Many Lexington County residents in the 19th and early 20th centuries got molasses from sugar cane.

It was either grown locally or elsewhere in the south.

Sugar cane, grown in low-lying areas, was cut down in the fall and processed in a cane press. This press was powered by an ox or mule with a log attached to it.

Cane was fed into the machine to be crushed so that the juice could be extracted. This was a somewhat dangerous job that could result in the loss of limbs or fingers.

Once extracted, the juice was boiled in large iron pans to make molasses.

Sorghum cane can also be used but was not widespread in this area until after the Civil War.

JR Fennell is Lexington County Museum director.