Gaffney Most Eccentric Town

Water tanks often are lackluster. That’s why Gaffney’s father spruced up their offering, making it resemble a juicy peach.

Now, Gaffney's 135-foot-tall peached water tower has been recognized, making Gaffney one of the six most eccentric towns in the state.

Why is the water tower shaped like a peach?

According to the Society of Architectural Historians, the Gaffney water tower is shaped like a peach to symbolize S.C.'s position as the country's leading peach-producing state. The idea originated in 1974-1975 by the Gaffney Board of Public Works, which was looking for the right landmark to represent the eastern end of the S.C. Scenic Highway 11. The structure would need to hold a symbol, causing many drivers to turn their heads during their commute in and out of the state.  Those who haven't seen it yet can count on the sight being one not easily forgotten.

Thanks to the giant peach, the town of Gaffney was recently listed among World Atlas' six most eccentric towns in S.C. 

What did World Atlas say about Gaffney?

Gaffney, located in Cherokee County, is known as the "Peach Capital of S.C." In 2023, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated the population to be around 12,484 people.

In its eccentric towns list, World Atlas mentioned the peachoid landmark, which was constructed in 1981. The water tower can hold up to 1 million gallons of water and is "worth stopping to see its realistic design, which even includes a leaf and stem." Netflix's "House of Cards" series also featured the roadside attraction in Season 1, Episode 3.

And if you think the fruit fun ends with the peachoid, you are mistaken. Things get pretty peachy at Gaffney's S.C. Peach Festival, which is hosted by the town every July, peach eating and live music abound. Those who want to visit the town without getting in on the peach craze can explore Gaffney's history at the Cherokee County Museum, as recommended by World Atlas.

"Located in a former post office built in 1914, this impressive attraction features exhibits on Native American heritage, Revolutionary War battles, and the region's textile industry." said World Atlas.