically changes with the property’s Show Grounds in the Woods
position on our state’s geological transition zone. Silver Bluff Audubon Sanctuary
>> Bees (we have 11 hives!) and butterflies that pollinate our gardens.
Sporting Days Farms
S T AY Equine Rescue of Aiken
>> 22 professionally designed accommodations including cottages Stable View
and hunt box apartments.
McGhee’s Mile
>> Ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, and family reunions!
>> Ten full RV hookups for short- and long-term stays.

DO
>> Year round schooling shows and recognized competitions
Tack/Feed
for dressage riders, eventers, and hunters/jumpers.
Aiken County Farm Supply
>> 15 miles of marked trails with evidence of prescribed fires
Aiken Saddlery
to maintain a thriving habitat.
South Carolina Shavings Providers
>> Falconry and other planned wildlife activities.
Visit us at www.stableviewfarm.com

Veterinary Care
Southern Equine

City of Aiken Population: 32,025

Aiken County Population: 168, 808
Shops that Riders Love
Equine Divine
Folly
York Cottage Antiques
Savvy Home
Aiken Dry Goods
Plum Pudding
3 Monkeys Fine Gifts
Aiken Antique Mall
Fits Riding Ltd.
Dover Saddlery
82 85

Relocation Guide S TAT E

GOVERNMENT

Utilities • The capital of South Carolina is Columbia,

located approximately 60 miles northeast
of Aiken.
CABLE, INTERNET + TELEPHONE SERVICE
AT&T and Comcast provide telephone service to customers in
G• O V Carolina
South E R Nis M E N under
governed T a constitution
most of Aiken County. Deposits for home telephone services ratified in 1895.
can vary depending on your individual credit rating and type of State legislators and members of the state’s
services ordered. Often deposits are waived for customers with executive branch can be contacted by calling the
an excellent payment record with a previous carrier. following numbers:
RESIDENTIAL + BUSINESS Governor 803.734.2100
• AT&T 800.288.2020 : : www.att.com
Lt. Governor 803.734.2080
• Comcast 877.289.8849 : : www.business.comcast.com
State Senate 803.734.2080
ELECTRICITY + GAS House of Representatives 803.734.2402
Aiken Electric Co-op
2790 Wagener Road (SC 4 East), Aiken, SC 29801 AIKEN COUNTY

Industrial 803.649.6245 or 800.922.1262 : : www.aikenco-op.org

Dominion Energy 800.251.7234 : : www.dominionenergy.com
1930 University Parkway, W, Aiken, SC 29801
803.642.2012 : : www.aikencountysc.gov

Commercial G A R B A G E R E M O VA L
The county is governed by the Aiken County
Council, comprised of an elected-at-large

Residential
City of Aiken Public Service Department 803.642.7613 council chairman and 8 members elected from
Provides garbage disposal services to homes in the city limits, single-member districts.
as well as curbside recycling. Rolling carts are available to all
Junk Removal city residents. • Council-administrator form of government
• A county administrator is appointed by the
Porta Potties
Waste removal services for residential customers in the
county council to manage the day-to-day
unincorporated areas of Aiken County and commercial
activities of the county.
businesses throughout the CSRA are available through the
companies below: • Judicial functions are based in the Judicial
Center (County Courthouse) at 109 Park
Get started with the area's #1 waste business • Dumpster Depot
803.644.6004 : : www.dumpsterdepotllc.com
Avenue in Aiken.

• Capital Waste Services CITY OF AIKEN

803.814.0040 : : www.capwasteservices.com 107 Chesterfield St. S, Aiken, SC 29801
803.642.7654 : : www.cityofaikensc.gov
WAT E R
The City of Aiken operates under the council-
City of Aiken 803.642.7603 manager form of government. Under the
Bath Water & Sewer District 803.593.3221 council-manager plan, the Aiken City Council sets
policy guiding the city’s growth, development
Beech Island Rural and future. The city manager serves as the chief
Community Water District 803.827.1004 administrative officer, much like the president of
Breezy Hill Water & Sewer Company 803.663.6455 a corporation. Under this role, the city manager is
responsible for daily operations, including hiring and
Clearwater Water & Sewer District 803.593.3509 firing of all employees, as well as the efficient and
College Acres Public Works District 803.649.5619 effective use of funds approved by the Aiken City
Council through the annual budget.
Edgefield County Water
& Sewer Authority 803.279.1503 OTHER AIKEN COUNTY

Call us today
d ay
tod a
Jackson Water Department 803.471.2229 CITIES + TOWNS
Langley Water & Sewer Department 803.593.3404 Burnettown 803.593.2676
Monetta Water Department 803.685.5258 Jackson 803.471.2228
Montmorenci/Couchton Water District 803.648.9920 Monetta/Ridge Spring 803.685.5258

803 644 6004

New Ellenton Public Works Commission 803.652.2862 New Ellenton 803.652.2214
City of North Augusta 803.441.4219 North Augusta 803.441.4202
Perry Town Hall 803.564.5756 Perry 803.564.5756
Talatha Rural Water District 803.652.1381 Salley 803.258.3485
Valley Public Service Authority 803.593.2053 Wagener 803.564.3412
Wagener Water Department 803.564.3412 Windsor 803.648.4355
86 87

Driving
R E G I S T E R I N G YO U R V E H I C L E O B TA I N I N G A S C D R I V E R ’ S L I C E N S E
You have 45 days to transfer your vehicle title and registration. You have 90 days to obtain your license
1. Start at the Aiken County Government Center with your • If your out of state license is valid/unexpired you do not
out of state title or previous car registration form. At the have to pass the knowledge test or road test.
Center you will be directed to the Auditor’s Office to • An eye exam will be given at all SC Department of Motor
calculate your tax bill. The tax rate for personal vehicles Vehicles offices or you may submit a statement of visual
in Aiken County is 6%. This is paid at the Treasurer’s acuity from an eye specialist.
Office. Both offices are located at 1930 University • If your name has changed since birth, you must provide all
Important Parkway in Aiken. You will be issued a paid property tax
receipt and South Carolina title or registration.
legal documents (adoption records, marriage certificate,
certificate of naturalization, court ordered name change)
Area Details 2. Next go to a South Carolina Department of Motor supporting all name changes from birth to present.
Vehicles office. • Military personnel (and their dependents) and students
LIBRARIES You will need the following to complete your temporarily in South Carolina are not required to obtain a
registration: South Carolina Driver’s license. However, you must have a
www.abbe-lib.org
• The paid property tax receipt you received at the driver’s license from your home state to operate in SC.
Aiken County Public Library 803.642.2020
Aiken County Government Center • SC REAL IDs are now available and are required to fly
Jackson Branch Library 803.471.3811 • Your out-of-state vehicle title and registration: If commercial airlines, enter a secure federal building, or
there is a lien on your vehicle, you must bring the name and visit a military installation. General requirements are:
Midland Valley Branch Library 803.593.7379
address of the company that holds the lien Proof of identity from birth certificate or US Passport
Nancy Bonnette (Wagener) Branch Library 803.564.5396
• Odometer mileage reading: This information is used to Proof of social security number: card or W-2 form
Nancy Carson (North Augusta) Library 803.279.5767 complete Form 400, Certificate of Title/Registration, available Two proofs of current physical address
New Ellenton Branch Library 803.652.7845 at the DMV office or www.scdmvonline.com Proof of all legal name changes
• Personal Identification: A valid/unexpired out of state All documents must be original
N E W S PA P E R S driver’s license or a new South Carolina driver’s license are
acceptable forms of identification. S C D E PA R T M E N T O F M O T O R V E H I C L E S
The Aiken Standard www.aikenstandard.com
• Liability Insurance information: Provide the name of 803.896.5000 : : scdmvonline.com
Local/Aiken County published daily 803.648.2311
The Augusta Chronicle www.chronicle.augusta.com
Taxes your automobile liability insurance company, not the name Aiken DMV Office
of the agent. If you are a new resident in SC and have an 1755 Richland Avenue East : : 803.641.7752 : : scdmvonline.com
Augusta-Aiken MSA published daily 803.648.1395
S TAT E I N C O M E TA X automobile policy with a national insurance company, be sure Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
www.sctax.org/Tax+Information to change your address with your insurance company before Wednesday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
BROADCAST TELEVISION you register your vehicle in SC. DMV will verify your coverage Closed on state holidays.
South Carolina has a simplified income tax electronically. If the insurance policy cannot be verified, your
WFXG–TV 54, FOX 706.650.5400 structure which follows the federal income tax Road Test Appointments: 2:00 – 4:30 pm
driver’s license and vehicle registration may be suspended.
laws. South Carolina accepts the adjustments, CDL testing and International Services are not available at this location.
WJBF-TV 6, ABC 706.722.6664
exemptions and deductions allowed on your federal
WRDW-TV, Inc., CBS, NBC 803.278.3347
T I T L E + R E G I S T R AT I O N F E E S
tax return with few modifications. Your federal North Augusta DMV Office
taxable income is the starting point in determining Title: $15 : : Cars and RV’s: $40
1913 Ascauga Lake Road : : 803.279.6659 : : scdmvonline.com
your state income tax liability. Persons up to 64 years of age: $38
P O S TA L S E R V I C E Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
For more information, contact the Department 65 or older or disabled: $36 Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
U.S. Post Office www.usps.com
of Revenue Publications Line at 803.898.5405 If disabled, a statement from a medical doctor as to the permanency Closed on state holidays
Main Aiken Branch and ask for a free copy of the “Moving to of the disability must be submitted CDL testing and International
803.649.9211 : : 307 Laurens Street, NW, Aiken, SC 29801 South Carolina” brochure. SC Infrastructure Maintenance Fee: $250 Services are available.
Sumerall Branch (South Aiken)
TA X R AT E S
803.649.9317 : : 758 Silver Bluff Road, Aiken, SC 29803
Individual income tax rates range from 3% to a
top rate of 7% on taxable income. Tax brackets are
V O T E R R E G I S T R AT I O N adjusted annually for inflation.
In order to vote, South Carolina law requires one must first
register to vote at least 30 days prior to the election. A S A L E S TA X
citizen who wishes to register to vote can complete • The South Carolina state sales tax rate is 6%.
a voter registration application at their county board of
voter registration. Qualified voters may vote absentee in • There is a 1% Capital Projects Tax and a
person or by mail. Contact the Voter Registration Office 1% Education Capital Improvement Tax
for information. in Aiken County.

Aiken County Voter Registration • An additional 1% Hospitality Tax applies

803.642.2028 : : 1930 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801
M O T O R V O T E R L AW
If you are a United States citizens and 18 years of age
or older, you may register to vote when you have a driver’s
license issued or renewed. Your registration application
will be forwarded to the registrar in your county of
residence. You must present acceptable proof of your
social security number.
to prepared food in the City of Aiken.
C O N TA C T I N F O R M AT I O N
S.C. Department of Revenue 803.898.5000
301 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29214
Aiken County Treasurer’s Office 803.642.2092
1930 University Parkway, Aiken, SC 29801
City of Aiken Finance Department 803.642.7603
214 Park Ave. SE, Aiken, SC 29801
88

CIRCLE-GO, SQUARE-NO
One of Aiken's distinctive features is its layout of one-way
streets and parkways in downtown, which is the result of the
construction of the first major passenger railroad line built in
the United States in the early 19th century.
Traffic patterns in downtown Aiken are certainly unique and
can be confusing especially if you are making a left turn. The
most difficult intersections to navigate are those with circular
parkways in the middle. There are four and they are located
at the intersections of Richland Avenue and Laurens Street,
Richland Avenue and York Street, Chesterfield Street and Park
Avenue, Laurens Street and Park Avenue.
“A car turning left at a circle intersection will turn and come to a
red light, which is where some drivers will feel like they need to
stop,” said Aiken Public Safety. “A driver can legally go through
that red light as long as they yield to the oncoming traffic.”
Square intersections are simple. “If a driver is coming down a
one-way street and comes to a red light at a square-shaped
intersection, the driver cannot go through that red light,” said
Aiken Public Safety. “Yet, the driver can turn left at the red light
onto the intersecting one-way street, as long as they yield to
oncoming traffic.”
Aiken Public Safety uses the quick saying “circle-go, square-no
and when in doubt wait it out” when explaining to motorists
when it's OK to go straight through a red light.

Transportation Simple rules to follow when turning left:

GENERAL
SC Express Transportation 803.648.9977
Private transit service
Best Friend Express
www.bestfriendexpress.com : :
Public transit service
Adults:
Students with ID:
Seniors/Disabled:
Medicare Card Holders:
Aiken Bus Station 803.648.6894
• Yield to oncoming traffic at intersections
with circular parkways.
• Come to a full stop and wait for a green light
at intersections with square parkways.
• Turning left on red onto one-way streets is legal in South
803.649.7981 Carolina, unless marked otherwise.
• Impatient drivers beware: Even if it is legal to proceed
$2.00 through a red light, it's illegal to pass someone who's playing
$1.50 it safe and waiting at an intersection.
$1.00
$1.00

H I G H W AY S
The area has access to interstate highways:
I-20 and I-520. The area is serviced by
three major U.S. highways and nearly 20
state highways.

AIRPORTS
Augusta Regional Airport
706.798.3236 : : www.flyags.com
24 miles from Aiken
Served by Delta and American Airlines
Columbia Metro Airport
803.648.7803 : : www.flycae.com
50 miles from Aiken • Served by Delta, United,
and American Airlines
Aiken Regional Airport
803.648.7803
A city-owned, public-use airport

RAIL SYSTEM
www.amtrak.com : : 800.872.7245
Main line railroads serving the area include the
CSX System and Norfolk Southern. Amtrak
connects the region with other cities throughout
the nation via rail. The two closest Amtrak
stations are in Columbia and Denmark, SC.
Our Physicians.
Your Choice.
At Aiken Physicians Alliance we know that
having choices is so important to finding the
right provider for you and your loved ones.
Our highly trained team is growing to meet
your needs. We offer a comprehensive range
of advanced specialties close to home.

Our Services
• Cardiology • Neurology
• Family Medicine • Neurosurgery
• Gastroenterology • Orthopedics
• General Surgery • Pulmonology
• Internal Medicine • Urology

Advanced care for your

entire family is right here with
Aiken Physicians Alliance.
Find a doctor and schedule
an appointment online at
aikenphysicians.com.

For language assistance, disability accommodations and the

nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 21621205-627937 11/21
Where Families Go To Grow!

803.648.SOLD • MEYBOHM.COM