Barnwell County is one of the oldest counties in South Carolina – it was established in 1798 and named after John Barnwell, a Revolutionary War hero. It has a rich history, which includes a number of interesting facts that many people might not know about. Here are 7 interesting facts about Barnwell County in South Carolina history.
1. The county has a rich history in pottery and ceramics. During the 19th century, the region was known for its production of stoneware pottery. In the early 20th century, Barnwell was home to the Entrekin Pottery, which produced a wide range of pottery products, including crocks, jugs, and churns.
2. Barnwell County was once home to several plantations, which produced vast crops of cotton, rice, and tobacco. One of the most famous was the White Pond Plantation, which was owned by a wealthy family for generations.
3. During the American Civil War, Barnwell County was the site of several battles and skirmishes. Both Union and Confederate forces used the county as a strategic location, and many soldiers lost their lives in the area.
4. Barnwell County was once the site of a bustling railroad industry. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, several major rail lines passed through the county, including the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad and the Charleston and Western Carolina Railway.
5. The county is home to several historic landmarks and buildings, including the US Post Office and Courthouse and the Barnwell County Courthouse. These buildings are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
6. The city of Barnwell was home to one of the first public libraries in South Carolina. The library was established in 1892 and was the only public library in the city until the 1970s.
7. Barnwell County played an important role in the civil rights movement. In 1963, several black students participated in a series of sit-ins at local lunch counters, which helped to inspire similar protests across the country. The county was also the site of several important speeches by civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr.
In conclusion, Barnwell County has a rich and fascinating history that is full of interesting facts. From its role in the pottery industry to its importance in the civil rights movement, Barnwell County has played an important role in South Carolina's history and continues to be a significant part of the state's cultural heritage today.
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