Edgefield County, South Carolina
12 Stone Monument
A History of Violence
Agricultural History
Andrew Pickens
Benjamin R. Tillman House
Benjamin Ryan Tillman
Bettis Academy
Bettis Academy
Big Stevens Creek Baptist Church (Hardy's)
Birthplace of General James Longstreet
Darby
Edgefield
Edgefield County
Edgefield County Confederate Monument
Edgefield County Veterans Memorial
Edgefield County World War I Memorial
Edgefield United Methodist Church / The Reverend Joseph Moore
Edwards Building
First Baptist Church / Village Cemetery
First Term of Court
Francis Wilkinson Pickens
George McDuffie
Governors and Lieutenant Governors from Edgefield
Horns Creek Baptist Church / Revolutionary Skirmish at Horns Creek
Horn's Creek Church
Industrial History
Israel Mukashy Building
J. Strom Thurmond
J. Strom Thurmond Birthplace
James Henry Hammond
James Strom Thurmond
John Calhoun Sheppard
John Gary Evans
Johnston
Johnston Civil War Monument
Johnston Presbyterian Church
Johnston Schools / Johnston Educators
Lott's Tavern & Post Office
Lt. General James Longstreet (1821-1904)
Lynch Building
M60A3 Main Battle Tank
Martha M. Rich Building
Milledge Luke Bonham
Mt. Canaan Baptist Church
Oakley Park Museum
Old Law Building
Old Simkins Cemetery
Original Site of Furman Academy
Piedmont Technical College, Edgefield Center
Pierce Mason Butler
Political Heritage
Religion & Education
Richard Tutt House / Tutt Cemetery
Sheppard's Crossroads
The Booth-Toney Shootout of 1878
The Jewish Merchants of Edgefield
The Name "Edgefield"
Town of Edgefield Parking Lot
Turner's Country Store
Village Academy / Furman Academy and Theological Institute
Welcome to Historic Edgefield
Welcome to Historic Edgefield
William Johnston
During the Revolutionary War, Edgefield played a significant role, with its citizens actively involved in the fight for independence. Notably, the infamous Battle of Musgrove Mill took place in the county in 1780, where local militia successfully repelled a British attack. Edgefield County also produced several influential political figures, including several governors and prominent politicians.
In the early 19th century, Edgefield became known as the "Home of Southern Statesmen" due to its many influential politicians who hailed from the area. The county had a strong agricultural economy, with cotton production being the primary industry. The region was also notorious for its high number of duels, which often settled political disputes.
As the 19th century progressed, Edgefield County experienced significant social and economic changes. The expansion of railroads and the decline of the plantation system, coupled with the aftermath of the Civil War, led to widespread poverty in the region. However, Edgefield County persevered, and by the 20th century, new industries and improvements in infrastructure helped revive the local economy.
Today, Edgefield County is a vibrant community that celebrates its heritage and maintains a balance between agriculture, industrial development, and historical preservation. The county's rich history is evident in its numerous historic sites, including the Old Edgefield District Genealogical Society and the National Wild Turkey Federation Museum. With a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its past, Edgefield County continues to thrive and evolve while honoring its roots.
Brief timeline of the history of Edgefield County, South Carolina:
- 1785: Edgefield County is established as a part of Ninety-Six District.
- 1786: Edgefield becomes its own district with its county seat in Edgefield Village.
- 1812: The town of Edgefield is incorporated.
- 1825: Construction begins on the Edgefield Railroad.
- 1830s-1850s: Edgefield thrives as a center of cotton production and political influence.
- 1861-1865: Edgefield County sends many troops to fight in the Civil War.
- 1871: The town of Edgefield is reincorporated.
- Early 1900s: Edgefield suffers economically due to the decline of agriculture.
- 1930s: The Works Progress Administration (WPA) helps to improve infrastructure and create jobs in Edgefield County.
- Present: Edgefield County is known for its historic charm, agriculture, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Edgefield County, South Carolina.