According to experts at USC's A.C. Moore Herbarium, orchids grow naturally all over South Carolina and are concentrated in areas like the Lowcountry’s Francis Marion National Forest.

Different varieties of the plant also can be found at the Carter and Holmes Orchids nursery located just outside Newberry. Carter and Holmes has grown orchids for more than half a century. Now is a good time for visitors to make plans to tour the operation which includes 18 greenhouses. Tours are available on an ongoing basis but must be arranged in advance by calling (803) 276-0579.

Thanks for your question. Based on my research, St. David’s Island is located in Bermuda. However, South Carolina played a major role in the Trans Atlantic slave trade. The Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture in Charleston might be a good resource for you. Through research facilities, museum exhibits, historic site tours and a cultural center, Avery chronicles the story of African Americans from their origins in Africa through slavery, emancipation, segregation, migration, the civil rights movement, and the current day advocacy for social and political equality. You can click here for more information or call (843)953-7609.

Murrells Inlet is a great option for your Thanksgiving weekend stay. The quaint fishing village is located just outside of Myrtle Beach and is considered South Carolina’s seafood capital. There, you will find a wide range of restaurants and options for half-day or full-day fishing charters. Click here for more information.

Yes, the Saluda River Factory, built in the 1830s, was once located on the grounds. According to historians the textile mill was one of the first in the state and utilized slave labor for manufacturing. Visitors can learn more about the textile mill at the Saluda River Factory Interpretive Center at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.

Yes, the Hewn Timber Cabins, built by slaves in the 1830s, were originally a part of the Gregg Plantation in Florence. They were moved twice and are now located on the edge of the Francis Marion University Campus. You can learn more about them at www.fmarion.edu/academics/Cabins.