National Register Listing

Dillon Graded School and Dillon Public School

a.k.a. West School (Dillon Graded School), J.V. Martin Junior High; Dillon Public School

405 W. Washington St., Dillon, SC
Local significance of the building:
Architecture; Education

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2014.

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.

architecture education
Audiobooks about the history of South Carolina.
South Carolina was one of the original thirteen colonies that declared independence from Great Britain in 1776. However, it was also the first state to secede from the United States in 1860, which ultimately led to the Civil War.
South Carolina random facts
Dillon County, South Carolina has a rich history that dates back to its establishment in 1910. The county was named after James W. Dillon, a prominent local citizen and leader in the South Carolina Railroad Company. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Pee Dee and Catawba tribes, until European settlers arrived in the late 18th century.

During the mid-19th century, Dillon County experienced significant growth and development due to the construction of railroads, which brought new settlers and facilitated the transportation of goods and resources. The county became an important transportation hub, connecting several major cities in South Carolina. This led to the establishment of new businesses, such as sawmills and cotton mills, which further fueled economic growth.

In the early 20th century, the county faced challenges and changes brought about by the decline of the cotton industry and the Great Depression. However, Dillon County persevered through these difficult times and continued to grow, diversifying its economy by embracing agricultural products like tobacco and strawberries.

In recent years, Dillon County has focused on revitalizing its downtown area and promoting tourism. The county is known for its rich natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing in the nearby Little Pee Dee River. With its diverse history and commitment to growth, Dillon County remains a vibrant community and an important part of South Carolina's heritage.

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

  • 1887: Dillon County is established by the South Carolina General Assembly.
  • 1888: The first courthouse in Dillon County is completed.
  • 1904: The Atlantic Coast Line Railroad is extended into Dillon County, boosting economic development.
  • 1909: The town of Dillon is incorporated.
  • 1910: The town of Latta is incorporated.
  • 1925: The Dillon County Hospital opens, providing healthcare services to the community.
  • 1933: The South Carolina Highway Patrol is established in Dillon County.
  • 1976: Dillon County celebrates the United States Bicentennial with various events and festivities.
  • 1999: South of the Border, a popular tourist attraction, opens at the Dillon County and Robeson County border.
  • 2001: The newly constructed McLeod Medical Center Dillon opens, replacing the former Dillon County Hospital.