Welcome to the "White Rose
City," whose tree-lined streets, historic homes,
and warm, friendly people will make you vividly
aware of the rich heritage and charm that is
York, South Carolina.
Originally called Fergus Crossroads, the town of
Yorkville was established as the county seat in
1785.
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The
commercial district developed along the intersection of the
stagecoach routes that formed Fergus Crossroads. Throughout
the first half of the 19th century, Yorkville prospered and
became a commercial and cultural center for the upcountry.
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The
Civil War severely disrupted commerce as well as many
lives. But in the 1890's, financial stability returned
with the establishment of the first cotton mills. As
the town entered the 20th century, textiles became the
dominant economic force, one that would continue to
drive the area's economy for decades.
York's
distinguished history and rich
architectural heritage have been
preserved through concerted community
effort. Dedicated individuals and
groups, such as the Yorkville Historical
Society, help to perpetuate the town's
living history. York has one of the
largest historical districts in the
United States.
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Welcome
to Sharon, a close-knit community of 700 residents that lies in
the heart of historic Western York County. Established in 1889
when the Chicago, Cincinnati, and Charleston Railroad built a
trunk line across York County, Sharon received its name from the
Sharon Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, which was
organized nearby in 1792.
Most
of Sharon's commercial district is listed on the
National Register of Historic Buildings. The
beautifully restored Hill Building was built in 1913
and was the home of Hill Mercantile and Planters
Bank. Other distinguished examples of architecture
relating to the cotton based economy can be seen
throughout the town.
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The
Rainey House, restyled in 1906 causes the visitor to
recall the Old South and serves as Sharon's own
Tara. Bearing the name of one of the town's
commercial leaders from earlier days, it overlooks
the commercial district and the Rainey Cotton Gin,
one of the most unusual gin houses in the state.
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Pride
in the community and its rich history prompted the
town of Sharon and the Broad River Basin Historical
Society to establish the Museum of Western York
County in June of 2003. The Museum has more than
3000 square feet of exhibit space that offers its
visitors a relaxed opportunity to recall, reminisce,
and wonder about former years.
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