Aiken Standard in Aiken, South Carolina

Governor Reconnects With Roots At Textile Mill

Governor Jim Hodges spent an hour operating a spinning machine at Springs Industries in Lancaster, revisiting his first job while launching a week of labor with workers. The plant now employs 430, produces one million pounds of yarn weekly, and uses modern vacuums. Hodges received an honorary certification to run the machine. He reflected on changes since 1972, when he earned $2.10 hourly and the site housed 3,200 workers. He will continue job hopping at various sites this week, including Charleston and Spartanburg Welcome Center.