In keeping with our ongoing look at state symbols, and given the tasty nature of this month’s “beverage” issue of SCIway News, it is our pleasure to announce the two newest additions to our State Symbols guide – South Carolina’s state drinks. No, that’s not a typo. We actually have two: Our official state beverage is milk, while our official state hospitality beverage is tea.

South Carolina is one of only two states in America to feature multiple state beverages, but we share milk with 18 other states. We are currently the only state to feature tea however – and for a very good reason! The Charleston Tea Plantation, located on Wadmalaw Island, is the only place in America to produce black tea commercially.

Use the links below to learn more about these important state symbols.

September’s Featured Symbols:

• SC State Beverage: Milk - Most of us grow up on milk. We receive it in some form immediately after birth and are encouraged to drink it throughout our many stages of growth. However, did you know that South Carolina has close to 90 dairy farms? We encourage you to visit our new South Carolina milk page to learn more about one of this month’s featured state symbols.
• SC State Hospitality Beverage: Tea - Tea is one of the most widely-loved beverages in the world. It can be enjoyed with any meal or as an afternoon treat. South Carolina has attempted to grow tea on a large scale since the 1800s, and has at last achieved success via American Classic. Visit our SC Tea Guide to learn more about the history of tea our state.