Historical Marker

John M. Bates Bridge

Historical marker location:
near Wateree, South Carolina
( Marker is on McCords Ferry Road (U.S. 601), on the right when traveling south.)

bridges
The H.L. Hunley, a Confederate submarine that was the first submarine to sink an enemy warship in combat, was built in South Carolina. The Hunley sank the Union ship USS Housatonic in Charleston Harbor in 1864, but the submarine itself was lost at sea shortly after the attack.
South Carolina random facts
Richland County, located in the heart of South Carolina, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area was first explored by European settlers in the 1600s. The county was officially established in 1785 and named after the fertile soil found in the region. During the colonial period, Richland County played a significant role in the agricultural economy of South Carolina, with the production of indigo and rice being the primary industries.

One of the key events in Richland County's history took place during the American Revolution. In 1781, the Battle of Eutaw Springs was fought near present-day Eutawville, resulting in a significant victory for the American forces and marking a turning point in the war. This battle is commemorated today at the Battle of Eutaw Springs Historic Site.

During the antebellum period, Richland County experienced a boom in cotton production due to the introduction of the cotton gin. This led to a significant increase in the number of enslaved African Americans working on the region's plantations. Richland County also played a role in the abolitionist movement, with some residents actively opposing slavery and participating in the Underground Railroad.

After the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, Richland County underwent major changes. The county seat, Columbia, became a thriving center of industry and commerce. The construction of railroads and the establishment of educational institutions, such as the University of South Carolina, contributed to the county's growth. Today, Richland County continues to be a vibrant and diverse community, with a strong emphasis on education, culture, and economic development.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Richland County, South Carolina.

  • 1785: Richland County is established as one of the original counties in the state of South Carolina.
  • 1786: Columbia is established as the county seat and becomes the capital of South Carolina.
  • 1808: The Columbia Canal is completed, providing power for local mills and factories.
  • 1861-1865: Richland County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War, with Columbia being burned by Union troops in 1865.
  • 1870: Reconstruction begins in Richland County, with efforts to rebuild the economy and infrastructure.
  • 1905: The South Carolina State Fairgrounds open in Columbia, becoming a popular annual event for the county.
  • 1930s: Richland County experiences significant growth during the Great Depression due to New Deal projects and the establishment of Fort Jackson.
  • 1950s-1960s: The Civil Rights Movement impacts Richland County, with protests and activism for racial equality.
  • 1970s: Urban renewal efforts lead to the revitalization of downtown Columbia, with new developments and restoration projects.
  • 1990s: Richland County experiences further growth and development, becoming a hub for education, healthcare, and technology.
  • 2000s: Richland County focuses on sustainable development and infrastructure improvements to accommodate continued growth.