Pre 1500
Paleo Indians inhabited the region.
1500
Paleo Indians inhabited the region.
We are a diverse collection of communities connected by a historic rail line that winds its way through our county. The railroad tells the tale of our early years and our connections to the region that surrounds us and fueled our growth. The rail is still helping us grow now in new and different ways, with the Savannah Valley Rail Trail connecting the Railtowns of McCormick County—Mt Carmel, Willington, Plum Branch, Parksville, Modoc, Clarks Hill, and McCormick, communities with names that evoke the people who inspired the history of this place. We are also newer communities like Savannah Lakes Village, where old families and newcomers alike enjoy a lifestyle on the lakefront that defines us. We are a safe and comfortable community to raise a family and enjoy life.
In the early 1700’s settlers to this region found an unspoiled area rich in natural resources. Hunters, traders, and herders made their living here. A treaty in 1947 declared there be no settling north of the boundary set along Long Cane Creek. This would prove to be instrumental in early conflicts between the settlers and the Indians. Between the early 1750s and 17770s Scots-Irish, Huguenots, and German Palatines found their way to the region. African Americans entered the area in the 1750s – mostly as slaves. One exception is noted as John Chevis, a free black carpenter from Virginia and his family located in what was known as the Stevens Creek community.
Notable conflicts in the area include the Long Cane Indian Massacre (1760) and the Battle of the Long Canes (1780). The Battle of the Long Canes was one of many battles and skirmishes fought in South Carolina during the Revolutionary War.
Learn More About the HistoryMark Warner brings 12 plus years of economic development, business development and marketing to his role as Director of Economic & Community Development. Warner has been a member of the South Carolina Economic Developers Association since 2007. Served on the SCEDA Board of Directors from 2012 to 2020, finishing his tenure as Immediate Past President. Prior to McCormick County, Warner was VP of Business Development and Marketing for Davis & Floyd. Prior to Davis & Floyd, Warner was with the Greenwood Partnership Alliance, serving as Existing Industry and Workforce Director and then Chief Executive Officer. Warner also has over 20 years’ experience in the manufacturing world.