Camden, SC – September 23, 2025 – The Camden Fire Department has concluded its primary emergency operations at the former DeRoyal plant following this past weekend’s commercial fire.
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has been contacted regarding the site. Any additional questions or concerns about environmental matters should be directed to DeRoyal Industries. The point of contact for the public is Rebecca Harmon, Chief Administrative Officer, at rharmon@deroyal.com.
“At this point, the property has been turned back over to DeRoyal, who is overseeing demolition and site management moving forward.” said Camden Assistant Fire Chief Chris Tidwell. “We will continue to monitor the site as needed, and we greatly appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation throughout this incident.”
The City of Camden Fire Department extends its gratitude to the mutual aid partners, city and county agencies, and community members who supported response efforts and helped keep Camden safe during this incident.
CAMDEN, SC – September 22, 2025 – The City of Camden provides the following update regarding the incident at the DeRoyal plant:
Road Closure: The block in front of the DeRoyal plant remains closed to allow emergency responders and contractors to work safely and to keep the public safe.
Investigation: The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is handling the investigation and has given clearance for necessary operations to proceed at the site.
Emergency Response: Camden Fire Department personnel will remain on scene until conditions are deemed safe for both the public and working contractors. KBI Construction, hired by DeRoyal, continues to clear debris and take down the remaining walls that pose a threat.
Mutual Aid Support
Under the statewide Mutual Aid Agreement, Lancaster County and Newberry Fire Departments responded to provide coverage at Camden fire stations, ensuring continued emergency response capability for the community while Camden Fire Department resources were committed to the DeRoyal incident.
Acknowledgments
The City of Camden extends its sincere gratitude to all responding agencies who assisted during this event. We could not have accomplished what we did without the strong community of agencies that we have. A special thank you goes to Camden Police Department for providing critical support throughout the incident.
Public Safety
The City of Camden thanks the community for their continued understanding, patience, and cooperation in respecting the established perimeter and barricades around the incident area. Public compliance with these safety measures is essential for the protection of residents, emergency personnel, and contractors working at the site.
The City of Camden will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Multiple Fire Departments Respond to Commercial Building Fire at DeRoyal Textile Building
CAMDEN, SC – Multiple fire departments and emergency services responded to a commercial structure fire at the DeRoyal Textile building located at 125 York Street, Camden on September 20, 2025.
The call was received at 10:54 p.m., prompting an “all call” response due to the size and nature of the commercial building. The DeRoyal Textile building, which has not been active for some time, was formerly known as the Hermitage Mill Plant.
Responding Agencies: Fire Departments: • Camden Fire Department • Kershaw County Fire Services • Lancaster County Fire Department • Lee County Fire Department • Lugoff Fire Department • Sumter Fire Department • Town of Kershaw Fire Department
Other Emergency Services: • Camden Police Department • City of Camden Utilities and Public Works • Kershaw County EMS • Kershaw County Sheriff’s Department
“Conditions are too bad to put anybody in the building, so everything will be done from a defensive standpoint. said Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner “We’ve got men on ladder trucks conducting an aerial attack, trying to put the fire out from above.”
First responders arrived to find heavy fire conditions in the C and D building with flames already coming through the roof. Due to the dangerous conditions, firefighters conducted a defensive aerial attack using multiple ladder trucks rather than entering the structure.
The building was abandoned at the time of the fire and utilities had been disconnected.
Chief Gardner stated, “Due to wind direction and humidity levels, the smoke is rising and not affecting the surrounding area. Currently, the smoke poses no threat to the local community.”
Chief Gardner advised residents to maintain a safe distance from the scene to allow emergency personnel to work safely.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.
Camden, South Carolina is full of charm, and our coffee scene is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a locally roasted brew, a cozy reading spot, or a friendly neighborhood café, these three coffee shops need to be on your list.
Camden’s only roastery, APC takes coffee seriously. Beans are roasted in-house each week, ensuring peak freshness and bold flavor. Pair your drink with a pastry, fresh salad or sandwich made right in their kitchen, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere created by the trio of sisters behind another local favorite, Three Sisters Essentials, who purchased APC at the beginning of 2025. With historical themes like the Revolutionary Roast, Patriot Blend, Powder Keg and Minute Man Roast, you may even be inspired to explore some of Camden’s historic offerings.
This independent bookstore and café offers a calm, inviting space to sip a latte or cappuccino while browsing the shelves. Along with coffee, you’ll find smoothies, bagels, and baked goods — the perfect fuel for a morning of exploring downtown Camden. Once you’ve filled up, head out to peruse the many shops on Antique Street, stop in to chat with the artists and creators in the Cultural District or simply boost the local economy with a little retail therapy. This fall, be sure to check out their new seasonal menu, featuring the caramel apple and pumpkin spice flavors you know and love.
Books on Broad
Not A Corner Cafe 🌿
📍 1003 Church Street, Camden, SC
A true neighborhood gem, Not A Corner Café is known for its seasonal lattes and sweet treats. With friendly staff and a cozy setting, it’s a great spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment midday. If you want to stretch your legs and take your cup o’ joe to-go, head to one of Camden’s museums to pass the time and learn something new about the area.
Your Coffee Crawl Itinerary 🗺️
Start strong at American Patriot Coffee Company for the freshest roast.
Slow down at Books on Broad & Coffee with a good book in hand.
Finish sweet at Not A Corner Cafe with a seasonal latte and muffin.
Notice is hereby given of a public hearing to be conducted by the City of Camden Planning Commission in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1000 Lyttleton Street, Camden, South Carolina on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 6:15 PM for the purpose of obtaining public comments concerning rezoning of the following property:
402 Bishopville Highway – Tax Map Number C286-00-00-019
The request is to rezone property from R-15 to R-E. Documentation regarding this request is available for public review at City Hall.
• Amendments to Sections 157.094(B)(12) and 157.095(B)(9) to remove slab on grade foundations as an allowable foundation type for residential units
Copies of the proposed ordinance amendments and rezoning request documentation are available for public review at the Planning & Development Department at City Hall or in the agenda packet posted here. Anyone having questions about the rezoning, needing assistance due to sight impairment hearing impairment, or disability should contact Shawn Putnam at 432-2421 prior to the date of the meeting so that arrangements can be made to provide the specific assistance required.
Another public hearing will be conducted by the Planning Commission in the Council Chambers on Monday, September 29, 2025 at 6:15 PM for the purpose of obtaining public comments concerning rezoning of the following property:
2200 Carter Street – Tax Map Number C270-00-00-013
The request is to rezone property from R-15 to RE. Documentation regarding this request is currently available for public review at City Hall, and will be made available online in the coming days.
When the air turns crisp, leaves start changing colors, and pumpkins make their appearance at local farms, there’s one event in the Camden area of South Carolina you definitely won’t want to miss: Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Farm Day. A blend of farm life, fall fun, and southern charm, this is your chance to let the whole family get their hands dirty and soak up harvest-season memories.
Just 10 minutes outside of Camden in Rembert, Old McCaskill’s Farm is hosting its annual Fall Family Farm Day on October 4, 2025, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Now in its 16th year, this fall-tastic event continues to grow, while keeping its working-farm authenticity and southern hospitality.
What to Expect: Activities + Experiences
The Fall Family Farm Day offers something for everyone:
🎃 Pumpkin Patch: Pick your own pumpkin or just wander among the vines.
🐎 Hayrides & Horseback Rides: These classic farm rides are always a hit!
🪵 Farm Demonstrations: See how a working farm operates, including blacksmith, woodworker, sawmill & gristmill demonstrations.
🪕 Live Entertainment: Enjoy the sounds of the season, with Bluegrass music providing the perfect soundtrack to your family’s farm day.
🍔 Great Food & Local Fare: Traditional fall treats and farm-style offerings to indulge in.
🐑 Activities for All Ages: Games, inflatables, barrel trains, animal encounters, and more.
What Makes It Special?
Before you think this is your typical “fall festival,” remember that Old McCaskill’s is still a working farm. You’ll see real farm operations and demonstrations you won’t find in a standard fall festival. And, with plenty of activities on offer, this event appeals to families in all stages – those with little ones who love animals and exploring new things, and those who’s older kids (and adults!) enjoy craftsmanship, music, and farm history. What’s more? You’ll be majorly supporting local – local farmers, artisans, craft and food vendors and entertainment. So, if you’ve been waiting for your sign to fully lean into the fall vibe — pumpkins, hayrides and crisp air — consider this your official invitation.
Tips for Attending
To make the most of the day, here are some helpful hints:
🎟️ Skip the Line – Buy your tickets in advance and avoid waiting in line at the gate.
⏰ Arrive Early — Parking areas and access points become more crowded as the day goes on. Getting there early gives you breathing room for the more popular activities.
🧥 Wear Appropriate Clothes — Think comfy shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty, and be sure to layer (it may start cool and warm up).
💵 Bring Cash — Some food and artisan vendors may be cash-only.
🪑 Bring a Chair or Blanket — For enjoying music, watching demos, or resting between activities.
Here’s how we would spend our time at the Fall Family Farm Day:
10:00 am – Arrive, grab a quick snack from one of the local vendors, explore the pumpkin patch and snag a gorgeous pumpkin before it gets too crowded.
11:00 am – Enjoy a hayride followed by a live blacksmith or sawmill demonstration.
12:30 pm – Lunch from another local vendor & take a little break. Let the kids check out the inflatables or the barrel train while you enjoy a craft beer, glass of wine or mocktail.
2:00 pm – Squeeze in a horseback ride or farm tour, then find a shady spot to relax and enjoy some live bluegrass music.
3:30 pm – Wrap up your best day ever with one last loop, revisiting your favorite spots and ensuring you have enough pumpkins (is there such a thing?) and any purchases before you head home.
Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Day is more than just a fall festival; it’s a chance to throw it back to simpler times, enjoy hands-on experiences, and embrace the magic of the fall season in a warm and welcoming setting. Whether this is your first visit or a long-standing family tradition, expect laughter, fall aromas, friendly faces and cute animals, and memories that will last long past pumpkin spice season. Get your tickets today!
EXPLORE MORE
If you’re not ready to call it a day just yet, head back over to Camden and explore Broad Street for all your cultural, art and retail needs. Crawl the Cultural District, discover boutique shopping at its finest, or unearth some unique vintage finds at one of our many antique shops. Once you’ve met your shopping quota, you’ll probably need to quench your thirst. Grab a beer at Greener Pastures Brewing, Camden’s first and only brewery and the newest watering hole on the block, or Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill if you’re looking to watch a game. Prefer wine or spirits? Broad & Vine Wine Bar has over 30 bottles for you to sample at their unique self-pour system, and offers charcuterie boards and dessert as well. Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge is your go-to for elevated cocktails and top-notch cigars.
Famished from your day of fall fun? Check out B.Colson, Camden’s polished casual eatery serving steaks, seafood and an impressive selection of bourbons. Salud Mexican Kitchen serves upscale Mexican food and a seemingly endless list of spirits and Sam Kendall’s is your go-to Camden favorite for traditional American cuisine where everyone knows everyone. If you’re looking for a place to stay the night before heading home, we’ve got you covered. Rest your bones one of our locally-owned hotels or cozy up in a home away from home short-term rental. Wherever you choose to lay your head, Camden’s southern hospitality will be there to make sure your stay is nothing short of charming.
