While the United States of America was forming, Indigenous Peoples were fighting for their own land and freedom. Learn more about the Indigenous peoples of South Carolina and how they contribute to the Palmetto State’s history and culture, then and now.
State Documents for South Carolina Indigenous Peoples Month
State Documents
Catawba Pottery
The tradition of making Catawba pottery has been passed down through families for generations. The Catawba families dig clay from the banks of the Catawba River, as their ancestors have for centuries. This booklet, produced by the South Carolina Arts Commission, explores the importance of pottery to the Catawba people.
Documents Relating to Indian Affairs, 1754-1765
This book, produced by the South Carolina Department of Archives and History, includes copies of documents relating to the relationship between the South Carolina colonial government and the Indigenous Peoples of the area in the decades prior to the American Revolution.
Native American Studies Center, USC Lancaster
This brochure highlights the Native American Studies Center at the University of South Carolina Lancaster. Established in 2012, the Native American Studies Center advances the study of the history and cultures of South Carolina’s Indigenous communities. It is home to the largest collection of Catawba pottery in the world. [YH1.1]Bringing together art, archaeology, folklore, history, and language, the Native American Studies Center contributes to the city’s rich art scene with a gallery space unique to Lancaster County.
South Carolina’s Blacks and Native Americans, 1776-1976
Published in 1976, when the United States celebrated its 200th birthday, this book explores the history of African Americans and Native Americans in the Palmetto State. When it was published, this book was a pioneering effort to highlight the history of African Americans and Native Americans from the birth of the country to the present.
Native American Studies News
The quarterly newsletter Native American Studies News provides information on the Native American Studies Center at the University of South Carolina Lancaster.
Catawba’s Indian Trade Pottery of the Historic Period
The brochure accompanied an exhibition of historic Catawba Indian trade pottery at the Columbia Museum of Art in 1973. This brochure gives a history of the Catawba people and a history of their famous pottery. Modern artists who are keeping the Catawba pottery tradition alive are highlighted as well.
Those Who Remain: Native Americans in South Carolina 500 Years After Columbus
As Europeans encroached on indigenous land and decimated native populations, many tribes and groups merged into larger communities. This document follows the establishment of Native American associations and tribes, and the resilience of indigenous communities in South Carolina today.
Circle of Inheritance: A History of Colonial South Carolina
This program booklet explores South Carolina's early history, including segments on Native American culture, early Spanish and English settlements, the influence of various ethnic groups on the growth of Charleston, and the growth of the rest of the state.
Circle of Inheritance
This program explores South Carolina's early history, including segments on Native American culture, early Spanish and English settlements, the influence of various ethnic groups on the growth of Charleston, and the growth of the rest of the state.
Upcoming Event
Mary Martha Greene, The Cheese Biscuit Queen
November 19, 2026, 6:00 PM
Please join us for our next Speaker at the Center talk with The Cheese Biscuit Queen, Mary Martha Greene. Greene, the author The Cheese Biscuit Queen: Kiss my aspic! Southern Recipes, Saucy Stories, and More Rambunctious Behavior and The Cheese Biscuit Queen Tells All: Southern Recipes, Sweet Remembrances, and a Little Rambunctious Behavior will demonstrate preparing a champagne mustard.