Manuscript Collection

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Identifier

Accession 368

Inclusive Dates

1928-1960

Restrictions

Open under the rules and regulations of the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections

Collection Size

500 pieces, .25 linear feet

Language

English;

Historical Note

The Rock Hill Printing and Finishing Company Plant was built in 1929 and was one of the most important industries in Rock Hill, SC throughout most of its history. The “Bleachery” as it was commonly called was a dominate figure in the Southern Textile industry and at its height of operation employed over 4000 people from Rock Hill and the surrounding area. The plant like many of today’s textile companies has been shut down, formally closing its doors in 1999.

Scope and Content Note

This collection is a valuable source on the history of the textile industry in Rock Hill and particular the Rock Hill Printing and Finishing Company’s role in its development. Of particular interest is a scrapbook containing nearly a 100 photographs of the construction of the plant including aerial views. The scrapbook also contains many newspaper clippings from the period 1928-1935 that details the construction of the plant and its early operation. Also included in the collection are copies of the newsletters, Newsy Notes and Reporter, a 1943 publication picturing employees serving in the armed forces, and sixteen photographs taken at the foremen’s outing at Joslin Park in May of 1958. Subjects of interest include the founding of the Lowenstein plant in Rock Hill, the direct effects of the New Deal on the workers of Rock Hill, and the strikes of the 1930’s.

Provenance

The records of the Rock Hill Printing and Finishing Company were donated to the Archives on November 26, 1980 by the company’s representative, Mr. William H. Grier. An addition of 25 Years of Progress and Quality was donated by Jane Rawls of the College of Education of February 28, 2020.

Copyright

For information concerning copyright please contact the Louise Pettus Archives and Special Collections at Winthrop University.

Rock Hill Printing and Finishing Company Records - Accession 368

LC Subject Headings

Rock Hill Printing & Finishing Co. (Rock Hill, S.C.)--Archives; Rock Hill Printing & Finishing Co. (Rock Hill, S.C.)--History; Textile industry--South Carolina--Rock Hill--History; Textile workers--South Carolina--Rock Hill--History

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