Less Traveled 2010

Tracy Pou

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  • Cowpens Depot
    Cowpens Depot
    The Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center displays World War II naval history relics. The museum is open by appointment and during special events and holidays.
 

Highlight from History -- Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center

Posted 5/17/2010 2:17:00 PM
The Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center in Cherokee County showcases Navy relics, part of upstate South Carolina's rich military history.

The museum is set up in a 100-year-old freight depot originally built in the late 1800s by the Airline Railroad Company. The depot served passengers up until the 1950s and handled freight until 1967. In the early 1980s, local residents banded together and moved the depot to its current location, where it was renovated and reopened as the Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center. 

The museum is a showcase of World War II naval relics donated by veterans and other local citizens. Displayed items include photos, medals, clothing and personal letters from the crews of the USS Cowpens aircraft carrier CVL-25, nicknamed the 'Mighty Moo,' and the USS Cowpens cruiser ship CG-63 -- two vessels named after the Battle of Cowpens, a decisive battle of the American Revolution.

During the third week in June, Cowpens celebrates its war history and honors local veterans during the Mighty Moo Festival. The four-day event includes a street dance, golf tournament, beauty pageant, parade and much more. The 2010 Mighty Moo Festival is scheduled for June 17-20.

The Cowpens Depot Museum and Civic Center will be open for tours during the festival. See www.cowpensmightymoo.com for complete details on the celebration.