The orgin of Blythewood , originally known as Doko, can be traced to the railroad which was built in the early 1850’s. It was first known as the Charlotte and South Carolina Railroad.
The railroad through Blythewood was destroyed by General Blairs Corp of the Northern Army in February 1865 and had to be rebuilt. A depot was built, on property directly across the street from what is now the Langford-Nord House, in 1870 and continued in operation until June 30th 1968. It’s location was the historic center of the town. In the early years of Doko and Blythewood the railroad was the primary means of transportation other than horse and buggy.
It was the economic engine of the community. Principal commerce shipped from the area was
lumber, shingles, pitch, tar, mineral spirits and cotton. Today, as the town grows, train traffic is viewed by some as a disruption, when in fact it is a major contributior to our heritage.
Written By: Jim McLean, founding member and past President of the BHS&M.