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The community of Fair Play, South Carolina, rests near the border of Georgia in the southwestern corner of Oconee County. The area's early history is deeply rooted in Native American culture, particularly that of the Cherokee, who inhabited this land long before European settlers arrived. The region's rolling hills, rich forests, and proximity to rivers such as the Tugaloo and Seneca made it an ideal location for hunting, fishing, and trading. The name "Fair Play" is said to have originated from an incident among early settlers, when a dispute was settled amicably and fairly—hence the phrase "let's have fair play." Established in the early 19th century, the settlement developed around small farms and trading posts that served travelers moving between the South Carolina Piedmont and northeastern Georgia.

Agriculture quickly became the foundation of Fair Play's economy. Cotton, corn, and livestock were the dominant products of the area throughout the 19th century, with farms spread across the fertile valleys near the Tugaloo River. In time, sawmills and gristmills appeared along local creeks, helping to process the bounty of the land and support a growing rural economy. The rise of the textile industry in nearby Seneca and Anderson during the late 1800s provided new employment opportunities, while the construction of rail lines across Oconee County gave Fair Play residents better access to trade routes and supplies. Though the community itself remained small, its proximity to Lake Hartwell—created by the damming of the Savannah River in the 1960s—later transformed the local landscape and opened the area to tourism and recreation.

The development of Lake Hartwell marked one of the most significant shifts in Fair Play's history. As part of a major federal project for hydroelectric power, flood control, and water recreation, the lake's creation in 1962 submerged parts of the old Tugaloo River Valley but brought lasting benefits. Roads were rerouted, new bridges were built, and the region became a magnet for lakefront living. Interstate 85, completed nearby in the 1960s, provided direct highway access connecting Fair Play to major urban centers such as Greenville and Atlanta. These transportation improvements not only boosted tourism but also drew new residents seeking the beauty and serenity of lakeside life combined with easy commutes to city amenities.

Culturally, Fair Play has retained the close-knit feel of a Southern rural community while embracing the diversity and growth that lakefront living brings. Churches remain at the heart of local life, serving as centers for worship, fellowship, and community outreach. The schools and recreational facilities in the area have expanded in step with population growth, offering residents of all ages opportunities to learn, play, and gather. Despite modernization, the town's historical character persists, with old farmhouses, scenic countryside roads, and heritage landmarks scattered throughout Oconee County reflecting centuries of endurance and tradition.

Today, Fair Play represents a harmonious blend of natural beauty, peaceful living, and convenience. The area is known for its stunning lakefront homes, recreational boating, fishing, and outdoor activities around Lake Hartwell. Its location at the crossroads of Interstate 85 makes it a popular destination for retirees, families, and weekend visitors from Georgia and South Carolina alike. With its picturesque landscapes, strong community spirit, and easy access to nearby towns such as Seneca and Anderson, Fair Play continues to embody its name—a place of balance, fairness, and Southern grace where the pace of life slows just enough to appreciate the beauty of the Upstate region.