Peddlers, Merchants, and Manufacturers: How Jewish Entrepreneurs Built Economy and Community in Upcountry South Carolina

Diane C. Vecchio's book "The Jews of Upstate South Carolina" explores the diverse economic experiences of Jews who settled in Upstate South Carolina, correcting the neglect of Jewish involvement in economic development in the region. It highlights the contributions of Jewish business leaders and their impact on social, political, and cultural life, contributing to a retelling of southern Jewish history with social and cultural dimensions.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2024
Publisher: University of South Carolina Press

Diane C. Vecchio delves into the intricate tapestry of economic experiences of the Jewish settlers who established themselves in the region now known as Upstate South Carolina. Similar to other parts of the so-called New South, Upcountry South Carolina thrived as a hub of textile manufacturing and abundant business prospects, attracting a surge of entrepreneurial spirit to the area. In contrast to previous narratives of economic development in the South Carolina Piedmont, Vecchio's work offers a crucial corrective to the historical account of manufacturing in the state. This revision is integral to a broader retelling of southern Jewish history, one that enriches the traditional economic narrative with social and cultural dimensions.

Vecchio's research uncovers the fascinating development of Jewish communities within the picturesque Upcountry. She explores how Jewish business leaders not only succeeded in their commercial endeavors but also assumed influential roles as civic leaders, shaping social, political, and cultural aspects of the region. Their profound impact across various facets of life in the Upstate is essential in understanding the growth and significance of the present-day Spartanburg–Greenville corridor.

Through her meticulous examination of oral histories, memoirs, and traditional historical documents, Vecchio sheds light on a neglected aspect of Jewish history in the South. Her work not only contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the economic landscape but also deepens our appreciation for the diverse contributions and influences of Jewish communities throughout the region.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643364520