Spartanburg, city (1990 pop. 43,467), seat of Spartanburg co., NW S.C., in the Piedmont (see under piedmont) near the N.C. line; inc. 1831. The city is noted for its textile production. It is an important commercial, transportation, and trade focus in an agriculture and livestock region. Machinery, chemicals, plastics, wood, metal, clay, transportation equipment, and paper items are produced, and agricultural products include dairy goods, poultry, hogs, grains, peaches, and apples. In the American Revolution, 11 major battles were fought in the area. The city and its county were named for the “Spartan” regiment of Revolutionary troops recruited in the area. In the Civil War the city was a busy supply-manufacturing point. Spartanburg is the seat of Wofford College, Converse College, and a campus of the Univ. of South Carolina. The city was the home of James F. Byrnes. Cowpens National Battlefield and a state park are nearby.
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