The Esso Club

History
In 1933 one of the two lots that the Esso Club currently sits on was deeded to James A. Stevenson. Located on Hwy. 93 in Clemson, SC, Mr. Stevenson built a gas station to serve the traffic. Hwy. 93 was the main highway at the time that went to Atlanta.

In 1938 Mr. Stevenson bought the second lot and expanded his service station. From 1938 to the late 70's the bar saw the bar change ownership numerous times, but it always maintained itself as a ful service gas station and a full bar. The late 1970's brought renovations to the bar as the old seating of Death Valley was used for the its new top which can still be seen today.

Still known as the Esso Service Station, 1985 brought the end of the service station and it was turned into the Esso Club, setting the stage for the famous bar that it has become today.

Renovation
In 2003 the Esso Club came under new ownership with Charles Usry. After the 2003 football season Mr. Usry closed the Esso Club down in order for the bar to undergo a mass gutting and an extensive renovation. The first major renovation in 25 years included: a moved and expanded bar, full service kitchen, and a cleaning overhaul. The roof and its supports also were also in poor shape, and those went through a huge overhaul and restoration as well.

The doors to the Esso Club reopened on April 7, 2004. Some of the people were concernced that Usry was turning it to be like an "Applebees," but once the doors were opened everyone was pleased. The Esso Club has increased in its national popularity and is still a local favorite among all the students.