Bingham, South Carolina facts for kids

Bingham was a small, historical community located in Dillon County, South Carolina. It was active for nearly 50 years, from 1892 until 1941. Even though it no longer exists as a bustling place, its history helps us understand how people lived in the past.

What Was Bingham?

Bingham was not a large city, but rather a smaller settlement or community. These kinds of places often grew up around farms, a general store, or perhaps a train stop. People lived and worked there, forming a close-knit group. Bingham was located in South Carolina, a state in the southeastern United States.

When Did Bingham Exist?

The community of Bingham was established in 1892. This was a time when many small towns and communities were forming across America. They often grew because of new farming methods, the expansion of railroads, or local industries. Bingham continued to be an active place for almost five decades. It stopped being an official community in 1941. Many small communities like Bingham changed or disappeared over time. This often happened as transportation improved and people moved to larger towns for more opportunities.

Selkirk Farm: A Piece of History

One important link to Bingham's past is Selkirk Farm. This farm was recognized for its historical importance in 1974. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is an official list kept by the United States government. It includes buildings, sites, and objects that are important in American history. When a place like Selkirk Farm is on this list, it means it's special. It helps us remember and learn about the past. It also encourages people to protect these important historical sites for future generations. Selkirk Farm helps us imagine what life might have been like in and around the Bingham community many years ago.

Why Do Communities Disappear?

It might seem strange for a community to simply stop existing. However, it was quite common for small places like Bingham to change or disappear.

Changes Over Time

Many factors can lead to a community fading away. For example, new roads and cars made it easier for people to travel to bigger towns. This meant they didn't need to rely on local stores or services as much. Changes in farming or other local jobs could also cause people to move away. Even though Bingham is no longer an active community, its story is part of South Carolina's rich history.