Name/Title
Vardry McBee: The Founding Father of GreenvilleEntry/Object ID
RG134-12-04Description
Vardry McBee, known as the “Founding Father of Greenville,” was a visionary agriculturist, entrepreneur, and civic leader. In 1815, he purchased over 11,000 acres in the Greenville area and transformed worn-out farmland into productive estates using progressive agricultural methods. He established numerous industries, including textile mills, a paper mill, and railroads, and donated land for churches and schools. Despite early opposition, he became a respected Unionist and later supported the Confederacy. A modest, industrious man of Quaker roots, McBee's lifelong efforts shaped the foundations of Greenville, South Carolina. His legacy endures in the city’s landscape and spirit of initiative.Collection
Proceedings and PapersCopyright
Copyright Holder
Greenville Country Historical SocietyCopyright Details
Exclusive License
