The History of Tega Cay: Tega Cay’s Journey to Becoming an Independent City
Tega Cay, South Carolina, is a picturesque city known for its scenic views, community involvement and proximity to Lake Wylie.
However, the story of this charming community is deeply intertwined with its neighboring city of Fort Mill, as it was once part of this larger area before developing into an independent entity. The history of Tega Cay is both fascinating and scandalously unique.
Why is Tega Cay called Tega Cay?
The name “Tega Cay,” which translates to “beautiful peninsula” in a Polynesian dialect, perfectly reflects the city’s robust beauty. It’s important to note that the name’s exact origin is not certain. The region that would later become Tega Cay was formerly inhabited by the Catawba Native Americans, who settled along the banks of the Catawba River. They resided in villages and relied heavily on farming, fishing, and hunting within the Piedmont region. Their deep bond with the river earned them the nickname "People of the River.”
Tega Cay, rich in natural resources and stunning landscapes, attracted early settlers in the 18th century. In the mid-19th century, the land now known as Tega Cay became part of a larger farming region within York County. The area was primarily agricultural, with families farming crops such as cotton and corn, as well as raising livestock. At that time, the land was still part of the broader Fort Mill community, which served as the center for commerce and governance in the area.
The Emergence of Tega Cay as a Residential Community
In the 1960s, the future of Tega Cay began to take shape. The land, which had been mainly used for farming, caught the attention of developers seeking to create a residential community in an area that was close to Charlotte, North Carolina, yet still offered the tranquility of rural living. The development of the area now called Tega Cay officially began in the early 1970s when a real estate developer, inspired by the area’s natural beauty and location along Lake Wylie, began purchasing large tracts of land.
As the community took shape, it was initially part of the larger Fort Mill area. At the time, Fort Mill was a much smaller and more rural community, and the development of Tega Cay provided an opportunity to create a new residential enclave with a focus on family living, recreation, and outdoor activities.
The creation of the Tega Cay development was also driven by the growing demand for suburban homes from people who worked in the nearby city of Charlotte but sought to live outside the urban sprawl. A reasonable commute into the city of Charlotte is still a reason families choose this city to settle their roots. Tega Cay is conveniently located near:
Interstate 77 (I-77): This is the main highway running north-south through the region, connecting Tega Cay to Charlotte (to the north) and Rock Hill, South Carolina (to the south).
U.S. Route 21 (US 21): This highway runs through the area, connecting Tega Cay to nearby towns like Fort Mill and Lancaster.
These highways make Tega Cay well-connected and accessible, especially for commuting to Charlotte or other parts of South Carolina.
Was Tega Cay Formerly Fort Mill?
As Tega Cay continued to grow, it became increasingly clear that the area had developed its own distinct identity. By the 1980s, Tega Cay had reached a population size and infrastructure level that warranted its consideration as an independent community. In 1982, Tega Cay was officially incorporated as a city, separating from Fort Mill and establishing its own local government. Tega Cay was established in 1982 through a partnership between the Ervin Company and Crescent Land and Timber, which had been in operation since 1970.
The decision to become an independent city allowed Tega Cay to better manage its growth, focus on local services, and develop the amenities that would attract families and businesses. While the city of Fort Mill remained an important economic and cultural hub for the region, Tega Cay began to carve out its own niche as a peaceful, suburban retreat with access to recreational activities on Lake Wylie and a strong sense of community.
Tega Cay’s Connection to Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker
The PTL Club, a televangelist program founded by Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker in the 1970s, became embroiled in a financial scandal in 1987 that rocked the religious broadcasting world. The scandal centered on allegations of mismanagement of funds, leading to the Bakkers' resignation. Tega Cay played an unexpected role in the controversy, being home to Tim Tammy Faye Bakker’s 3,500 sq. foot lakeside property, which has since been demolished. The Heritage USA theme park and luxury facilities envisioned by the Bakkers to attract followers included properties in the Tega Cay area, which were affected by the financial and legal fallout. This connection left a lasting imprint on the region’s history, blending its picturesque charm with the infamy of a nationally publicized scandal.
The Growth and Development of Tega Cay
Following its incorporation, Tega Cay experienced steady growth, with new residential developments, parks, and schools helping to support its expanding population. As a part of the larger Fort Mill School District, Tega Cay benefited from access to high-quality education, which helped attract families seeking a suburban lifestyle with excellent public school options.
Over the years, Tega Cay has continued to evolve, with new housing developments, infrastructure improvements, and commercial projects. The city’s location along the shores of Lake Wylie has remained one of its defining features, drawing outdoor enthusiasts and residents who value access to boating, fishing, and lakeside living.
The Rest Is History
The history of Tega Cay is a story of growth, transformation, and independence. What began as a part of Fort Mill’s larger agricultural area has blossomed into a vibrant city with its own distinct identity. The decision to incorporate as a separate city allowed Tega Cay to create a community focused on family living, outdoor recreation, and suburban tranquility, while still maintaining close ties to the surrounding region. Today, Tega Cay is a sought-after destination for those seeking a serene lifestyle with all the amenities of modern living, and its rich history as part of Fort Mill only adds to its unique charm.
