Saluda and Its Railroad Roots
Nestled in the rugged terrain along the Pacolet River, the area now known as Saluda, North Carolina, was originally a pivotal crossroads known as Pace’s Gap. Situated on Saluda Mountain, this locale served as a vital trading route where the old Howard Gap wagon road and the Winding Stairs Road intersected. Here, the Pace family operated a drover’s inn, offering much-needed rest and shelter for traders and their livestock.
The arrival of the Asheville and Spartanburg Railroad on July 4, 1878, marked a transformative era for Pace’s Gap. By February 1881, the burgeoning community was chartered as the town of Saluda, named after the nearby Saluda Mountain. Contrary to its singular name, Saluda Mountain forms part of a range with the Saluda River at its base, named after a Cherokee chief whose name signifies “corn river.”
Today, Saluda is perched across seven hills with elevations ranging from 2,096 to 2,200 feet. Celebrating its 130th anniversary in 2011, Saluda is a blend of enchanting history, vibrant arts, and diverse entertainment. With a population just over 700, it spans Polk and Henderson Counties, offering residents and visitors a myriad array of activities and historical sites.
The Historical Significance of the Saluda Grade
The concept of a railroad traversing Saluda’s steep terrain dates back to 1832, driven by the need to transport goods and people away from the oppressive heat of South Carolina and Georgia. Captain Charles Pearson, a former Confederate Army officer turned chief engineer, was pivotal in executing the vision. He charted a course along the Pacolet River through a steep gorge, climbing from 1,081 feet at the base of Melrose Mountain to 2,097 feet at Saluda. This route, completed with the aid of convict labor amidst financial and human hardship, remains a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of its builders. The Saluda Grade, once the steepest standard gauge mainline railroad in the United States, saw its last train in 2001 and now houses the Saluda Historic Depot, a museum preserving the rich tapestry of Saluda’s railroad legacy.
Saluda Today: A Thriving Community
In its early days, Saluda’s growth was closely tied to the railroad’s expansion. It quickly became a hub for rail workers and travelers awaiting transfers to other mountain destinations. This influx led to the establishment of various businesses and accommodations, laying the groundwork for Saluda’s reputation as a premier resort town.
By the late 19th century, Saluda boasted a vibrant commercial district, complete with a post office, general stores, a drug store, and multiple boarding houses. The early 20th century saw further developments such as Dr. Lesesne Smith’s baby hospital, which drew medical professionals nationwide to its pediatric seminars.
Despite challenges like the Great Depression and the decline of passenger train service, Saluda has continually adapted and thrived. Its enduring appeal is evident in the preservation of Victorian summer homes and its historic downtown district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. Saluda’s capacity for reinvention makes it not only a historical landmark but also a dynamic community that honors its past while looking forward to the future.