Before 1887, the area now known as the Wagener Community was called Guntersville, and its residents were primarily engaged in agriculture for their livelihood. The arrival of the railroad, known as "The Swamp Rabbit," in 1887 drew farmers, timberjacks, and entrepreneurs into town and connected the community to other towns along the route. Driven principally by the kaolin industry, the railroad opened Wagener to the outside world, and timber could be transported to Charleston much faster than in the former days of Edisto River rafting. The community took its name from the Wagener brothers of Charleston, who were merchants and influential developers of the railroad. Churches, schools, businesses, and industry came to Wagener, creating a desirable environment for its citizens. Later, the automobile and highway system brought an end to the railroad, but Wagener continued to grow and prosper.