Batesburg- Leesville, nestled in the southeastern corner of Lexington County, boasts a population of 5,517. Once separate municipalities, these twin cities were united under a single government following a 1992 consolidation by referendum.
Batesburg was named for Andrew David (Capt. Jack) Bates, a Confederate veteran who doubled as the town’s first railroad agent and mayor. Batesburg was incorporated in 1877 and served in its early years as a railaccessible market for corn, cotton, peaches, and grain.
Leesville, a mere march to the east, was incorporated in 1875. Leesville, whose namesake was Andrew Lee, a tavern owner and ferry operator, once served as home to Leesville College. All that remains of this institution, originally chartered in 1881, is its auditorium.
Magnificent old homes, sturdy oaks, and swaying stands of pines offer up picture- perfect neighborhoods. Numerous structures and several districts within the town limits appear on the National Register of Historic Places.
Wittenberg Lutheran Church, erected in 1919 and located on N. Lee St., is but one of numerous stately houses of worship in the Batesburg- Leesville area.
Many family- owned businesses and gift shops thrive in Batesburg- Leesville. Recent business developments include the 2007 addition of a Wal- Mart Supercenter, as well as current construction on a Walgreens drugstore and a Bojangles’ restaurant. Fisher Tank Company, a producer of bulk storage tanks, recently announced plans to relocate to the Batesburg- Leesville Industrial Park.
Diners flock to regionally- renowned Shealy’s Bar- B- Que House and Jackie Hite’s Bar- B- Que. Other family- friendly restaurants also dot the area.
Batesburg- Leesville’s proximity to beautiful Lake Murray makes this area the perfect stopover for those who relish fishing, boating, and other water activities. Hunting opportunities and nearby golf courses also please visiting sportsmen.
The South Carolina Poultry Festival, slated for May 8- 9 in the Leesville Business District, is marking its 23rd year in 2009. This event spotlights the state’s $1 billion poultry agribusiness and its importance to the community. Attendees will enjoy a parade, crafts, food, car show, carnival rides, musical performances, assorted contests, and a fireworks display. For festival information, call (888) 427-7273.
The Hendrix Heights Plantation/Fox Manor on Hwy. 23 (E. Church St.) was built in 1888.
Contact the Batesburg- Leesville Chamber of Commerce and Visitors’ Center, (803) 532-4339, with any questions in regard to local businesses and services, travel information, and upcoming events.
The Hartley House, once a stagecoach mail stop, stands along Hwy. 1 (W. Columbia Ave.) Built in 1778, the home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The South Carolina Poultry Festival will celebrate its 23rd year in 2009.
Next Week: Elloree
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