Parsons Mountain

Parsons Mountain. Land Renewed. , At 832 feet, Parsons Mountain holds the title of the highest point in the general geographic area surrounding Parsons Mountain. Mr. James Parsons, the mountain's namesake, acquired it through a land grant in 1772. In the mid 1800s, gold was discovered on the mountain, further adding interest to the area. , Long before Mr. Parsons, American Indians lived in and used these rich, productive forests. Settlers in the 1770s worked the land, obtaining what they could from agricultural practices, and cleared most of the timber. By 1920, severe soil erosion created abandoned fields, deep gullies, and soil-filled streams. , From this worn out land, the Sumter National Forest was started in 1936. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) planted trees, repaired gullies, fought wildfires, and built roads. In 1935 the CCC built the fire tower on Parsons Mountain and in 1940 they began construction on this lake and recreation area. , From its beginning, the Sumter National Forest has provided clean water, timber, wildlife habitat, jobs, and recreation sites for its communities. Parsons Mountain Recreation Area is an example that if resources are used wisely they can be enjoyed generation after generation.