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About Iva

Iva, South Carolina, is a small town with big charm that offers visitors a peaceful escape into rural Southern life.

Located in the heart of Anderson County, Iva is surrounded by pleasing farmlands and natural beauty. The town’s close-knit community welcomes visitors with friendly smiles and local hospitality. You can explore the historic downtown area, where you’ll find charming spots like The Johnson Country Store and Cafe, which offers unique gifts and local produce, and homemade Southern dishes. Iva is also proud to be home to Crescent High School, renowned for its strong sense of community and an outstanding softball team that consistently ranks among the best in the state. A short drive will take you to Lake Russell, where you can enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking at the Lake Russell Recreation Area, which features scenic views and well-maintained picnic spots. Iva also hosts seasonal events like the Iva Spring Festival, which features local artisans, food vendors, and live entertainment, adding a festive touch to the town’s warm atmosphere. For those seeking a quiet retreat with a taste of authentic Southern living, Iva’s blend of historic charm and natural beauty makes it a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

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History of Iva, SC

Located in southern Anderson County, just shy of the Abbeville County line, Iva, South Carolina, is a town steeped in history. The community began as Cook’s Station in the late 18th century, a crucial shipping point established by the Savannah Valley Railroad. Named after Dr. Augustus G. Cook’s daughter in 1904 to differentiate it from another similarly named town, Iva quickly evolved from a farming settlement into a bustling railroad hub. The town’s transformation continued with the establishment of Jackson Mill in 1906, solidifying its role as an industrial milling center. Today, Iva, with a population of a little over 1,000 people, preserves its heritage at the Iva Museum, which has been showcasing the town’s rich past since 1967.