Spartanburg, South Carolina
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| Spartanburg, South Carolina | |
|---|---|
| Name | Spartanburg |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | The Hub City |
| Motto | "Always doing" |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision type2 | County |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision name1 | South Carolina |
| Subdivision name2 | Spartanburg |
| Established title | Founded |
| Established date | 1831 |
| Government type | Council–manager |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Jerome Rice |
| Area total km2 | 51.48 |
| Area total sq mi | 19.88 |
| Population total | 38,732 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 752.4 |
| Population density sq mi | 1947.8 |
| Timezone | Eastern (EST) |
| Utc offset | −5 |
| Timezone DST | EDT |
| Utc offset DST | −4 |
| Coordinates | 34, 56, 48, N... |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 29301–29307, 29316 |
| Area code | 864 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 45-68290 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 1250968 |
| Website | www.cityofspartanburg.org |
Spartanburg, South Carolina is the county seat of Spartanburg County and a major city within the Upstate region. Incorporated in 1831, its growth was historically tied to the textile industry and its strategic position as a railroad junction, earning it the nickname "The Hub City." Today, it is an economic and cultural center known for its higher education institutions, international corporate presence, and vibrant downtown revitalization.
History
The area was originally part of the traditional territory of the Cherokee and was settled by European Americans following treaties like the Treaty of 1755 and the later Treaty of Dewitt's Corner. The county was formed in 1785 and named for the Spartan Regiment of the South Carolina militia during the American Revolutionary War. The city's founding and early expansion were propelled by the arrival of the Spartanburg and Union Railroad and the Greenville and Columbia Railroad, cementing its role as a transportation hub. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a boom with the establishment of numerous textile mills, attracting companies like Milliken & Company and solidifying the region as a center for cotton manufacturing. Significant 20th-century events include the 1934 General Textile Strike of 1934 and the city's role as a training site for the United States Army during World War I at Camp Wadsworth.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 19.88 square miles, nearly all of which is land. It lies within the Piedmont region, characterized by rolling hills, and is part of the Broad River watershed. Major waterways include the Tyger River and Lawson's Fork Creek. The city's layout radiates from a central downtown, with interstates I-26 and I-85 forming a major crossroads just north of the city center, a critical node in the Interstate Highway System of the Southeastern United States.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 38,732. The racial composition was diverse, with significant African American and White populations, and growing communities of Hispanic and Asian residents. The city is home to several institutions of higher learning that shape its demographic profile, including Wofford College, Converse University, the University of South Carolina Upstate, and Spartanburg Methodist College. These institutions, alongside major employers like BMW Manufacturing Co. and Denny's corporate headquarters, contribute to a steady flow of students and professionals.
Economy
Spartanburg has transitioned from a textile-dominated economy to a diversified base with strong manufacturing, healthcare, and corporate sectors. The landmark 1992 decision by BMW to establish its only North American manufacturing plant in Greer, within Spartanburg County, catalyzed a major influx of international automotive industry suppliers and advanced manufacturing. Other major corporate headquarters include Denny's and Extended Stay America. The Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is a leading employer, and the city serves as a hub for logistics and distribution, leveraging its interstate network. Organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Futures Group actively promote development.
Culture and recreation
The city's cultural scene is anchored by venues like the Chapman Cultural Center, home to the Spartanburg Art Museum, the Spartanburg Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Spartanburg Little Theatre. Annual events include the Spring Fling festival and the internationally renowned BMW Charity Pro-Am golf tournament. The Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium hosts major concerts and events. Recreational assets include numerous parks, the Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The city is also known for its support of the arts through the Spartanburg County Public Libraries system and its historic districts, such as the Hampton Heights Historic District.
Government
Spartanburg operates under a council–manager form of government. The legislative body is the Spartanburg City Council, composed of a mayor, elected at-large, and six council members elected from single-member districts. The council appoints a professional city manager to oversee daily administrative operations. The current mayor is Jerome Rice. Key city departments include the Spartanburg Police Department and the Spartanburg Fire Department. The city government works in conjunction with Spartanburg County administration and federal representatives like those from South Carolina's 4th congressional district.
Category:Cities in South Carolina Category:Spartanburg County, South Carolina Category:County seats in South Carolina