This sixty-three mile route in western York County has witnessed a variety of travelers through the years, some who left their mark and moved on quickly, and others who lingered to create a legacy still visible today. The corridor includes a trading path used by the Catawba and Cherokee Indians; the homes and structures of early settlers who migrated from the north down the Great Wagon Road; the muster grounds and battlefields where soldiers trained and fought; the community schoolhouses and churches to which residents walked or rode to learn, worship, and socialize; the vast fields and small farms where planters and sharecroppers alike grew, harvested, and hauled their crops to the nearest gin or mill; and the railroad lines where train stops grew into markets points that stimulated the establishment of mercantiles and hotels that developed into the towns.
A drive along these country roads provides travelers with a glimpse into a rich rural heritage that is becoming increasingly rare. Likewise, they lead to destinations, each with a distinct appeal, which can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. York, McConnells, Sharon, Hickory Grove, and Smyrna all have charming downtown areas that allow guests a nostalgic step back into an earlier time, where impacts from the outside world were often limited to the weekly train schedule. For a more comprehensive learning experience into the history and culture of this past era, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and exhibits at the Kings Mountain Parks, Historic Brattonsville, and the Museum of Western York County.
From the sweeping vistas of fertile farmland, to the rolling pastures of grazing livestock, to the silent majesty of canopy trees lining the roadside, to the simple charm of mythical Mayberry main streets, this route meanders through the rustic beauty of western York County. We invite you to sit back and enjoy the ride!