Located in the Red Hill community of Edgefield, farmer and merchant Luther Jack McClendon built this general store in front of his home. McClendon was born September 12, 1877 and died October 28, 1960. His store operated during the early part of the twentieth century and was later used as a hunt club.
Kathy Dickerson of Greenwood, 2015 © Do Not Use Without Written Consent
At age 23, McClendon married Sunie Elizabeth Thomas and together they had seven children. At least one grandson, Robert Bruce McClendon, Jr., was born in the family home.
As you can see, we do not know much about the McClendon Store yet. Can you help us document this historic site? If so, please contact the South Carolina Picture Project. Thank you!
I am the oldest living grandchild of Luther Jack McClendon (Papa Mack). My father Luther Ansel (Buck) McClendon was his oldest son. There was an older son who died as a baby. My family actually lived with my grandparents for awhile due to my father’s illness. So I am familiar with the store. One correction I would like to make is, the store was not built in front of the house. The house was built several feet from store. Could see store from house and if Papa Mack was home, he could see if anyone went to store.
As a child I loved being at store with Papa Mack and helping him with his customers. The store also served as post office, and I helped him put up mail and also give out mail. One of my other fun things to do was pump gas. He had two gas pumps. He had the pot belly stove and people (mostly men) would come in sit around stove and visit. His store was the center of all activity. Was a wonderful experience being there and one I won’t ever forget.
This was my great great grandfather’s store. My grandfather is Robert Bruce McClendon Jr. My father has a lot of stories and information about this store. I would be glad to help you guys in expanding this article.
We would be absolutely delighted to know more! We will follow up with you via email, thank you!