City Directories and History: Associated with the distinguished members of the McGowan family of Laurens and Greenwood Counties. William McGowen came from Ireland about 1801 and his family has played an important role in military history since the Civil War including; son, Confederate General Samuel McGowen; grandson, Rear Admiral Samuel McGowan and great grandson, Congressman John S. McSwain.
“Arthur Sheppard, writing for the Greenville News, November 12, 1931, said: “Eleven years after the organization of Liberty Springs Church in Cross Hill, Patrick McGowan embarked with his family at Belfast to escape the persecutions inflicted upon the United Irishmen. Arriving in Charleston in May, 1801, the Ulster-Scottish immigrants turned their faces toward Liberty Springs congregation. A day’s march brought Patrick McGowan to eternal rest, and he was buried by the side of the road. William McGowan, 13-year old son of Patrick, led his widowed mother to the home of his uncle, where they settled in the neighborhood of the Ball, McWilliams, and Watts families.”
William was married to Jeannie McWilliams. It is not known whether this house was built by William and Jeannie McGowan or by one of their sons.”
Information from: The Laurens County Sketchbook, Author – J.S. Bolick, 1973
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