Greenville’s Naming Dilemma: Upstate vs. Upcountry and the Roots of Regional Identity

Welcome to Beautiful Greenville: Discovering the Ups and Downs of Regional Names

Greenville is a charming city nestled in the northwestern corner of South Carolina, known for its lively atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. Just a short drive from the heart of downtown, you’ll find backroads lined with luscious foliage and breathtaking mountains that make this area truly special. So, what’s the talk of the town lately? You guessed it – the age-old debate over what to call this beautiful region!

What’s in a Name? Upstate, Upcountry, or Something Else?

If you’re new to the area or just stopping by, you may hear folks chatting about the terms “Upstate” and “Upcountry.” Sounds simple, right? Well, buckle up because the naming conventions around here come with an interesting history that many locals still debate today!

The term “Upstate” often refers to the less-coastal, mountainous regions of South Carolina, encompassing an area that includes Greenville, Spartanburg, Oconee, and Pickens among others. But some aficionados of local history would argue that “Upcountry” holds a deeper identity for this region, taking us back to its roots.

A Walk Down History Lane

According to Kristen Pace, the Programs Director at the Upcountry History Museum, the name “Upcountry” originated in the colonial days when this part of South Carolina was originally inhabited by native Cherokee and Catawba tribes. Back then, settlers were more drawn to the coastal lowlands — think Charleston and its easily accessible ports. Those who ventured out further into the state began identifying the more rugged lands of the interior as the “backcountry” or the Upcountry.

As we progressed towards the American Revolution, the Lowcountry remained the heart of the population and economy. Meg Hunt, the museum’s special projects coordinator, noted that by the 1950s, “Upstate” suddenly gained popularity, but why? The switch has puzzle historians and locals, with theories ranging from marketing campaigns to a shift in public sentiment.

Boundaries and Confusion

Ask any ten people about what counties make up the Upstate, and you might as well have asked them how to solve a Rubik’s cube. Tim Todd, the director of a local tourism group, mentioned that the Upstate typically includes the five counties mentioned earlier but can also expand to include places like Laurens and Greenwood. Some maps even add Edgefield, York, and Chester, which adds to the confusion!

The Cultural Mix

In a way, the name you choose says a lot about the culture and the community. Whether it’s the “Upstate,” “Upcountry,” or even the term “Piedmont,” every name carries a story and a distinct flavor of the region. Think about the local music scene! The Piedmont blues, with artists like Mac Arnold & Plate Full O’ Blues, heralds the cultural richness of this land, showcasing how intertwined the naming and the community truly are.

Final Thoughts

To make a long story short, while some folks may prefer the term “Upstate”, others will forever hold onto “Upcountry.” As Tim Todd humorously pointed out, “If they change Lowcountry to Lowstate, I’ll change Upcountry to Upstate!” But until that day comes, many residents hold pride in the names that echo their history.

So while you’re out and about enjoying all that Greenville and its surrounding areas have to offer, keep an ear out. Whether it’s the rolling hills or quaint towns, these names reflect the spirit and resilience of the community. Here’s to gorgeous views and lively debates — that’s the heart of Greenville!