“C” is for Coker, Charles Westfield (1879-1931)

“C” is for Coker, Charles Westfield (1879-1931). Businessman, philanthropist, social reformer. At an early age Coker became involved with his family’s various business enterprises. When the Southern Novelty Company was organized in 1899, Coker was treasurer and in 1918 he became president. It was Charles Coker who brought modern industrial and managerial practice to the family controlled business, which changed its name to Sonoco Products Company in 1923. Like other family members, he considered civic and social obligations as important as his business interests. He served as the mayor of Hartsville twice and as a state senator from Darlington County. Coker's special interest was in welfare and social work. Charles Westfield Coker led the effort to establish social work councils in each South Carolina county, providing reform in such areas as public health, education, juvenile delinquency, transportation, and prisons.