From its inception, Abbeville County’s “can do attitude” has been reflected by its significant contribution to the regional and state economies. Beginning in the mid 1700’s and through the mid twentieth century, Abbeville County’ economy was purely agricultural with cotton and cattle farming being the major source of income for local residents. However, by the mid 1960’s the development of industrial enterprises primarily in the area of textiles, rivaled agriculture as the area’s “economic engine.” Companies such as Calvin Klein, Milliken, Mohawk Industries, and Westpoint Stevens discovered long ago that Abbeville County provides an extremely productive location for their operations.