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Great Falls, South Carolina, is a small but historically rich town in southeastern Chester County, named for the series of dramatic rapids and waterfalls along the Catawba River that define its geography. Before European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Catawba Nation, who thrived along the fertile riverbanks and used the falls for fishing and trade. The region became part of the expanding Carolina frontier in the 18th century, attracting settlers of Scotch-Irish and English descent. These early settlers were drawn by the river's power potential, abundant timber, and agricultural opportunities. By the 19th century, the area around the Catawba Falls had become recognized for its industrial promise, particularly for hydropower and textile production—a promise that would later define the town's identity.

The establishment of Great Falls as an industrial town was driven by the Southern Power Company (which later became Duke Energy) in the early 1900s. Recognizing the Catawba River's potential for hydroelectric energy, engineers constructed a series of dams and powerhouses to generate electricity for textile mills and surrounding communities. The resulting energy infrastructure gave rise to the Republic Cotton Mills, which officially founded the town of Great Falls in 1909. The mills attracted workers from across the Carolinas, and entire neighborhoods were built to house employees and their families. Mill life shaped the early social and economic structure of the town, and for decades, Great Falls thrived as a bustling textile community.

Infrastructure expansion throughout the 20th century further connected Great Falls to the region. U.S. Highway 21 and South Carolina Highway 200 became vital transportation corridors, linking the town to Lancaster, Chester, and Columbia. The railroad, which once transported raw materials and finished goods to larger markets, played an important role in the community's early growth. However, like many mill towns, Great Falls experienced significant changes as the textile industry declined in the latter half of the century. The closing of the mills led to economic hardship, but also to a renewed focus on community revitalization, natural resource conservation, and heritage preservation. The hydroelectric plants along the Catawba River continued to operate, serving as both a historic and functional backbone of the town's economy.

Culturally, Great Falls has retained a strong sense of identity rooted in its working-class history and natural environment. The town's close-knit population celebrates its heritage through local events, community gatherings, and preservation efforts. Sites such as the Great Falls Visitor Center and the Catawba River Blueway highlight the area's ecological and historical significance. The river, once a symbol of industry, has become a recreational focal point, attracting kayakers, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the state. Schools, churches, and civic organizations continue to serve as anchors of local life, fostering a spirit of cooperation and resilience among residents.

Today, Great Falls is undergoing a quiet resurgence. With its scenic riverfront, small-town charm, and proximity to major urban centers like Charlotte and Columbia, it is increasingly attracting attention as a destination for outdoor recreation and rural living. Efforts by Duke Energy and the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation to restore the Great Falls Whitewater Area have brought new economic and environmental vitality to the town. Modern residents enjoy access to natural beauty, affordable housing, and a slower pace of life while remaining connected to regional opportunities. Great Falls embodies the story of South Carolina's transformation—a place where industry, nature, and community spirit converge to create a uniquely resilient and welcoming town.