News Summary
The historic clock tower in Spartanburg is at risk of relocation due to urban development plans proposed by The Johnson Group. City officials confirmed the need for dismantling the clock tower to make room for a new hotel and mixed-use development. The clock, initially unveiled in 1979, holds significant historical value, embodying local pride and history. Citizens are rallying against its removal, urging the preservation of such an iconic structure as discussions on the project continue.
Spartanburg, South Carolina – The historic clock tower in Spartanburg is facing potential relocation due to urban development plans that require its removal. A new hotel, along with a mixed-use development at the corner of West Main and Spring streets, has been proposed by The Johnson Group, and City Manager Chris Story confirmed that the clock tower would need to be dismantled as part of this project during a city council meeting on July 14.
The clock tower, originally unveiled in 1979 after extensive community fundraising efforts, was designed to promote local pride and honor the area’s Revolutionary War history. Its origins date back to its installation in 1881 at the Spartanburg Opera House, which served as City Hall before the clock was put into storage in 1958. Following initiatives to celebrate the nation’s Bicentennial, former Mayor Robert Stoddard advocated for refurbishing the old clock, leading to its eventual construction in its current location after being moved from East Main Street in 1989.
The latest urban development will require straightening West Main Street, a change requested by The Johnson Group, which further necessitates dismantling the beloved clock tower. In light of the tower’s historical significance, Story proposed that the clock and its bell be preserved for future display at a new city-county complex, with construction slated to start in October. This new government building will incorporate a design that reflects the historical positioning of the original clock tower.
Several city council members have voiced their interest in ensuring that the clock tower is either relocated or preserved rather than dismantled. This sentiment is echoed by the community, as residents have expressed strong opposition against the removal through social media channels and a petition on Change.org, which has garnered over 1,600 signatures. The petition is entitled “Stop the Unjust Relocation of Spartanburg’s Town Clock.”
Jerome Rice and Jamie Fulmer, the two schoolchildren who were instrumental in fundraising for the clock tower back in the ’70s, now occupy significant roles in local government, with Rice serving as mayor and Fulmer as a city council member. They have consistently emphasized the importance of the clock tower to the community during discussions surrounding its fate.
Despite its historical importance, the clock currently faces technical challenges, as it has not been operational in recent times. The financial feasibility of repairs remains uncertain; historically, maintenance of the clock has been sporadic since the city assumed responsibility for its upkeep. Guy Edge, who previously oversaw the clock’s maintenance, highlighted the need for consistent care to keep it operational. Additionally, Betsy Teter, a local activist, has pointed out the significance of the original bell, which has been functioning for approximately 150 years.
The planned hotel and mixed-use development, part of The Johnson Group’s Project Core, aims at enhancing urban infrastructure and revitalizing the city area. However, the future of the clock tower remains precarious as city council members have yet to reach a consensus on its fate, with discussions expected to continue in forthcoming council meetings.
As the community weighs in on the potential relocation of the clock tower, its fate hangs in the balance, with local leaders and residents alike recognizing its storied past and cultural significance. The preservation of the clock and its iconic bell may yet find a place in the plans of the developing city landscape.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Business Magazine
- Wikipedia: Spartanburg, South Carolina
- Greenville Online
- Google Search: Spartanburg Clock Tower
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Clock Towers
- WSPA News
- Google News: Spartanburg Clock Tower relocation
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
