Lizard’s Thicket – 6:00pm Supper, 7:00pm Meeting
J.R. Fennell is Director of the Lexington County Museum in Lexington, South Carolina, where he has served since 2007. A native of Walterboro, South Carolina, Fennell developed an interest in history at an early age, inspired by the rich heritage of the Lowcountry. He went on to earn bachelor’s and master’s degrees in history from the University of South Carolina, including a and a graduate certificate in Museum Management.
Before joining the Lexington County Museum, Fennell gained experience in museum education, archives, collections management, and public relations at the South Carolina Confederate Relic Room and Military Museum. He also worked at USC’s McKissick Museum and served as acting director of the Palmetto Trust for Historic Preservation.
As director, Fennell oversees the preservation, interpretation, and presentation of Lexington County’s history, including the care of more than 30 historic structures and their collections. His work encompasses historical research, artifact acquisition, preservation, educational programming, and public outreach.
Fennell is also active in broader historic-preservation efforts and serves on South Carolina’s State Board of Review for the National Register of Historic Places. Drawing upon his extensive knowledge of South Carolina and colonial history, Fennell’s presentation will explore notable events leading up to the American Revolution and the forces and circumstances that ultimately propelled the colonies toward independence.
Aric Bruggeworth, Vice President for Programs