 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
| Sumter |
|
fter being transferred from Germany to Shaw Air Force Base, Major General Tom Olsen retired to Sumter.
“This area attracted me because of the small-town Southern hospitality and its long-time association with
the Air Force,” he explained. “After my 35 years in the Air Force, I was looking for a retirement town
that had all the quality of life and amenities that my wife and I enjoy.”
The University of South Carolina Sumter offers a number of programs, some in conjunction with
Shaw Air Force Base. Free tuition is available to area residents over age 60. Central Carolina
Technical College is partnered with the Sumter County Development Board, Chamber of Commerce and
the community.
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In 1941, Shaw Air Force Base was established near Sumter, and it continues today as an active duty fighter base. It’s home to the 20th Fighter Wing and 9th Air Force, home of the F-16 Fighting Falcons, as well as home to a number of retired officers who traveled around the world, but returned here to settle down in the heart of South Carolina.
|
|
|
|
|
From its earliest beginnings, Sumter has been associated with military heroes. The town got its name from Gen. Thomas Sumter, the “Gamecock General” of the American Revolution and a nearby resident.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Today, both private citizens and military personnel are working together to enhance Sumter’s many amenities. Nature enthusiasts need look no farther than Manchester State Forest, offering more than 50 miles of equine, walking and motorized vehicle trails. Poinsett State Park is a 1,000-acre natural wonder with camping, fishing, boat rentals and nature trails.
In past years, Expansion Management magazine named Sumter one of the 50 “hottest locations” in which to expand or relocate a facility. Forbes magazine named Sumter the top-ranked small metro in the state and Money Magazine listed Sumter as one of the top
200 places to live in the U.S.
Sumter Visitors Bureau
Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce
City of Sumter
Sumter County
Sumter Development Board
Swan Lake Gardens
Have some fun. Get some expert feedback. Post your Sumter questions,
comments and experiences on the "Carolinas
Message Board."
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Katherine O. Pettit has worked as a writer, magazine editor, printer and public relations consultant. The Columbia resident has published more than 250 articles in magazines and newspapers. Her writing explores a variety of subjects including travel, lifestyles, business and management.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
