Great Falls, South Carolina

Great Falls, South Carolina
Town
Location of Great Falls, South Carolina
Coordinates: 34°34′10″N 80°54′0″W Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed.
Country	United States
State	South Carolina
County	Chester
Incorporated	1905
Area
• Total	4.4 sq mi (11 km2)
• Land	4.3 sq mi (11 km2)
• Water	0.1 sq mi (0.3 km2)
Elevation	354 ft (108 m)
Population  (2020)
• Total	1,951
• Density	440/sq mi (170/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP code	29055
Area code(s)	803
FIPS code	45-30395
GNIS feature ID	1245830

Great Falls is a town in Chester County, South Carolina, United States. The population was 1,951 at the 2020 census. The town is known for its proximity to the Catawba River and the Great Falls of the Catawba, a series of rapids and waterfalls that have historically been a source of power and recreation.

History

The area now known as Great Falls was originally inhabited by the Catawba and other indigenous tribes. European settlers arrived in the 18th century, and the town was officially incorporated in 1905. The development of the town was closely tied to the establishment of textile mills, which utilized the water power from the Catawba River.

In the early 20th century, the Southern Power Company, which later became Duke Energy, constructed a series of dams and hydroelectric plants along the river, further boosting the local economy. The town's economy was historically dependent on the textile industry, but like many such towns, it faced economic challenges as the industry declined in the late 20th century.

Geography

Great Falls is located at 34°34′10″N 80°54′0″W

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. According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.4 square miles, of which 4.3 square miles is land and 0.1 square miles is water.

The town is situated near the Catawba River, which provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The Great Falls of the Catawba are a notable natural feature, attracting visitors to the area.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 1,951 people, 800 households, and 500 families residing in the town. The population density was approximately 453.7 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the town was diverse, with a significant percentage of African American residents.

Economy

The economy of Great Falls has historically been centered around the textile industry, but in recent years, efforts have been made to diversify the local economy. The town is exploring opportunities in tourism, particularly related to its natural attractions and historical sites.

Education

Great Falls is served by the Chester County School District. The town has several public schools, including Great Falls Elementary School, Great Falls Middle School, and Great Falls High School.

Notable People

• Billy Graham, a famous evangelist, was born near Great Falls.
• James Brown, the "Godfather of Soul," spent part of his childhood in the area.

External Links

• Town of Great Falls Official Website
• Chester County Government