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The area now known as Duncan, South Carolina, traces its roots to the early settlement of Spartanburg County in the 18th century. Before European settlers arrived, the region was part of the ancestral lands of the Cherokee Nation, whose people relied on the abundant rivers and forested hills for sustenance. The arrival of Scots-Irish and English settlers in the late 1700s marked the beginning of permanent agricultural development. The fertile land and proximity to water sources such as the Middle Tyger River made the area ideal for small farms and trading posts. Duncan was officially founded in the late 1800s and named after Zachary Taylor Duncan, a local businessman and landowner who played a major role in the town's early development.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Duncan thrived as part of the booming textile corridor of upstate South Carolina. The establishment of the Pacific Mills textile plant in nearby Lyman and other mill operations in the region brought jobs and prosperity to local residents. Cotton farming dominated the landscape, and the arrival of the railroad transformed Duncan into an important shipping and industrial hub. The town became a key point along the Southern Railway line between Spartanburg and Greenville, enabling the easy transport of goods, materials, and people. Stores, schools, and churches flourished as Duncan evolved from a rural settlement into a vibrant small town.

Infrastructure improvements in the 20th century further shaped Duncan's identity. The construction of U.S. Highway 29 and, later, Interstate 85 positioned Duncan at the heart of one of the most active commercial corridors in the Upstate. The proximity to both Greenville and Spartanburg attracted manufacturing and logistics companies, which continue to anchor the local economy. The BMW manufacturing plant in nearby Greer, established in the 1990s, brought a surge of growth and development to the surrounding region, including Duncan. New roads, industrial parks, and housing developments followed, cementing Duncan's role as a strategic residential and business community.

Despite its economic growth, Duncan has maintained a strong sense of community and small-town charm. Residents take pride in the area's history and close-knit spirit. Churches and schools have long been at the center of local life, and community events such as parades, seasonal markets, and sports gatherings bring people together. The town's blend of long-time residents and newcomers reflects a balance between heritage and progress. Duncan's proximity to major cities has also encouraged cultural exchange, as residents enjoy easy access to arts, dining, and entertainment while maintaining a peaceful suburban lifestyle.

Today, Duncan stands as one of Spartanburg County's most dynamic and desirable communities. Its location between Greenville and Spartanburg makes it a prime destination for families and professionals seeking affordable housing, excellent schools, and employment opportunities. Modern amenities such as parks, restaurants, and retail developments coexist alongside historic sites and quiet neighborhoods. The town's continued growth reflects the broader economic vitality of the Upstate region while preserving the hospitality and tradition that have defined Duncan for generations. With its blend of history, industry, and community spirit, Duncan represents the enduring strength of small-town South Carolina.