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.
Public Encouraged to Line Route and Honor Fallen Heroes
Kershaw County, SC – September 4, 2025– Firefighters from the Lugoff and Camden Fire Departments will lead a Walk of Remembrance on Thursday, September 11th, 2025, marking the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. First responders from across Kershaw County will walk five miles from Camden Fire Station I at City Hall to Lugoff Fire Station, 892 Highway 1 South.
This marks the fifth annual Walk of Remembrance, a tradition begun in 2020 by Firefighter Dejuan Warren when pandemic restrictions canceled other 9/11 events. Participants this year include members of: Camden Fire Department, Camden Police Department, Kershaw County Detention, Kershaw County Dispatch, Kershaw County EMS, Kershaw County Fire Services, Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office, and Lugoff Fire Department.
“Walking together each year reminds us that remembrance is not just about honoring the past, but about inspiring our community to stand united in courage and service,” said Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner. “We encourage everyone to come out, line the route, and show support for those honoring the heroes of 9/11.” While the walk is led by first responders, the public is invited to line Highway 1 South, wave flags, and cheer on participants as a tribute to the 2,977 lives lost on September 11, 2001, and to honor the bravery of first responders. Residents are encouraged to bring American flags and patriotic displays along the route.
For more information, contact: Dawn-Marie Johnson, Public Information Officer Email: djohnson@camdensc.org Phone: 803-243-5204
The City of Camden is actively seeking applicants for the newly established Camden Public Art Committee, created as a cornerstone initiative of the public art policy recently approved by City Council.
Under the terms of the approved policy, the Camden Public Art Committee is comprised of seven members, each appointed by City Council to serve two-year terms with the opportunity for renewal, not to exceed three consecutive terms. City Council reserves the authority to designate the Committee Chair from among the appointed members. The committee is looking for representatives from the following groups:
• Arts Leadership: The Director or designated representative from the Arts Center of Kershaw County • Creative Professionals: Active members of Camden’s art community, encompassing artists, gallery owners, art dealers, and cultural industry professionals • Community Advocates: Engaged citizens and business owners from the City of Camden and surrounding unincorporated areas who reflect our community’s rich diversity and share a genuine passion for public art • Philanthropic Partners: Individuals with demonstrated ability to cultivate relationships with donors and supporters who share our vision for public art excellence
This exciting opportunity offers committee members the chance to shape Camden’s cultural landscape while fostering community engagement through meaningful public art initiatives.
How to Apply: Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit Boards and Commissions – Experience Camden, South Carolina to download and submit their application online. Applications are also available for pickup at City Hall’s Finance Department, located at 1000 Lyttleton Street.
Join us in creating a more vibrant, culturally enriched Camden through the transformative power of public art.
