How Does Greenville Define South Carolina?

This past weekend, I spent some time in Charleston and at the beach, taking in some of the last of the warm weather before fall really does make an appearance beyond the official calendar change in season. And, while I was walking around some of the ancient streets surrounding the Citadel and the College of Charleston, I had a moment of introspection about what it really means to be a South Carolinian.

I have spent a lot of my life in South Carolina. I grew up in the Sandhills, visited the coast a lot growing up, and now have spent the past almost five years in the Upstate. One thing that I have found interesting now that I have seen most of the state is the vast differences that are present here.

I think of the Low Country with its signature Palmetto trees, frogmore stew and historical landmarks. The Pee Dee region with its rolling farm land, charming communities and stock car culture. The Upstate with its place at the foot of the mountains, the mysterious Dark Corner and as the destination for automotive research.

While there are certainly plenty of other things to say about the various regions of our state, the example of these three alone show the diversity of South Carolina.

One thing I often hear about is the competition between regions on who defines South Carolina the most. When people in other states think about South Carolina do they picture Rainbow Row in Charleston or Greenville’s downtown with its signature suspension bridge and twinkle-lighted trees? Or, do they picture tobacco fields and farmers in overalls and bare feet? Do they see rundown schools along what has come to be known as the “Corridor of Shame?” Do they know about the moss-laden oaks lining the streets of our coastal communities or our natural waterfalls and upstate apple orchards?

It is no surprise to anyone that South Carolina has had a struggle with image for quite a while. From our staggering education statistics to our clinging historical baggage associated with racism, we have had a lot to overcome as a state.

So, where does Greenville fit in this effort to improve the image of South Carolina and how does it help define for outsiders what our state is all about?

What do you think? Email me at kate@greenvilleforward.com and share your thoughts.