By: Natalie M. Zeigler
City Manager
On December 11, 1891, Hartsville was incorporated as a City by the South Carolina General Assembly. Sunday, December 11, 2016 marks the 125th anniversary of this date. Let us take a brief look at the origins and some of the history that has made Hartsville a home to so many.
A look into the beginnings of Hartsville shows that Hartsville was as innovative as it is today. Hartsville originally developed from Thomas Hart’s Kalmia Plantation on Black Creek in the early 19th century. His son, John Lide Hart, developed Hartsville Plantation in what is now downtown, creating a carriage factory, stea-powered sawmill, grist mill, and more. Additionally, the Coker family, most notably Major James Lide Coker, contributed much to Hartsville’s early history, including the Southern Novelty Company, forerunner of the modern major Hartsville company Sonoco and Welsh Neck High School, forerunner of Coker College. He and his family would develop a seed company, oil mill, fertilizer plant, and the iconic J.L. Coker & Company General Store, housed in a massive brick storefront which remains a downtown landmark.
Much of our rich history is survived today by many historic sites. These include Kalmia Gardens, James E. Hart House, Jacob Kelley House, Coker College, Coker Farms, and more. I encourage you to visit these sites and explore the history of our community.
In celebration of 125 years of Hartsville, the City of Hartsville and the Hartsville Museum will be planning several events from now until December 11, 2017. These events will include trivia quizzes with prizes to be won, a search for the oldest resident of Hartsville, a birthday celebration at the Hartsville Museum, and more. After the holidays, City Hall will be decorated with historical artifacts of Hartsville as well 125 years of Hartsville décor. On the 125th day of our 125th year, a celebration event will be hosted which will be on April 15, 2017. Be sure to be on the lookout for these events.
On Sunday, December 11th, we ask that all residents join us in celebrating Hartsville by posting a photo on Facebook of you and your favorite Hartsville location or at a Hartsville event and use #Hartsville125. All residents should take part in the celebration of these past 125 years and be proud of our community. From being and All- America City twice to growing for 125 years, our community has pushed through the small town stereotypes.
Visit Hartsville’s Visitor Center, the Key at 106 East Carolina Avenue or the Hartsville Museum at 222 North Fifth Street for information about Hartsville’s history and the celebration of 125 years of Hartsville.
Natalie Zeigler is the City Manager of Hartsville. For more information, call City Hall at 843-383-3015 or email info2@hartsvillesc.gov.