North Augusta celebrates July 4th with reopening of Living History Park
Share this @internewscast.com

NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. ()- Of all the July 4th celebrations Friday, North Augusta is celebrating Independence Day in more ways than one.

After 9 long months, suffering extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, community members have gathered at Living History Park once again. 

“It feels really good, especially since it’s been closed for a while,” said Andrew Ronan.

“It’s nice to have it back open. It’s been closed for a while, and we always enjoy coming here on the 4th,” said Keith Ronan.

A few weeks ago, we got an update on storm cleanup from those running the park.

Although some areas of Living History remain closed for safety reasons, they are determined to reopen in time for their annual July 4th celebration. 

“We enjoy this park. We’ve spent a lot of time here over the years, so it’s great to see it open again,” Pat Toohey said.

Visitors to the park enjoyed reenactments depicting colonial life and a reading of the Declaration of Independence by Mayor Briton Williams.

“Few communities have access to this kind of greenspace and shade, along with the colonial history in a downtown setting,” said Williams. “This park is a treasure in our community, and I am grateful to the staff and the Old Town Preservation for hosting this event.”

The park is now working to make the repairs needed. 

“I know that one of our people met with FEMA last week and really went over everything. So, we’re hoping for the best when that comes back. They’re trying to figure that out,” said Living History Park VP Ding Denlinger.

Living History is self-sufficient, but they’re looking for help from the city. 

The mayor says more discussions are needed.

“They don’t really give us the ability to do a whole lot. This is kind of their thing, they like to build stuff. But, we will definitely need to probably figure out what that looks like,” Williams said.

For other park goers, they say while they see more work to do, they couldn’t be happier to be back.

“I know they have a lot of work ahead of them, but I hope the funding will be there so they can get it done, and make this park what it’s supposed to be,” said Tony Watson.

“We’re hoping that maybe we can change their mind to show them how important the park is to this community, and the Southeast, and it’s nationally known,” Denlinger said.

While Living History Park is working to get fully reopened, the park does not have a timeline at the moment for when that can happen.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Essential Boating Safety Tips for the Fourth of July Weekend

SAVANNAH, Ga. () — Boating is a popular way to observe Independence…

Paxton’s 41st Annual Traditional Fourth of July Celebration

More than 700 attendees gathered at Pells Park in Paxton to celebrate…

Tucker Carlson Speaks with Iranian President as MAGA Supporters Divided Over Iran-Israel Tensions

Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson said Saturday he would soon air…

Uncertain Future for Trans Athletes as Penn Reaches Agreement with Trump Administration

The University of Pennsylvania’s decision this week to sign an agreement with the…

Actor Julian McMahon Passes Away Following a Private Struggle with Cancer

Renowned actor Julian McMahon, celebrated for his performances in FBI: Most Wanted,…

Another Drowning Incident Occurs on Hunting Island

BEAUFORT COUNTY, S.C. () — The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office (BCCO) reported…

Aerial Footage Captures Severe Flooding in Kerrville, Texas

IE 11 is no longer supported. For the best experience, please visit…

Environmentalists and Democrats Voice Concerns About Alligator Alcatraz

A team of environmental advocates from Florida has initiated a federal lawsuit…

Examining the Most Devastating U.S. Floods of the Past 25 Years

Flooding has consistently been a leading cause of death related to weather…

Join TIMSC for an Informative Dolphin Evening with Expert Insights

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. () — The Tybee Island Marine Science Center (TIMSC)…

Marion Caregiver Found Guilty of Fraud and Identity Theft Against Disabled Adult

SMYTH COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) — A woman from Marion has been found…

Hampton resident facing charges for sharing child pornography accepts plea agreement

A man from Hampton, Carter County, Tennessee, who faced accusations of uploading…