Greenville (SC)

In a state famous for secession and Old South ideals, Greenville stands as one of South Carolina's most precocious and complex communities. Settled in the inviting shadows of Paris Mountain along the Reedy River, both city and county struggle between the traditional values of a distinct Southern heritage and the progressive trends of a growing and diverse population. Throughout the mid-1800s to the late 1960s, Greenville embraced, even thrived, on this conflict, turning tension into opportunity and creating a remarkable society of savvy entrepreneurs, enlightened educators, talented writers, and triumphant athletes. In this volume of over 200 seldom-seen images, Greenville offers a fascinating glimpse at the people, the schools, and the businesses that dramatically transformed a Tory plantation into a sprawling metropolis. From the rustic portraits of mineral springs and mansion resorts to the snapshots of fast trolleys and overcrowded cantonments, this book highlights a special place that was home to "Shoeless" Joe Jackson and Jesse Jackson and played host to global notables, such as Albert Einstein and Ronald Reagan. With the help of Greenville Tech, Furman University, the South Caroliniana Library, and other archives, local historian Piper Peters Aheron has compiled a visual treasure of yesteryear that truly captures the energy and indomitable spirit of Greenville. Whether a longtime county resident or a visitor to the city, every reader will be intrigued as history repeats itself on the pages and in the images that depict an area and a people noted for a vitality and beauty that will last well into the next century. - Back cover.