After many years, the South Carolina State Library has digitized all 257 issues of Sandlapper: The Magazine of South Carolina, a magazine celebrating South Carolina’s history and culture. In addition, the State Library digitized 18 issues of Carolina Lifestyle, a magazine that was the merger of Sandlapper and Tar Heel: The Magazine of North Carolina. Sandlapper was published from 1968 to 2012.
Sandlapper: The Magazine of South Carolina was established in 1968 by Robert P. Wilkins, Sr., a lawyer in Lexington, SC, and his wife, Rose. Robert Wilkins’ goal was to highlight South Carolina’s attractions, people, and history in the magazine to enhance the state’s image. The first issue appeared in January 1968 with a portrait of Governor James F. Byrnes on the cover. Wilkins’ involvement stopped in 1973 while the magazine continued printing.
In 1982, Sandlapper was merged with Tar Heel: The Magazine of North Carolina to form Carolina Lifestyle. Carolina Lifestyle educated readers about South Carolina and North Carolina but ceased publication in 1983 after 18 issues.
In 1990, Wilkins revived Sandlapper as a glossy, bimonthly magazine, published by RPW Publishing Company. In 1994, Sandlapper Society, Inc., was formed to publish the magazine as a nonprofit, advertising-free publication. The society’s mission was to educate readers about South Carolina’s people, places, history, and culture.
The magazine's final issue was Winter 2011/Spring 2012, with the passing of Robert P. Wilkins in 2013. Sandlapper features a range of South Carolina photographers and writers to highlight the state. Subjects include South Carolina history, trends, art, culture, recipes, festivals, sports, nature, and prominent South Carolinians.
View and download issues of Sandlapper: The Magazine of South Carolina and Carolina Lifestyle
