A House of Untold Stories

Historical marker location:
McConnells, South Carolina
( Marker is on Brattonsville Road, 0.1 miles north of Percival Road, on the right when traveling south.)

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South Carolina is home to several historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including Claflin University, Benedict College, and South Carolina State University. These institutions played a key role in educating African Americans in the state during the era of segregation.
York County, South Carolina, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Native American tribes, including the Catawba and Cherokee, inhabited the area long before European settlers arrived. In the late 1600s, the region became part of the Province of South Carolina, established by the English crown.

During the colonial period, York County was primarily rural, with settlers engaged in agriculture and trade. The area's location along the Catawba River played a crucial role in transportation and trade routes. As tensions escalated between the American colonies and Great Britain, York County saw significant activity during the Revolutionary War. Notably, the Battle of Huck's Defeat in 1780 took place in present-day York County, marking a pivotal point in the Southern Campaign.

After the war, the economy of York County continued to rely on agriculture, particularly cotton cultivation. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century spurred economic growth and facilitated trade with neighboring regions. During this period, textile mills also began to emerge, driving industrialization and transforming the county's economy.

In the 20th century, York County experienced further growth and diversification. The establishment of Winthrop University in 1895 brought a focus on education and helped cultivate a thriving community. The county also became a hub for manufacturing and technology, attracting various industries and contributing to its economic development. Today, York County remains a vibrant region with a blend of historical heritage, natural beauty, and a diverse mix of industries.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of York County, South Carolina.

  • 1785 – York County is established as one of the original seven counties of South Carolina
  • 1823 – Yorkville, later known as York, becomes the county seat
  • 1861-1865 – York County is heavily impacted by the American Civil War
  • 1874 – The Yorkville Female College, later known as Winthrop University, is established in York
  • 1923 – The first paved road is built in York County
  • 1950s – The textile industry booms in the county, leading to significant population growth
  • 1960s – York County experiences significant civil rights movement activity
  • 1990 – Carowinds, a popular amusement park, opens on the border of York County and North Carolina
  • 2003 – The Catawba Indian Nation opens a casino in York County, contributing to its economic growth