Who We Are
Who We Are
From its very start the South Carolina State Museum has been committed to collecting, preserving and showcasing the rich culture, art and natural history of the Palmetto State. Take a moment to learn more about the museum, meet our amazing team members as well as our Museum Commissioners and Foundation Board Members.
(Judi Gatson. Museum Member) “This museum is awesome! History, science, technology, art is all right here.
(Bhavna Vasudeva. Former Board Member, South Carolina State Museum) “And it's about to get better, bigger and more exciting. It's our State Museum, and I'm so proud of where we've been and where we're going!”
(Tom Falvey. Director of Audience Engagement, South Carolina State Museum) “This building used to be the first fully electric textile mill in the United States, and in 1988 it became the State Museum. Since then, we've welcomed over 5 million visitors and we have over 1.1 million objects, artwork and specimens in our collection from all over the state, dating back hundreds, thousands, even millions of years.”
(Judi) “So many incredible stories are waiting to be told and so many are told every day. The State Museum reaches thousands of students, both here and at school programs across the state. Together, we've explored space, the environment and our shared history through countless exhibitions over the years.”
(Bhavna) “You should see what we've got planned for the future. Brand new permanent galleries, expanded exhibit space, more in-depth programing, more stories. You'll learn more about South Carolina than you thought you ever knew.”
(Tom) “Our state is full of surprises and fascinating stories, so our State Museum should be as well. We are an ever-changing, innovative institution committed to be a cultural and educational resource for the state.”
(Bhavna) “So we honor the past and we push towards the future.”
(Judi) “It's our museum. Our South Carolina State Museum.”
(Tom) “We're proud of where we've been, and we can't wait to get where we're going.”
Through innovative partnerships, comprehensive collections, and stimulating exhibitions and programs, the South Carolina State Museum provides educational environments that entertain, inspire imagination and creativity, and enrich the lives of visitors.
The South Carolina State Museum is an ever-changing, innovative institution reflecting the essence and diversity of South Carolina, a catalyst for the cultural and educational development of our state and a model among museums nationally.
We are committed to our Guests. We value creativity, integrity, scholarship and innovation. We are committed to the educational improvement of all of South Carolina’s school children. We provide opportunities for people to learn and have fun. We create an open, learning, engaging environment for families and community to gather.
Meet the Team
Join Our Team!
Reimagine the Experience
Learn more about the museum's ambitious project to 'reimagine' our permanent exhibition galleries.