When Josh Carpenter and Evan Costner decided to sell Homeland Craft Beer and Wine in Batesburg-Leesville, two of its regular customers knew they wanted to keep the dive alive.

Rosemary Knowlton and Dawn Jacobs live in the Batesburg-Leesville area and were fans of the local bar and the atmosphere after forming a friendship there. Despite the two ladies holding down full-time jobs, they decided to purchase the local favorite in March.

They will reopen it to the public May 11 coinciding with the first day of the S.C. Poultry Festival, which takes place in the town.

Jacobs said opening on the first day of the town’s biggest festival is necessary, as the event brings in many attendees. She also jokingly said the boost in revenue will help with many of the expenses they endured in bringing in some finishing touches to the bar.

While the two owners are intent on keeping the bar, located at 103 Main St. in Leesville, close to its former identity, there are some touches and specials they’re bringing in.

The décor will remain the same, but they’re introducing wine slushies, wine cocktails and will have an assortment of various craft beers and wines.

They are also going to have the side alley open for people to sit outside should they opt to bring a dog or just want to sit outdoors.

The former owners originally bought the bar in 2020 but had a delayed opening due to the pandemic. After operating it for several years, Carpenter and Costner decided to step away from the bar due to other responsibilities needing their attention.

Prior to Carpenter and Costner owning the bar, it was owned by John Gray.

While there isn’t any food, people can order from elsewhere or bring in their own food, the ladies explained.

“We’ll also have pre-made charcuterie boards and snacks,” Knowlton sayd, adding that they’ve bought a new popcorn machine. T-shirts will also be available for sale.

“This is a place to come by yourself if you want and feel comfortable. There’s always someone to visit with. I’ve met people I’ve never met before.”

“We want to give them a place to call home again,” Jacobs added.

The duo compared the local and cozy bar to the famed television show “Cheers.”

“The whole community loves the place. When it closed, it left a big void,” said Knowlton. “This is something the community loves and needs. We wanted to continue to foster the culture created.”