near Wateree in Richland County, South Carolina — The American South (South Atlantic)
John M. Bates Bridge
Photographed by Mike Stroud, 2010
1. John M. Bates Bridge Marker
of
prominent public spirited
citizen of this section
(Born 1871 Died 1924)
for his many contributions
to highway transportation
During early 1900's he led
several highway location parties.
He personally financed, built
and managed Bates Ferry across
Congaree River about one mile
upstream from here 1910-1922.
Culminating a lifelong dream,
he organized Richland - Calhoun
Bridge Commission in 1921 and
arranged financing, secured permit
to span the river and supervised
construction of Bates Ferry Toll
Bridge connecting Richland and
Calhoun counties, completed in
1923 and a forerunner of this
present bridge.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Bridges & Viaducts • Roads & Vehicles. A significant historical year for this entry is 1979.
Location. 33° 45.418′ N, 80° 38.643′ W. Marker is in near Wateree, South Carolina, in Richland County. It is on McCords Ferry Road (U.S. 601), on the right when traveling south. Located on the North bank of Congaree River. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Eastover SC 29044, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Regionally, this marker is in South Carolina’s Midlands, in the Greater Columbia Area, and in Congaree Country. It is also in the American South and specifically in the Deep South. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 2 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: Congaree River Ferries
this page online
Photographed by Mike Stroud, March 23, 2010
2. John M. Bates Bridge Marker, looking south along US 601
Photographed by Mike Stroud, March 23, 2010
3. John M. Bates Bridge, west side
This is a popular boating ramp and fishing area. This access road leads to parking area and ramp, under the bridge
Photographed by Mike Stroud, March 23, 2010
4. John M. Bates Bridge , east side
Credits. This page was last revised on December 15, 2025. It was originally submitted on April 24, 2010, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina. This page has been viewed 1,902 times since then and 74 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on April 24, 2010, by Mike Stroud of Bluffton, South Carolina.
