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Piedmont, South Carolina, is a historic community situated along the Saluda River that straddles both Greenville and Anderson counties. Long before European settlement, the region was inhabited by Cherokee people who relied on the river for sustenance and travel. The area's fertile soil, gentle slopes, and abundant waterways made it ideal for early farming communities that emerged in the late 1700s as Scots-Irish and English settlers moved southward into the Carolina backcountry. Originally called "Gantt's Ferry," the site gained early prominence as a key river crossing and trading spot.

The defining moment for Piedmont came in the late 19th century when Henry Pinckney Hammett, a visionary entrepreneur, established the Piedmont Manufacturing Company in 1876. The mill harnessed the power of the Saluda River to generate electricity, becoming one of the first fully electric textile mills in the United States. This innovation marked Piedmont as a pioneer in the industrial South and catalyzed a wave of growth. The mill complex included worker housing, stores, and schools, forming a self-sufficient mill village that reflected both progress and community spirit. For decades, the hum of the textile industry shaped the lives of generations of residents and provided economic stability for the region.

Infrastructure played a crucial role in Piedmont's evolution. Railroads arrived in the late 19th century, connecting the community to Greenville, Anderson, and broader commercial networks across the Carolinas and Georgia. The development of U.S. Highway 25 further linked Piedmont to Greenville's growing urban economy and opened the area to commuters and modern commerce. The Saluda River, once a source of industrial power, gradually transitioned into a recreational and environmental asset, forming a scenic corridor that anchors much of the town's natural beauty today.

Throughout the 20th century, Piedmont maintained its reputation as a close-knit community defined by industriousness, faith, and tradition. The decline of the textile industry in the mid-to-late 20th century prompted economic restructuring, but the spirit of innovation and resilience endured. Historic buildings such as the original Piedmont Mill and surrounding mill village homes stand as reminders of the town's heritage. Churches, civic groups, and community events such as seasonal festivals and local markets have kept the town's social fabric vibrant and inclusive.

Today, Piedmont enjoys renewed interest as a desirable place to live, balancing historic charm with convenient access to the rapidly expanding Greenville metro area. The community has experienced residential and commercial growth, with new housing developments, small businesses, and family-friendly amenities emerging. Its proximity to the Saluda River offers scenic outdoor opportunities, while its roots in industrial history give the town a strong sense of identity and pride. Piedmont represents the best of small-town South Carolina — a blend of heritage, community, and modern opportunity that continues to attract residents seeking quality of life and connection.