Our monthly programs are on their usual summer hiatus but there’s still plenty going on for DIHS.
In addition to ongoing programs like cemetery restoration/preservation and our Cainhoy Collective oral history project we continue initiatives for more historical markers on the island and supporting local schools.
We also continue special members only programs as a way to thank our members for their support that makes the above programs possible.
So far in June we had a wonderful behind the scenes tour of the Island’s new St. Clare of Assisi Church Monday, June 5. If you missed it, check it out at https://dihistoricalsociety.com/blog/behind-the-scenes-at-st-clare-of-assisi/
And a few days before that, we had a special members only tour of Mepkin Abbey led by Rich Dorval, himself a DIHS member!
Mepkin Abbey is one of many underappreciated historical locales here in Berkeley County. The land the abbey now occupies was purchased by Henry Laurens in 1762. Laurens was a seminal figure in Colonial Carolina and actually succeeded John Hancock as President of the Continental Congress in 1777. Laurens is buried on what is now Mepkin Abbey.
The plantation was later owned by publisher Henry Luce and his wife, Clare Boothe Luce. The two bequeathed about half of the plantation to the Trappist Monks who established the current monastery. Henry and Clare Boothe Luce, along with their daughter and Clare’s mother are buried on the grounds.
A very impressive library named after Clare is also one of the attractions on the grounds.
For more on Mepkin Abbey, including how to book a retreat, check out their website at https://mepkinabbey.org/