Downtown Inman
Small Town.
Big Heart.
Downtown Inman
From Depot to Destination
#WeareInman #EverythingYoureInto
The story of Inman begins in the late nineteenth century, when the railroad passed through what was then a rural area of Spartanburg County known as Goen’s Depot. As the rail line brought new activity and opportunity to the region, a small community began to take shape. The town was officially incorporated on December 22, 1882, marking the beginning of Inman’s growth as a hub for commerce and connection in the northern part of the county.
There are two commonly shared stories about how Inman received its name. One theory suggests the town was named for John H. Inman, the head of the railroad survey team who formed many friendships in the area during the development of the rail line. Another theory credits Samuel David Inman, the president of the railroad company at the time. While the exact origin may never be fully confirmed, the railroad’s influence on the town’s development is undeniable.
Over the years, Inman became known as the “Town of Progress,” a nickname that reflected the community’s steady growth and forward-looking spirit. Located in the upper Piedmont region of Spartanburg County along Highway 176, Inman sits between Spartanburg, South Carolina and Tryon, North Carolina. The town is surrounded by gentle rolling hills, with views of Hogback Mountain.
Several landmarks throughout town serve as reminders of Inman’s early history. The Pardo Stone stands as a notable historical marker tied to the area’s past, while the nearby mill village reflects the industrial growth that helped shape the community during the twentieth century. The railroad corridor that first sparked Inman’s development continues to influence its future, as plans for the Saluda Grade Trail will transform the historic rail line into a recreational destination connecting communities across the region.
Today, Inman continues to honor its history while embracing new opportunities for growth. From its railroad beginnings to the vibrant downtown and community spirit that define it today, Inman’s story is one of resilience, connection, and steady progress.
What is Main Street Inman?
About Organization
Main Street Inman works to support and strengthen the heart of our community be partnering with local businesses, property owners, residents, and city leadership to create a vibrant and welcoming downtown.
Mission
Main Street Inman, a department of the City of Inman, works to preserve and enhance downtown by supporting local businesses, strengthening partnerships, and fostering a vibrant community.
Values
We are committed to thoughtful growth, community connection, and celebrating the unique character that makes downtown Inman a place people want to live, work, and visit.
What does our logo mean?
We have received that question often since launching the Main Street program. The answer is simple. It tells the story of Inman.
At the center of the design are two lines and a single point, along with the negative space between them. Together, these elements form an “I” for Inman. They can also be seen as a railroad track, honoring the rail line that helped shape the town’s early growth.
When you look at the full logo, you will notice an intersection. This represents the crossing of Main Street and Mill Street, the heart of downtown where community and activity come together.
The overall pattern can also be seen as a woven textile. This reflects Inman’s mill history, from the early mill village to the continued presence of Inman Mills and Saybrook at the west end of Mill Street.
Engagement & Support
Our Focus
Inman is a Classic Main Street SC community. Main Street Inman is charged with administering the Main Street Four-Point Approach® to establish economic development strategies for downtown revitalization (Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Development) to implement a plan that achieves measurable results.
Main Street Inman is the economic engine for Inman's downtown district growth.
Business Promotion
Downtown Inman businesses will have opportunities for their products, services, events, and more to be featured on our Facebook, Instagram, and e-newsletter. Businesses can also participate in the annual seasonal events hosted in Downtown Inman.
Downtown Inman businesses can also register to have their business listed on our website under the explore section. To submit your business information, click below to fill out the registration form.
Financial Incentives
To encourage appropriate redevelopment work within the City, qualified projects undertaken may be able to apply for financial incentives.
-
The City of Inman's Commercial Facade Improvement Program exists to provide funds to finance exterior improvements to commercial buildings that improve the appearance of buildings. This program provides for a 50% reimbursement up to $10,000. For more information on how to apply, click here.
For More information about Downtown’s services, please email the Inman Main Street office at sloftis@cityofinman.org.
Inman is a Main Street South Carolina community, designated by the Municipal Association of SC’s Main Street SC Coordinating Program. Inman is charged with administering the program at the local level and building public-private partnerships to spur economic development that achieves measurable results such as investment, business growth, and job creation.
