Farewell to a South Carolina Treasure: The Burning of Lone Star BBQ
By Brett Steinbrecher
I woke up this morning to some heartbreaking news on Facebook: the iconic Lone Star BBQ in Santee went up in flames last night. While I haven’t seen the full extent of the damage, photos from a distance show the historic buildings consumed by fire. It’s always tragic to lose a place so rich in history.
Lone Star BBQ was far more than a typical barbecue joint. It was housed in historic buildings relocated from a nearby ghost town, carefully preserved to live on as a charming old-time restaurant. The town of Lone Star, like many other rural South Carolina towns dependent on the railroad, faded away over time. Modern transportation—cars, trucks, airplanes—and the construction of the interstate contributed to the decline of the railroad and, ultimately, to the disappearance of countless small towns across the country.
Special thanks go to those who moved and preserved these buildings for future generations—until last night, when their legacy tragically ended. I’m grateful I had the chance to dine there and experience these historic structures firsthand. It was the first place I ever tried tomato pie, and it inspired me to make my own at home. Anyone who visited can attest to the incredible antique décor that is now likely lost forever. The walls and shelves were lined with relics and treasures, giving the restaurant a museum-like atmosphere. It’s sad to see such a place, filled with nostalgia and amazing BBQ, become just a memory.
The last time I passed by, I managed to take a few photos of the buildings, and I’m so glad I did. I wish I had taken more, but at least I have a few images of this iconic spot. One of the back walls featured a mural that may have been painted by South Carolina’s own Jim Harrison, who has also passed on. The figure in the Coca-Cola mural bears a striking resemblance to Harrison himself, a true South Carolina treasure known for his Coca-Cola murals and beautiful depictions of barns and rural landscapes. Thankfully, Harrison’s studio in Denmark remains open and continues to sell his prints.
Tragedies like this are exactly why I take my hobby so seriously. This isn’t the first time I’ve photographed a South Carolina landmark that is now gone, reduced to nothing but memories. I’ve captured images of old stores and houses that have been bulldozed or demolished. That’s why documenting these places is so important. You never know when a favorite landmark might disappear, so if you feel the urge, pull over and take that photo. While we may not be able to save every historic site, photography ensures that their memories live on for future generations.
I’ve included links to an older post I wrote about Lone Star BBQ, as well as another post about the town from which the buildings were moved
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I’m looking forward to continuing my adventures and sharing more stories in the coming year. Thank you all for following, reading, liking, commenting, sharing—or simply looking!
