Massive Fire Destroys Former Textile Plant in Camden, South Carolina
CAMDEN, S.C. — A massive blaze tore through the DeRoyal Textile Building, formerly known as the Hermitage Mill Plant, on Saturday, leaving the historic site completely destroyed.
Fire Response
According to officials, the fire broke out in the abandoned building, which had its utilities disconnected. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and authorities confirmed that smoke from the fire posed no threat to the local community.
Multiple fire agencies launched a defensive aerial attack to contain the flames, including:
- 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
Ongoing Efforts and Investigation
As of Sunday, firefighters remained at the scene, continuing to monitor hot spots and working to fully contain the fire. Camden Fire Chief Eddie Gardner urged residents to keep a safe distance to allow emergency crews to work without disruption.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, and updates will be shared as more details emerge.
The loss of the DeRoyal Textile Building marks the end of a chapter for Camden’s industrial past, once tied to the region’s textile heritage.
Do you think historic mill buildings across South Carolina should be better preserved or repurposed to avoid tragedies like this? Share your thoughts with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
