South Hill Community Data
History
Since its beginning as a railroad town in 1889, South Hill as continued to be known for its ideal location. Today, the town is easily accessible by a highway network consisting of Interstate 85, US Route 58, and US Route 1.
Incorporated in 1901, South Hill has always been known for its tobacco industry and the town is presently the third-largest market in Virginia. But over the past few years, a significant growth in manufacturing and trade has diversified the town's economy.
Local Economy
Agriculture, especially tobacco, remains an important industry in South Hill, and a number of manufacturing facilities have located in the town. Since 1970, non-agricultural employment has surpassed agricultural employment.
South Hill is the major shopping center in Mecklenburg County. Gross retail sales in 1996 were approximately $100 million.
Government
South Hill is governed by an eight-member town council headed by a mayor. A town manager oversees the daily operation of the town.
The town council has adopted a comprehensive plan and the town is zoned.
Police protection is provided by a staff of 17, and 13 state police are assigned to the area. Fire service is provided by a volunteer force of 35 and service is provided to industry beyond the town's corporate limits. (South Hill Volunteer Fire Department Home Page)
Topography
Consisting of 6.33 square miles, South Hill is situated in the Piedmont physiographic province among gently rolling hills characteristic of the Southern Piedmont. Elevation is 430 feet above sea level.
Drainage is provided by the Meherrin and Roanoke Rivers.
Natural Resources
South Hill is located on two watersheds, the Roanoke River and the Meherrin River.
Mecklenburg County, in which South Hill is located, has 247,797 acres of forestland with loblolly pine, short-leaf pine, Virginia pine, oak-pine, and oak-hickory the predominant forest types.
Mineral deposits in the area include granite, sand, and clay.
Climate
A generally moderate climate prevails.
January average temperature: 33º (low) - 55.8º (high)
July average temperature: 68.8º (low) - 91.1º (high)
Average annual precipitation: 46"
Annual average heating degree days: 3,500
Annual average cooling degree days: 1,600
Prevailing winds: South to southwest