Columbia’s Mill District: A Tale of Change and Resilience
Columbia, South Carolina, is a city rich in history and culture, and one area that exemplifies this is the Mill District, which includes the neighborhoods of Olympia, Granby, and Whaley. Once the heartbeat of a thriving cotton industry, the Mill District is now grappling with the challenges of modern life, particularly the influx of students renting properties in the area.
A Glimpse into the Glorious Past
Imagine the sights and sounds of workers bustling around, cotton bales flying, and children playing on the streets. Hard to picture, right? The era of family homes, schools, restaurants, a community swimming pool, and even a bowling alley is a thing of the past. It wasn’t long ago that Thomas Jaco, a young man from Tennessee, arrived in Columbia in search of opportunity. He found work at the Olympia Mill, living in one of the saltbox homes built by mill creator W.B. Smith Whaley.
In 1912, Jaco launched what would become a beloved local hangout, Jaco’s Corner, starting as a simple grocery store and maturing into an iconic bar and diner. For over a century, the Jaco family has contributed to the local flavor and character of the area, a legacy that they have worked hard to preserve.
From Mills to Apartments
The Mill District was once the hub of Columbia’s economy, with mills like Granby, Olympia, and Capital City employing thousands of workers. However, the mill closures in 1996 marked a turning point, leading to a wave of rental properties that have become student housing—transforming the landscape entirely.
What was once a vibrant community of homeowners slowly transitioned into a neighborhood primarily catering to college students. As of 2023, the data shows there are approximately 1,600 rental units in the Mill Villages, with a mere 214 owner-occupied homes. This shift has raised concerns among longtime residents who worry about the area’s historical significance becoming further degraded.
A Fight for the Community’s Soul
Sherry and Jake Jaco, who have spent years preserving their family’s story and the history of the Mill District, emphasize the importance of connecting with these transient student residents. “Our mission now is to create connections with those temporary residents and help them understand that this is a place of history and importance,” Sherry Jaco stated, reflecting on how community ties once tethered families together.
In the 1960s, the area was alive with energy, much like the TV show “Happy Days.” Hot dogs from the Olympia Grill, jukebox tunes, and lunchtime dances forged a genuine sense of community, a far cry from the patchwork of rentals existing today.
Regaining Control: Residents Unite
As pressures from the growing student population increase, local leaders like Viola Hendley, who serves on the board of the Mill District Alliance, are advocating for the neighborhood to be annexed into the city of Columbia for better regulations. “As long as they view themselves as transient, it becomes difficult to get engagement,” Hendley expressed. There’s a real desire among residents to make their voices heard.
The University of South Carolina has seen its enrollment skyrocket from about 25,500 students in 1996 to a record 38,300 in Fall 2024. This rapid growth means more pressure on the Mill District, leading to a struggle for balance between maintaining its historic essence and accommodating new residents.
Plans for the Future
Despite facing these challenges, residents and local officials remain dedicated to preserving the Mill District. The 2016 development plan aimed to tackle traffic issues, protect green spaces, and implement uniform regulations in the district. However, many elements of that plan remain unimplemented nearly a decade later.
On a more optimistic note, state funding of $500,000 has been secured for improvements along Heyward Street, and there are proposals to separate the street from the busy railroads that run through the district. This could alleviate some traffic concerns and enhance safety.
Looking Forward
As the Mill District evolves, residents like Hendley and the Jacob family remain hopeful. “If we can bring back the essence of community in the Mill District, it can become a place where both families and students can thrive together,” Hendley said. The journey to revive and protect this historic area may be challenging, but the spirit of Columbia’s Mill District and its people shows resilience.
