Ridgeway is a small town >400 that has survived and is doing well. Originally named Newtown, the name was changed to reflect that it was on the "ridgeway" railroad routing between Colombia and Charlotte. (That RR being a major supply artery from the deep South to Lee's Army in VA.) The town being within commuting distance of Colombia probably is a great help. Several of the original buildings and many of the turn of the century buildings survive and are being used or at least preserved.

Most of the brick buildings look like they won't survive an earthquake. Lots of unsupported old masonry. One of the buildings is not square on the block. The cross street angles off the main street and the side of the building angles along with it.