Tag: Aiken

When Gilded Age glitterati traveled south to escape the Northeast winters in the late 19th century, they brought an indulgent lifestyle and a penchant for equestrian pursuits. Aiken, South Carolina, became known as a winter colony for wealthy sojourners—and a training ground for their racehorses.

While most lobbies serve as a place for visitors to catch their breath after a day on the town, the one at the Willcox is a spot where the town wanders in to unwind.

Those familiar with The Great Gatsby know Tom Buchanan as an old-money polo player. It’s widely accepted that F. Scott Fitzgerald modeled Buchanan after Aiken-born Tommy...