Saluda County, South Carolina

Saluda_Theatre_(cropped)

Saluda County is a county located in the state of South Carolina, in the United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 19,875. The county seat and largest town is Saluda. The county was formed in 1896 from part of Edgefield County.

History

Saluda County was established in 1896, carved out from the larger Edgefield County. The county is named after the Saluda River, which forms part of its northern boundary. The area has a rich history, with early settlements dating back to the 18th century. The county played a role in the American Revolutionary War and has several historic sites.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 462 square miles (1,197 km²), of which 453 square miles (1,173 km²) is land and 9.3 square miles (24 km²) (2.0%) is water. The Saluda River and Lake Murray are significant bodies of water in the county.

Adjacent counties

• Newberry County - north
• Lexington County - east
• Aiken County - south
• Edgefield County - west
• Greenwood County - northwest

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 19,875 people, 7,500 households, and 5,200 families residing in the county. The population density was 44 people per square mile (17/km²). The racial makeup of the county was 65.4% White, 27.3% Black or African American, 0.3% Native American, 0.2% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 4.8% from other races, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 7.8% of the population.

Economy

The economy of Saluda County is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, and services. The county is known for its production of poultry, cattle, and timber. There are also several manufacturing plants and small businesses that contribute to the local economy.

Education

Saluda County is served by the Saluda County School District, which includes several elementary schools, a middle school, and Saluda High School. The county also has access to higher education institutions in nearby counties, including Piedmont Technical College and Newberry College.

Transportation

Major highways in Saluda County include U.S. Route 178, U.S. Route 378, and South Carolina Highway 39. The county is also served by the Saluda County Airport, which provides general aviation services.

Communities

Towns

• Saluda
• Ridge Spring
• Ward
• Monetta (partly in Aiken County)

Unincorporated communities

• Batesburg-Leesville (partly in Lexington County)
• Emory
• Fruit Hill
• Holston Crossroads

Notable people

• James Butler Hare, U.S. Representative from South Carolina
• William Barrett Travis, commander of the Texan forces at the Battle of the Alamo

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Saluda County, South Carolina
• List of counties in South Carolina