Rock Hill: South Carolina's Hidden Gem of History and Nature

• HelloHey y'all
  [hey y'all]
• GoodbyeSee y'all later
  [see y'all later]
• YesYessir
  [yes-sir]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/you're welcome]
• Thank youThank ya kindly
  [thank ya kindly]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pardon me/my bad]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and you?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak English?]
• I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd like to see the menu, please]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I would like to pay, please]

• Help!Help!
  [Help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [Git!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
• Call a doctor!Call a doc!
  [Call a doc!]
• I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
• I'm illI ain't feelin' well
  [I ain't feelin' well]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin']
• How much is it?How much is this?
  [How much is this?]
• That's too expensiveThat's too much
  [That's too much]
• Can you lower the price?Can y'all do any better on the price?
  [Can y'all do any better on the price?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
• MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
• YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest'day]
• TodayToday
  [Today]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
• 1One
  [One]
• 2Two
  [Two]
• 3Three
  [Three]
• 4Four
  [Four]
• 5Five
  [Five]
• 6Six
  [Six]
• 7Seven
  [Seven]
• 8Eight
  [Eight]
• 9Nine
  [Nine]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

Rock Hill was officially recognized as a town in 1870. Its name is derived from a small, flinty hill of rock that was found in the area. The town's establishment was largely driven by the arrival of the Charlotte and South Carolina Railroad, which made it a significant hub for trade and travel.

During the Civil War, Rock Hill played a strategic role due to its proximity to several key battlegrounds and rail lines. Although no major battles were fought in the town, it served as a corridor for Confederate supplies and troops. The town also hosted a military hospital that treated soldiers from both sides.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rock Hill became a major center for textile manufacturing. The establishment of numerous cotton mills and factories transformed the local economy and spurred rapid population growth. These mills became the backbone of Rock Hill's economy for decades, employing thousands of residents.

Founded in 1886, Winthrop University began as a training school for teachers. Over the years, it evolved into a comprehensive public university. The institution has greatly influenced the cultural and educational landscape of Rock Hill, offering a wide range of academic programs and contributing to the town's vibrant arts scene.

In 1961, Rock Hill became a focal point in the Civil Rights Movement when nine African American men, known as the Friendship Nine, were arrested for staging a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter. Their 'jail, no bail' strategy garnered national attention and became a significant moment in the fight for racial equality in the South.

In recent decades, Rock Hill has undergone significant revitalization efforts. The city has invested in redeveloping its downtown area, preserving historic buildings, and creating new public spaces. The transformation has attracted new businesses, residents, and tourists, making Rock Hill a vibrant community with a rich historical heritage.

Rock Hill is located in the north-central part of South Carolina, approximately 25 miles south of Charlotte, North Carolina. The nearest major airport is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), which serves many domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Rock Hill. The drive takes about 30-40 minutes via I-77 South. Alternatively, you can take a Greyhound bus to Rock Hill, with the nearest station located in Charlotte.

Rock Hill offers a variety of transportation options. The My Ride Rock Hill transit system provides free bus service within the city, operating on four fixed routes. Taxis and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at Charlotte Douglas International Airport and within Rock Hill. Additionally, Rock Hill is bicycle-friendly, with numerous bike lanes and trails throughout the city.

The official currency in Rock Hill is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and you can find currency exchange services at major banks and the airport. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.

Rock Hill is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places. Areas to be cautious around include neighborhoods such as the Saluda Street corridor, which has a higher crime rate. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Rock Hill has several medical facilities, including Piedmont Medical Center, for urgent health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health concerns, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and according to the weather; casual attire is generally acceptable. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A friendly 'hello' is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rock Hill like a local, visit the Old Town district for its charming shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Engage with locals at the weekly farmers' market or events at Fountain Park. Don't miss Winthrop University, which offers beautiful architecture and cultural events. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Anne Springs Close Greenway provides excellent hiking, biking, and equestrian trails. Lastly, enjoy a game or event at the Rock Hill Sports & Event Center, a hub for local sports and activities.