City Directories and History: The small community of Ogden was devastated by the tornado of 2012 when it destroyed many homes and lives. However, it remains an important historic link in the rural community to the history of transportation and commerce from the mid 19th century forward. Though not as large as either Smith’s Turnout or Lewis Turnout (Chester County), the Odgen “Turnout” was a vital stop on the railroad for passengers and commerce. Ogden once boasted of two stores, numerous homes, and a Methodist church. It’s location tied it to the booming cotton belt running from south of Rock Hill to Chester on either side of the railroad.
Traditionally members of the Strait, Neely and Dunlap families have played a leading role in the Ogden Community. Many of these family members remain in the community but vast numbers have left to begin new professional lives and careers in Rock Hill and elsewhere. One of those who move to Rock Hill was James Dunlap, the father of Rock Hill’s long-term Mayor, Betty Jo Rhea. She has often stated that her father never forgot his family or his close ties to the Ogden community.
Note the 1927 Sanborn Maps on display are divided into the four quadrants created by the crossing of the railroad and Highway 324.
Please enjoy this structure and all those listed in Roots and Recall. But remembers each is private property. So view them from a distance or from a public area such as the sidewalk or public road.
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