The Citizens and Southern National Bank of South Carolina announced the opening of their new West Ashley Branch on February 15, 1950. Cecil Kearse was named the assistant cashier and manager of this branch. Business had grown in just two short years under Kearse’s direction and it became necessary to enlarge the building, add a drive-in window, and install safe deposit boxes on site. Numerous publications wrote about the bank remodeling because having a bank in Avondale West Ashley had become a convenience for the growing community.
One interview in particular has stayed with Kearse all these years. He recalls a young man, possibly a teenager, who lived in Byrnes Downs and published “The Byrnes Downs News” for a nickel. He interviewed Kearse about the planned remodeling, wrote about it and later brought Kearse a copy of the article, which Kearse has kept all these years. He recalls being very impressed with the drive of this “young fella,” but cannot remember his name.
Many years ago, I was given a copy of a “Map of Byrnes Downs” published by “The Byrnes Downs News.” Along with the map was a description of how the streets were named for governors of the South Carolina. Listed in the header is: “Jimmy McElveen Editor-Publisher 28 Yeamans (the original name for Yeadon) Ave., Byrnes Downs, Charleston, SC, Published Monthly at 5 cent per copy.”
Could this be the same person? Both Kearse and I would love to know. If you can help us contact Donna at
westashleybook@gmail.com.
(843) 766-WEST (9378)
publisher@westof.net
