Discover South Carolina history with guided MUSEUM tours.
Immerse yourself in an earlier century at Oakley Park through a history museum guided tour to learn about the town of Edgefield's history and South Carolina History.
Immerse yourself in an earlier century at Oakley Park through a history museum guided tour to learn about the town of Edgefield's history and South Carolina History.
Oakley Park Museum is a privately owned 501(c)(3) organization. The museum is currently available for public tours and events thanks to the devoted volunteers and generosity of individuals. Please consider supporting the maintenance of this fine house museum as a valuable element of South Carolina history.
Captain Daniel Bird Jr., a native Virginian, moved to the area after the Revolutionary War. He served in the War of 1812. Initially living at Halcyon Grove on Buncombe Street, he later purchased land to build a town house. The house, completed in 1835, is known as Oakley Park. Captain Bird became a wealthy cotton planter, owning various
Captain Daniel Bird Jr., a native Virginian, moved to the area after the Revolutionary War. He served in the War of 1812. Initially living at Halcyon Grove on Buncombe Street, he later purchased land to build a town house. The house, completed in 1835, is known as Oakley Park. Captain Bird became a wealthy cotton planter, owning various properties in the district for agriculture, also breeding fine race horses. His life was a mix of glory and tragedy. Eventually, he left Edgefield to begin a new life.
After the Civil War, C.S.A Gen. Martin W. Gary purchased the house and the building is a shrine to his memory, as he lead the campaign to overthrow Reconstruction government in South Carolina. Touring the home allows you to experience a truly beautiful relict of its time. The history museum guided tours enlighten visitors about South Carolina and local Edgefield history.
Our mission is to protect, preserve and promote a unique artifact of American history, the life of Gen. Martin W. Gary, and other owners of the home, 19th an early 20th century furniture and artwork, and local culture for all to immerse themselves in. Explore American history and the spirit of a young, new nation. Within the walls of
Our mission is to protect, preserve and promote a unique artifact of American history, the life of Gen. Martin W. Gary, and other owners of the home, 19th an early 20th century furniture and artwork, and local culture for all to immerse themselves in. Explore American history and the spirit of a young, new nation. Within the walls of Oakley Park are stories of individuals who lived through unprecedented challenges, dreamed of what America could become and bravely participated in creating the country we love. Edgefield District was established in 1785.
Please reach us at (803) 637-4027 if you cannot find an answer to your question.
The Edgefield County Historical Society has a wonderful website: https://www.historicedgefield.com/historic-homes-and-sites
Edgefield has the most complete collection of county records, next to Charleston, in the state of South Carolina. Visit the county archives: https://www.exploreedgefield.com/place/edgefield-county-archives-history
The Old Edgefield Genealogical Society houses records on more than 2,000 surnames, county history, and additional topical history. Visit the Tompkins Library on the town square. https://www.oedgs.org/index.html#/
Call the town welcome center located in Tompkins Library (803) 637-4010 . First visit the website to see what group tours are listed: https://www.exploreedgefield.com/tours.html
The Edgefield Discovery Center, and the Phoenix pottery: https://discoversouthcarolina.com/products/26175
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and improve conditions. Your generous donation will fund our mission.
Learn more about our upcoming events, fundraisers, and more!