City Spotlight
Spartanburg
Spartanburg, Sparkle City, Home of Food Network Famous 'Beacon Restaurant'. Greenville may be the powerhouse, but Spartanburg is like the nagging younger sibling that's gradually making a name for itself.
History
In 1753, settlers reached a treaty with the Cherokee Indians allowing the area to be opened for settlers. Spartan County (later renamed Spartanburg District) got its name from a local militia unit that fought in the Revolutionary War, the Spartan Regiment. During the Revolutionary War, Spartanburg County was home to more battle sites than anywhere else in the U.S., most notably, Cowpens Battlefield. In 1831, Spartanburg received its current name along with its nickname "Hub City" due to the wheel hub shape from the railroad lines. Spartanburg holds the impressive title as being home to the first airport in South Carolina. Opening in 1927, Charles Lindbergh made a famous pit stop during his 48 state tour. It also became the state's first airport with direct mail service (take that GSP!). If you've ever taken a drive around town, you will surely notice the run-down mills and vast mill villages. That's because the textile mills are what made the area economically sound. After the World Wars, the Spartanburg economy began to shift from relying on textiles to relying on the automobile industry. Today, Spartanburg is home to make international companies, including Milliken & Co., CH2MHill, and Michelin.
What It's Known For
Like I mentioned before, Spartanburg was once a textile mecca (you can still wander around some of the old mill foundations, but I'll get to that later.) Over time, it became famous for its production. From automobile parts to peaches, they make everything!
What Can You Do There?
The mills that once housed the great machinery of the past may not be used for production anymore, but they're great for entertaining. Some are renovated to live in, others are perfect for outdoor weddings. Glendale Shoals Preserve is only one of the old mills that has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind park. Anxious to catch a play or see some local art work? The Chapman Cultural Center offers art galleries, arts and humanities classes, interactive science exhibits, and amazing theater productions. Local brewery R.J. Rockers is conveniently located in Downtown within walking distance to numerous restaurants, boutiques, and 4 star hotels. The Carolina Panthers Training Camp is held at Wofford College every summer and sometimes, if you're lucky, you catch a glimpse of some famous faces roaming the Downtown area.
Why It's a Great Place to Live
Whether you're young or old, outdoorsy or not, Spartanburg has something for you. Spring and summer there are multiple parks and trails to explore while fall and winter bring ice skating and family festivals. If being outdoors isn't your thing, there is always something going on at one of the local colleges or even historical homes to tour. One of the best things about living there though is the food! Fresh, local produce at the Hub City Farmers Market gives locals a rare opportunity to know exactly where their food came from. Add to that the award-winning restaurants and it's possible you'd spend all of your time just trying new cuisine. No matter what, a friendly face is always there to welcome you!
If you would like more information on the Spartanburg area, call our office 864-895-9791.