If you happened to drive by Slade Lake on Friday and see Edgefield mayor Ken Durham and state senator Shane Massey being ferried across the water on the back of a huge, white swan your eyes were not playing tricks on you.

The swan – just one of the seven pedal boats being offered for rent by the Slade Lake Pedal Boat Company – was no mirage.

Owners Craig and Theresa McMullin cut the ceremonial ribbon signaling an exciting new activity in town.

“It’s very encouraging having a new business opening in town,” said mayor Durham. “We are proud to have another small business here and we’re very proud to have Craig and Theresa in our family.”

Three of the boats offer canopies to offset the summer sun and 60 life vests (which must be worn by passengers at all times) are available to fit grown ups and kids in all shapes and sizes. Six of the boats can hold up to four passengers, with the swan boat capable of carrying three passengers. Each boat carries an emergency whistle.

For more information, or to schedule a trip of your own, call 803-480-2127.