The First South Carolinians, a traveling exhibit designed by the South Carolina State Museum, will be on display at the Camden Archives and Museum during July and August 2011.

The exhibit, partially funded by a grant from the South Carolina Humanities Council, is made up of twenty-seven informational panels, some containing artifacts such as projectile points and pipe bowls. In addition, a selection of pottery is included illustrating various design elements. Artifacts found locally from the Archives collection will also be on display.

For more than 10,000 years, Native Americans have inhabited South Carolina, organizing their societies, establishing towns and working the land. Native Americas adapted to the natural environment and incorporated its resources into their cultural life.

Before Europeans began colonizing the coast, there were more than 27 native societies in South Carolina. By 1700, Native American Populations had declined significantly and began to join together to pool their dwindling strength and resources.

Visitors to The First South Carolinians will learn about everyday life of the Edisto, Catawba, and Cherokee as well as earlier cultures such as Woodland, Mound Builders and Mississippian cultures.

Be sure to catch this interesting study of early Native-American culture at the Camden Archives and Museum until the end of August.