Cities of Barnwell Co.
Town of Williston Who’s in charge Mayor: Jason Stapleton
Administrator Kenny Cook www.williston-sc.com
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illiston is all about community. The community has a population of around 3,000 people and is full of families and neighbors who are always willing to lend a helping hand. The town lies in the center of the former Charleston-Hamburg railroad line, the line of the Best Friend locomotive. Williston was incorporated in 1858 and again after the Civil War, during which General Sherman’s troops marched through the town. Over its history the town has suffered significant fires in its downtown area but has risen from the ashes each time to be stronger and better because it has the heart of its residents. The town encompasses 8.996 square miles with its downtown area along U.S. Hwy. 78. Williston is just a short drive to Aiken (roughly 20 miles), and is considered by many as the industrial and manufacturing hub in Barnwell County. Home of the Blue Devils, Williston has three public schools – Williston-Elko High, Williston-Elko Middle and Kelly-
8 • Information Please 2017 • The People-Sentinel
City Hall: 301 W. Main St. (803) 266-7015
At left, students receive free school supplies during a back-to-school bash held at Williston-Elko High that was made possible because of dozens of local organizations and businesses.
Edwards Elementary School. Community parks, a museum, library and country club provide recreation to all ages. In more recent years the railroad line was converted into a walking trail and dedicated in 2015 to Tommy Rivers who served this community as its mayor for 25 years before turning over the office to Mayor Jason Stapleton. In addition to recreation, local restaurants are places for neighbors to chat over delicious food. When the word “community” is said, there is a sense of togetherness. Residents in Williston pull together in strong volunteer organizations, churches and schools to support the needs of its community. They also reach out to other organizations and towns to enhance that sense of community. It is also home to a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) festival to be held in April 2017. Last year’s inaugural festival drew 2,500 people to the community. Williston is a community that has pride in its past but has an exciting present with an eye to the future.