The Museum continued to develop prominent collections of ethnological and zoological specimens, which Harvard scientist Louis Aggasiz declared in 1852 to be among the finest in America. Operations were temporarily suspended due to the Civil War, but began again shortly afterward. Progressively acquired since the late 18th century, the Museum's collections now represent the most comprehensive assemblage of South Carolina materials in the nation. Focusing on the South Carolina Lowcountry, modern collecting emphases include natural history, historical material culture and both documentary and photographic resources.
Accessibility
Wheelchairs are free to visitors and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Both manual and electric wheelchairs are permitted throughout the Museum.
Service dogs, when identified, are permitted throughout the Museum and its historic houses, however therapy dogs and animal companions are not permitted in the Museum or historic houses.
Videos are closed-captioned for the enjoyment of hearing impaired visitors.
The Museum’s historic houses require the ability to climb stairs for touring, however photographic tours of the houses are available for visitors unable to climb stairs. Videos are closed-captioned for the enjoyment of hearing impaired visitors.
Steph “LOVED This Museum & I’m NOT Usually a Museum-Lover!! An excellent museum. Well laid out, easy to absorb a great deal of information but not get bogged down in too many lengthy details or readings”
Archie “Natural history and local history. Definitely a must visit. This is an informative museum. The staff is really nice. It was a lovely collection of clothing and artifacts.”