Charming Upstate SC Featured in TrueSouth’s Upcoming Episode Celebrating Local Hot Dog Culture

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Charming Upstate SC Becomes the Star of TrueSouth’s Latest Feature

In the quaint and vibrant towns of Upstate South Carolina, there’s an unmistakable buzz in the air. The now-iconic SEC Network series, TrueSouth, renowned for its enchanting tales of southern eateries and their passionate proprietors, is set to shine a spotlight on this area. The much-anticipated episode will air on Monday, November 4th, at 8 p.m., celebrating local hot dog havens and the intriguing stories behind them.

A Taste of Upstate SC

Among the spotlighted venues, Holmes Hotdogs in Spartanburg County and Saxon’s Hot Dogs in Abbeville are set to receive particular attention. John T. Edge, celebrated host and writer, and the force behind bringing these stories to life, delves into the heart of these establishments. Known for his insightful book, “The Potlikker Papers: A Food History of the Modern South”, Edge is passionate about exploring and showcasing regional culinary excellence.

Edge’s Enthusiasm for Saxon’s Charm

Edge’s love for Saxon’s Hot Dogs is palpable. Describing it as a beloved “hole-in-the-wall” at the bustling crossroads of Highways 72 and 28, Edge raves about their chili dogs. These culinary delights have a knack for instant gratification, no matter the hour. “I love that chili dog there and I love Sue Beasley, the owner, who was so kind and welcoming,” he reflects. For him, having a chili slaw dog at seven in the morning is the real mark of a place that treasures its unique identity and flavors.

Discovering Holmes Hotdogs

The journey to feature Holmes Hotdogs was equally serendipitous. Edge credits his friend Byron Morris, a self-proclaimed hot dog enthusiast and “good soul”, for leading him to this gem. Morris shared a detailed dossier ranking his favorite hot dog joints in the area, which piqued Edge’s interest, and Holmes quickly rose to the top of the list.

Bonds of Community and Storytelling

TrueSouth’s South Carolina episode wouldn’t be complete without the guiding hand of acclaimed short story author George Singleton. Singleton, an Upstate resident, brought depth and a personal touch to the series’ exploration of local culture. Edge praises his involvement, noting how Singleton’s insights transformed the show into a series of engaging short stories. “George is, to my mind, the best short story writer in the South and one of the best short story writers in the country,” Edge says warmly.

As Edge recounts, “It’s culture in the old mill towns and mill villages of South Carolina. It’s following this guy who loves his place and loves his people, and shows us his place and his people.” The presence of Singleton adds a distinctive layer to the TrueSouth narrative, offering viewers a genuine glimpse into the beloved practices and flavors of these communities.

A Celebration of Southern Identity

With its seventh season well underway, TrueSouth continues its mission to delicately weave the stories of the South’s diverse culinary landscape. From barbecue joints to quaint diners, each episode captures a living tapestry of southern identity. The show is directed by Timothy Horgan and produced by Wright Thompson, whose storytelling prowess has resonated with audiences far and wide.

For Edge and his team, the show is not about pushing boundaries or profiles but about connection. “We don’t show up with a political agenda, we don’t show up with a social agenda,” he says. The focus is purely to showcase the authentic voices and daily traditions of the locales they visit.

Join the Journey

The upcoming episode of TrueSouth promises to be a vibrant and heartfelt exploration of Upstate South Carolina’s culinary staples. Tune in, and perhaps rediscover the magic in the everyday places that hold a special place in the hearts of their communities. With its engaging narrative and deep respect for local traditions, the episode is sure to be a delightful feast for both the eyes and palate.

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