The Palmetto Porch

Lydia Wherry’s family has been connected to the Edgefield Advertiser—the Palmetto State’s longest continuously running newspaper—for six generations. Lydia shares with Devyn what it was like growing up with the "ink on the walls", the newspaper's impact on locals and how it inspired her to launch Ancesserie, a bespoke letterpress studio. For more about Edgefield, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

A typewriter in her closet. That’s what Hartsville’s Elizabeth Boatwright Coker used to write her novels, at a time where a woman’s ambition usually took a backseat to everything else. That’s why the local Coker University, formerly a college for women, honors her hard work and pursuit of the arts through its programs of study. Eliza Ingle, her granddaughter, teamed up with her mother Penelope Coker Hall to chronicle her grandmother’s life. She meets Devyn on the university grounds to talk about her family, and how the arts continue to nourish this unique Southern community.For more about Hartsville, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

McClellanville is a very small town—one of the smallest we’ve ever featured on the Porch. But it’s known all over the state for its fish and seafood. And even today, its locally-sourced fare attracts professional chefs and enthusiasts alike. One figure central to its reputation is Jeff Massey, owner of Livingston’s Bulls Bay Seafood. Jeff joins Devyn for a chat about the local seafood industry, and how he shares his experience with a new generation.For more about McClellanville, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

Darren Smith, owner and head chef at Conway’s Rivertown Bistro, has had an extraordinary journey. Starting as a child in his grandma's kitchen, he passed on formal culinary school in exchange for practical experience, and opened his now well-known restaurant at just 25 years old. Today, Darren is a South Carolina Chef Ambassador and owns two establishments in the quaint little town along the Waccamaw. Devyn stops in to chat with the serial restaurateur about how the area has transformed around him. For more on Conway, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

New places, new stories, same Southern charm. Host Devyn Whitmire brings us another season on the Porch, highlighting individuals who contribute to their town's unique character, charm and enduring spirit. Discover delicious food, stunning natural beauty and captivating culture. Premiering September 17. For more information, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

Before going through her studies at Binghamton University, Dr. Katherine “Katie” Seeber didn’t know anything about Mitchelville, the first town built for free people on Hilton Head Island. As an archaeologist and historian, it’s her job to dig up the past to understand people, places, and cultures. But Katie’s visit to this small coastal town left an everlasting impression on her, and changed the trajectory of her career. Devyn catches up with Katie, and they discuss the importance of telling the stories of Mitchelville’s residents — both past and present. Get more travel ideas at SCPalmettoPorch.com.

Michelle Cunningham wanted a change of pace. Selling everything she owned, she set out on a trip across the country in a camper. In the Pacific Northwest, Michelle discovered her love for state park systems, and the community around them. Now the park manager for Little Pee Dee State Park, Michelle hopes to inspire those like her — people who may be looking for purpose, and a place to belong. She joins Devyn on the porch to talk about her journey. Looking for more about Little Pee Dee State Park? Go to SCPalmettoPorch.com.

Every day, a restaurant in Loris serves steaming bowls of chicken bog, the town’s most famous dish. But what is chicken bog? And how did it place an entire town on the map for so many travelers? Loris native and “Bog Ambassador” Cobi Williams joins Devyn on the Porch to share about life in his hometown, and how its community has come together over one humble culinary delight. Want more about Loris? Visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

The legacy of textiles touches almost everything in Lexington. But change is constant, and in the 1980s, the old textile mill in Lexington was converted into a mixed-use commercial area. Through many years of reimagining the space—and one historic flood—the community surrounding the mill shares an excitement for what the future holds. Devyn sits down with owner Laban Chappell to discuss the most recent developments at the historic property. For more about Lexington, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

In small towns, historic preservation isn’t always at the forefront of the conversation. But in Cheraw, birthplace of jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie, there are old and iconic buildings singing its proud heritage for those who visit. Local historian Sarah Spruill opens her porch for us to sit a spell, and chat about what it means for a town like Cheraw to remember and revel in its unique identity. To learn more about Cheraw, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.

The Windjammer has a special place in South Carolina history, having been the launchpad for a host of bands, including Hootie & The Blowfish.The venue has seen its highs and lows over the years. Co-owner Bobby Ross takes his seat on the Porch to share the secrets behind the Windjammer’s resilience and relevance in the Palmetto State’s music scene. And special guest Darius Rucker returns to add his own perspectives on the club’s lasting appeal.

Darlington Raceway is known as “The Lady In Black,” and its reputation precedes itself as a tough track for NASCAR racers. But what exactly is behind its legend? Danny Lockemy, local radio personality and resident expert on the raceway, makes a pit stop at the Porch to discuss its history and legacy. To learn more about Darlington Raceway, visit SCPalmettoPorch.com.