Reflections
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This is part two of a two-part Reflections series about the 200th anniversary of Sumter's First Presbyterian Church. Read the first part of this series at www.theitem.com/reflections. In 1957, an article appearing in The Item noted that Dr. … more
Reflections revisits the origin of the First Presbyterian Church of Sumter. This house of worship will celebrate its 200th year of service to the Sumter community this May 2023. The Item reports that, "The church traces its lineage through Concord … more
This issue of Reflections looks back at the growth and development of Caldwell Street and the businesses once located there. This short street originally served as the southern boundary of the downtown area; however, it also served as the building … more
Reflections remembers the photographic genius of Heyward Crowson, Item photographer for more than 40 years. His thousands of photos have helped Sumter residents document numerous buildings, individuals and events which constitute our community's … more
Reflections revisits the establishment of one of Sumter's oldest businesses, the ice factory. The production of ice proved to be essential in storage of food and medical products. Sumter proved to be at the forefront of ice production and the … more
Reflections recognizes Sumter's Chapter of the American Legion, its origin, and, according to Cassie Nicholes, "the notable impact it has had on the life of Sumter through various activities, especially those provided for the youth of the area." The … more
Reflections revisits a period of rapid industrial growth in Sumter during the 19th century. This growth was chronicled in detail by Dr. Anne King Gregorie as she recorded her research in History of Sumter County. Because of the amount of data … more
Part 2 of Reflections continues its focus on some prominent women in Sumter's history. Information and photos used to prepare this piece were taken from The Sumter Item archives and the writings of Cassie Nicholes. Part one can be read in the March … more
Reflections focuses upon women who have made viable contributions to the Sumter community. This piece will be presented in two parts because of its length. The information and photos used in this article were obtained from The Sumter Item archives … more
Reflections revisits the fledgling community of Sumterville and its growth during its early development. Many historians share the belief that its growth was hindered primarily because it was a little crossroads in the middle of swampy forest where … more
Reflections revisits the construction of the Elks swimming pool and the reasons for building this facility. An announcement in August 1948 indicated that the service club on Broad Street was to begin with the drilling of two wells; approval for this … more
This issue of Reflections features Coker's Department Store, one of Sumter's most popular, high-end commercial enterprises. This fashionable, well-designed business originated in Hartsville, South Carolina. The store was one of the primary … more
Reflections revisits the 1930s and marvels at the dynamic expansion of Sumter. The growth of city services and industrial expansion made the once predominantly agricultural community into a city which offered modern conveniences to its citizenry. … more
Reflections revisits Harvin Street, one of Sumter's nine original streets according to a plat prepared by W. L. Brunson, surveyor, on Oct. 9, 1817. According to Cassie Nicholes in Historical Sketches of Sumter County, Volume II, this busy road was … more
Reflections celebrates Black History Month by revisiting the founding of Black education in Sumter during the 1868-88 timeframe. During this period, the citizenry was concerned with the development of a free public education school system. This period … more
Reflections revisits one of Sumter's important financial structures, The Bank of Sumter. This enduring edifice remained intact for more than a century and continues to function as an important segment of downtown Sumter. The data and photos used to … more
Reflections revisits the life and times of Dr. A. J. China and recalls his numerous innovations and successes in the field of pharmacy. The data and photos used to prepare this article were obtained from The Sumter Item archives and the writings of … more
Reflections revisits one of Sumter’s most memorable restaurants, Big Jim’s. This culinary magnet is etched in the memories of countless Sumterites who ate at the restaurant or its … more
Reflections revisits two of Sumter's successful business establishments during the 1930s: The Whilden-Clements Livestock Co. and The White-Kennedy Shoe Store. These two commercial outlets demonstrated creativity and a willingness to meet the demands … more
This issue of Reflections revisits two of the most respected female educational institutions, St. Joseph's Academy and the Sumter Institute. Research indicates that women seeking a quality education migrated to these schools from all parts of the … more
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