God, Guts, and Gallantry

The Faith, Courage, and Accomplishments of Major James Lide Coker

Major James Lide Coker of Hartsville, South Carolina was a gutsy man of God and an entrepreneurial genius who founded 20 successful businesses. He grew up in the Old South, but became one of the most forward-thinking leaders of the New South. His business odyssey alone makes a fascinating story, but his expansive heart and keen intellect reached well beyond commerce. He was a passionate leader of the Christian faith, a pacesetter in women’s education, and a progressive in race relations.

Sketch of Darlington Co. SC
Crutch and a Hoe
First Baptist Church Hartsville built 1850
Major Coker and Early Coker College Students
Hartsville Railroad letterhead and train pic combined
Sonoco old and new logos