South Main Historic District
S. Main between E. Harris and W. Ridge Sts., Bishopville, SC Local significance of the district: Politics/government; Architecture
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
South Carolina was the site of the first battle of the Civil War. In April 1861, Confederate forces fired on Fort Sumter, a federal fort located in Charleston Harbor. The bombardment lasted for 34 hours and resulted in the surrender of the fort to the Confederates.
About Lee County
Lee County Timeline
Lee County, South Carolina has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement by European colonizers. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Catawba and Cheraw, who lived off the land and established their own communities. However, the arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century completely transformed the region.
In 1795, Lee County was officially established and named after Light Horse Harry Lee, a Revolutionary War hero. During this time, the county's economy primarily relied on agriculture, with cotton being the main cash crop. The fertile soil and warm climate made it an ideal location for large plantations, leading to the rise of slavery and a vibrant plantation society.
The outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 greatly impacted Lee County. The county saw heavy military activity due to its strategic location on the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Battles and skirmishes occurred in various parts of the county, leaving a lasting impact on the community. After the war, Lee County struggled to recover from the devastation and economic decline caused by the conflict, as well as the abolition of slavery.
Throughout the 20th century, Lee County experienced significant changes. The rise of the railroad and the expansion of industry brought new opportunities for economic growth. However, the county also faced the challenges of racial segregation and the fight for civil rights. Over time, Lee County has worked towards progress and development, with a focus on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Today, Lee County continues to evolve and adapt to changing times. It remains a vibrant community with a diverse population and a strong sense of heritage. The county's rich history is celebrated through various cultural events, museums, and historical landmarks that showcase its past and provide a glimpse into the significant milestones that have shaped Lee County.
In 1795, Lee County was officially established and named after Light Horse Harry Lee, a Revolutionary War hero. During this time, the county's economy primarily relied on agriculture, with cotton being the main cash crop. The fertile soil and warm climate made it an ideal location for large plantations, leading to the rise of slavery and a vibrant plantation society.
The outbreak of the Civil War in 1861 greatly impacted Lee County. The county saw heavy military activity due to its strategic location on the North Carolina-South Carolina border. Battles and skirmishes occurred in various parts of the county, leaving a lasting impact on the community. After the war, Lee County struggled to recover from the devastation and economic decline caused by the conflict, as well as the abolition of slavery.
Throughout the 20th century, Lee County experienced significant changes. The rise of the railroad and the expansion of industry brought new opportunities for economic growth. However, the county also faced the challenges of racial segregation and the fight for civil rights. Over time, Lee County has worked towards progress and development, with a focus on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Today, Lee County continues to evolve and adapt to changing times. It remains a vibrant community with a diverse population and a strong sense of heritage. The county's rich history is celebrated through various cultural events, museums, and historical landmarks that showcase its past and provide a glimpse into the significant milestones that have shaped Lee County.
Lee County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Lee County, South Carolina.
- 1902 - Lee County is formed from parts of Darlington County, Kershaw County, and Sumter County.
- 1903 - The town of Bishopville becomes the county seat of Lee County.
- Early 1900s - Lee County experiences rapid growth due to the establishment of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the abundance of timber and agricultural resources.
- 1924 - Lee County Courthouse, a historic Neoclassical Revival building, is constructed in Bishopville.
- 1930s-1940s - Lee County is primarily an agricultural community, with cotton being the main cash crop.
- 1950s-1960s - Lee County faces challenges due to the decline of the cotton industry and the migration of rural residents to urban areas.
- 1970s-1980s - Lee County experiences industrial growth with the establishment of manufacturing plants, particularly in the automotive industry.
- 1990s-present - Lee County continues to diversify its economy, focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and tourism.