Emily Anne Harris puts history and preservation on display at Furman Engaged

Emily Anne Harris, a senior at Furman University, immerses herself in the study of history, particularly in South Carolina’s past.

A South Carolina native from Hartsville, Harris first visited Furman as a middle schooler attending an awards ceremony. Though she initially considered attending a larger university, a return visit in high school reaffirmed her admiration for Furman’s academic opportunities and extensive study away programs.

At Furman, Harris’s interest in history translated into hands-on experiences, including studying abroad in England and conducting extensive research on Furman University’s bicentennial history.

Harris’s academic journey was shaped early, too, when she played harp in historic homes around the state. The exposure cultivated an interest in American history, particularly South Carolina’s role in it.

“I think people will be really impressed to see how much Furman has changed the trajectory of South Carolina history,” Emily Anne said. “It’s a complicated and fascinating story that continues to grow and evolve.”

Her work with Furman’s bicentennial project began through a public history course that required an internship. Along with university mentor Courtney Tollison, she collaborated on a traveling exhibit showcasing Furman’s early campuses, tracing the university’s journey from Edgefield in 1826 to its present-day location in Greenville. She took that research further by working on a bicentennial coffee table book, unearthing rare historical artifacts and primary sources that help tell the university’s story.

A key moment in her academic career has been her participation in Furman Engaged, where she has presented on her research and historical preservation efforts. She values the event for its welcoming and supportive atmosphere, which fosters meaningful discussions between students, faculty and community members.

“It’s a really special opportunity,” Emily Anne said. “You feel like part of the community, but you’re also getting to share your research with the people who have shaped you as a scholar.”

Looking ahead, Emily Anne will pursue a master’s degree through Clemson University’s Master of Science in Historic Preservation program in Charleston, South Carolina. She hopes to apply her expertise to preserving South Carolina’s rich historical landscape, particularly in her home region of the Pee Dee. Through her work, she intends to advocate for and protect overlooked historical sites, ensuring that they remain integral to the state’s identity for future generations.