Originally published April 15, 2015
Whenever I see the town slogan “Flower Town in the Pines” written as “Flowertown,” I grit my teeth at the error.
Now, Summerville’s official motto, Sacra Pinus Esto, translated as the pine is sacred, is featured on the town seal.
However, in 1925, the Chamber of Commerce sponsored a competition for a town slogan. That competition was won by Virginia Lowndes Bailey, who collected a $5 prize for her entry, “Flower Town in the Pines.”
Subsequently, the slogan, with “Flower Town” as two words, spanned U.S. Highway 17A on a brick arch that welcomed visitors. A commemorative plaque was hung in Town Hall. And, the running horse weather vane atop Town Hall honored Bailey’s memory.
Interesting, if specific flowers had been picked, say camellias or azaleas, those appellations also adorn other communities. “Camellia City” tags Sacramento, Calif, as well as Slidell, La., and Greenville, Ala. “Azalea City” is claimed by Mobile, Ala., and Valdosta, Ga. The Azalea Society of America offers a certification for municipalities that achieve various criteria to become an Azalea City.
Today, we have a Flowertown (one word) Festival and many businesses include Flowertown (one word) in their business name. No problem.
But, please, respect the author of the slogan. If you are calling Summerville the “Flower Town in the Pines,” it is two words.
Summerville Visitor Center
402 N. Main St.
Summerville, SC 29483
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