Nestled between York, SC and Gastonia, NC and about 30 minutes south of Charlotte, NC, off of SC Hwys 321 and Hwy 55 lies one of the best kept secrets in the Carolinas. It is a small town just shy of 4,000 people called Clover, SC.
Clover is very rich in its history and culture. Like many other small Southern hamlets, it has thrived from the mill and textile culture. Many residents know each other by name and their families and relatives.
During the 1970s and 80s, Clover was a bustling city to spend a night out. You had Howard Johnson's restaurant, the drive in theatre just outside of town, and Henry's Knob. Many, young and old, would drive up to the "Knob". Present day, it is now closed.
Clover is big on its festivals and community spirit. They recently had a BBQ and bluegrass festival and Clover Fest is coming up soon in this month of September.
Many businesses and restaurants have been part of the small city for years such as Boyd's Tire and Furniture, M.L. Ford and Son's Funeral Home, Patti-O's Grill, Victoria's Restaurant, The Eagles' Nest and Courtney's BBQ. Courtney's has brought notoriety to Clover, as the pitmasters that run this joint have won several regional and national BBQ competitions.
Clover has also has its fair share of famous names such as Herb Kirsch, Stan Spears, Poke Cobb, and Lamont Hall. All of these figureheads still have a lot of pride in their hometown and regularly give back.
Personally, Clover is near and dear to my heart as any city. I have family members from both sides that are from and/or still live there. Many of my earliest memories are of the town with love in the middle and the mascot The Blue Eagle. One of Clover's sports mottos is "It's A Great Day To Be A Blue Eagle!".
Clover is one of those towns one may pass through enroute to Gastonia, Carowinds Amusement Park or to Lake Wylie. However, trust me, it is well worth it to stop and stay a spell. The love and history can truly be felt in this city.
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