The adventures that Aiken's horse statues brew up when no one is around will be the topic of the first presentation in the Sweet Tea Book Lecture Series sponsored by the Aiken County Historical Museum.
Members of The Aiken Scribblers, a group of local writers, will talk about their book, "Nights of Horseplay," at 7 p.m. Thursday.
An anthology of stories and poems set in Aiken, the collection revolves around a common theme, a look at the secret lives of the horse statues that decorate many of the public spaces around town.
As the equine statues in "Nights of Horseplay" romp through familiar settings - Hitchcock Woods, Park Avenue, the Aiken Steeplechase - they spin tales that are sometimes humorous, sometimes sobering, but always "authentically Aiken," according to a press release from the museum.
After the lecture, which is free, contributors will sign copies of their book, and refreshments will be served.
Author Don Bozeman will discuss his book, "Blackberries in the Summer," about the life of Eulalie Salley, who operated a real estate business in Aiken in the early 20th century, from 4 to 6 p.m. July 25.
The book focuses on Salley's drive for women's rights and her role in the development of Aiken's Winter Colony. Her career in real estate placed her in contact with the rich and famous people who came to Aiken to build winter cottages and participate in the community's equestrian lifestyle.
Refreshments will be served.
Don Rhodes, author and longtime columnist for the Augusta Chronicle, will speak in August. Rhodes, who writes the "Ramblin' Rhodes" column, has written several books about local celebrities, including James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, and Baseball Hall of Fame's Ty Cobb.
Brenda S. Baratto, executive director of the Aiken County Historical Museum, said the lecture series is the "perfect way to spend a summer day or night."
"The museum is fortunate to have its gift shop carry books by our local authors on amazing Aiken County history," she said. "What better way to enjoy those books than to hear the authors and have a book signing - along with a glass of cold, sweet tea?"
The Aiken County Historical Museum is located at 433 Newberry St. S.W. For more information, call 803-642-2015.
A native of Aiken, Larry Wood is a general assignment reporter.
He joined the Aiken Standard in September 2014.