Channel your inner Jedi as “The Force Awakens” at the Upcountry History Museum

UHM’s newest exhibition “Finding the Force... Awakening an Empire” features costumes from the latest “Star Wars” movies on display for the first time.

GVLtoday Starwars

It took two hours to get the draping of this fabric right. | Photo by GVLtoday

May the force be with you. Opening Saturday, June 15, The Upcountry History Museum’s (UHM) newest exhibit, “Finding the Force... Awakening an Empire,” features original costumes, props, and collectibles from the latest installation of the “Star Wars” movie franchise.

“This is the first time that 99% of these objects have been displayed,” Rick Lorentz, Senior Manager of Acquisitions and Loans with Walt Disney Archives, told us as he set up the exhibit.

GVLtoday Starwars

You don’t realize how tall Chewy is until you see him in person. | Photo by GVLtoday

You can find original costumes worn in “The Force Awakens” by Rey, Finn, Poe, Leia, Han Solo, and Kylo Ren + authentic props including BB-8, R2-D2, and a Stormtrooper. A private collector also lent his collection of “Star Wars” toys and collectibles.

“I wish people knew how challenging the packing and shipping of these items was.” Lorentz said, eyeing one of six huge crates in the room. “Since it’s the first time they’re being displayed, there are two of us here to navigate that.” Believe us, you’ll want to see how tall Chewy really is.

GVLtoday Starwars

BB-8 is cuter in person. | Photo by GVLtoday

As of right now, there are no plans for the collection after this, meaning UHM is the first, and only, place to showcase these items. We think that’s out of this world... say, in a galaxy far far away.

See the exhibit for yourself.

More from GVLtoday
From a West Greenville High School update to plans to extend car rider loops, here’s what GCS wants to do.
Sponsored
Whether you’re participating in Record Store Day 2024 or you’re just looking to shop local for some music, we’ve rounded up record stores in Greenville, SC.
Each week, GVLtoday and CLTtoday will recap “Top Chef: Carolinas” with fun facts we’ve learned from our reporting behind the scenes and our pro tips about venues featured in each of our cities.
A new interior design and decor store aims to capture the essence of Greenville’s neighborhood with a new home fragrance line.
Sponsored
History, horticulture, and a hint of espionage — Travelers Rest is planting the seeds for an immersive new garden honoring Revolutionary War heroine Dicey Langston, with a fundraising dinner set to help bring the vision to life.
Starting May 1, the weekend trolley has new stops. Here’s what you need to know.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up farmers markets around Greenville, SC.
This year, a record 89 events will take over Greenville, showcasing food, beverage, and music.