William Maxwell Poe Plaza

Pickens County, located in the northwest corner of South Carolina, has a rich and diverse history that spans centuries. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, who hunted and farmed the land. In the late 1700s, European settlers began to arrive, drawn by the fertile soil and abundant resources.

In 1828, Pickens District was officially established, named after General Andrew Pickens, a Revolutionary War hero. The district remained largely agricultural throughout the 19th century, with cotton as the main cash crop. The construction of railroad lines in the late 1800s brought new opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the growth of small towns within the county.

In the early 20th century, Pickens County faced significant challenges due to the Great Depression and the decline of the cotton industry. However, the county eventually rebounded through diversification and the growth of industries such as textiles, timber, and hydroelectric power. The establishment of Clemson University in 1889 also had a major impact, bringing education and research opportunities to the area and contributing to its economic development.

Today, Pickens County continues to evolve and thrive. It is home to a variety of industries, including advanced manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace, as well as a growing tourism sector. The county's natural beauty, which includes the Blue Ridge Mountains and numerous lakes and parks, attracts visitors from across the region. While agriculture remains an important part of the economy, Pickens County has successfully adapted to new challenges and opportunities, shaping its history into a story of resilience and progress.