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the  TiNY  Tennis Museum - Charleston, SC

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In the historic city of Charleston, SC, there is a small gallery dedicated to the Driftway Collection, and the early history of tennis.  Jim McCready has curated a glimpse back in time where the visitor can enjoy the imagery and artifacts from this well known Collection.  

 

The exhibit will be up until early 2026, and is open for all to visit.  â€‹TENNIS AT THE TURN (of the 20th century) is the title of the exhibit.  Its 150 pieces from the Collection are curated chronologically from the 1870's to the OPEN era of tennis in the late 1960's.​

 

Admission is free and there are limited edition souvenirs and fine art derived from the Collection available to purchase.​

 

Best to contact the TiNY ahead of a visit, as the hours will vary.  Please call or text, (973) 647-2169.​​

IMG_0143.jpeg, curator, founder, retired tennis professional

Collecting is a Celebration of Memory

Jim McCready opened the TiNY Tennis Museum in Charleston, SC in March of 2025, and will be exhibiting the Driftway Collection for about one year @ 55 Spring St.  With on site parking, it's an easy visit to enjoy the Gallery and the beginnings of tennis time.  From the earliest days of Wimbledon and Newport, there are racquets and imagery galore!  Come visit before it moves on. 

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A Totally Unique Visit

Not spacious, but special!  The space is available for small party rentals, and there are events on the calendar for patrons though out the year.

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Even a Tiny Tennis Court!

There are plenty of vibrant surprises around every corner. 

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The Best on Display

"A sea of racquets and a flood of tennis time".  This is the "Hemingway" racquet (ca. 1878), and kicks off the exhibit.

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Tins at the TiNY

Bright and very collectible, these few cans from the 1940s are hard to find these days!  As you can imagine, they were headed for the trash bin after opening and most disappeared for good.

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It's all about Fine Woodworking

Racquet shapes and sizes were always evolving.  These three are Edwardian (1901-1909), and are transitional from the era of bending steamed wood for their construction.

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Turn of the Century Photography

In the 19th century, tennis was the perfect genre for the blossoming science of photography. Everyone was fascinated with the thought of being immortalized!  

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A Chance to Get up Close

Whatever the collectible, there is a chance to see it up close and appreciate the story behind it. Stay awhile!  

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