Just a short drive across the North Carolina state line, via I-77 into South Carolina, you’ll find the quaint city of Fort Mill. Many residents have found their way into Fort Mill for the lower taxes and the fabulous school system, which many consider the best in the state. The affordable homes, the proximity to Lake Wylie as well as the jobs in the city (Charlotte), have drawn many former Mecklenburg County residents to ‘head south.’
An old mill town and train depot, the restored area of downtown Fort Mill is full of rich history. Springs Mills, one of the largest mills, originated in Fort Mill. The Springs family was in control of the town of Fort Mill from its inception in 1887 until Fort Mill went public in 1966. The Anne Springs Close Greenway, parks and peach farms provide lots of space for recreation in Fort Mill. The Peach Stand is a popular place to buy fresh peaches, preserves and wonderful meats (yes, and their steaks are fabulous) and is located near Baxter Village on Hwy 160.
One of the largest master planned communities in the area is Baxter Village, located in Fort Mill, with so many amenities and conveniences that residents never even have to leave the community. Baxter Village features traditional, neo-Victorian homes with quaint village shops and popular restaurants, a community elementary school, one of the best YMCAs in the area, a daycare center, public library, urgent care center, community clubhouses and pools, tennis courts and my favorite drive-thru Starbucks right at the Baxter main entrance! The town center has numerous, ongoing community events promoting social bonding. Baxter is often referred to as “Pleasantville”.
Sidewalks and walking paths from connect Tega Cay to downtown Fort Mill. Tega Cay is another master planned lake community. Residents enjoy the convenience to the city of Charlotte, downtown Fort Mill as well as lake living at its finest.
Fort Mill was the original home to The Charlotte Knights, a triple-A baseball team affiliated with the Chicago White Sox. Their baseball stadium was often referred to as the “field of dreams” because of its small town, wholesome feel with rolling farmland in the background of the stadium.
If you haven’t tried the Puckerbutt Pepper Company or the Grapevine Wine Shop & Wine Bar (Market Street), you’re missing out on some good sauces & spirits in Fort Mill.
Take a step back into time at the Fort Mill History Museum. This is one of Fort Mill’s most popular attractions and admission is free!
And, speaking of history, just across the line in Rock Hill, you’ll find one of Fort Mill residents’ favorite new restaurants, The Pump House. The building is rich in history and you’ll enjoy the beautiful setting on Catawba River also.
©Debe Maxwell | The Maxwell House Group Real Estate | SavvyBroker@me.com | Fort Mill, South Carolina
