News Summary
Florence has unveiled a new steel sculpture in its downtown area, celebrating the city’s historical ties to the steel industry. The centerpiece of the artwork is a Palmetto tree, symbolizing South Carolina’s cultural identity. This initiative, supported by local steel companies, aims to highlight Florence’s continued legacy in steel production and its economic impact. Mayor Lethonia Barnes praised the collaboration and innovation of the local steel sector during the ceremony, reinforcing the connection between the community and its industrial roots.
Florence has dedicated a new steel sculpture in its downtown area, honoring the city’s deep connections to the steel industry. The unveiling took place during a ceremony on May 13, 2025, drawing attention to Florence’s historical ties to American steel production.
The centerpiece of the sculpture is a Palmetto tree, which is emblematic of South Carolina’s cultural identity. In addition to the tree, the artwork features a fountain shaped like the state of South Carolina, reinforcing the local heritage. The City Council approved the sculpture’s location at 130 N. Coit St. in May 2023, selecting a site central to the community.
During the ceremony, Katrina Stone, the director of operations at Sam Carbis Solutions Group LLC, emphasized the importance of Florentine companies in shaping the steel industry since 1901. Her comments highlighted how these businesses have propelled economic growth and provided job opportunities within the region.
Florence is known for establishing one of the first mini mills in the United States, a shift that had a lasting influence on steel production across the country. Ongoing contributions from leading firms such as Nucor, Sam Carbis Solutions Group, and Vulcraft have kept the region at the forefront of steel manufacturing, as these companies contributed significantly to the steel sales on a national level in 2024.
Approximately 1,700 individuals are currently employed in the steel sector across Florence and Darlington counties. This workforce is supported by the robust industrial framework and the collaborative spirit of about a dozen local steel companies that participated in the development of the new sculpture. Notably, Ervin Engineering, Sam Carbis Solutions Group, and Vulcraft were among those that contributed to this artistic homage.
The sculpture’s design and construction were carried out by employees from Nucor, with the final galvanization completed at Valmont in Columbia. The endeavor was spearheaded by Van Fraley, vice president of SteelFab, Inc., who has previously voiced concern regarding the steel community’s storytelling practices. The aim was to better highlight the industrial legacy and present accomplishments to the broader public.
As the ceremony concluded, Florence Mayor Lethonia “Peaches” Barnes commended the local steel companies for their efforts in innovation, job creation, and sustainability. The mayor illustrated the parallels between the enduring qualities of steel and the resilience of the Florence community, both of which have evolved through trials and tribulations.
The Palmetto tree not only serves as an artistic representation but also carries the symbolism of longevity, history, and heritage, as explained by Jason Freidenberger of Nucor. Its installation in the heart of Florence stands as a testament to the community’s industrial strength and the pivotal role that the steel industry continues to play in both local and national contexts.
This new addition to downtown Florence not only beautifies the cityscape but also solidifies the steel industry’s legacy, ensuring that future generations will recognize and appreciate the significant impact this sector has had on shaping Florence’s economy and identity.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Florence Sculpture Honors Steel Industry
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Richard Serra
- The State: South Carolina News
- Google Search: Florence SC Steel Industry
- Designboom: Giuseppe Penone Sculpture in Florence
