Yesterday & Today

Aiken has it all, a glorious past and a promising future!
Aiken’s history runs deep in the sand hills of western South Carolina and few cities have enjoyed as colorful and vibrant a history as Aiken. It was chartered in 1835 and named after William Aiken, president of the company that built a railroad connector from Charleston, South Carolina to Augusta, Georgia. Soon after the completion of the railroad, Aiken became a popular health resort for Low Country residents from the coast of South Carolina who were attempting to escape both the heat and malaria that plagued the coastal region. Then in 1865, Aiken made history by escaping the fiery destruction of General Sherman’s march. Five years later, the era that truly made Aiken rich in history began as wealthy Northerners, intrigued by the equestrian activities of the area, began settling in Aiken for the winter months and Aiken became known as the Winter Colony. The new residents brought with them horses, money, polo, golf, and a desire to make Aiken magnificent. Many of the buildings and facilities constructed during the era of the Winter Colony residents are still in use today.

Building upon its rich heritage of culture and history, Aiken has fashioned a bright future as an integral part of an exciting community. Aiken County’s businesses and industries are diverse and vigorous, the foundation for the economic health of the community. Housing in this appealing community is as diverse as its population with everything from apartments to affordable single-family detached homes to magnificent estates. The healthcare system is strong and operates on the leading edge of technology, and education is a priority in Aiken County all the way from pre-kindergarten to college and beyond. Shopping is available in a busy retail mall, in thriving antique markets, and in a quaint, thriving downtown. And finally, the enthusiasm and support for the arts of all kinds could rival many much larger cities.