In the 1930s, a group of Summerville women who then called themselves the Civic League, raised money to purchase the land now used for Azalea Park. This group was the precursor to the Flowertown Garden Club, and the park was eventually deeded to the Town of Summerville.

Many plants were given to the park by resident George Segelken. Segelken even planted most of the azaleas himself and was an expert on the plant, and helped make Summerville well known for its beautiful Azalea bushes.

SCIWAY thanks Linda C. Shaw of Summerville for this information and picture taken in March 2012. Linda tells us that “whether you’re feeding the turtles, enjoying the shade of the tall LobLollies, or sharing the joy of a picnic with friends, you will be sure to enjoy yourself at Azalea Park!”

The story of Guerin’s pharmacy begins with Dr. Schwettman, who moved to Summerville during the Civil War to open a drugstore. He sold his business in 1871 to Dr. Henry Charles Guerin, who later sold it the Dunning family. Today Dr. Barbara Dunning runs the pharmacy while her semi-retired father, Charles Dunning, works here part time.

While waiting for your prescription to be filled you can have a hot dog, sip on a fountain soda, or enjoy an ice cream milk shake. History comes alive inside the shop where wooden glass cabinets hang on the back wall, colored medicine bottles line the window ledges, and decorative tin art covers the ceiling. This is a place that will take you back in time.

SCIWAY gives a very special thanks to Linda C. Shaw of Summerville for this great description and picture taken in November 2011.