South of the Border. It’s a very South Carolina thing. If you’ve ever driven I-95 through North or South Carolina, you might be familiar with the signs featuring Pedro, sausages, animals, and wrecked cars. South of the Border was the first stop of my honeymoon. Seriously. Heather and I were married in Charleston and drove north on 95 to catch a plane in DC. Turns out my sheltered wife had never visited Pedro. So we stopped, took a few pictures, bought a few hats, and were on our way.
South of the Border is experiencing some tough times, which shouldn’t surprise anyone. South of the Border is celebrating it’s 60th birthday this year and is witnessing a decrease in visitors. Not shocking. In 1950 traveling by car was the only way most people could travel. If you’re in a 1955 Chevy, with no air-conditioning, full of children, South of hte Border looks like a great idea.
Fast forward 50 years or so and people don’t stop for the same reasons. Road trips aren’t events, they’re obstacles. The interstate system has sterilized road travel and people can’t be bothered to stop for more than the five minutes it takes to pee and fill up the gas tank. Not that South of the Border should be a destination, but it’s silly enough to warrant a stop.
Next time your passing through, stop and see Pedro. Pick up a hat, or a hot dog, or take a picture from the top of the water tower. I promise you won’t be too late to your vacation.
