Discover Spartanburg: The Hidden Gem of South Carolina

• HelloHey y'all
  [hey yawl]
• GoodbyeSee y'all later
  [see yawl lay-tur]
• YesYessir
  [yes-sir]
• NoNah
  [nah]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [please/yur-wel-cum]
• Thank youThank ya
  [thank ya]
• Excuse me/SorryS'cuse me
  [s'kyooz mee]
• How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how yawl doin']
• Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine. and yoo?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-lish?]
• I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [i aint ketch-in on]

• 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 on outta here!
  [git on outta here]
• Call the Police!Call the 5-0!
  [call the five-oh]
• Call a doctor!Call a sawbones!
  [call a saw-bones]
• I'm lostI done got turned around
  [i done got turned around]
• I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [im feel-in poor-lee]

• I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [im fix-in to buy]
• I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [im just look-in]
• How much is it?How much fer it?
  [how much fur it]
• That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [thats too pry-see]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [can ya knock the price down]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
• It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [its one o-clock]
• Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
• YesterdayYestiddy
  [yes-tid-ee]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [tom-or-ra]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [eight]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [wheres a/the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats 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)?
  [whens the next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

Spartanburg was established in 1785, named after the Spartan Regiment, a local militia that fought in the American Revolutionary War. Initially, it was a small settlement focused on agriculture, with a strong sense of community and independence.

One of the most pivotal battles of the American Revolutionary War took place near Spartanburg at Cowpens on January 17, 1781. The Battle of Cowpens was a decisive victory for American forces led by General Daniel Morgan over British troops commanded by Banastre Tarleton. This victory was crucial in undermining British control in the South.

In the early 19th century, Spartanburg began to grow due to its strategic location. The advent of the railroad in the 1850s further cemented its status as a transportation hub, facilitating trade and commerce. Textile mills began to emerge, setting the stage for Spartanburg's industrial future.

During the Civil War, Spartanburg was a significant supply center for the Confederacy. Although no major battles took place in the city, its mills produced textiles and materials essential for the Confederate war effort. Post-war, the city faced challenges during Reconstruction but gradually rebuilt its economy.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw an industrial boom in Spartanburg, with numerous textile mills operating in the area. This period of prosperity earned Spartanburg the nickname 'The Hub City,' reflecting its importance as a center of industry and transportation.

Spartanburg has a rich cultural heritage, with institutions such as Wofford College, founded in 1854, and Converse College, established in 1889, playing crucial roles in the city's educational and cultural development. These institutions have contributed significantly to the intellectual and cultural fabric of the city.

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s had a significant impact on Spartanburg. Local activists and community leaders worked tirelessly to end segregation and promote equal rights. Key events and demonstrations in the city reflected the broader struggle for civil rights across the United States.

Today, Spartanburg is a vibrant city that blends its rich historical heritage with modern development. The revitalization of downtown Spartanburg, the growth of the arts and cultural scene, and the presence of multinational companies like BMW Manufacturing have transformed the city into a bustling, diverse, and dynamic community.

Spartanburg is located in the Upstate region of South Carolina. The nearest major airport is Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP), approximately 20 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach Spartanburg. Additionally, Spartanburg is well-connected by Amtrak's Crescent service, which runs between New York City and New Orleans. The city is also accessible via major highways such as I-85 and I-26.

Spartanburg offers a variety of transportation options. The city's public transit system, SPARTA, provides bus services throughout the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available. For those who prefer driving, car rentals are available at the airport and within the city. Many of Spartanburg's attractions are within walking distance of each other in the downtown area.

The official currency in Spartanburg, as in the rest of the United States, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, and you can find them at most banks, convenience stores, and shopping centers. It is always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case a vendor does not accept cards.

Spartanburg is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any urban area, it is important to stay vigilant. Areas such as the Southside and parts of the Northside have higher crime rates and should be avoided after dark. Always be aware of your surroundings, keep your belongings secure, and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

In case of an emergency in Spartanburg, dial 911 for immediate assistance. This will connect you to police, fire, and medical services. Spartanburg Regional Medical Center is the main hospital in the area and provides a range of emergency services. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the city. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid overly revealing clothing in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. When visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?' A firm handshake is common in business settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Southern cuisine, including BBQ and soul food. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

To experience Spartanburg like a local, visit the Hub City Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the Mary Black Rail Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride. Attend a performance at the Chapman Cultural Center to enjoy local arts and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to dine at local favorites like The Beacon Drive-In, a historic eatery known for its chili burgers and sweet tea.