Photo by Pete Peters

During the 1800’s Aiken became a popular health resort for coastal residents wishing to escape malaria and yellow fever. Northern residents fled to the Aiken area during bitter winters as Charlestonians fled during the summer months. News spread quickly that the area’s pine-scented dry air and spring water were quite a healing combination. Horses were also brought along for enjoyment during the 1800’s. The area became a prestigious health resort and also, the “Sporting Capital of the South.” Large estates or “cottages” are located in the historic districts. Cottages were defined as homes with more than twenty rooms. Many of the homes are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rice and indigo planters found the dry pine-scented air good for breathing ailments. Wealthy northerners began visiting during the harsh winters and the Aiken area was transformed into The Winter Colony. It was a place to let loose, away from the New York society columnists!

The Winter Colonists brought their horses to Aiken to extend their equestrian activities throughout the year. Riding, racing, fox hunting and polo were among the top favorites. The colonists also enjoyed tennis and golf longer in the south. Today every equestrian discipline is found in Aiken. Polo, the “game of kings,” has been played on Aiken’s Whitney Field continuously since 1882. Grandiose cottages were enjoyed by the Vanderbilts, the Whitneys, the Iselins, the Astors, the Rutherfords, the Hitchcocks, and more elite.