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Startex, South Carolina, is a community steeped in industrial history, defined by its origins as a textile mill village and its close connection to the development of the Upstate's manufacturing economy. Located along the Middle Tyger River in western Spartanburg County, the area that became Startex was once a quiet agricultural landscape populated by small farms and family homesteads. Before European settlers arrived, the land was inhabited by Cherokee people who relied on the nearby rivers and forests for sustenance and trade. By the early 1800s, settlers of Scots-Irish descent had established farms along the Tyger River, cultivating cotton, corn, and tobacco while building the first churches and schools that would later serve the growing community.

The town's transformation began in the late 19th century with the founding of the Startex Mill, originally known as the Tucapau Manufacturing Company, in 1896. The mill was built by a group of industrial investors who recognized the potential of the Tyger River's water power. As the mill expanded, the surrounding community grew rapidly to accommodate the workforce. Rows of mill houses, a company store, and community buildings were constructed, forming what became known as a "mill village." In 1936, the mill changed ownership and its name was officially changed to the Startex Mill — the name that would also come to define the town itself. For much of the 20th century, the mill was the heart of the community, providing employment, housing, and social structure to generations of residents.

Startex flourished during the early and mid-20th century as the textile industry became the backbone of Spartanburg County's economy. The mill produced a variety of cotton goods, and the community developed a strong sense of identity centered on hard work, faith, and camaraderie. Life revolved around the mill's rhythms, with families attending church on Sundays, children attending local schools supported by the company, and neighbors gathering for picnics and baseball games. During this time, the Startex area benefited from improved transportation networks, including U.S. Route 29 and later Interstate 85, which enhanced connections to Spartanburg, Greer, and Greenville.

However, like many mill towns in the Southeast, Startex faced economic challenges as the textile industry began to decline in the latter half of the 20th century. Globalization, automation, and the relocation of manufacturing jobs overseas led to the eventual closure of the Startex Mill in 1998 after more than a century of operation. The closure marked the end of an era but also the beginning of a period of transformation. The community adapted by diversifying its economy, with many residents finding employment in Spartanburg's growing automotive, logistics, and service sectors. While the mill buildings fell silent, the spirit of the Startex community remained strong, characterized by resilience and pride in its heritage.

Today, Startex retains much of its historical charm while embracing a new future. Many of the original mill homes have been restored, and the layout of the old village remains evident in its close-knit streets and tree-lined neighborhoods. The Middle Tyger River continues to provide natural beauty and recreational opportunities, attracting those who appreciate quiet living within reach of Spartanburg's urban amenities. Efforts to preserve the town's industrial heritage, including the old mill site, underscore a broader recognition of the community's significance in South Carolina's textile history. Modern Startex blends small-town tranquility with access to major regional employers, schools, and highways, making it a desirable place for families and professionals seeking a balance between history and progress.