If you find yourself in Columbia and looking for something to do, might I suggest the a visit to the State Museum.
They have a great exhibit, which runs till January called South Carolina Silver: Varieties in Society from 1750-1935. It's many of the pieces from the Charleston Silver Lady, Dawn Evers-Corley's collection. Dawn is a nationally reconginized expert on everything silver. Her knowledge is quite amazing.
What I love about her is that to her, each piece tells a story. That is what she wants everyone to know, getting to know each piece beyond just hallmarks and makers. That each piece tells a story about family and place and that is the most important thing to know.
Not only does the museum have the collection to visit, but Dawn also has lectures scheduled and you can even book a private tour and bring a piece of silver for her to appraise. Check out the website at www.museum.state.sc.us/events/silver.aspx or email at publicprograms@scmuseums.org. You won't be disappointed. Below are a few pictures from her most recent lecture.
