Florence Navigates Tensions Between Urban Growth and Historical Preservation

Florence Faces Dilemma of Growth and Preservation

Florence, South Carolina, is a city steeped in history, but as it continues to grow and expand, the balance between development and preservation has never been more crucial. Recently, a controversy arose concerning a proposed 91-home subdivision that seems to overlook a historic cemetery dating back to the early 1800s. This has raised a lot of eyebrows and questions about how the city handles its cherished historic sites, especially during times of rapid development.

Cemeteries in the Heart of Development

Florence is dotted with cemeteries, with one located quietly between Church and Barringer Streets. As development encroaches, these resting places—many of which hold the memories of long-ago Florentines—are sometimes left out of the planning conversations. During a recent Planning Commission meeting about the upcoming subdivision, the historic cemetery was not even mentioned. Instead, it was simply labeled as a “common area” in the documents presented. This oversight is not just a clerical error; it underlines a pressing issue as Florence expands.

Following up on the meeting, Assistant City Manager Clint Moore assured that the cemetery would receive the protection it deserves. He emphasized that city staff would ensure the development complied with its legal obligation to safeguard historic sites. Still, this incident highlights the gap that exists between city planning and the need to respect and preserve the past.

A Glimpse into the Past

The cemetery in question, often referred to as Blackwell Cemetery or Burch Cemetery, is hidden away in a wooded area. Once part of a plantation dating back to 1806, this piece of land holds the graves of individuals from families like the Blackwells and Burches, some dating from 1823 to 1869. Historian Horace Rudisill notes that at one time, a significant number of Africans were enslaved on the plantation. The graves mark significant moments in history—some are of infants who never got a chance at life, while others belonged to the elderly, finding their final rest there.

Preservation vs. Progress

With nearly 300 cemeteries scattered throughout Florence County, many small and family-run gravesites are slowly being forgotten. City Council member J. Lawrence “Chipper” Smith voiced concerns shared by many residents about ensuring that development does not erase history. As demand for housing increases, he commented that the city must exercise caution regarding where it builds. “Cemeteries and places like that need to be preserved and taken care of,” he said, reflecting the sentiments of many Florence citizens.

Erica Johnson, a history professor at Francis Marion University, echoed these thoughts, emphasizing the importance of knowing where cemeteries are situated. Without proper documentation and consideration, there’s a risk of these remnants of history being damaged or bulldozed during new developments. “If they don’t know it’s there, they could accidentally bulldoze over a whole bunch of stuff, right?” Johnson cautioned.

Need for a Collaborative Approach

This isn’t just a Florence issue; it’s a challenge faced by growing cities everywhere. Moore pointed out the need for improved communication. While developers are generally aware of historical sites, the city doesn’t explicitly inquire if developers know about any cemeteries on their land during the initial planning stages. Some farmers and landowners may not even realize that a family plot is on their property, leading to unexpected conflicts. “It would be just reassuring to our residents and others that we are verifying those things,” Moore acknowledged.

This has led to calls for better strategies to ensure cemeteries are respected. Johnson suggested engaging local historians or archaeologists when developers suspect a cemetery may be present. This proactive approach could help preserve these sites and keep development moving forward—a win-win scenario. “They don’t have to be enemies of one another,” she concluded.

A Personal Connection

For some, these cemeteries carry profound personal histories. Joey McLaughlin, whose family once owned the land where the Blackwell cemetery is located, has fond memories of exploring the site as a child. “Much of my family’s history has been lost to time, and the cemetery provides a small way to rediscover it,” he shared, emphasizing the importance of preserving these links to the past.

Florence stands on the brink of exciting progress, but the challenge lies in blending this growth with a commitment to safeguarding the rich and varied histories that helped shape the city into what it is today. As residents and leaders work together to navigate these waters, it’s clear that a thoughtful approach can create a future where history is cherished, even as it evolves.